The bill permits state educational institutions and municipal universities in Kansas to form affiliations with technical colleges and community colleges, contingent upon approval from the state board of regents or the governing body of the municipal university, as well as a majority vote from the governing body of the technical or community college. This affiliation allows the technical or community college to change its official designation and transfers most powers and duties from the college's governing body to the affiliating institution, while retaining the taxing authority for community colleges. An industry advisory board is established to ensure educational programs meet industry needs, with board members appointed by the president or chancellor of the affiliating institution.

Additionally, the bill outlines provisions for student admissions into affiliated colleges, stating that certain students will not be subject to standard admission requirements, and ensures that both technical and community colleges remain eligible for state funding. It clarifies that the affiliation will not impact existing contracts or legal proceedings and includes definitions for key terms such as "affiliation," "community college," and "technical college." The bill also amends existing laws related to career technical education capital outlay aid, specifying eligible institutions and clarifying definitions for "municipal university" and "state educational institution." Furthermore, it establishes that state educational institutions are separate state agencies managed by the board of regents, which has the authority to make contracts and adopt policies, while prohibiting the closure, combination, or merger of any state educational institution without legislative authorization.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 74-32, 71-1802, 72-3810, 76-712