Last November, the University of California Office of the President proposed a new policy on Abusive Conduct in the Workplace. Several comments were taken into consideration and a revised version of the policy is now open for comment.
The revised version includes the following key provisions:
- The proposed policy affirms the University of California’s commitment to promoting and maintaining a healthy working and learning environment in which each individual is treated with respect.
- The “Frequently Asked Questions” section of the proposed policy contains examples of what falls under the definition of abusive conduct and conduct that does not generally constitute abusive conduct.
- The proposed policy prohibits retaliation against any person who, in good faith, reports abusive conduct, assists someone with a report of abusive conduct, or participates in an investigation or other process under the policy.
- The proposed policy addresses free speech and academic freedom. The proposed policy is intended to protect members of the University community from abusive conduct, not to regulate protected speech. The proposed policy recognizes that freedom of speech and academic freedom are essential to the mission of the University. However, freedom of speech and academic freedom are not limitless and do not protect speech or expressive conduct that violates University policies when interpreted in light of free speech or academic freedom, or that violates federal law or state law.
- The proposed policy outlines the consequences of noncompliance, which include remediation, educational efforts, and/or employment consequences including informal counseling, adverse performance evaluations, corrective action/discipline, and termination.
If you believe you are the target of workplace bullying or abusive conduct, please contact one of the following individuals:
- Staff (including student employees): Shelby Young at 831-459–2223 or syoung@ucsc.edu
- Academic employees (including student employees): Danny Gray at 831-459–5032 or dggray@ucsc.edu
- Everyone: Nancy Heischman at 831-459–2290 or nheischm@ucsc.edu
UC Santa Cruz has compiled online resources, including a website with information on identifying workplace bullying, as well as procedures and resources for employees affected by bullying at work.
Conflict Resolution Services offers training on how to respond to bullying—for managers and supervisors, as well as those who are experiencing abusive conduct. You may contact Nancy Heischmanat 831-459–2290 or nheischm@ucsc.edu to learn more.
Comments on the proposed policy may be submitted to the Policy Coordination Office at pco@ucsc.edu. The deadline to provide comments is June 2, 2022.
