The bill, known as the Fostering Competitive Career Opportunities Act, aims to eliminate unnecessary postsecondary degree requirements from state employment considerations in Kansas. It addresses the issue of degree inflation, where employers increasingly rely on degrees as indicators of career readiness rather than 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. The act also allows for direct experience to be considered in lieu of a degree, with specific limits on the number of years of experience required based on the type of degree.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for state employers when issuing requests for proposals, stating that they cannot require minimum experience or educational attainment for contractor personnel unless they provide a justification for such requirements. The act also outlines the process for applicants to appeal adverse hiring decisions based on degree requirements and mandates that job postings include necessary information regarding any degree requirements. The existing law, K.S.A. 75-2929d, is repealed, and the new provisions are set to take effect upon publication in the statute book.

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