For purposes of the student conduct code, chapter 172-121 WAC, the definitions in this section apply.

"Appeal authority" refers to the conduct review official presiding over an appeal under WAC 172-121-130.

"Appellant" refers to any respondent or complainant who appeals the decisions or sanctions of a hearing authority under WAC 172-121-130.

"Brief hearing" refers to a brief conduct review hearing before a conduct review officer for allegations that, if substantiated by a preponderance of evidence, would result in a sanction less than a suspension or expulsion, do not involve a Title IX complaint, and that do not involve felony-level crimes.

"Business days" refers to the days and hours the university is open for business. Business days are Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding holidays as set forth in the university holiday schedule.

"Complainant" means the person who was subjected to the alleged misconduct. The complainant may or may not be the reporting party. If the person who was subjected to the alleged misconduct does not wish to pursue a student conduct case, the university may initiate the student conduct process on its own behalf.

"Conduct review officer" or "CRO" refers to the person designated to serve as the decision maker for a brief hearing or the presiding officer for a full hearing.

"Council" or "the council" refers to the student disciplinary council as described in WAC 172-121-070.

"Council hearing" refers to a full conduct review hearing before the student disciplinary council.

"Dean of students" refers to the dean of students or designee.

"Director of SRR" or "director" refers to the director of student rights and responsibilities or designee.

"Filing" means to actually deliver documents. Documents required to be filed with a specific person under these rules shall be deemed filed upon actual receipt during office hours at EWU. Papers may be filed by delivering them to the dean of student's office, sending them via United States mail, properly addressed, postage prepaid, to 129 Showalter Hall, or emailing them to srr@ewu.edu.

"Full hearing" refers to a full conduct reviewing hearing before the council for allegations that, if substantiated by a preponderance of the evidence, could result in a sanction of a suspension or expulsion, involve a Title IX complaint, or that could constitute felony-level crimes.

"Hearing authority" refers to the decision-maker in a conduct review hearing.

"Interpersonal violence" encompasses domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.

"Notify" means to provide notice to a person. A person may be notified in person, by telephone, by sending notice to the person's university email account, by leaving a message on his or her personal telephone, or by sending the notice in the United States mail, properly addressed, postage prepaid, to the person's last known address.

"Off-campus" refers to any location or facility that is not owned, leased, rented, or operated by Eastern Washington University.

"Party/parties" refers to the complainant, respondent, and/or the university.

"Policies" or "university policy" refers to the written regulations of the university, including the standards of conduct for students, residence life handbook, housing contract, university policies, and graduate/undergraduate catalogs and handbooks.

"Recognized student organizations" refers to clubs, organizations, societies or similarly organized groups recognized by the university or the associated students of Eastern Washington University (ASEWU).

"Reporting party" means the person who notifies student rights and responsibilities of alleged misconduct by a student or student organization. The reporting party may also be the complainant, but need not be the complainant.

"Respondent" refers to any student or student organization accused of violating the student conduct code under this chapter.

"Serve" means to post a document in the United States mail, properly addressed, postage prepaid, to a person's last known address, personal service, or electronic service to the person's university email account. Service by mail is complete upon deposit in the United States mail.

"Session council" refers to the student disciplinary council members selected for a specific hearing or appeal.

"Sexual misconduct" encompasses sexual harassment or sexual assault, as defined in WAC 172-121-200.

"Student" includes all of the following:

(a) Any applicant who becomes enrolled, for violations of the code committed as part of the application process or committed following the applicant's submission of the application until the time of official enrollment;

(b) Any person currently enrolled at the university;

(c) Nonmatriculated, international students attending institutes or foreign study programs through the university; and

(d) Any person who was previously enrolled at the university for violations of the code committed while enrolled. A person who engaged in conduct in violation of the student conduct code while a student remains subject to action under this code even if the person has graduated, withdrawn, or is not currently enrolled for any reason.

"Title IX complaint" means a formal signed complaint from a current student, applicant, ((or)) employee ((of)), or person participating in or seeking to participate in a university program or activity, or by the Title IX coordinator, alleging sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking for the conduct that occurred on university premises, during a university program or activity within the United States, or at a building owned or controlled by a student organization that is officially recognized by the university. A complaint of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence will only be considered a Title IX complaint under this code if it meets this definition. Sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence may still be addressed under this code if it does not meet the definition of a Title IX complaint.

"Title IX coordinator" refers to the Title IX coordinator or designee.

"University" means Eastern Washington University.

"University official" includes any person employed or contracted by the university, performing assigned administrative or professional responsibilities.

"University premises" means buildings and/or property (including adjacent streets and sidewalks) which are owned, leased, rented or operated by the university, to include all satellite campuses affiliated with the university.

"University president" refers to the university president or designee.

"Vice president for student affairs" refers to the vice president for student affairs or designee.

