LANSING — Numerous news sources reported today that former MSU President Lou Anna Simon has been charged in connection to the Larry Nassar investigation. Simon is charged with two felony counts and two misdemeanor counts of lying to the police about her knowledge of Nassar’s involvement in a Title IX investigation in 2014.

For the past year, the Progressive Women’s Caucus has worked with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to pass a comprehensive plan to combat sexual assault both on and off college campuses. In response to these recent charges, state Rep. Stephanie Chang, chair of the Progressive Women’s Caucus, issued the following statement:

“After enduring traumatic and life-changing experiences, survivors rightfully demand and deserve justice. It is unacceptable for officials at any level to fail to act when made aware of allegations of sexual assault in their institution. Today’s charges are a clear reminder that our work on sexual assault is not done. As we go back to Lansing for lame duck next week, I hope that final action is taken on our bipartisan legislation that prevents further sexual assault, supports survivors, improves accountability, and changes the culture around sexual assault in our state. We can greatly impact the lives of countless Michiganders when these bills are signed into law and if we continue to do everything we can to address sexual assault.”

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