This bill proposes the creation of a new section in chapter 15-10 of the North Dakota Century Code, which establishes an academic tenure policy for institutions of higher education under the control of the state board of higher education. By July 1, 2026, these institutions are required to develop and adopt a comprehensive policy for tenured and tenure-track faculty. The policy must include criteria for tenure progression, annual evaluations, post-tenure evaluations, and the composition of evaluation committees. It also stipulates that unsatisfactory reviews may lead to removal from the position, with such decisions made by the institution and the state board of higher education.

Additionally, the bill mandates that all open faculty positions be clearly designated as either nontenure-track or tenure-track in advertisements. When a tenure-track position is offered, the institution must provide the candidate with the newly established policy. This legislation aims to enhance the clarity and accountability of the tenure process within North Dakota's higher education system.