(1) The director of SRR or designee shall:

(a) Serve as the primary point of contact for all matters relating to student conduct code violations and proceedings;

(b) Manage the proceedings as described in this chapter;

(c) Maintain all records of conduct review proceedings as described in WAC 172-121-080;

(d) Ensure complaints are promptly investigated and resolved as required by federal and state laws; and

(e) Review off-campus incidents of alleged misconduct and make determinations as to whether the conduct involved adversely affects the university community and/or the pursuit of its objectives and whether the conduct process should be initiated.

(2) Conduct review officer (CRO): The university president delegates to the vice president of student affairs the authority to designate one or more CRO(s). The director of SRR, dean of students, or any other qualified individual may be designated as a CRO. The CRO(s) shall preside over brief hearings and full conduct hearings under this chapter. For brief hearings, the CRO shall serve as the decision maker. For full hearings, the CRO shall serve as the presiding officer.

As the presiding officer, in full hearings the CRO has authority to:

(a) Determine the order of presentation of evidence;

(b) Administer oaths and affirmations;

(c) Issue subpoenas pursuant to RCW 34.05.446;

(d) Rule on procedural matters, objections, and motions;

(e) Rule on motions for summary judgment;

(f) Rule on offers of proof and receive relevant evidence;

(g) Pursuant to RCW 34.05.449(5), close parts of a hearing to public observation or order the exclusion of witnesses upon a showing of good cause;

(h) Question witnesses in an impartial manner to develop any facts deemed necessary to fairly and adequately decide the matter;

(i) Call additional witnesses and request additional exhibits deemed necessary to complete the record and receive such evidence subject to each party's opportunity for cross-examination and rebuttal;

(j) Take official notice of facts pursuant to RCW 34.05.452(5);

(k) Regulate the course of the hearing and take any appropriate action necessary to maintain order during the hearing;

(l) Permit or require oral argument or briefs and determine the time limits for submission thereof;

(m) Issue an order of default;

(n) Hold prehearing conferences; and

(o) Take any other action necessary and authorized by any applicable statute or rule.

(3) Student disciplinary council: The council serves as the decision maker for full hearings with respect to a finding of responsibility. The CRO in full hearings serves as the decision maker with respect to determining appropriate sanction(s) and remedies, upon a finding of responsibility.

(a) Council pool: For each academic year, a pool of council members shall be established. All members of the council pool are appointed by the vice president for student affairs. Appointment of council pool members is as follows:

(i) Faculty and staff members are appointed for three-year terms. Student members are appointed for one-year terms;

(ii) Council chair: The dean of students or designee shall serve as the CRO and chair of council proceedings;

(iii) Vacancies: Council pool vacancies shall be filled as needed through appointment by the vice president for student affairs.

(b) Session council: When a student disciplinary council is needed for a full hearing, the dean of students shall select available members from the council pool to serve as the session council. Each session council must include three members. The council may consist of students, staff, or faculty members.

(4) Investigator: For all Title IX, sexual misconduct, and interpersonal violence complaints, and certain other cases at the director's discretion, the director may assign a complaint to an investigator to conduct an investigation. The investigator will provide a written investigative report to the director.

(5) Presenter in cases of a full hearing, a person will present a case against the respondent on behalf of the university. The presenter will call witnesses, ask questions, and offer evidence during the hearing. The presenter may be the director of SRR, designee, or an assistant attorney general appearing on behalf of the university.

(1) Filing of complaints.

(a) Any person or the university may file a complaint against a student or student organization for violation of the student conduct code.

(b) A person wishing to file a complaint under the student conduct code must submit the complaint, in writing, to one of the following:

(i) Student rights and responsibilities;

(ii) Title IX coordinator; or

(iii) The office of the dean of students.

(c) Filing a complaint under the student conduct code does not prohibit or limit a person's right to file complaints or charges with other civil and/or criminal authorities for violations of local, county, state, or federal law.

(d) All student conduct code complaints will be forwarded to the director of SRR for further review and action.

(e) In cases where the university is pursuing a student conduct case on its own behalf, an EWU employee shall initiate the complaint. For Title IX complaints, a complaint must either be filed by the person subject to the alleged misconduct or by the Title IX coordinator. If a complaint is filed by the Title IX coordinator, the Title IX coordinator will not be considered a complainant for the purposes of participating in the investigation and hearing process.

(2) Complaint review. Upon receipt of a complaint, the director of SRR shall review the complaint to determine whether it includes allegations of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence, may lead to suspension or expulsion and/or felony level criminal conduct to determine which student conduct process applies and if appropriate law enforcement or other authorities should be notified. If a complaint falls within such categories, it shall be referred to a hearing under WAC 172-121-122.

(3) Sexual misconduct and interpersonal violence proceedings. Except where specifically stated, this section applies to all allegations the university receives of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence regardless of the possible level of sanction or whether there is a formal Title IX complaint.

(a) Report to Title IX coordinator. The director of SRR shall report all complaints which may constitute any form of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence to the university Title IX coordinator within twenty-four hours.

