JACKSON (AP) — The state College Board has given initial approval to policy changes that could simplify the process for firing tenured professors.
The board unanimously approved the first reading of the changes Thursday.
The changes include shortening the time universities have to give tenured employees notice of termination from up to a year to six months. A lack of funds also has been added as a cause for termination for tenure-track employees.
New policy language also strips faculty of the right of appearing before the board if they are denied tenure.
A final vote will be taken in January. If approved, the changes would take effect July 1.
‘‘It’s written to give institutions flexibility,’’ Institutions of Higher Education Commissioner Hank Bounds said.
Bounds said university presidents could set their own standards on terminations, and that the proposals were a ‘‘minimum’’ after University of Mississippi Chancellor Dan Jones asked if the colleges could give faculty more security.
The board in recent months has been looking at ways to help the state’s eight universities cope with reduced state funding in the tight economy. Early next year, universities will present the board with their plans to reduce spending on campus.
