Committee Clears Sen. Dodd’s Cal State Harassment Bill

SACRAMENTO – Legislation advanced today from Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, that would increase accountability and oversight in the resolution of sexual harassment and violence cases on California State University campuses.

“As a grandparent and CSU graduate, I am committed to making sure students will feel safe and respected on our CSU campuses,” Sen. Dodd said. “But so far, the CSU system hasn’t done a good job of putting the culture and processes in place to make that happen. This bill holds administrators accountable and brings necessary transparency to make sure cases aren’t swept under the rug. Thanks to committee members for approving this measure.”

Sen. Dodd’s Senate Bill 808 was introduced in response to numerous cases of sexual harassment and violence occurring in the California State University system in recent years.

Under provisions of the bill, campus investigations would be subject to additional oversight. Also, the outcome of any settlements would be posted on college websites and reported to the Legislature. Senator Dodd plans to build on the reforms proposed in the bill based on any recommendations from the pending State Auditor report, expected this spring.  

SB 808 is co-sponsored by the California Faculty Association and CSU Employees Union and has support from Solano County government. SB 808 passed the Senate Education committee with bipartisan support. It moves next to the Senate Judiciary committee.

“Legislation like SB 808 is needed because there is systemic abuse and harassment happening at campuses across the CSU system,” said John Vasquez, chair of the Solano County Board of Supervisors. “As the home county of a state university, the well-being of students at the California State University Maritime Academy is important to the Board of Supervisors. SB 808 provides greater transparency and protections for students.”

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Senator Bill Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Solano, Yolo, Sonoma, Contra Costa, and Sacramento counties. You can learn more about the district and Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.