Ms. DeVos is right that there are problems with the current system, and her department’s proposal contains some sensible changes that would bring needed balance to how disciplinary proceedings are conducted. Other changes aimed at ensuring fairness to students accused of misconduct — a presumption of fairness, written notice of allegations, equal opportunity to review all evidence collected, right to an appeal — make sense. Most troubling, though, is a proposal that would guarantee a person accused of sexual misconduct the right to cross-examine the accuser. In a recent Post op-ed, Ms. DeVos acknowledged the emotional and psychological challenges that survivors face in reporting sexual harassment and assault. We hope Ms. DeVos takes seriously the concerns raised about the proposed regulations and adopts revisions before finalizing the rules.

Source: Washington Post December 14, 2018 23:15 UTC