University of California President Janet Napolitano today (August 8) issued the following statement on Senate Bill 331, authored by state Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson, sponsored by UC and signed by Gov. Brown today. This measure allows campus-based domestic violence counselors to keep confidential their communications with survivors of domestic violence. The bill takes effect January 1, 2018.
This legislation will be an important tool in enabling the University of California and other higher education institutions to better assist survivors of domestic violence. Guaranteeing privileged communications between them and their campus counselors will further encourage an atmosphere of trust and confidentiality, while alleviating many fears and concerns about seeking help. We are grateful for Sen. Jackson’s leadership and for Gov. Brown’s support of this important legislation.