NC S117

Board of Governors must adopt mandatory systemwide policies governing due process rights for students in university disciplinary proceedings, with minimum requirements for sexual misconduct allegations including adequate notice, right to legal counsel, witness cross-examination, investigator impartiality, written findings, and a clear and convincing evidence standard.

Each UNC constituent institution must adopt policies establishing adequate due process procedures for student disciplinary proceedings, including a Code of Student Conduct that notifies students of expected behavior and possible disciplinary measures.

Universities may suspend (but not expel) students for off-campus conduct if it violates the Code of Conduct and has direct and immediate impact on institutional operations or safety; long-term suspension or expulsion requires a hearing with due process protections and is restricted to serious violations.

Students and officially recognized student organizations have the right to be represented by a licensed attorney or nonattorney advocate at their own expense during disciplinary hearings, except for cases handled by student honor courts or allegations of academic dishonesty.

The act becomes effective October 1, 2021, and applies to investigations and proceedings initiated on or after that date.