Task force staff outlines package: training for all students, advisor modules, amnesty policy, targeted funding and reporting changes

Task force staff summarized a set of emerging recommendations developed from the Nov. 3 meeting and prior work. Doctor Smith said the proposals include reconsidering the evidentiary standard used in campus investigations, mandatory annual training for every student, mandatory advisor training for faculty/staff sponsors, adoption of amnesty policies for students seeking emergency help, streamlined reporting tied to existing power‑based violence reports and targeted funding to expand prevention capacity.

Smith described the first item as ‘‘the change of the evidentiary standard back to, clear, preponderance of evidence,’’ referring to legislative debate about whether the investigatory standard should be returned from clear and convincing to preponderance. Representative Treasure McMakin provided public comment opposing a change: ‘‘If it is just to change the standard back, I will 1000% plus 1% be against that,’’ she said, citing instances where she said preponderance had led to punitive administrative action without sufficient evidence.

Smith also recommended a formal state‑level amnesty policy so students who call for medical or emergency help are not deterred by fear of disciplinary consequences. She said systems would need additional, targeted funding to scale training to every student annually and to implement advisor training for all staff sponsors.

Vice Chair Vasya Boudreaux asked that any additional funding be ‘‘intentional and direct’’ and not buried in general allocations; system representatives said they shared that concern and would seek earmarked funding for prevention work.

Why it matters: The recommendations — if adopted — would change campus education, reporting and investigative practice and could require legislation and appropriations. The evidentiary standard debate had visible opposition from a Representative who cited student‑protection concerns; staff said they will work with lawmakers on any statutory changes.

Next steps: Staff and systems were directed to provide written follow‑up on the evidentiary standard question, the defineable elements of amnesty policy, the annual training curriculum, and cost estimates for implementation ahead of the January meeting.