Republicans in Kansas are moving forward with a proposed state budget that includes provisions aimed at influencing diversity initiatives on college campuses and supporting Texas in its border security efforts against the Biden administration.
The GOP-controlled Legislature in Kansas is set to vote on the final version of the $25 billion budget for the 2025 fiscal year, which begins on July 1. State Senate President Ty Masterson emphasized the importance of the legislature's power of the purse in making a statement through budget allocations.
The budget bill includes additional funding of $15.7 million for Kansas National Guard resources to be provided to Texas in support of Governor Greg Abbott's efforts to enforce state laws on arresting migrants suspected of entering the U.S. illegally.
Furthermore, the budget contains provisions to withhold $35.7 million in funding from state universities unless their presidents confirm that diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are not being mandated for prospective students, job applicants, or staff seeking promotion.
Republicans in Kansas are part of a broader trend in at least 20 states seeking to limit diversity initiatives, arguing against what they perceive as discriminatory practices and liberal political influence. The Kansas House has already passed a bill aiming to restrict universities from considering DEI statements in admissions or employment decisions.
While Governor Laura Kelly has the power to veto specific budget provisions, it remains uncertain whether the anti-DEI measures have enough support for an override. Democrats have criticized these provisions as coercive and likened them to blackmail.
On the issue of border security, Kansas Republicans are aligning with former President Donald Trump's anti-immigrant rhetoric and emphasizing the need to combat the flow of opioids like fentanyl across the Mexico-U.S. border. They argue that state action is necessary in the absence of effective federal measures.
Democrats, on the other hand, advocate for national immigration reform and caution against scapegoating immigrants for broader societal issues. The debate reflects broader national divisions on immigration policy and border security.
As the budget negotiations continue, the Kansas Board of Regents is considering policy changes to address lawmakers' concerns regarding diversity initiatives in higher education. The outcome of these deliberations will have implications for the future of DEI programs in Kansas universities.
