Montana is known for big skies, skiing, and breathtaking scenery (our Montana-raised Publications Fellow is absolutely not biased whatsoever). Unfortunately, it’s now also known for highly questionable policies in dealing with sexual assaults at one of its largest universities, the University of Montana.
The situation at UM came to prominence with the publication of Jon Krakauer’s investigative book, “Missoula.” Recently, the Montana Supreme Court ruled against Krakauer in his open records lawsuit against the university, and this month, SPLC Executive Director Frank LoMonte discusses the case with Krakauer’s Montana attorney, Mike Meloy.
In the podcast they discuss open records, the unique protections codified in Montana’s Constitution, and the underlying argument over FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) which the Montana Commissioner of Higher Education cited in refusing to turn over documents related to rape allegations against one of UM’s star football players after a university court hearing recommended the player’s expulsion.