Campus sexual harassment reporting required

Public colleges and universities in Nebraska must submit a biennial report on sexual harassment and Title IX compliance to the Legislature under a bill passed by lawmakers Aug. 12.

Under LB534, introduced by Omaha Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh, each Nebraska public postsecondary educational institution must submit the report to the Clerk of the Legislature and the Education Committee on or before Sept. 15 of odd-numbered years, beginning in 2021.

Among other information, the report will include the results of any campus climate survey related to sexual harassment, sexual harassment training provided to Title IX personnel and information on where students and employees may receive emergency assistance to address instances of sexual harassment.

The bill also requires the committee to hold a public hearing to review each report, beginning on or before Dec. 15, 2021.

Senators voted 41-1 to pass LB534.