Establishing the advisory commission on Asian-American Pacific Islander affairs.
Impact
The commission is tasked with numerous functions, including gathering and disseminating information, coordinating with state departments to serve the needs of the Asian-American Pacific Islander community, and proposing new programs. It aims to tackle various issues ranging from culture and education to health, housing, and employment. By establishing this commission, Kansas state law will recognize and formalize the unique challenges faced by these communities, promoting targeted solutions and advocacy efforts.
Summary
Senate Bill 99 aims to establish the Advisory Commission on Asian-American Pacific Islander Affairs in Kansas. This commission will serve as an advisory body to the governor, focusing specifically on issues relevant to Asian-American Pacific Islander communities. It will consist of seven members, with appointments from various governmental leaders, ensuring representation from all congressional districts in the state. Members will serve three-year terms, thus facilitating continuity in addressing community needs and concerns.
Contention
While the bill itself has support as a means to galvanize assistance for a historically underserved population, there could be contention surrounding the effectiveness of such commissions. Some may argue whether advisory commissions truly result in tangible improvements for the community or whether they serve merely as symbolic gestures. Additionally, discussions may arise regarding the appropriateness of state funding and resource allocation to support the commission's initiatives.
Establishing within the legislative branch the office of the director for Kansas advisory commissions, the advisory commission on Asian American and Pacific Islander affairs and the Kansas Native American affairs commission and transferring the Hispanic and Latino American affairs commission and the advisory commission on African-American affairs to the legislative branch.
Authorizes the commissioner of education to conduct a survey regarding instruction on Asian American, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islander history within the state; establishes an Asian American, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islander history advisory committee; provides for the repeal of such provisions upon the expiration thereof.
Authorizes the commissioner of education to conduct a survey regarding instruction on Asian American, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islander history within the state; establishes an Asian American, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islander history advisory committee; provides for the repeal of such provisions upon the expiration thereof.
Recognizing Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month as a time to honor the important contributions of Asians, Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders to the history of the United States.
Expressing support for the recognition of September 22, 2025, to September 28, 2025, as "Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions Week".
A resolution expressing support for the recognition of September 22, 2025, to September 28, 2025, as "Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions Week".