Kansas education board responds to attorney general's contract language request

On June 25, 2025, Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach sent a letter to the Kansas State Board of Education. The letter requested the removal of language prohibiting discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression from contracts with Kansas public schools participating in USDA food nutrition programs.

The attorney general argued that this language could potentially violate executive orders by former President Donald J. Trump and an existing federal court injunction. This non-discrimination clause is part of mandatory provisions in all state contracts for goods or services through the Kansas Department of Administration's Office of Procurement and Contracts.

A meeting was held on July 3 with representatives from the governor’s office, the Kansas Department of Administration, KSDE, and the State Board. During this meeting, KSDE and State Board representatives clarified that they are required by state procurement laws to include these contractual provisions as drafted by the Kansas Department of Administration. Any amendments to these provisions must be made or approved by the Kansas Department of Administration.

On July 7, Attorney General Kobach reiterated his stance in a follow-up letter to both the Kansas Department of Administration and the State Board. He warned that excluding this non-discrimination language might jeopardize federal funding for Kansas school children if funds are withheld due to its absence.

KSDE remains engaged with Kansas schools to find a satisfactory resolution.