A University of Georgia committee that reviews student behavior problems now has the authority to suspend troubled students or order that they be withdrawn from classes on medical grounds.

The Athens Banner-Herald reported Friday that the school's cabinet voted unanimously to give the new powers to the Behavioral Assessment and Response Council.

The group was created after the 2007 Virginia Tech massacre to deal with students who might pose a threat to themselves or others.

It initially had the authority to bar a student from campus or order a psychological assessment, but school officials say the new rules allow the council to act quickly and more decisively.

UGA President Michael Adams called the changes "necessary" but said they would be used sparingly.

Tags: UGA, Virginia Tech, Behavioral Problems