Immigration (Work Authorization)

SB 196 requires all Kansas business entities (including for-profit and non-profit organizations) and public employers (state agencies) to use the federal e-verify program to confirm work authorization for new employees hired on or after July 1, 2025. It prohibits employers from deducting wages paid to non-citizens without federal work authorization from income tax calculations. The bill defines "unauthorized aliens" per federal law (8 U.S.C. § 1324a(h)(3)) and makes it unlawful to knowingly hire or refer such individuals. Enforcement is handled by county attorneys or the state attorney general through civil actions.

HB 2251 requires Kansas' state board of healing arts to grant provisional licenses to international physicians who have job offers from Kansas healthcare providers. It directly affects international physicians who completed approved medical training, passed U.S. medical licensing exams (USMLE Steps 1-3), have English fluency, and are in good standing in their home country. The bill creates a three-year provisional license pathway that automatically converts to full licensure upon active practice in Kansas, provided the physician maintains employment with a Kansas healthcare provider during this period. Physicians must secure federal work authorization before starting practice but can apply for the provisional license beforehand.

HB 2066 requires Kansas business entities and public employers to register with and use the federal e-Verify program to confirm the work authorization of all new employees starting July 1, 2025. The bill also prohibits employers from claiming income tax deductions for wages paid to individuals without legal authorization to work in the United States. It makes it unlawful for employers to knowingly hire, recruit, or refer unauthorized workers, with enforcement handled by county attorneys or the state attorney general. This law directly affects all businesses and public employers in Kansas that hire new staff, including those operating without a business license.