Protecting Students on Campus Act of 2025
Summary
The "Protecting Students on Campus Act of 2025" aims to increase awareness of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 among students in higher education. It mandates that institutions receiving federal student aid share information about Title VI, including how to file complaints with the Office for Civil Rights. The Act also requires the Department of Education to conduct a public awareness campaign and provide regular briefings to Congress on Title VI complaints.
Expected Effects
This act will likely increase the number of Title VI complaints filed by students, as it makes information about their rights and how to report violations more accessible. It may also lead to increased scrutiny of higher education institutions' handling of discrimination complaints. The Act also mandates increased reporting and auditing requirements for institutions and the Department of Education.
Potential Benefits
- Increased awareness of Title VI rights among students.
- Easier access to information on how to file discrimination complaints.
- Greater transparency in the handling of Title VI complaints by institutions and the Department of Education.
- Potential for improved institutional responses to discrimination.
- Regular congressional oversight of Title VI enforcement.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased administrative burden on institutions of higher education due to reporting and display requirements.
- Potential for increased workload for the Office for Civil Rights in processing complaints.
- Costs associated with the public awareness campaign and audits.
- Possible unintended consequences of increased reporting, such as discouraging institutions from proactively addressing discrimination concerns.
- The act does not address the root causes of discrimination, focusing instead on awareness and reporting.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Constitution by promoting equal protection under the law, as Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin. This aligns with the 14th Amendment's Equal Protection Clause. The Act's requirements for institutions receiving federal funds are within Congress's power to regulate spending under Article I, Section 8 (the Spending Clause).
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).