The bill permits state educational institutions and municipal universities in Kansas to affiliate with technical colleges and community colleges, contingent upon approval from the state board of regents and a majority vote from the governing body of the 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 will be established to provide input on aligning programs with industry needs. The bill also outlines provisions for student admissions into affiliated colleges, ensuring that certain students are exempt from standard admission requirements, and maintains eligibility for state funding without affecting existing contracts or legal proceedings.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws related to career technical education capital outlay aid, defining it as state financial aid for construction and improvement projects at eligible institutions, which include specific community colleges and technical colleges in Kansas. It clarifies definitions for "eligible institution," "municipal university," and "state educational institution," and lists the institutions that fall under these categories. The bill also amends K.S.A. 76-712 to establish that state educational institutions are separate entities managed by the board of regents, which has the authority to make contracts and adopt regulations, while prohibiting the closure, combination, or merger of any state educational institution without legislative authorization. Several existing statutes are repealed, and the bill will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

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