Implement an Interim Policy

When a policy or policy revision is needed in a time frame that does not allow for the full feedback and approval process as a result of regulatory, accreditation, or other urgent needs, an interim policy or revision may be implemented. The interim policy or interim revisions to an existing policy must undergo the complete policy process if interim status is to be made permanent.

The process for creating an interim policy or policy revision follows the established procedures to develop a UB policy. Sponsorship by a responsible executive is required and a subject matter expert must write the policy or revision.

The interim policy must be written using the University Policy Template. The Policy Template provides a framework for developing the policy and organizes content in a consistent manner. Interim policy changes are tracked in the policy History section.

The subject matter expert is encouraged to obtain at least some stakeholder feedback.

The following steps are not required to promulgate an interim policy or revision, but must be completed to obtain permanent policy status:

• Broad stakeholder engagement
• Policy Review Group review
• 30-Day review
• Legal review
• Presidential signature

The responsible executive and the Office of Policy, Compliance and Internal Controls must approve the interim policy or revision. An interim policy or revision has full authority during its interim status.

The interim policy or revision is published in the University Policy Library. A banner identifies the policy or revision as interim and summarizes significant revisions. Interim changes to existing policies are documented in the History section of the policy. 

The policy is communicated via the established announcement process for new and revised policies.

An interim policy or revision is effective for six months.

The responsible office must review the interim policy or revision within six months of issuance to extend interim status, begin the process to make permanent, or retire the interim policy or revision. The initial interim effective term (six months) may be extended in six-month increments, for a maximum of two six-month extensions, allowing for a maximum interim term of 18 months.

Policy, Compliance and Internal Controls will provide guidance and communicate with the responsible office to review interim status.

The interim policy or revision must undergo the complete policy process if interim status is to be made permanent. Interim status cannot be used to circumvent the full policy process when it is intended to permanently implement the interim policy or revision. 

The interim policy or revision must undergo the complete policy process if interim status is to be made permanent. Interim status cannot be used to circumvent the full policy process when the intent is to permanently implement the interim policy or revision.

An interim policy or revision that is not made permanent will expire at the conclusion of the interim period or sooner, if appropriate. Policy, Compliance and Internal Controls will consult with the responsible office to determine the expiration date.