(a) The legislature of the state of Kansas hereby finds and declares that:
(1) The performance of scientific research is essential to promote the economic development of the state; and
(2) the needs of the citizens of the state of Kansas and of the state educational institutions under the control and supervision of the board of regents will be best served if the board of regents is granted specific authority to assist the state educational institutions in the provision of scientific research.
(b) The exercise of the powers authorized by this act are deemed an essential governmental function in matters of public necessity for the entire state in the provision of scientific research.