Bill > HB4726

This bill amends the Public Higher Education Act to ensure students facing disciplinary proceedings at public universities have access to support. It defines an "advocate" as someone who helps a student during a "disciplinary proceeding," which is any institutional process for addressing alleged violations of conduct or academic policies that could lead to sanctions like suspension or dismissal. The bill mandates that universities must allow students to have an advocate of their choosing or, if requested, one provided by the university. Written notices initiating these proceedings will clearly inform students of their right to an advocate. If a student doesn't have one, the university must make a reasonable effort to connect them with an advocate, such as a trained support coordinator or someone from a campus program. These advocates must be trained on the university's disciplinary procedures. With the student's consent, advocates can receive updates on the proceeding concurrently with the student and participate in meetings or hearings in a supportive role, though they are not to act as legal counsel unless legally required, nor will this bill alter existing evidence standards or create new legal claims against universities. The Board of Higher Education is empowered to create rules to implement these provisions.

https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?DocNum=4726&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104