Policy Resources

Policy Advocacy

Arella: Pursuing Justice and Finding Support

At Arella, we are committed to advocating for systemic change and improving policies related to sexual assault. In addition to expanding our mentorship program, we are actively working on:

Policy Advocacy: Engaging with legislators and policymakers to support and promote effective legislation that enhances protections for survivors.

Raising Awareness: Educating the public and stakeholders about the impact of existing policies and the need for new reforms.

Collaboration: Partnering with other organizations and advocacy groups to amplify our efforts and drive comprehensive policy changes.

Join Arella Allies: Sign up here to discover the impactful policies we're championing and advocating for—join us in driving meaningful change and shaping a safer future. We believe that by addressing policy gaps and pushing for meaningful reforms, we can create a more supportive and just environment for all survivors.

Systemic Change starts with You

Systemic change starts with you. Achieving justice means actively supporting others, whether through direct help or by championing policies that empower sexual assault survivors. Even if you haven’t personally experienced sexual assault, your recognition of this profound injustice and your drive to make a difference are vital. There are countless ways to get involved, even from the comfort of your own home. Understand the work involved in submitting a policy below and discover how you can fuel these crucial efforts and join us in making a meaningful impact.

What is a Policy?

A policy is a formal set of guidelines or rules designed to address specific issues or guide decisions and actions. Policies can be established by legislators, organizations, or governments to manage public concerns such as healthcare, education, or criminal justice. Once proposed, a policy undergoes discussion and approval processes before it becomes law.

How Long Does It Take for a Policy to Pass?

The time required to pass a policy can vary greatly. It might take months or even years due to processes such as committee reviews, debates, and amendments. Factors like public support, political climate, and the urgency of the policy influence the timeline. Typically, at the federal or state level, it can take several months to a year, though some urgent policies may be fast-tracked for quicker approval.

Policy Impact

Policies play a crucial role in shaping the support and protections available to survivors of sexual assault. For example, a well-crafted policy on confidential reporting can provide survivors with a safe space to seek help and report incidents without fear of exposure or retaliation. Effective policies can lead to better support services, improved legal protections, and increased awareness about sexual violence, ultimately making a positive impact on survivors’ lives and the broader community.

Understand what constitutes a legislative policy, see an example, and explore key sexual assault policies in California that are either under consideration or have recently been enacted below.

What Constitutes a Policy?

Policies are essential for maintaining order, ensuring consistency, and meeting goals across various fields, from public administration to corporate governance. Here are the key elements that constitute a policy:

Purpose and Scope: This section outlines the reason for the policy and the areas it covers. It explains why the policy is necessary and what issues it aims to address.

Definitions: Clarifies any terms or jargon used in the policy to ensure that everyone understands the language and concepts.

Policy Statement: Provides a clear and concise statement of what the policy entails. This is the core of the policy and details the specific rules, principles, or guidelines that must be followed.

Responsibilities: Identifies who is responsible for implementing, monitoring, and enforcing the policy. This includes roles and responsibilities of various individuals or departments.

Procedures: Outlines the steps or processes to be followed to comply with the policy. This section often includes specific instructions or actions to be taken.

Compliance and Enforcement: Details how adherence to the policy will be monitored and the consequences of non-compliance. This may include disciplinary actions or corrective measures.

Review and Revision: Specifies how often the policy will be reviewed and updated. This ensures that the policy remains relevant and effective over time.

Approval and Implementation: Includes information on who has approved the policy and when it will take effect. This section often involves signatures or official endorsements.

By covering these elements, a policy helps ensure consistency, accountability, and clarity in decision-making and actions.

Examples of Sexual Assault Policies

View the detailed policies titled "DoD Directives" or "DoD Instructions" on sexual assault prevention from the United States Department of Defense: DoD Sexual Assualt Prevention Policies.

How to Submit a Policy

In California, submitting a policy proposal involves several specific steps. Here's a guide tailored to California's legislative process:

Research and Drafting

Understand the Process: Familiarize yourself with California’s legislative process. The California Legislative Information website and the California State Assembly and Senate websites provide resources and guidelines.
Draft the Proposal: Prepare a comprehensive policy proposal. Include a clear description of the issue, proposed solutions, impact analysis, and supporting data. The proposal should be well-researched and structured.

