AL HB580

Faculty senates at four-year public institutions may only be established by governing boards, are limited to advisory roles with no final decision-making authority, and existing senates established before October 1, 2026 are abolished unless ratified by the governing board.

Faculty senate membership capped at 60 members, with at least two representatives from each college or school—one appointed by the institution president and one elected by faculty—serving staggered terms with limits on consecutive service.

Governing boards must adopt tenure policies requiring periodic post-tenure reviews (between annually and every six years) and authorizing dismissal of tenured faculty for professional incompetence, neglect of duty, moral turpitude, policy violations, financial exigency, or failure to complete required professional development.

Governing boards retain final approval authority over all courses and curriculum required for degrees at public institutions, though preliminary approval may be delegated to administration.

Accrediting agencies are prohibited from compelling institutions to violate the act or taking adverse action against institutions for compliance with these requirements, effective October 1, 2026.