Penn State’s Student Code of Conduct has now been updated to reflect the task force recommendations, the university announced Wednesday.

The task force shared preliminary recommendations in mid-September that aim to create a more equitable and inclusive Student Code of Conduct.

“Acts of bias” language is now included in the code, meaning any discriminatory bias or behavior is prohibited by the university and does not align with its values. “Discriminatory harassment” is also now its own separate, categorical conduct violation.

One major change to the Code of Conduct is it now includes off-campus matters that may harm or impact students under Penn State’s jurisdiction. This means that any instances that affect a student’s physical or mental health that take place off-campus are now subject to review by the Office of Student Conduct.

Additionally, the code will now require the Office of Student Conduct to be more transparent in its reporting process, meaning the office needs to publish the number of conduct violations, conduct case outcomes, and incidents that resulted in the use of restorative justice practices.

The first annual report on these matters is expected to be released in Summer 2021.

Penn State will also create new Code of Conduct curriculum materials for students to complete upon arriving at the university.

Danny Shaha, assistant vice president for Student Affairs, discussed the progress the office has made over the past few months as changes have already been made.

Shaha said the majority of staff in the Student Conduct and Sexual Misconduct Prevention & Response offices received training in restorative justice processes this summer. He saaid the training is still underway for students, faculty, and staff.

“Student Affairs has started the process of implementing these critical changes and will continue to build on the task force’s important work over the spring semester,” Shaha said. “The University is committed to fostering an environment where all students are heard and can thrive.”