The bill amends the state governmental ethics law concerning the acceptance of gifts, economic opportunities, and reimbursements for state officers and employees. It specifically addresses the treatment of reimbursements for expenses incurred while attending conferences or events organized by certain nonprofit organizations, as well as discounted or free access to entertainment and sporting events. Key amendments include the clarification that state officers and employees may accept reimbursements for reasonable expenses related to seminars and conferences, and it establishes that hospitality in the form of food and beverages is generally presumed not to be given to influence official duties unless tied to a specific course of action.

Additionally, the bill repeals existing sections of K.S.A. 46-237 and 46-237a, which previously governed the acceptance of gifts and economic opportunities by state officials. It introduces new provisions that allow for certain exceptions to the restrictions on accepting gifts, such as those from relatives or personal friends, and clarifies the conditions under which free or discounted meals and travel can be accepted. The bill also outlines penalties for violations of these provisions, including civil fines for noncompliance, which are to be deposited into the governmental ethics fee fund.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 75-7245, 76-711, 75-7203
Sub: 75-7206, 75-7206a, 45-215
S Sub for Sub: 46-237, 46-237a
Enrolled: 46-237, 46-237a