The ETSU Student Government Association recently released their end of the month report for January and February. The report includes newly passed and introduced legislation, as well as topics of conversation for possible future changes and legislation in the upcoming months. On the report, there were three pieces of legislation passed, and these all revolve around inclusivity.
One of the new passed policies will support the inclusion of closed captioning on all ETSU produced videos and social media materials. This will be a great addition for people with hearing impairments or anyone learning English as a second language. Adding subtitles make sure all students are as included and informed as anyone else.
Another policy has been passed to alter spaces around campus to better accommodate the restroom needs of people with disabilities. This is another important addition to assure that more student, staff and campus visitors’ needs will be met with more ease. Likewise, new legislation was introduced to support easy access to feminine hygiene products in campus restrooms.
The last policy passed is to alter the University Attendance Policy to accommodate students’ religious needs. This is another positive new policy that promotes inclusivity and will make sure students won’t be academically penalized for participating in their religious holidays.
There were several discussions of positive changes that may come in the future. There is hope to execute a Food Recycling Initiative, as a space is in the process of being chosen. Possibly adding study bikes and treadmills to the library was discussed. I think it could be a good idea, because students would use them as long as they were put in an appropriate space.
There was also talk of adding a wellness fee in the future in order to expand healthcare at the University Health Center, reduce wait times at the Counseling Center and provide more internship opportunities. Although no student wants unnecessary fees, I think the addition of this one would be justified as students and faculty are going to directly benefit from the services it would improve.
SGA meetings are held every other Tuesday at 4 p.m. The next meeting will be held on March 24 in the Culp.
