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SB 164

Prohibiting discriminatory practices on the basis of religion at public educational institutions and authorizing the attorney general to investigate violations and assess civil penalties under the Kansas act against discrimination.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Kansas bill expands public school nondiscrimination protections to religion, authorizing attorney general enforcement with civil penalties for violations.

Died in Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 164

Legislative bill overview

SB 164 would prohibit public educational institutions in Kansas from engaging in discriminatory practices based on religion and grant the state attorney general authority to investigate alleged violations and impose civil penalties. The bill expands existing discrimination protections under the Kansas Act Against Discrimination to explicitly cover religious discrimination in educational settings.

Why is this important

Religious discrimination in schools can affect student access to services, campus organizations, hiring practices, and educational opportunities. This bill attempts to clarify legal protections and provide enforcement mechanisms, though the scope and definition of "discriminatory practices" will significantly determine its practical impact on schools and religious groups.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition ambiguity: The bill does not clearly define what constitutes "discriminatory practices based on religion," creating uncertainty about whether it protects religious expression, requires religious accommodation, prohibits certain teachings, or some combination thereof
  • Free speech and curriculum concerns: Religious groups may interpret this as requiring schools to teach religious perspectives, while secular advocates may worry it restricts legitimate curriculum decisions or scientific instruction
  • Competing rights: Unclear how the law would handle conflicts between religious accommodation requests and other protected classes (LGBTQ+ rights, disability accommodations, etc.) or institutional operations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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