N.J. Assembly OKs bill to fine colleges for failure to investigate sex assault allegations

The Record Staff Reporter

The state Assembly approved a measure Monday that would fine colleges and universities if the schools fail to investigate allegations of sexual assaults by students.

Lawmakers said they acted after learning that the federal government detailed 55 colleges and universities face investigations

“The physical and mental scarring from sexual assault can impact a victim for the rest of their life, especially if the incident is not processed properly through the appropriate legal channels,” said bill sponsor Valerie Vainieri Huttle, D-Englewood. “Victims deserve to know their school is on their side and will do all it can to minimize the trauma.”

The bill passed 70-3-3 and now heads to the Seante for action.