Engage with Stakeholders

Consult Experts: Seek input from experts, advocacy groups, and stakeholders to refine your proposal and build support.
Build Support: Engage with organizations, community groups, and individuals who may support your proposal to garner broader backing.

Find a Legislative Sponsor

Identify a Legislator: In California, a policy proposal needs a legislative sponsor to introduce it formally. Contact state legislators who might be interested in your issue and ask if they would sponsor your proposal.
Prepare for Meetings: Meet with potential sponsors to discuss your proposal, provide them with necessary documents, and explain the benefits and need for the proposed policy.

Submit the Proposal

Work with the Sponsor: Once a legislator agrees to sponsor your proposal, work with them to refine and finalize the text. They will handle the official submission process.
Follow Submission Guidelines: Ensure the proposal is submitted according to the legislative sponsor’s office guidelines and California’s legislative procedures.

Track and Follow Up

Monitor the Progress: Track the proposal through the legislative process using the California Legislative Information website. Keep an eye on committee hearings, debates, and votes.
Communicate: Stay in regular contact with the legislative sponsor and their staff for updates and to provide additional information or support as needed.

Advocacy and Engagement

Public Advocacy: Engage with the public and media to raise awareness and support for your proposal. Attend committee hearings, rallies, or other events to advocate for the policy.
Respond to Feedback: Address any concerns or feedback from committee members, legislators, or the public. Be prepared to make amendments or provide additional information.

Implementation and Evaluation

Support Implementation: If the proposal is passed, work with relevant agencies or bodies to ensure effective implementation.
Evaluate Impact: Assess the policy’s impact and effectiveness once implemented, and be prepared to propose further changes or improvements if necessary.

For detailed information on California’s legislative process, you can visit the California Legislative Information website or contact the California State Assembly or Senate offices.

After Submitting A Policy

After submitting a policy proposal, there are several key steps that typically follow:

Review and Evaluation: The policy proposal will be reviewed by relevant committees, legislative staff, or other decision-makers. This step involves evaluating the proposal's merits, feasibility, and potential impact.

Public Hearing: The proposal may be presented at a public hearing where stakeholders, experts, and the general public can provide feedback, ask questions, and express their support or opposition.

Amendments and Revisions: Based on feedback from the review and public hearing, the proposal may be amended or revised to address concerns or incorporate suggestions.

Committee Vote: The revised policy proposal is then voted on by the committee or body responsible for its consideration. If approved, it moves to the next stage.

Legislative Vote: The proposal is presented to the full legislative body (e.g., the Senate or House of Representatives) for debate and a vote. It may go through multiple votes and additional rounds of debate.

Approval and Passage: If the policy proposal is approved by the legislative body, it is sent to the executive branch (e.g., the Governor or President) for final approval.

Executive Review: The executive branch reviews the proposal and can either sign it into law, veto it, or request further revisions.

Implementation: If signed into law, the policy is implemented according to its provisions. This often involves creating or modifying regulations, allocating resources, and ensuring compliance.

Monitoring and Evaluation: After implementation, the policy’s effectiveness is monitored and evaluated to ensure it is achieving its intended goals. This may involve collecting data, assessing outcomes, and making further adjustments as needed.

Advocacy and Follow-up: Continuous advocacy and follow-up may be necessary to address any issues, gather additional support, and ensure the policy is effectively enforced and maintained.

Each of these steps can vary depending on the legislative process and specific procedures of the governing body involved.

How to Get Involved

You can make a difference by getting involved in advocacy and policy efforts related to sexual assault. Here’s how you can help:

Join Arella Allies: Sign up here to discover the impactful policies we're championing and advocating for—join us in driving meaningful change and shaping a safer future.

Contact Legislators: Reach out to your local and state legislators to express your support for policies that protect and support survivors.

Join Advocacy Groups: Get involved with organizations that work on sexual assault prevention and policy reform.

Participate in Campaigns: Support or participate in campaigns that aim to raise awareness and drive policy change.Stay Informed: Keep up with current legislation and policy changes related to sexual assault and share this information with others.

By taking these steps, you can contribute to creating a safer and more supportive environment for survivors and help drive meaningful change.

Disclaimer:

The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws may vary by state, and individual circumstances are unique. For specific legal guidance regarding your case, please consult a licensed attorney in your state.