(b) Title IX complaints. The Title IX coordinator will determine whether or not the allegation of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence constitutes a Title IX complaint under this code. Solely in cases of Title IX complaints, the university will not move forward with initiating a Title IX investigation or student conduct hearing unless SRR has received a formal complaint from the person alleged to have been subjected to sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence or a complaint from the Title IX coordinator requesting initiation of the student conduct process.

((If the alleged behaviors identified in a Title IX complaint would not constitute sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence as defined in this code, even if substantiated by a preponderance of the evidence, or if they meet the definition of a Title IX complaint, the university will dismiss the Title IX complaint. Dismissal decisions may be appealed as identified in WAC 172-121-100(6).))The Title IX coordinator is responsible for determining whether or not the allegations constitute a formal Title IX complaint. If allegations do not meet the definition of a Title IX complaint, the Title IX coordinator will inform the complainant and the respondent that the complaint is not considered a Title IX complaint and the reasons it does not fit within the required elements of a formal Title IX complaint. If the complainant or respondent disagrees with the Title IX coordinator's decision, the party may file an appeal with the dean of students within three calendar days of the Title IX coordinator's decision. The dean of students can affirm, reverse, or remand the Title IX coordinator's decision and such decision must be communicated in writing simultaneously to the parties.

SRR may proceed, however, with pursuing a student conduct case against the respondent for misconduct outside of Title IX including, but not limited to, sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence that does not fit the definition of a Title IX complaint.

(c) Prompt resolution. The university shall investigate any complaint alleging sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence when it is legally required to do so. The university's goal is to have complaints of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence resolved within ninety days. If the university needs additional time, the investigator or director of SRR should provide written notice to the complainant and respondent of the delay and the reasons for the delay. Delays and extensions beyond the ninety days must be based on good cause.

(d) Investigations. The university will investigate all sexual misconduct and interpersonal violence allegations, including Title IX complaints, and may, at its discretion, ask for an investigation of other alleged misconduct. During the investigation, the investigator is responsible for gathering evidence relating to the complaint. The investigator will contact the complainant, respondent, and other witnesses to ask questions and gather relevant evidence. Parties may be assisted by an advisor during the investigative process. During the investigation, parties will be provided with an equal opportunity to identify witnesses and other evidence that supports their position. Prior to any investigatory interview regarding a Title IX complaint, the investigator will provide written notice of the meeting with the date, time, location, participants, and purpose with sufficient time for the person to prepare to participate in the interview.

Prior to the completion of the investigative report for a Title IX complaint, the investigator will send to each party the evidence obtained during the investigation that is directly related to the allegations raised, including the evidence upon which the university does not intend to rely in reaching a determination regarding responsibility and inculpatory and exculpatory evidence. Each party will then have at least ten calendar days to submit a written response for a Title IX complaint. The investigator will consider the written response prior to the completion of the investigative report. At the conclusion of the investigation, the investigator will prepare a final written report that fairly summarizes the relevant evidence. The investigative report, along with any evidence collected during the investigation, shall then be transmitted to the director of SRR at least ten days prior to any hearing or other determination of responsibility. In cases of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence, a copy of the report must also be provided to the parties for their review and written response.

(e) Confidentiality. To facilitate the investigative process and protect the privacy of those involved, all information will be maintained in a confidential manner to the fullest extent permissible by law. During an investigation, complaint information will be disseminated on a need-to-know basis. If the complainant wishes to remain anonymous, the university will take all reasonable steps to investigate the allegation without disclosing the name of the complainant to the extent allowed by state and federal law. If the complainant wishes to remain anonymous, the university shall inform them that its ability to investigate and respond to the allegation will be limited. The university cannot ensure confidentiality, as its legal obligations under federal or state law may require investigation of the allegation and possible disclosure of the complainant's name. Reports of crimes to the campus community shall not include the names of the complainants. Files subject to public disclosure will be released to the extent required by law.

(f) Right to file a criminal report. Once the university is notified of an allegation of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence, it will notify the potential complainant of their right to file a criminal complaint with campus or local law enforcement. If the complainant in such circumstances wishes to report the conduct to local law enforcement, the university will assist them in doing so. The university will also notify the complainant that he or she is not required to file a report with local law enforcement. The university will report allegations of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence to law enforcement or other authorities when it is required to do so under federal, state, and local law.

(4) Supportive measures and interim restrictions. During the complaint review, the director of SRR or Title IX coordinator will review whether any supportive measures or interim restrictions are needed. Supportive measures and interim restrictions are addressed in WAC 172-121-140.

(5) SRR will follow up with the parties as described below.

(a) The director of SRR will contact the respondent, and the complainant in cases of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence, and provide them with the following information:

(i) The respondent's and complainant's rights under the student conduct code;

(ii) A summary of the allegations the complainant has against the respondent;

(iii) The potential conduct code violations related to the allegations; and

(iv) How to report any subsequent problems or retaliation, including intimidation, threats, coercion, or discrimination.

