The bill establishes strict regulations regarding the eligibility of individuals for state and local public benefits in Kansas, specifically targeting those who are unlawfully present in the United States. It prohibits any alien who is unlawfully present from receiving public benefits, except for those mandated by federal law. Individuals aged 18 and older applying for such benefits must provide proof of lawful presence, which can include documentation recognized by the division of motor vehicles or federal government-issued documents. Additionally, state and local agencies are required to verify an applicant's lawful presence through the systematic alien verification for entitlements program before granting any benefits.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the definitions of terms such as "lawfully present in the United States," "qualified alien," and "state or local public benefit," with specific exclusions for licenses or identification cards issued by the division of motor vehicles. It also emphasizes that reduced tuition and fee amounts offered by postsecondary educational institutions are included as public benefits, explicitly stating that no alien unlawfully present in the U.S. shall receive such benefits. Any conflicting provisions in existing law are rendered void, and the bill includes a severability clause to maintain the validity of the remaining provisions if any part is deemed unconstitutional.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 76-731a, 22-2802
As Amended by Senate Committee: 76-731a, 22-2802
{As Amended by House on Final Action}: 76-731a, 22-2802
{As Amended by House Committee of the Whole}: 76-731a, 22-2802
As introduced: 76-731a, 22-2802