Substitute House Bill No. 5426 mandates that by August 1, 2026, all institutions of higher education in the state must implement a policy allowing students to designate an advisor or support person of their choice to assist them during disciplinary proceedings that could lead to suspension, probation, expulsion, or exclusion from intercollegiate athletics. The designated advisor or support person is entitled to receive communications related to the disciplinary proceedings and to accompany the student in any meetings, provided that their involvement does not cause any delays. The bill also requires institutions to inform students about this policy at the beginning of each academic year and before any disciplinary proceedings.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that existing policies regarding the presence of an advisor or support person during disciplinary proceedings related to sexual assault, stalking, or intimate partner violence will take precedence over the new policy if there are any discrepancies. Importantly, the bill does not obligate institutions to provide an advisor or support person to students. The effective date for this legislation is set for July 1, 2026, and it is expected to have no fiscal impact on the state or municipalities.