Kansas House Bill HB2640

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Refer: 1/31/24
• Failed: 4/30/24

Caption

Concerning research at Kansas public postsecondary educational institutions, creating the Kansas strategic research act, establishing the Kansas strategic research fund, making transfers to such fund, prescribing guidelines for expenditure of moneys credited thereto and the powers, duties, and functions of the state board of regents, requiring annual reports to certain committees of the legislature.

Impact

Beginning on July 1, 2024, the bill mandates the transfer of $10 million annually from the state general fund to the Kansas strategic research fund for a period extending to 2033. The funds will be allocated as per the guidelines set out in the legislation, which emphasizes the necessity for institutions to develop and submit comprehensive plans detailing how their funding will support research and benefit the state's economy. This initiative is expected to bolster research efforts significantly within Kansas, potentially leading to economic advancements and higher educational standards in the region.

Summary

House Bill 2640, also known as the Kansas Strategic Research Act, is designed to enhance the research capabilities of public postsecondary educational institutions in Kansas. The primary objective of the bill is to create the Kansas Strategic Research Fund, which will provide financial support through grants to eligible institutions, facilitating the recruitment and retention of research faculty that align with the state's economic development strategies. The bill stipulates that these institutions must match grant funds from non-state sources on a dollar-for-dollar basis, ensuring significant investment in local educational resources.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB2640 is the requirement for institutions to provide matching funds, which may pose challenges for some educational entities, particularly those with limited financial resources. Critics argue that while the intent to enhance research capacity is commendable, the financial burden of matching contributions could disproportionately affect smaller institutions. Moreover, there is concern regarding the oversight and discretion given to the Board of Regents in awarding grants, which some fear may lead to inequitable distributions based on biased decision-making.