The "Fostering Competitive Career Opportunities Act" aims to eliminate unnecessary postsecondary degree requirements from state employment hiring practices in Kansas. The bill recognizes that degree inflation has become a barrier for many qualified applicants, as employers often prioritize degrees over relevant work experience. The act stipulates that state employers cannot make hiring decisions solely based on an applicant's lack of a postsecondary degree, and they must establish baseline requirements for job postings that do not include degree requirements unless justified by specific skills that can only be obtained through a degree.

Additionally, the bill outlines that if a postsecondary degree is required for a position, the state employer must provide a rationale in the job posting explaining why the degree is necessary. It also sets limits on the amount of direct experience that can be required in lieu of a degree, depending on the level of the degree. Furthermore, the act prohibits state employers from imposing additional requirements beyond the established baseline and ensures that any requests for proposals for goods or services do not mandate minimum educational attainment unless justified.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 75-2929d
As Amended by Senate Committee: 75-2929d