Connecticut House Bill HB05358

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/17
• Refer: 1/10/17

Caption

An Act Concerning Student Membership On The Board Of Trustees For The University Of Connecticut.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 05358 are intended to modernize student representation on the Board of Trustees, aiming to provide a more structured approach to involve students in governance at the university. By allowing for an alternate member, the bill seeks to ensure that student voices are consistently heard in the decision-making processes even when the primary representative is unavailable. This could lead to greater continuity and representation of student interests in university policies.

Summary

House Bill 05358 proposes an amendment to section 10a-103 of the general statutes, aiming to enhance student involvement on the Board of Trustees for The University of Connecticut. The bill would allow for the election of an alternate student member who would serve alongside the undergraduate student representative. This alternate would be elected by undergraduate students and would be able to participate in meetings and serve on the same subcommittees as the regular student member. Notably, this alternate member would have voting rights in instances where the undergraduate member is absent or has vacated their position until a replacement is elected.

Contention

While the bill primarily aims to improve student governance, it also raises questions about the effectiveness of student representation on the Board. Critics may argue about the true impact of an alternate member on board decisions, raising concerns regarding how meaningful the representation is if students feel their voices are only marginally influential amidst larger institutional dynamics. Potential debates could arise around the selection processes for both the primary and alternate members, and whether this model will truly reflect the diverse perspectives of the undergraduate student body.