Gov. Brown Passes Law that Requires Consent Before Sex
California has become the first state in the country to adopt a new sexual assault policy that requires "affirmative consent" before sex. The new bill will change how universities investigate allegations. The "yes means yes" policy was approved by the state legislature on Thursday.On Sunday night, Gov. Jerry Brown signed the bill.
It requires an approval by both parties before participating in sexual activity. Silence or lack of resistance from one person involved will not constitute as consent, and a person who is unconscious is not considered able to grant consent. The measure will be enforced at colleges and universities that accept financial aid from the state. Faculty members on campus, who handle complaints, will have to be trained on the new revisions and how to handle the investigation. Health care, counseling and other resources will be offered to victims.