Senate Bill 1328 Signed by Governor Newsom; Cervantes Secures Legislation for Equity in Higher Education Act at Satellite Campuses

(SACRAMENTO) – On Sept. 26, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 1328 by Senator Sabrina Cervantes (D-Riverside), legislation that expands on the state's policy to require that the California State University (CSU) and community college systems designate a confidential LGBTQ+ liaison at satellite campuses in addition to main campuses; the bill also requests the same action at the University of California (UC) campuses.

“We must always stand up for equality, safety, and opportunity for our LGBTQ+ community, and I am so pleased that SB 1328 furthers this cause with the Governor’s signing,” said Senator Cervantes, who is also Chair-Elect of the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus. “Now, our public colleges and universities must designate confidential LGBTQ+ liaisons on campus satellite locations, not just at main campuses. I believe every college student deserves access to support, no matter where they take classes.”

The act now requires the CSU Trustees and the governing board of a community college district, and requests the UC Regents, to designate an employee at each campus as a point of contact for LGBTQ+ students.

“LGBTQ+ students pursuing higher education are more likely than their straight and cisgender peers to face discrimination, harassment, and violence. SB 1328 works to better support these students by requiring satellite campuses, branch campuses, and outreach centers to designate a confidential employee who can provide support and connect LGBTQ+ students with resources to help them succeed. We thank Senator Cervantes for her leadership in advancing this important legislation and for her continued commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ students across California,” said Tony Hoang, Executive Director of Equality California, which, along with the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus, sponsored SB 1328.

Read more about the bill here. 

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