State lawmakers heard from educators, students and advocates of sexual assault victims on Tuesday as they consider legislation to improve sexual assault policies on Connecticut's college campuses.
Some of the most dramatic testimony came from the mother of a UConn student, who described the frustration she had trying to find help for her daughter after she reported being sexually assaulted a fraternity party.
The proposed legislation would increase required reporting requirements, training, and services to victims. It comes in the wake of federal complaints that UConn responded to reports of sexual assaults with deliberate indifference or worse.
UConn officials outlined several recent changes at the school, including the establishment of an office that will serve as the single point of contact for students reporting crimes.
Last week, UConn President Susan Herbst announced the implementation of several recommendations that stemmed from a recent task force report. The state's flagship university will have a central point of contact for victims and provide support and resources that target sexual violence prevention. The university will also repeat mandatory training for students throughout their time at UConn.