West Virginia University officials will use the month of August to accept final public comment on the schools interim policy on freedom of expression before it goes to the WVU Board of Governors Sept. 6 for final approval.

The latest policy, which went into effect July 3, replaced an initial interim policy adopted in April. During the past month, the new interim policy underwent minor changes after review by WVU regional campuses. Public comment is now being sought from the University community as well as WVU s regional campuses until Aug. 28.

“This is the final opportunity for comment and we want to make sure everyone is heard on this matter,”said Bobbie Brandt, associate general counsel.”Weve found that the many suggestions made by faculty, staff, students, legal staff and outside consultants have enhanced our policy.”

The initial interim policy, drafted by an ad hoc committee of Faculty Senate in March, replaced an earlier policy that had been in effect since the 1970s. The full Senate endorsed the policy at its May 13 meeting and, since that time, the draft has undergone two additional revisions.

The new interim policy, which includes a facility reservation procedure and a listing of outside assembly areas, is posted on the Internet at http://www.wvu.edu/freespeechpolicy.html .

Comments on the revised draft may be directed no later than Aug. 28 to Bobbie Brandt, associate general counsel, at: wvugeneralcounsel@mail.wvu.edu or via fax, 304-293-2326. The final document will be presented to the BOG Board of Governors at its September meeting.