1. United States
2. Kan.
3. Letter

I am writing as a Kansas resident to respectfully urge you to veto SB 254. This bill is unnecessary and harmful. Undocumented immigrants are already largely ineligible for state and federal public benefits under existing law. SB 254 does not solve a real problem—it instead expands restrictions in ways that will harm students and families who are already contributing members of our communities. By redefining “public benefits” to include in-state tuition, this bill targets students who have grown up in Kansas, attended our schools, and are working to build a future here. Denying them access to affordable education does not strengthen our state—it limits opportunity, weakens our workforce, and undermines the long-term prosperity of our communities. SB 254 also risks creating confusion and fear, discouraging people from engaging with essential services or pursuing education altogether. In rural and underserved areas especially, we should be removing barriers to opportunity, not creating new ones. As someone engaged in community-based mutual aid, I see firsthand how policies like this ripple outward—making it harder for people to access resources, pursue stability, and contribute fully to their communities. Kansas is strongest when we invest in people, education, and opportunity. SB 254 moves us in the wrong direction. I urge you to veto SB 254 and stand for fairness, common sense policy, and the future of our state. Thank you for your time and consideration.