An independent arbitrator found Portland State University violated its collective‑bargaining agreement and ordered the reinstatement and back pay for 10 nontenure‑track faculty laid off in June. The university’s legal counsel has refused to implement the ruling, arguing the arbitrator lacked authority to reappoint bargaining‑unit members. Local AAUP leaders say the contract permits reinstatement and plan appeals and possible filings with the state employment‑relations board. The standoff raises immediate questions about contract enforcement, the scope of arbitration in higher‑ed layoffs, and legal pathways for unions seeking to make faculty whole.