‘We were so close’: Nebraska mother responds to veto of child sexual assault and abuse bill • Nebraska Examiner

Lack of Accountability in Nebraska Public Schools Leaves Survivors Vulnerable

Introduction

A Nebraska mother whose daughter was sexually assaulted while in the care of Lincoln Public Schools expressed disappointment and frustration after legislation aimed at increasing accountability was vetoed. Loree Woods, an advocate for her daughter Taylor, who was assaulted in 2016, described the veto as a “gut punch.”

The Incident and its Impact

Taylor Woods, who has severe speech impairment and mild to moderate intellectual disability, was assaulted by another student in the Vocational Opportunity in Community Experience program at Lincoln Public Schools. This program is designed to help students with disabilities transition into adulthood. The assault occurred when the program was understaffed, leaving one group of students unsupervised. The incident has had a lasting impact on Taylor’s life, causing trauma and fear.

Legislation for Accountability

Legislative Bill 25, brought by State Sen. Justin Wayne and originally sponsored by State Sen. Steve Halloran, aimed to allow families to sue school districts and other political subdivisions if employees failed to protect children in their care. The legislation sought to hold perpetrators accountable and provide remedies for survivors. However, Governor Jim Pillen vetoed the bill, citing concerns about its broad application and potential costs to taxpayers.

A Missed Opportunity for Justice

The veto of LB 25 came as a disappointment to survivors and advocates who believe it would have provided much-needed justice and support. Supporters argue that the legislation would have incentivized school administrators to prioritize child safety and prevent future incidents. They emphasize the importance of accountability in government entities responsible for children’s well-being.

Continuing the Fight

Despite the veto, advocates are determined to continue their efforts to protect survivors and hold institutions accountable. State Sen. Danielle Conrad, who hosted a news conference with Loree Woods, expressed disappointment but emphasized that the fight is not over. The Nebraska Association of Trial Attorneys also voiced support for the legislation, stating that without accountability, Nebraska fails to uphold its values.

Conclusion

The veto of LB 25 highlights the need for increased accountability in Nebraska’s public schools. Survivors and their families deserve justice and support, and legislation like LB 25 is a step towards achieving that. The fight for accountability and protection of children will continue, with advocates determined to make a difference.

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SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

SDGs Addressed or Connected to the Issues Highlighted in the Article:

1. SDG 4: Quality Education
2. SDG 5: Gender Equality
3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
4. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Based on the Article’s Content:

• SDG 4.7: By 2030, ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including among others through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles.
• SDG 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation.
• SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
• SDG 16.2: End abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence against and torture of children.

Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article:

• Number of reported cases of sexual assault or abuse in educational institutions.
• Number of lawsuits filed against political subdivisions/school districts for failing to protect children in their care.
• Amount of monetary compensation awarded in lawsuits against political subdivisions/school districts for failing to protect children in their care.
• Existence of legislation allowing families to sue political subdivisions/school districts for failing to protect children in their care.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: nebraskaexaminer.com

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