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Readers React: ‘Affirmative consent’ law might not deter rapists

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To the editor: Jonah Goldberg’s anger is misplaced. While I agree that the new law signed by the governor seeking to define what is lawful “consent” in sexual encounters between college students is difficult if not impossible to enforce, Goldberg has trained his rifle on the wrong target. (“Liberals storm California’s bedrooms,” Op-Ed, Oct. 6)

The Legislature and Gov. Jerry Brown have bypassed the reason the law was passed. What Goldberg and the Legislature seem to have ignored is the abysmal failure of college administrators and law enforcement to fully and properly investigate sexual assault complaints.

No new definition of “consent” will magically transform incompetent or disinterested investigators into capable, committed protectors of crime victims.

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Diane Goldman, Woodland Hills

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To the editor: This issue isn’t about political philosophies. The increase in campus assaults stems from the failure of parents to teach their children to make good decisions. This legislation is a way for our government to pick up the slack.

As a parent of three daughters, I know I cannot make sure the decisions they make are always right. But I also know that raising them to recognize danger when they see it and to avoid situations that will impair their judgment or those of others around them is the best way to ensure they are not victims.

Laws that seek to replace good parenting do not get to the root of the problem and will not make our students any safer.

Rena Kreitenberg, Los Angeles

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To the editor: Sacramento could do much better with real action versus a feel-good piece of legislation. More outrageous than anything to me is all of the rape kits that are going years and years without being tested, allowing dangerous people to walk our streets.

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On a lighter note, this “yes means yes” law reminds me of an old skit done by Dave Chapelle: He’s in bed with a woman, and he whips out a contract. What are we becoming?

Shane Algarin, San Diego

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