Legislation sparked by LSU sexual misconduct scandals advances in state Senate

Two bills are advancing in the Louisiana state Senate in response to sexual misconduct scandals at Louisiana State University (LSU), including legislation that would expand the rights of those who file sexual assault complaints against fellow students.

The Associated Press reported the two measures are headed for the full state Senate’s consideration after advancing out of committee Wednesday. One of the bills would codify new standards for reporting sexual assault and other misconduct at state universities, including requiring students who file complaints be allowed access to the police reports filed in response to their claims.

Other provisions in the bill include requirements that colleges fire faculty members who do not properly report accusations of sexual misconduct to the proper authorities.

State Sen. Regina Barrow (D) told the AP that the bills sent “a clear and resounding message to the students” of state schools letting them know that the allegations brought to light at LSU were being addressed.

The Baton Rouge university has faced multiple sexual misconduct scandals recently related to its football team. 

News reports last year revealed that top officials at the school ignored or failed to investigate at least two rape accusations against former running back Derrius Guice.

And last month, former head football coach Les Miles was forced out of his position at Kansas State over inappropriate behavior with female students during his time at LSU. Former LSU President F. King Alexander stepped down from his job leading Oregon State over his handling of the Miles allegations.

In a statement to the AP, interim LSU President Tom Galligan said the proposed legislation “helps us to provide an absolutely safe campus.”