[Advice to the Department of Statistics (transmitted through Divisional MSO Marcia Thomson) 2/17/2004]

The relevant legislation is Davis Division Bylaw 29.F, Academic Senate Bylaw 35.C.2, and Academic Senate Legislative Ruling 12.75.  The upshot of these is straightforward.  While a department can engage students in its committees, they may not vote on the final outcome of any Academic Senate business.  In particular, they may not vote on curriculum or personnel matters.  In general, they may not vote on any departmental decision that becomes an input into a Senate process or advice the Senate gives to the Administration.