Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HR89

Introduced
3/12/26  

Caption

Supporting The Request By The University Of Hawaii At Manoa Faculty Senate For A Commitment From University Of Hawaii Leaders To Remain Steadfast In Vigorously Defending Any And All Students, Faculty, Or Staff Who May Be Attacked For Exercising Their Rights To Academic Freedom And Free Speech.

Impact

The bill aims to challenge the University of Hawaii's proposed changes to policies that could restrict expressions of free speech and academic freedom. By supporting the Faculty Senate's resolution, the bill seeks to ensure that individuals within the university can engage freely in discourse without fear of reprisal or disciplinary actions. Such protections are increasingly important in a climate where civil liberties are perceived to be under threat.

Summary

House Resolution 89 (HR89) expresses support for the University of Hawaii at Manoa Faculty Senate's request for a commitment from university leaders to defend students, faculty, and staff against attacks on their rights to academic freedom and free speech. The resolution emphasizes the importance of these rights in the context of historical moral leadership demonstrated by the university community during various social movements. It recognizes that political and artistic expressions of past protests would be hindered by the university's proposed 'Time, Place, and Manner' restrictions.

Conclusion

By passing HR89, the House of Representatives affirms its commitment to uphold the principles of academic freedom and free speech within Hawaii's educational institutions, challenging any measures that might restrict these fundamental rights. The resolution calls for awareness and proactive measures to ensure that the university's policies reflect its commitment to fostering an inclusive and robust academic environment.

Contention

Notable points of contention include concerns over the potential chilling effects of the 'Time, Place, and Manner' restrictions, which critics argue would deter vital expressions of dissent and academic discourse. This has sparked debate among various stakeholders in the university community, with several advocating for policies that not only protect but enhance the rights of individuals to express diverse viewpoints. The resolution aligns with a broader movement to push back against policies perceived to undermine academic integrity and freedom.

Companion Bills

HI HCR97

Same As Supporting The Request By The University Of Hawaii At Manoa Faculty Senate For A Commitment From University Of Hawaii Leaders To Remain Steadfast In Vigorously Defending Any And All Students, Faculty, Or Staff Who May Be Attacked For Exercising Their Rights To Academic Freedom And Free Speech.

HI SR168

Same As Supporting The Request By The University Of Hawaii At Manoa Faculty Senate For A Commitment From University Of Hawaii Leaders To Remain Steadfast In Vigorously Defending Any And All Students, Faculty, Or Staff Who May Be Attacked For Exercising Their Rights To Academic Freedom And Free Speech.

Previously Filed As

HI HR120

Encouraging The Kawaihuelani Center For Hawaiian Language Of The University Of Hawaii At Manoa To Further Provide Learning Resources And Opportunities That Promote Hawaiian Language And Culture.

HI HCR124

Encouraging The Kawaihuelani Center For Hawaiian Language Of The University Of Hawaii At Manoa To Further Provide Learning Resources And Opportunities That Promote Hawaiian Language And Culture.

HI HR121

Requesting The University Of Hawaii To Prioritize A Capital Improvement Project To Construct "halau O Kawaihuelani".

HI SCR138

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Management And Performance Audit Of The Office Of The Vice President For Academic Strategy Of The University Of Hawaii.

HI SR155

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Management And Performance Audit Of The Office Of The Vice President For Academic Strategy Of The University Of Hawaii.

HI HCR125

Requesting The University Of Hawaii To Prioritize A Capital Improvement Project To Construct "halau O Kawaihuelani".

HI SB1502

Relating To The University Of Hawaii.

HI SCR142

Requesting The Office Of The Auditor To Conduct An Audit Of The University Of Hawaii At Manoa Athletics Department's Use And Management Of Its Funds.

HI HR31

Requesting The University Of Hawaii To Conduct A Viability Study Of Nuclear Energy Development In Hawaii.

HI SB1530

Relating To The University Of Hawaii.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.