In an expected move Friday, the U.S. Department of Education officially revoked Obama administration guidance on how to handle sexual assaults in schools. Education Secretary Betsy Devos says the Obama-era policies denied due process to the accused, with her department instead offering interim guidance on what schools are required to do, under Title IX of federal law. In a statement, Devos said the interim guidelines " will help schools as they work to combat sexual misconduct and will treat all students fairly."
In announcing the change, the Education Department released a question and answer document for schools to follow -- and said new rules will be enacted following a public comment period that could last several months.
We spoke with Alex Leslie of the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center about the focus on proof -- and if that might prevent survivors from reporting the crime.
Additional Information:
Cleveland Rape Crisis Center Advocates are available 24 hours a day: Call or Text (216) 619-6192 or (440) 423-2020
View Monday's full episode of ideas.
Alex Leslie, Senior Director of Educational Services, Cleveland Rape Crisis Center