Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 1605 proposes an amendment to Article 9 of the Kansas Constitution to grant counties the power of home rule. This amendment would empower counties to manage their local affairs, including the ability to levy taxes, fees, and other charges, unless restricted by state legislation that applies uniformly to all counties or to specific classes of counties. Counties would be able to enact charter resolutions to exempt themselves from certain state laws, provided these resolutions are passed by a two-thirds vote of the governing body and published for public notice. Additionally, any charter resolution would not take effect until 60 days after publication unless a petition for a referendum is filed by the electorate.

The resolution aims to provide a constitutional basis for county home rule, which is currently only established through statutory law. If approved, the amendment would allow counties greater autonomy in local governance while still permitting the state legislature to impose uniform laws. The proposed amendment will be presented to voters in the general election of November 2026, unless a special election is called sooner. A vote in favor would enhance local self-governance, while a vote against would maintain the existing statutory authority, which could be subject to further legislative restrictions.