"The national presidents of the American Association of University Professors and the American Federation of Teachers union then issued a joint news release Thursday afternoon urging the full Senate to reject the legislation. They noted governing boards are largely gubernatorial appointees and argued that the bill's vagueness leaves the door open for pretextual terminations that would shut down departments and majors, closing doors for students and eliminating their opportunities to learn about a wide variety of topics."
"Republican representative Gex Williams told them, 'If it's not a business then maybe, respectfully, you could take some pay cuts or volunteer your time. It is a business.'"
"'HB 490 could be weaponized for purposes that have nothing to do with genuine fiscal emergencies,' wrote AAUP president."
Kentucky legislation enables public college boards to terminate faculty regardless of tenure due to low enrollment or financial misalignment. The process requires only 30 days' notice for faculty to defend their positions. The bill passed quickly through the Senate after being stalled, with brief comments from faculty opposing it. Critics argue the bill's vagueness could lead to unjust terminations, prioritizing profit over education. National education leaders have urged rejection of the bill, citing concerns over its potential misuse and impact on academic opportunities.
Read at Inside Higher Ed | Higher Education News, Events and Jobs
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