Without a firm "yes," the answer is "no" on college campuses across New York's public university system.
A universal "affirmative consent" standard is now part of a sexual assault prevention policy. It spells out for students that only "yes" — not silence or a lack of resistance — is the cue for sexual activity.
MORE | The SUNY system has adopted a uniform policy regarding sexual assault. Read more about it here
The "Yes Means Yes" standard could spread to private campuses next year through legislation favored by Governor Andrew Cuomo as states face pressure to improve their handling of campus sexual assaults.
California adopted a similar measure and New Jersey and New Hampshire are considering them.
Supporters say it takes away a suspect's argument that their accuser never said no, and it empowers students to talk about consent before engaging in sex.
