ASSEMBLY HIGHER EDUCATION COMMITTEE

STATEMENT TO

ASSEMBLY, No. 5599

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

DATED:  OCTOBER 22, 2026

      The Assembly Higher Education Committee reports favorably Assembly Bill No. 5599.

      This bill implements certain recommendations contained in the Campus Sexual Assault Commission April 2026 action plan report concerning measures to build capacity for a coordinated community response to campus sexual assault.

      Under the bill, the mandate and responsibilities of the Campus Sexual Assault Commission would be expanded to require the commission to host a variety of in-person and virtual educational opportunities, including an annual Statewide conference on campus sexual assault that convenes stakeholders to share the latest research, strategies, and practices in addressing sexual assault and relationship violence on campuses.

      Under the bill, the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education would be required to assume a lead role in building capacity for a coordinated community response to campus sexual assault.  The office would be required to identify and foster opportunities to strengthen cross-sector collaboration among institutions of higher education, State and local agencies, and community-based organizations that enhance the reach and effectiveness of campus safety initiatives.  In conducting this work, the office would: (1) review the data and findings available from the most recent campus climate surveys administered by institutions of higher education; (2) leverage State communication systems to aid in the development of partnerships that will enhance campus climate and improve resource sharing among institutions of higher education and other entities; (3) profile and promote relevant resources and programs available from institutions of higher education, State and local agencies, and community-based organizations; (4) identify best practices in improving campus climate, campus sexual assault prevention and response strategies, and meeting survivor needs; and (5) establish an online resource center on campus sexual assault prevention and responses.