Comment to DOE Proposed Rulemaking
Background
In November 2018, the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) announced an official Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to inform the public of its proposal to amend regulations related to implementing Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.
Details regarding the purpose of this Proposed Rule in addition to a summary of the major provisions of the regulatory action can be found here.
Following public notice of the potential, legally binding regulations, the DOE pursued feedback through an official Comment period for how schools will be required to address sexual harassment and sexual assault. The DOE will then consider and address the feedback and questions raised in the Comments before issuing its final ruling.
University Response
The University of Notre Dame is deeply committed to fostering an environment that is inclusive of all members and characterized by a collective sense of care and concern for the common good. As an institution that strives to honor the human dignity of each individual, our first priority in implementing any policy decisions is and will remain the safety of our students and the welfare of the campus community.
In light of the requirements of the Proposed Rule and their potential effects on the development and formation of our students, we felt it important to submit a Comment that provides support for some regulatory changes, deep concern for others, and suggestions for alternative solutions.
We are grateful for the opportunity to provide Comment to the DOE, and we hope the outcome promotes fairness in addition to legal clarity and certainty to institutions and students alike.
View the Full Comment here.