Republicans in Kansas are moving forward with a proposed state budget that includes provisions aimed at restricting diversity initiatives on college campuses and supporting Texas in its fight with the Biden administration over border security. The Republican-controlled Legislature in Kansas is expected to vote on the final version of the $25 billion budget for the 2025 fiscal year, with measures that require Democratic Governor Laura Kelly to restrict funding for state universities unless they confirm they are not enforcing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
The budget also includes an additional $15.7 million with directions for Governor Kelly to provide Kansas National Guard resources to Texas in support of efforts by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to enforce state laws regarding migrant arrests. However, the state constitution gives Governor Kelly the power to veto individual budget provisions, and it is uncertain whether the anti-diversity inclusion measures have the necessary two-thirds majority in both chambers to override a potential veto. If the anti-DEI provisions are vetoed, the $35.7 million in funding could also be at risk.
In response to concerns raised by Republican lawmakers, the Kansas Board of Regents, which oversees the state’s higher education system, is considering a policy change that would ban requirements for statements endorsing diversity, equity, or inclusion in admissions or employment at universities. While some Republicans are pushing for legislation to prohibit universities from basing admissions or employment decisions on DEI statements or political ideologies, Democrats and critics argue that such measures are discriminatory and politically motivated.
The issue of border security is also a significant focus for Republicans in Kansas, with many aligning their efforts with former President Donald Trump’s anti-immigrant rhetoric. Republican lawmakers in Kansas are framing their support for Texas in border security as a way to combat the flow of dangerous drugs, such as fentanyl, across the Mexico-U.S. border. Despite concerns raised by Democrats about the need for broader immigration reform and allegations of scapegoating immigrants, Republicans maintain that they will continue to prioritize border security measures at the state level.
Governor Kelly’s stance on the budget provisions related to diversity initiatives and border security remains unclear, with some Republicans anticipating a potential veto from her. While Governor Kelly has expressed her authority as Commander-in-Chief of the National Guard in deciding how its resources are used, Republicans in the state emphasize their control over budgetary decisions as a means of ensuring their priorities are implemented. The ongoing debate in Kansas reflects broader national conversations around immigration policy, diversity initiatives, and border security, with potential implications for future legislative actions and political dynamics in the state.
