The University of California today (March 7) announced the release of a comprehensive expansion of its policy against sexual and domestic violence, stalking and harassment.
While the timing of the policy expansion has been guided by the federal Violence Against Women Act, its implementation across the UC system coincides with an increasing systemwide focus on the broader issues of respect and inclusion within the university community.
The new policy meets the federal deadline to comply with the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act. It applies to all UC students and employees, including those at its medical centers, the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, the Office of the President, the Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, and at all university programs and activities.
“We have no tolerance for sexual violence or harassment of any kind,” said UC President Janet Napolitano. “ The university must, and will, hold itself to the highest standards, and I expect all of our locations to do everything possible to make everyone aware of these standards.”
Among the UC policy changes are expanded training and education, increased reporting requirements, broader protections for victims and specific sanctions and protective measures that the university may impose after a final disciplinary determination.
Going forward, the policy will be further revised in response to many comments that the university has received, and further changes are anticipated after guidance from the federal government and possible changes mandated by state legislation.