(b) In all cases alleging sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence, the director of SRR will, in addition to the information specified under (a) of this subsection, provide both parties with written information that will include, at a minimum:

(i) The student's rights and options, including options to avoid contact with the other party; a list of available university and community resources for counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, visa and immigration assistance, student financial aid, and other academic and housing services at the university and in the community; and options for, available assistance in, and how to request changes to academic, living, transportation, and working situations or protective measures;

(ii) The importance of preserving evidence of the alleged incident and procedures to follow to preserve evidence of the alleged incident;

(iii) Who will receive a report of the allegation;

(iv) Their right to file or not file a criminal complaint as detailed above and the ability to be assisted by campus authorities in notifying law enforcement authorities if the complainant wishes to do so;

(v) A list of resources for obtaining protective, no contact, restraining, or similar orders, if applicable;

(vi) The procedures the university will follow when determining if discipline is appropriate;

(vii) Steps the university will take to ensure confidentiality of complainants and other necessary parties and the limits this may place on the university's ability to investigate and respond, as set forth above; and

(viii) Information regarding the university's policy against retaliation, steps the university will take to prevent and respond to any retaliation, and how the student should report retaliation or new incidents.

(6) Following the complaint review, the director of SRR will either dismiss the matter or arrange a prehearing conference.

(a) Dismiss the matter. If the director of SRR determines the allegations, even if true, would not rise to the level of a conduct violation, he/she may dismiss the matter. In such cases, the director of SRR will prepare a written record of the dismissal. The director of SRR will also notify the complainant of their decision, if such notification is permissible under FERPA. The dismissal letter, along with the original complaint and any other related documents, will be maintained as described in WAC 172-121-080. In cases of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence or for a Title IX complaint, the complainant may request a review of the dismissal by the dean of students by filing a request for review with the director of SRR within seven business days of receiving notice of the dismissal.

(b) Prehearing conference. If the director of SRR does not dismiss the matter he/she will arrange a prehearing conference as described in WAC 172-121-110.

(1) General provisions:

(a) Conduct review proceedings in which the allegations do not involve a Title IX complaint, felony level crimes, or the potential sanction is less than suspension or expulsion, are brief hearings in accordance with WAC 172-108-050(3). Conduct review proceedings in which the allegations involve a Title IX complaint, felony level crimes, or the potential sanction is suspension or expulsion, are considered full hearings under the Administrative Procedure Act.

(b) Nonjudicial proceedings: Formal rules of process, procedure, and/or technical rules, such as are applied in criminal or civil courts, do not apply in student conduct code proceedings. All Title IX complaints shall follow the regulations prescribed under 34 C.F.R. Part 106.

(2) Notification for student organizations: When a charge is directed towards a student organization, the CRO will communicate all matters relative to conduct review proceedings with the president of the organization or their designee.

(3) Advisors: The complainant and the respondent may be assisted by one advisor of their choice, subject to the following provisions:

(a) Any fees or expenses associated with the services of an advisor are the responsibility of the complainant or the respondent that employed the advisor;

(b) The advisor may be an attorney or any other person of the student's choosing;

(c) The advisor must provide the CRO with a FERPA release signed by the student they are assisting;

(d) If a complainant or the respondent is represented by an attorney, the attorney shall provide the CRO and other parties with the attorney's name, address, telephone number, and email address. The attorney must file a notice of appearance when hired to represent a person and a notice of withdrawal upon withdrawal of representation. A notice of appearance must be filed at least two business days prior to any conduct review proceeding;

(e) If a complainant or respondent wishes to have an advisor for a Title IX complaint and is not able to identify one, the student may contact SRR for assistance in finding an advisor;

(f) In addition to an advisor, a complainant or respondent may bring a certified therapy animal with a handler for the hearing. The handler is not allowed to participate in the hearing process.

(4) Review of evidence:

(a) In brief hearings, the respondent, and, in cases of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence, the complainant may request to view material related to their case prior to a scheduled hearing by contacting the CRO. To facilitate this process, the party should contact the CRO as early as possible prior to the scheduled hearing. The CRO shall make a reasonable effort to support the request to the extent allowable by state and federal law.

(b) In full hearings, the respondent, and, in cases of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence, the complainant may request to view material related to the case prior to the scheduled hearing by contacting the director of SRR. To facilitate this process, the party should contact the director as early as possible prior to the scheduled hearing. The director of SRR shall make a reasonable effort to support the request to the extent allowable by state and federal law.

(5) Continuances: Continuances, extensions of time, and adjournments may be ordered by the CRO. A party may file a timely request for a continuance if the party shows good cause for the continuance. A request for a continuance may be oral or written. Before granting a motion for a continuance, the CRO shall allow any other party to object to the request. The CRO will make a decision on the request and will communicate his/her decision in writing to the parties along with the reasons for granting or denying the request.

(1) Scheduling and notification. Full hearings are used for allegations which, if substantiated by a preponderance of the evidence, could be a felony-level crime, involve a Title IX complaint, or could result in a sanction of suspension or expulsion. Following provision of the notice of allegations to the respondent, as set forth in WAC 172-121-110, the SRR office shall arrange for a prehearing conference.

