The bill establishes a policy in Kansas that prohibits public educational institutions receiving tax dollars from engaging in discriminatory practices based on religion or promoting antisemitism. It empowers individuals who believe they have been wronged to file complaints with the attorney general, who can investigate these claims, issue subpoenas, and impose civil penalties of up to $10,000 for each violation. The bill defines antisemitism according to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's working definition and clarifies that educational coursework on world religions is permissible. Additionally, it amends existing laws to strengthen the state's commitment to eliminating discrimination in employment, public accommodations, and housing based on various factors, including religion, while establishing a commission to oversee enforcement.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that hearings related to discrimination complaints must occur in the county where the respondent operates, and it allows for subpoenas to be requested by either party involved. It sets a six-month deadline for filing complaints and increases the maximum award for damages related to pain, suffering, and humiliation from $2,000 to $10,000. The bill outlines various unlawful employment practices, including discrimination based on race, religion, color, sex, disability, national origin, or ancestry, and mandates that employers and organizations cease discriminatory actions and take corrective measures. It also repeals several existing statutes to streamline the legal framework for addressing discrimination issues in Kansas.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 76-711, 44-1001, 44-1004, 44-1005, 44-1009