On November 16, the Department of Education released its proposed Title IX rule aimed at amending the regulations implementing Title IX, specifically as related to how colleges and universities respond to reports of sexual misconduct. This rule has been expected since September 2017 when the Department of Education rescinded guidance set by the Obama administration and released interim guidance.

Many of the changes proposed are significant, and a sharp division of opinion has already been noted. Inside Higher Ed and the Department of Education’s official press release provide a good starting point for gathering further information on some of these proposed changes.

See related: Inside Higher Ed‘s “Sharp Divide Over Trump Administration’s Title IX Overhaul” | Inside Higher Ed‘s “What the DeVos Title IX Rule Means for Misconduct Off Campus”

The proposed rule was published in the Federal Register earlier this week. This step was necessary to start the 60-day public comment period.

Members of the public have until January 28, 2019 to submit comments. NASPA’s “Federal Regulatory Notice and Comment Period Q&A,” as well as their suggestions for engaging in public policy as a private citizen are great resources to review before commenting.

NIRSA’s Government Affairs Committee is also discussing these changes. If you have questions or concerns about Title IX or other policy/legislative issues, please feel free to reach out to a member of the committee. You can also submit your feedback via survey.

  • For more information, please contact NIRSA Director of Advocacy & Strategic Partnerships Erin O’Sullivan.
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Erin O'Sullivan is currently the Director of Advocacy & Strategic Partnerships at NIRSA.