(2) General provisions.

(a) Hearing authority: The CRO exercises control over hearing proceedings. All procedural questions are subject to the final decision of the CRO. The CRO chairs the disciplinary council.

(b) Closed hearings: All conduct review hearings will be closed. Admission of any person to a conduct review hearing shall be at the discretion of the CRO.

(c) Consolidation of hearings: In the event that one or more students are charged with the same misconduct arising from the same occurrence, the council may conduct separate hearings for each student or consolidate the hearings as practical, as long as consolidation does not impinge on the rights of any student.

(3) Appearance.

(a) Failure to appear: In cases where proper notice has been given but the respondent fails to attend a conduct review hearing, the council shall decide the case based on the information available, without the respondent's input. The council may not make an inference about the determination regarding responsibility based solely on a party's or witness's failure to appear at the hearing. However, nonappearance by a party may impact the evidence available for the council to make a decision.

(b) Appearance: The parties will be provided options for reasonable alternative arrangements if they do not wish to be present in the same room as the other student during the hearing. The parties may appear at the conduct review hearing in person via a method that allows the council to hear the parties and physically observe them while testifying, subject to the limits set forth below in (e) of this subsection. If a party does not appear at the hearing, the council will decide the case based on the information available. Solely for Title IX complaints, if a party or witness does not appear at the hearing and submit to cross-examination, the council must not rely on any statement of that party or witness in reaching a determination regarding responsibility; additionally, the council cannot draw an inference regarding responsibility based on the failure to appear or refusal to answer cross-examination or other questions.

(c) Advisors: The complainant and the respondent may be assisted by one advisor during conduct review hearings as described in WAC 172-121-105. For Title IX complaints, the university will provide an advisor to a party upon request for the purposes of conducting cross-examination.

(d) Disruption of proceedings: Any person, including the respondent or advisor, who disrupts a hearing, may be excluded from the proceedings.

(e) Remote appearance. In the interest of fairness and expedience, the CRO may permit any person to appear by a method that allows the person to be seen and heard by the council.

(4) Standard of evidence. The council shall determine whether the respondent violated the student conduct code, as charged, based on a preponderance of the evidence. A preponderance means, based on the evidence admitted, whether it is more probable than not that the respondent violated the student conduct code.

(5) Prehearing conference. The SRR office or designee will arrange for a prehearing conference with the parties to advise them about the student conduct process. During the prehearing conference, the SRR office or designee will:

(a) Review the written list of allegations;

(b) Inform the respondent who is bringing the complaint against them;

(c) Provide the respondent and complainant with a copy of the student conduct code and any other relevant university policies;

(d) Explain the respondent's and complainant's rights and responsibilities under the student code;

(e) Explain the conduct review procedures;

(f) Explain possible penalties under the student conduct code;

(g) Schedule a date for the full hearing; and

(h) Address any preliminary matters or motions.

(6) Notice of hearing. Following the prehearing conference, the director shall schedule the hearing and notify the respondent and complainant of the date, time, location, participants, and purpose of the hearing. The notices will include information about how to request accommodations or interpreters for any parties or witnesses. Any request for the presence of an emotional support animal or any other accommodation must be directed to disability support services and approved as a reasonable accommodation in advance of the hearing. A person may bring a certified therapy animal with a handler to a hearing. The notice of hearing must be served on the respondent and complainant at least seven business days prior to the hearing. The director may coordinate with the parties to facilitate scheduling, but is not required to do so.

(7) Evidence.

(a) Evidence: Pertinent records, exhibits and written statements may be accepted as information for consideration by the council in accordance with RCW 34.05.452. Any investigation conducted by the university will be admitted into evidence as long as the investigator testifies at the hearing. Evidence, including hearsay evidence, is admissible if in the judgment of the CRO it is the kind of evidence on which reasonably prudent persons are accustomed to rely in the conduct of their affairs; however, solely for Title IX complaints, statements obtained from a person who does not testify at the hearing shall not be considered by the council. The CRO shall exclude evidence that is excludable on constitutional or statutory grounds or on the basis of evidentiary privilege recognized by Washington courts. The CRO may exclude irrelevant material. If not inconsistent with this section, the CRO shall refer to the Washington rules of evidence as guidelines for evidentiary rulings. For Title IX complaints, prior to allowing a question to be answered during cross-examination, the CRO must determine that the question is relevant, and, if excluded, the CRO must explain on the record the reason for the exclusion.

(b) The respondent and complainant have the right to view all material presented during the course of the hearing, except a respondent's previous disciplinary history which shall be used solely for the purpose of determining the appropriate sanction.

(c) All testimony of parties and witnesses shall be made under oath or affirmation. Any interpreter shall be proscribed the oath set forth in WAC 10-08-160.

(d) Documentary evidence may be received in the form of copies or excerpts, or by incorporation by reference.

