An Act relative to the rights of faculty members at the University of Massachusetts

This bill amends Massachusetts law to strengthen procedural protections for University of Massachusetts faculty members during tenure decisions. It requires the UMass Board of Trustees to notify faculty members in writing at least 48 hours before an executive session considering their tenure, with the option to waive notice by mutual agreement. The bill guarantees faculty members the right to be present during discussions about their tenure, have legal counsel or a representative attend (without active participation), and speak on their own behalf. These provisions apply specifically to tenure decisions and aim to increase transparency in the process. The bill directly affects UMass faculty members being evaluated for tenure.