The House Committee on Higher Education
Tuesday, March 14, 2017
2:00 pm, Room 309

Attention: Chair Justin Woodson and Vice Chair Mark Hashem, Members of the Committee

The University of Hawaii Professional Assembly (UHPA) supports of SB 137, SD2, The intent of this bill is to codify what is currently an Ethics Code Advisory Opinion (No. 1992-2) that allows faculty members to advance technology transfer activities at the University of Hawai‘i without penalties for commercializing their work which financially benefits the University.

The ability of faculty to work closely with students provides unique opportunities for mentoring, guiding and developing innovative and creative property that have the potential for commercialization. Revisions to the Code of Ethics enhances this potential.

SB 137, SD1 would ensure the long-standing ethical research principles and technology transfer regulations currently used by the federal government.  This also supports the ability of the University to be competitive for external research funding and attracting and retaining innovative faculty.

This benefits both the State and the University by removing current uncertainties surrounding the Advisory Opinion.  SB 137, SD2 provides an effective and efficient transfer of the results of research in a collaborative manner.

UHPA supports the passage of SB 137, SD2.

Respectfully submitted

Kristeen Hanselman
Executive Director