Bill 118 SJRes 96 is a joint resolution that aims to disapprove of a rule submitted by the Department of Education regarding nondiscrimination on the basis of sex in education programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance. The resolution falls under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, which allows Congress to review and potentially overturn regulations put forth by federal agencies.
The rule in question is related to Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs or activities that receive federal funding. The Department of Education's rule seeks to clarify how schools should handle allegations of sexual harassment and assault, including defining what constitutes sexual harassment and outlining procedures for investigating and resolving complaints.
Supporters of the resolution argue that the Department of Education's rule goes beyond the scope of Title IX and imposes burdensome requirements on schools, potentially infringing on due process rights of the accused. They believe that the rule could lead to a chilling effect on free speech and discourage victims from coming forward.
Opponents of the resolution, on the other hand, argue that the Department of Education's rule is necessary to protect students from sexual harassment and assault and ensure that schools are held accountable for addressing these issues. They believe that rolling back the rule would weaken protections for victims and create a hostile environment for survivors.
Ultimately, the resolution will be subject to a vote in Congress, where lawmakers will decide whether to approve or disapprove of the Department of Education's rule. The outcome of this vote will have significant implications for how schools handle allegations of sexual harassment and assault moving forward.