This bill amends the Kansas Code for Care of Children, specifically addressing the procedures for law enforcement officers when taking minors into custody and the requirements for permanency hearings. It stipulates that law enforcement officers must take a child into custody if they have a court order or probable cause to believe the child is in need of care. The bill also mandates that the Secretary for Children and Families provide an electronic means for law enforcement to refer potential cases of abuse or neglect, with a required response within 24 hours. Additionally, it establishes that permanency hearings for children in custody must occur within nine months of removal from their home, with subsequent hearings every six months.

Key amendments include the removal of certain criteria for taking a child into custody, such as the requirement for probable cause regarding runaways or missing persons, and the deletion of language related to human trafficking. The bill emphasizes the importance of reviewing the involvement of parents and interested parties in permanency planning and requires the court to document efforts made to achieve permanency goals. The existing sections of K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 38-2231 and 38-2264 are repealed, and the new provisions are set to take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 38-2264
As Amended by House Committee: 38-2264
As Amended by Senate Committee: 38-2264
{As Amended by Senate Committee of the Whole}: 38-2264
Enrolled: 38-2231, 38-2264, 72-3120