HI HB96

Establishes an Office of the Ombuds at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, administratively attached to the Chancellor.

Ombuds office shall provide confidential assistance to faculty, students, staff, and community members through investigation, mediation, and analysis of complaints regarding harassment, discrimination, policy violations, academic freedom, and other institutional issues.

Communications with ombuds staff are privileged and confidential unless disclosure is required by law or imminent risk of serious harm exists; office maintains independence from Chancellor direction in handling individual matters.

Office may offer information, identify resolution options, facilitate communication, and provide mediation, but may not make administrative decisions, establish policies, offer legal advice, or participate in formal dispute resolution processes.

Appropriates unspecified general revenue funds for fiscal years 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 to establish and operate the office; effective July 1, 2525.