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 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 to the affiliating institution, while the community colleges retain their taxing authority. The governing body of the technical or community college will act as an industry advisory board to the president or chancellor of the affiliating institution, ensuring that educational programs meet industry needs. The bill also outlines provisions for student admissions into affiliated colleges, stating that certain students will be exempt from standard admission requirements, and ensures that both types of colleges remain eligible for state funding.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws related to career technical education capital outlay aid, defining it as state financial assistance for construction and equipment purposes for eligible institutions, which include various community colleges and technical colleges. It clarifies definitions for "municipal university" and "state educational institution," listing specific universities under these categories. The bill establishes that state educational institutions are separate entities 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. It also repeals several existing statutes and will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

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