HB2172 Summary

• Establishes an Office of Strategic Partnerships and Development within the University of Hawaii to coordinate and manage public-private partnerships that benefit the university and promote economic development in the state.

• Creates a five-year University of Hawaii public-private partnership pilot project allowing the university to enter into partnerships with private entities for projects including nonprofit corporations, stock ownership, and joint venture arrangements.

• Permits up to three development projects under the pilot program, with the University of Hawaii at Hilo university village phase II designated as the first project and the remaining two requiring board of regents approval.

• Removes the word "exclusive" from the board of regents' statutory jurisdiction over the internal structure, management, and operation of the university.

• Requires the university to communicate and negotiate with affected unions before proceeding with development projects and mandates mutual agreement with unions if jobs are affected.