There are 3 different times & dates to give public comment:

• Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at 1:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 8:30 a.m.

• Thursday, November 14, 2024, at 8:30 a.m.

Join us in person or via phone to tell the UC Regents we want better safety measures in place for UC Berkeley students. Sign up here:

Regents: Urgent Advocacy for Assembly Bill No. 1524 - Immediate Action Required

Introduction:

In just one minute, convey to the Board of Regents, the governing body of the University of California, the urgent need to adopt provisions similar to those in Assembly Bill No. 1524, a new law to combat drink spiking on college campuses. This bill, which will take effect July ’25, mandates that California State University and community college districts provide drug testing devices, free of charge, at campus health centers, with prominently displayed notifications. It also encourages the University of California, with its political autonomy, and other higher education institutions to implement these measures, underscoring a decisive commitment to student safety and health.

Addressing Predatory Drugging:

Predatory drugging, closely linked to sexual assault and violence, is an escalating crisis on college campuses nationwide. Drugs like Rohypnol, GHB, and Ketamine can incapacitate victims, leaving them unable to consent to sexual activities. These substances are easily slipped into drinks, remaining virtually undetectable.

Call to Action:

SafeBears has collaborated with Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal’s office to strategize on ensuring UC Berkeley and other campuses make drug testing devices readily accessible. We urgently call on the UC Regents to prioritize student safety by adopting these provisions. Making drug testing devices accessible on UC campuses will set a powerful precedent that predatory drugging is a serious issue demanding immediate action.

Current Concerns:

Recent alerts from the University of California Police Department (UCPD) about multiple incidents of drug-facilitated sexual assaults linked to "spiked drinks" highlight the immediate need for this initiative. These alarming incidents, reported near campus residences, underscore the critical necessity for accessible health resources to foster a safe and supportive educational environment. Implementing drug testing devices is a crucial, proactive measure to combat this danger, protect the campus community, and raise awareness. This step is vital for establishing a safer, more secure learning space.

Ready to Take Action? Sign Up Now:

Sign up to speak by phone or in person at the Regents meeting on November 12-14.

Anyone who wishes to speak must provide their name and phone number to the Office of the Secretary and Chief of Staff at the link below by 5:00 p.m. the day before the public comment period.

UC Regents Meeting Sign-Up

Sign up HERE to speak at the UC Regents meeting

Select one of these dates and times:

- Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at 1:00 p.m.

- Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 8:30 a.m.

- Thursday, November 14, 2024, at 8:30 a.m.

Topic to Speak About:

Prevent Predatory Drugging or Provide Free Drug Testing

Urge UC Regents to adopt proactive provisions similar to Assembly Bill No. 1524, ensuring drug testing devices are accessible on all college campuses to heighten awareness and prevent predatory drug crimes.

Preparation Tips:

- Prepare Your Statement: Use SafeBears’ talking points to craft your message.

- Practice: Rehearse your statement to ensure clarity and conciseness within one minute.

If You Are Speaking by Phone:

- Keep your phone on starting 15 minutes before your public comment time, and have your statement ready. If selected, you will receive a call from the Regents meeting between 15 minutes before the start time and up to one hour after.

- You’ll have just 1 minute to speak, so choose a few key points and personalize them. Practice your comments beforehand to ensure you stay within the time limit.

The Regents also welcome written comments addressing items on the meeting agenda. Please send any written comments to regentsoffice@ucop.edu. Emails received no less than forty-eight (48) hours in advance of the scheduled start time of the first session of a Board meeting, regardless of whether the first session is a session of the Board or of a committee, will be distributed to the members of the Board and/or Committee for their review.

Thank you for taking action to make UC Berkeley a safer place for our students!