Abstract
Problem. The Fifty Percent Law is in direct conflict with subsequent legislation and is routinely misapplied to California community colleges regarding faculty responsibility under Assembly Bill 1725 and faculty right to bargain under the Educational Employment Relations Act. Purpose. The purpose of this study was to examine the attitude of community college constituencies (faculty and management) toward the Fifty Percent Law. The study explored whether community college constituencies would support changing the law if they recognized the contradictions created as a result of applying the Fifty Percent Law to the California community colleges in light of Assembly Bill 1725 and the Educational Employment Relations Act. The study also explored the perception that instructional faculty responsibilities were impacted by the Fifty Percent Law. Theoretical framework. The theoretical framework of this study was based on theories of the political process that describe and explain California educational policy---these theories have roots in theoretical perspectives such as: Group Theory; Institutional Theory; Policymaking Process Theory. Methodology. A sample survey method was used to collect data to describe faculty and management perspectives regarding contradictions created by applying the Fifty Percent Law to the California community colleges in light of AB 1725 and the EERA. Survey respondents were asked to address a series of closed questions indicating their level of agreement or disagreement with aspects of the Fifty Percent Law. Findings. Faculty and management are aware of the inherent contradictions in the Fifty Percent Law with respect to the legislative provisions of AB 1725 and the EERA. There is support among faculty and management constituents for making appropriate changes to the Fifty Percent Law. Conclusions and recommendations. The Fifty Percent Law continues to exist despite contradictory legislation and the general opinion of affected constituencies that the law is not being appropriately applied to California community colleges. The California State Legislature should review all statutes affecting the administration and operation of the California community colleges. Community college constituent leaders should seek the repeal of the Fifty Percent Law.