(BLOOMINGTON) - A legal challenge over how Indiana University selects its trustees is now under review in court.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana argued in Monroe Circuit Court that a provision in last year's state budget law is unconstitutional.
The law, known as House Enrolled Act 1001, shifted the power to appoint all nine IU trustees to the governor. Previously, alumni elected three of those positions.
The lawsuit was filed on behalf of an IU alumnus whose campaign for trustee ended when the law took effect.
State attorneys argued the change is justified, citing low voter turnout in alumni elections and calling the previous system unique among Indiana universities.
The ACLU countered that the law unfairly singles out IU and removes a direct voice for alumni.
A special judge has given both sides 30 days to submit additional filings before issuing a decision.