The bill authorizes technical colleges and community colleges in Kansas to affiliate with state educational institutions or municipal universities, contingent upon approval from the state board of regents or the governing body of a municipal university, as well as a majority vote from the college's governing body. This affiliation allows the colleges to change their official designations and transfers their powers and duties to the affiliating institution, while ensuring that the affiliated colleges maintain oversight of their operations and funds. Additionally, the bill establishes an industry advisory board for each technical college to provide input on program alignment with industry needs.

The bill also amends several existing statutes to clarify tax levies and funding responsibilities for affiliated colleges, specifically removing provisions that allow community colleges to levy taxes on property within their districts. It defines key terms such as "community college," "credit hour," and "technical program," while specifying that secondary students in career technical education programs may be charged fees but not tuition. Furthermore, the bill repeals several existing statutes, indicating a significant restructuring of the legal framework governing these educational institutions and programs. The amendments aim to streamline definitions and clarify financial responsibilities, ensuring that funding and operational guidelines are clearly established. The act will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 74-32, 71-204, 71-617, 71-501, 71-1802, 72-3810, 76-712
As introduced: 74-32, 71-204, 71-617, 71-501, 71-1802, 72-3810, 76-712