Sexual Misconduct and Gender-Based Violence. The University does not tolerate sexual harassment. The University is committed to providing employees with an environment that is free from any form of sexual misconduct or gender- based violence. To that end, the University investigates complaints of misconduct and retaliation, and complies with Title IX of the Higher Education Amendments of 1972 ("Title IX"), the Campus SaVE Act, and other applicable laws. The University and the Union are committed to working together to increase awareness of sexual misconduct, prevent its occurrence, support victims and deal with offenders in accordance with the law. To further those goals, the Union will have the opportunity to designate a representative to participate in the University's Sexual Violence Advisory Committee, which provides input on efforts related to sexual violence prevention and response and recommends strategies to enhance the University's policies, practices and programs. In accordance with current Title IX policy and existing gender violence prevention resources, the University will support survivors of sexual and gender based violence by offering assistance with navigating reporting processes and filing orders of protection and peace orders; and connecting with healthcare and counseling services, hotlines, survivor support services, and medical centers providing SAFE exams (commonly known as "rape kits"). Nothing in this Article will limit employees' rights to pursue allegations of discrimination, harassment, bullying, or sex-based or sexual misconduct under the applicable University policies and procedures, including those that govern sex-based and sexual misconduct/Title IX complaints. Consistent with the University's policies and procedures governing sex-based and sexual misconduct/Title IX complaints, there will be no time limit for submitting a sex-based or sexual misconduct/Title IX complaint to OIE. Any reported misconduct will be subject to the definitions in place at the time the alleged conduct is reported to have occurred and the procedures in place at the time the report is submitted, unless otherwise required by law. Complainants and respondents will have access to supportive and protective measures as provided for in the applicable policies and procedures.
