Assembly Bill 757 proposes significant changes to the governance structure and appointment processes within the University of Wisconsin System. The bill renumbers and amends existing statutes while introducing new provisions that redefine faculty roles and responsibilities. Notably, it expands the definition of faculty to include individuals with at least a 50% appointment whose primary duties involve teaching or research, and it prohibits the limitation of eligibility for faculty committee positions based on rank, tenure, or degree attainment. Additionally, the bill stipulates that the Board of Regents must make all limited appointments, including that of senior vice president, and cannot delegate this authority. It also requires the Board to submit an annual report detailing these appointments.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the governance responsibilities of faculty and academic staff, ensuring that full-time faculty and academic staff with instructional or research duties cannot be excluded from consideration for leadership roles based on tenure status or degree level. The changes aim to enhance faculty governance and inclusivity within the UW System, allowing for a more diverse range of candidates for leadership positions. The bill also mandates that the Board of Regents approve titles, salaries, and position descriptions for limited appointments, thereby increasing transparency in the appointment process.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 36.09(1)(e), 36.09, 36.09(1)(em), 36.09(4m), 36.17(1), 36.17, 36.17(2)