(e) Official notice may be taken of (i) any easily verifiable facts such as dates or weather conditions, (ii) technical or scientific facts within EWU's specialized knowledge, such as enrollment status or class schedules, and (iii) codes or standards that have been adopted by an agency of the United States, of this state or of another state, or by a nationally recognized organization or association. Parties shall be notified either before or during hearing, or by reference in preliminary reports or otherwise, of the material so noticed and the sources thereof, including any staff memoranda and data, and they shall be afforded an opportunity to contest the facts and material so noticed. A party proposing that official notice be taken may be required to produce a copy of the material to be noticed.

(f) All rulings upon objections to the admissibility of evidence shall be made in accordance with the provisions of RCW 34.05.452, except for the additional restrictions on the admission of evidence required by Title IX.

(8) Discovery. Discovery is not permitted under the code, except for requests for documentary information from the university. Either party may request the university to produce relevant documents in the university's possession as long as such request is submitted at least five business days prior to the hearing, absent extenuating circumstances. If the CRO determines the request is not relevant to the present allegation, the CRO may deny the request. The university will provide the requested information prior to the hearing to the extent permitted by state and federal law.

(9) Subpoenas.

(a) Subpoenas ((shall be issued and enforced, and witness fees paid, as provided in RCW 34.05.446 and 5.56.010.

(b)))may be issued by the presiding officer or an attorney consistent with RCW 34.05.446. However, for the protection of both parties, a party cannot subpoena the other party. A party may request an exemption from this rule by filing a written request with the presiding officer at least ten days prior to the hearing. The presiding officer will provide a copy of the request to the other party and give them three days to respond. The presiding officer will then decide whether or not sufficient cause exists to grant an exemption to this rule and will inform the parties of the decision. Any subpoena issued must conform to EWU's subpoena form. Every subpoena shall identify the party causing issuance of the subpoena and shall state EWU's name and the title of the proceeding and shall ((command))direct the person to whom it is directed to attend and give testimony or produce designated books, documents, or things under his or her control.

(((i))) A subpoena to a person to provide testimony at a hearing shall specify the time and place set for hearing.

(((ii) A subpoena duces tecum requesting a person to produce designated books, documents, or things under his or her control shall specify a time and place for producing the books, documents, or things. That time and place may be the time and place set for the hearing, or another reasonably convenient time and place in advance of the hearing.

(c)))(b) A subpoena may be served by any suitable person over eighteen years of age, by exhibiting and reading it to the witness, or by giving him or her a copy thereof, or by leaving such copy at the place of his or her abode. When service is made by any other person than an officer authorized to serve process, proof of service shall be made by affidavit or declaration under penalty of perjury.

(((d)))(c) The CRO, upon motion by a party or at his or her own discretion, may (((i))) quash or modify the subpoena if it is unreasonable ((and))or oppressive ((or (ii) condition denial of the motion upon advancement by the person in whose behalf the subpoena is issued of the reasonable cost of producing the books, papers, documents, or tangible things)). Subpoenas may not be used to threaten or intimidate parties or witnesses.

(10) Summary judgment. A motion for summary judgment may be granted and an order issued if the written record shows that there is no genuine issue as to any material fact and that the moving party is entitled to judgment as a matter of law. A motion for summary judgment is not permitted for Title IX complaints.

(11) Witnesses.

(a) The complainant, respondent, and the university's presenter may call witnesses at full hearings.

(b) The person who wishes to call a witness is responsible for ensuring that the witness is available and present at the time of the hearing. An attorney may subpoena a witness to appear at the hearing. Nonattorneys may request the CRO to subpoena witnesses in accordance with subsection (4) of this section. The CRO has the discretion to deny a request to issue a subpoena or to quash a subpoena issued by an attorney if the subpoena is unreasonable, oppressive, or does not conform to EWU's subpoena form.

(c) The CRO may exclude witnesses from the hearing room when they are not testifying. The CRO is not required to take the testimony of all witnesses called by the parties if such testimony may be irrelevant. For Title IX complaints, any decision to exclude a witness shall be explained on the record.

(d) All parties have the right to hear all testimony provided by witnesses during the hearing.

(e) The parties should inform the CRO of any possible need for an interpreter or any accommodation requests at least five business days prior to the hearing. The CRO will comply with WAC 10-08-150.

(12) Questioning:

(a) The complainant's advisor, the respondent's advisor, and the university's presenter may ask questions of any witness, or party, including cross-examination questions. For cases that do not involve Title IX complaints, if the student does not have an advisor, the complainant and respondent may submit questions in writing to the CRO and the CRO may ask the questions. For Title IX complaints, if a party does not have an advisor, the university will provide the party with an advisor aligned with that party for the purposes of conducting cross-examination as long as the party requests such an advisor at least five business days in advance of the hearing. The CRO may also ask questions, but is not required to do so. The CRO may preclude any questions which they consider irrelevant, and for Title IX cases such decision must be explained on the record. The CRO must exclude and the council shall not consider any questions or evidence pertaining to the complainant's sexual predisposition or prior sexual behavior, unless such questions and evidence about the complainant's prior sexual behavior are offered to prove that someone other than the respondent committed the conduct alleged by the complainant, or if the questions and evidence concern specific incidents of the complainant's prior sexual behavior with respect to the respondent and are offered to prove consent. The CRO will explain to the parties the reason for rejecting any questions and will maintain a record of the questions submitted and rulings made.

