This bill amends existing Kansas law regarding habeas corpus procedures, specifically addressing the filing of motions by prisoners. It prohibits second and successive motions for similar relief unless they meet certain criteria, such as relying on a new rule of constitutional law or presenting new factual evidence that could not have been discovered earlier. Additionally, the bill establishes that claims of ineffective counsel cannot be grounds for relief in subsequent actions unless they completely hindered the prisoner's ability to appeal. The bill also mandates that appeals from motions filed by death-sentenced prisoners go directly to the supreme court.

Furthermore, the bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 60-2102 to clarify the appellate jurisdiction of the court of appeals and the supreme court, particularly in habeas corpus actions. It allows for appeals as a matter of right from final decisions in habeas corpus cases involving death-sentenced prisoners. The bill repeals the existing sections of K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 60-1507 and 60-2102, thereby updating the legal framework governing these procedures.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 60-1507, 60-2102