UNM officials discuss new Title IX guidelines

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – The University of New Mexico’s new Title IX guidelines take effect in August but there are mixed feelings about the changes. Approximately 150 people tuned in to watch the 90-minute panel discussion on how the regulations will impact UNM.

Title IX is a federal law passed in 1972 that protects people from sex-based discrimination. The university’s jurisdiction responded to previous Title IX complaints by expanding mandated reporting of sexual discrimination and misconduct. The new guidelines also clarify the language and definitions used around sexual harassment and misconduct.

But the changes left UNM’s hearing office and university faculty with mixed reactions. “In my opinion, it will be a much cleaner process, a more comfortable process for everyone and I definitely think it’s a welcome change,” said Administrative Hearing Officer Ben Zinke.

“We know that trauma-informed responses really require empowerment of voice and choice of the individual who is impacted. I’m worried that enshrining such policies might decrease the likelihood of disclosure,” said Senior Vice Provost Barbara Rodriguez, UNM Dept. Speech & Hearing Sciences.

The changes were released by the United States Department of Education in April. They take effect on August 1.

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