Wisconsin Senate Bill SB858

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/26/23
• Refer: 12/26/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Shared governance at University of Wisconsin System institutions.

Impact

If enacted, SB858 would significantly alter the governance framework at UW System institutions. It reinstates faculty, academic staff, and student roles in institutional governance, granting them greater authority in advising on academic activities, policy development, and personnel matters. This is seen as a critical move to empower faculty and staff after the tightening of authority that occurred under the previous act.

Summary

Senate Bill 858 seeks to restore provisions concerning shared governance within the University of Wisconsin System to their status prior to the enactment of the 2015-17 biennial budget act (2015 Wisconsin Act 55). The bill aims to amend sections related to the division of responsibilities among chancellors, faculty, academic staff, and students in the governance of University institutions, emphasizing a more participatory role for these groups in institutional policy development.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB858 involve the balance of power between the Board of Regents and the shared governance entities. Critics of the bill may argue that while it empowers faculty and academic staff, it could also complicate decision-making processes and hinder the operational effectiveness of the institutions, while supporters believe it fosters an inclusive environment conducive to collaboration in academic governance. The perspectives on this bill reflects a broader dialogue about the role of governance in public universities.