(b) The council may ask their own questions of any witness or party called before them.

(13) Remote appearance. The CRO may accommodate concerns for personal safety, well-being, or fears of confrontation of any person appearing at the hearing by providing separate facilities, or by permitting participation by video conferencing, or other means that allows the council and parties to see and hear the party answering questions, as determined appropriate, subject to subsection (3)(b) of this section.

(14) Deliberations and sanctions. Following the hearing, the council will determine in closed session whether, by a preponderance of the evidence, the respondent violated the student conduct code based on the evidence presented at the hearing. If a student fails to appear, the council shall make a decision based on the information available. If the council determines the respondent violated the student conduct code, the CRO shall then decide what sanctions and remedies shall be imposed. The CRO may review the respondent's previous disciplinary history solely for purposes of determining the appropriate sanction. In addition to sanctions under this code, if the student is also an employee of the university, the CRO's decision may be forwarded to the student's supervisor to determine whether any employment actions outside of this code should be taken in accordance with university policy.

The council shall issue a decision including their findings, conclusions, and rationale. The decision shall address credibility issues if credibility or witness demeanor was a substantial factor in the council's decision. Credibility determinations may not be based on a person's status as a complainant, respondent, or witness. The findings shall be based exclusively on the evidence provided at the hearing. If the council finds the respondent violated the code, the CRO shall add the decision regarding sanctions and remedies to the council's decision. Such decisions should be issued within ten business days from the date of the hearing. The written decision shall also:

(a) Be correctly captioned identifying EWU and the name of the proceeding;

(b) Designate all parties and representatives participating in the proceeding;

(c) Identify the allegations at issue;

(d) A description of the procedural steps taken, including notifications to the parties, interviews with the parties and witnesses, site visits, methods used to gather other evidence, and hearings held;

(e) Contain appropriate numbered findings of fact meeting the requirements in RCW 34.05.461;

(f) Contain appropriately numbered conclusions regarding the application of university policies and this code to the facts;

(g) A statement of, and rationale for, the result as to each allegation, including a determination regarding responsibility, any disciplinary sanctions imposed, and if any remedies are necessary to provide to the complainant in a Title IX complaint to restore or preserve equal access to the university's educational programs or activities;

(h) Contain a statement describing rights to appeal and the procedures for appealing.

(15) Finality. The council's and CRO's decision becomes final at either the conclusion or the appeal process under this code, if an appeal is filed, or if an appeal is not filed, the date on which an appeal would no longer be timely.

(16) Notification to the respondent. The CRO shall serve the respondent with a copy of the decision and notice of the right to appeal.

(17) Notification to the complainant. In cases of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence, simultaneous with notification of the decision to the respondent, the complainant shall be provided with written notice of:

(a) The university's determination as to whether sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence occurred;

(b) The complainant's right to appeal;

(c) Any change to the results that occurs prior to the time that such results become final and when such results become final (20 U.S.C. 1092(f));

(d) Information regarding the discipline of the respondent will not be released unless:

(i) The information contained in the record directly relates to the complainant, such as an order requiring the student harasser to not contact the complainant; or

(ii) The misconduct involves a crime of violence or a sexual assault, including rape, dating violence, domestic violence or stalking as defined in 42 U.S.C. Sec. 13925(a).

(e) Any remedies provided to the complainant. For Title IX complaints, the complainant shall receive a copy of the decision provided to the respondent under subsection (14) of this section.

(18) Notification to Title IX coordinator. For Title IX complaints, the Title IX coordinator must be provided with notice of the decision as the Title IX coordinator is responsible for effective implementation of any remedies.

(1) Supportive measures. During the complaint review, the director of SRR, Title IX coordinator, or designee will evaluate the circumstances and determine if any supportive measures to assist or protect the parties during the conduct code process are needed. For sexual misconduct and interpersonal violence cases, supportive measures are available before or after the filing of a complaint or where no formal complaint is filed. Supportive measures are provided to students free of charge and may include, but are not limited to, safety planning with the university, mutual restrictions on contact between the parties, academic or workplace modifications, providing counseling for the complainant and/or respondent, or campus housing modifications((, and/or an interim restriction for the respondent)). The purpose of a supportive measure is to provide an equitable process for both students that minimizes the possibility of a hostile environment on campus. For Title IX complaints, supportive measures are designed to restore or preserve equal access to the university's educational programs or activities without unreasonably burdening either party, including protecting the safety of all parties and the university's educational environment, or deterring sexual harassment. Supportive measures in cases of sexual misconduct and interpersonal violence are coordinated by the Title IX coordinator or designee.

