DeLauro Statement on New DeVos Campus Sexual Misconduct Policy Report

WASHINGTON, DC (August 29, 2018) —Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement in response the New York Times reporting that U.S. Department of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos is preparing new campus sexual assault policies that strengthen protections for those accused of misconduct.

"Here we go again. The latest reported changes to campus sexual assault policies fit the pattern of Secretary DeVos' reckless disregard for survivors of sexual assault. Nearly one year ago today, DeVos rolled back the previous administration's Title IX guidance addressing sexual assault, which called for schools to investigate and address sexual violence in a prompt, impartial, and equitable manner. Now it seems as though DeVos is working to remove policies that hold perpetrators and institutions accountable. That is the exact opposite direction we should be heading in. These issues must no longer be swept under the rug. Survivors deserve the same protections as accused students in sexual assault proceedings, and all students deserve to learn in an environment free from sexual violence."