A new state law removes the University of Hawaii president’s power to serve as the chief procurement officer for construction contracts.

The new law goes into effect next month. The measure comes just weeks after university President M.R.C. Greenwood announced her plan to retire.

The law gives the state procurement office the authority to manage construction contracts instead of the president.

The law also creates an independent audit committee within the university Board of Regents to review some aspects of the school’s management.

The Legislature says the management of university funds is "a matter of statewide concern."

Almost a year ago, the university was the victim of a scam that cost the school $200,000. The scandal brought the university’s finances and management under increased scrutiny.