UC system plan calls for anti-sex abuse effort

A University of California task force on sexual abuse has recommended a system-wide plan to improve investigations and support for victims, as well as requiring education about the problem for all students, faculty and staff.

The Los Angeles Times reports the plan released Wednesday was created under pressure from the federal Department of Education, which has faulted the reporting of sexual misconduct and harassment allegations by universities.

The plan calls on each of UC’s 10 campuses to have properly trained sexual assault investigators and a separate office to provide support and advice to victims whether or not formal criminal or campus complaints are made.

U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer on Thursday urged the state’s other major higher-education system, California State University, to follow UC’s lead.