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 are aligned with industry needs.

Furthermore, the bill establishes provisions for student admissions into affiliated colleges, allowing certain students to bypass standard admission requirements. It guarantees that both technical colleges and community colleges remain eligible for state funding and clarifies that the affiliation will not impact existing contracts or legal proceedings. The bill also amends existing laws related to career technical education capital outlay aid, defining it as state financial assistance for construction and equipment needs of eligible institutions. It reinforces the governance structure of state educational institutions, specifying that they are separate entities managed by the board of regents, and includes the repeal of several existing statutes while stating that the act will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

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