HI SB1511

Clarifies that the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii's purpose is limited to promoting educational, scientific, and literary pursuits through research, training of research personnel, and publication of research findings, rather than broader economic development activities.

Changes the University of Hawaii's contracting with the Research Corporation from mandatory to discretionary by replacing "shall" with "may" in contracts for sponsored research and training activities.

Exempts the Research Corporation from state procurement laws (Chapter 103D) only for goods and services used for research, training, or publication of findings; non-research purchases must comply with competitive bidding requirements.

Requires the University to notify the appropriate bargaining unit representative about positions planned to be hired through the Research Corporation and prohibits supplanting civil service employees.

Limits the Research Corporation's special accounts and internal service orders using University funds to research and training projects, with required biannual reports to the legislature; revolving accounts must follow University of Hawaii Administrative Procedure 12.204 and be reviewed annually.