University of Missouri responds to Title IX changes

The University of Missouri said it would carefully review the U.S. Department of Education’s interim guidelines on how to investigate allegations of campus sexual misconduct under federal law on Friday.

The guidelines were introduced by Education Secretary Betsy DeVos who has said the previous rules from the Obama administration were unfairly skewed against the students accused of assault.

“Schools must continue to confront these horrific crimes and behaviors head-on,” Devos said. “The process also must be fair and impartial, giving everyone more confidence in its outcomes.”

“We continue to be dedicated to providing an environment free from discrimination, harassment, sexual violence and retaliation,” the university said in a written statement. “We reaffirm our commitment to our students, faculty and staff who work every day to support our communities.”

The university went on to say it will carefully review the guidance to see if any policy changes are needed.

“We plan to engage our communities in discussion and feedback,” the statement read.

For more on the new guidelines, click here.