(2) Interim restrictions. For Title IX complaints, in situations where there is cause to believe that a student or a student organization poses an immediate threat to the physical health or safety of any student or other individual, including themselves, the Title IX coordinator in conjunction with the director of SRR may take immediate action(s) against the student or student organization after conducting an individualized safety and risk analysis without prior notice or hearing.

Simultaneous with such action(s), the director of SRR will refer the allegations to the conduct review officer, who will process such allegations in accordance with the provisions of this student conduct code.

For all non-Title IX cases, the director may take immediate action(s) against the student or student organization after conducting an individualized safety and risk analysis without prior notice or hearing. Simultaneously, the director shall refer the allegations to the conduct review officer. For non-Title IX cases, interim restriction is subject to the following:

(a) Interim restriction actions may only be imposed in the following situations:

(i) When a student or student organization poses an immediate threat to:

(A) The physical health or safety of any student or any other individual;

(B) The student's own physical safety and well-being; or

(C) Any property of the university community; or

(ii) When it is believed that the student's or student organization's continued attendance or presence may cause disorder, substantially interfere with or impede the lawful activities of others, or imperil the physical or mental health and safety of members of the university community.

(b) During the interim restriction period, a student may be restricted by any or all of the following means:

(i) Denial of access including, but not limited to: Assignment to alternate university housing or removal from university housing, limitation of access to university facilities, or restriction of communication with specific individuals or groups;

(ii) Interim suspension, including temporary total removal from the university or restriction of access to campus. For Title IX complaints, a student may only be placed on interim suspension if, after conducting an individualized safety and risk analysis, the director determines the person poses an immediate threat to the physical health or safety of any student or other individual arising from the allegations of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence;

(iii) Mandatory medical/psychological assessment of the student's capability to remain in the university.

(3) The director of SRR will determine what restriction(s) will be placed on a student.

(4) The director of SRR will prepare a brief memorandum for record containing the reasons for the interim restriction. The director will serve the memorandum on the restricted student and notify all other persons or offices bound by it. At a minimum, the memorandum will state:

(a) The alleged act(s) or behavior(s) of the student or student organization which prompted the interim restriction;

(b) How those alleged act(s) or behavior(s) could constitute a violation of the student conduct code;

(c) How the circumstances of the case necessitated the interim restriction action(s); and

(d) An explanation of the process for emergency appeal reviews.

(5) Notice to complainant. In cases alleging sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence, the complainant will be provided with notice of any interim restrictions that relate directly to the complainant. If the respondent appeals such interim restrictions, the complainant will be given notice of the respondent's appeal and an opportunity to submit a statement within five business days of the notice as to why the interim restriction should or should not be modified.

(6) Emergency appeal review.

(a) If a student has been suspended on an interim basis, the student will automatically receive an emergency appeal review with the vice president for student affairs, or designee. If the interim restriction is something less than a suspension, the student or student organization subject to the interim restriction must file a written appeal with the vice president for student affairs within five business days after service of the interim restriction. In all cases, the student must submit any information the student wishes the vice president to consider submitted within ten business days after service of the interim restriction. The appealing party should outline the desired modification(s) to the interim restriction as well as the specific challenge(s) to the interim restriction decision. Challenges to interim restriction decisions are limited to the criteria identified in WAC 172-121-140(1) upon which the interim restriction was imposed (threat to health or safety of the university community, potential for creating campus disorder, impeding the lawful activity of others, etc.). Appealing parties are limited to submitting their own written statements. Any other evidence should be submitted to the investigator or provided to the CRO under the regular hearing process.

(b) The vice president for student affairs, or designee, will conduct an emergency appeal review after receiving the respondent's review and complainant's response, if any. Emergency appeal reviews will address only the interim restriction decision of the ((dean of students))director and the basis on which the restriction modification or termination is requested by the appealing party. The emergency appeal review does not replace the regular hearing process. In the emergency appeal review, the vice president will only review materials available to and information considered by the dean of students at the time the interim restriction was imposed, written statements by the two parties, and information that becomes available as a part of the university's investigation that the vice president deems relevant.

(c) In cases alleging sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence, if a complainant believes the interim restriction does not adequately protect their health and safety, the complainant may appeal the interim restriction using the process outlined in this subsection. If the complainant files an appeal, all parties shall be given notice of the appeal and shall be provided the opportunity to submit a written statement to the vice president within five business days of receiving notice of the complainant's appeal.

(d) During the emergency appeal review, the vice president for student affairs will review available materials and statements. The vice president for student affairs will issue a written decision upholding, modifying, or terminating the interim restriction action. The written decision shall include a rationale for the basis of the decision and be issued within fifteen business days of the date of service of an interim restriction.

(e) The interim restriction does not replace the regular hearing process, which will proceed as quickly as feasible consistent with this chapter.

(f) Duration. An interim restriction will remain in effect until terminated, in writing, by the student disciplinary council, CRO, or the vice president for student affairs.