California State University (CSU) students are poised for significant improvements in Title IX protections following a recent joint legislative hearing. The meeting, held on August 14, 2024, highlighted the ongoing efforts to address discrimination and sexual assault grievances within the CSU system.

The vice president of system-wide affairs with the Cal State Student Association, currently studying at San Jose State University, expressed gratitude for the attention given to these critical issues. Over the past few years, students have actively engaged with various reports, including the CSU's own Cohen O'Connor report and the state auditor's findings. These documents have shed light on the failures of existing systems and have prompted a call for action.

The student association has supported eight key bills aimed at reforming Title IX processes, including AB 810, AB 1905, and SB 1166, among others. The hope is that these bills will be signed into law by the end of the legislative session, allowing for swift implementation of new policies designed to enhance student safety and trust in grievance procedures.

Concerns raised in previous testimonies about the inequities in campus grievance procedures have not gone unnoticed. Issues such as the dismissal of cases based on the perpetrator's status and inadequate investigations have led to a lack of discipline and ongoing contact between survivors and perpetrators. These challenges have eroded trust in the Title IX grievance process, causing many survivors to refrain from filing complaints.

However, the student representative noted positive developments since these concerns were first raised, indicating that the Chancellor's office has made progress in addressing many of the highlighted issues. As the legislative session progresses, students remain hopeful for meaningful changes that will foster a safer and more equitable educational environment.