The bill amends the Kansas Code for Care of Children, focusing on the procedures for law enforcement officers when taking children 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 requires law enforcement to explore alternatives to removal before taking a child into custody and mandates that the Secretary for Children and Families provide an electronic means for officers to refer potential cases of abuse or neglect, with a response required within 24 hours.

Additionally, the bill establishes that permanency hearings for children in custody must occur within nine months of removal from their home, with subsequent hearings every six months. It emphasizes the involvement of parents and interested parties in the permanency planning process and requires the court to review efforts made to achieve the permanency goal. The bill repeals existing sections of K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 38-2231 and 38-2264, updating the legal framework to enhance the protection and welfare of children in custody situations.

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