This bill amends the Kansas Code for Care of Children by establishing a requirement for permanency hearings for children in custody of the secretary to be held within nine months of their removal from home, as opposed to the previous requirement of twelve months. The bill also mandates that these hearings occur at least every nine months thereafter. Additionally, if the court finds that reasonable efforts to rehabilitate the family or meet the child's needs have not been made, a subsequent hearing must be held no later than 60 days after that finding.

The bill outlines specific requirements for the court during these permanency hearings, including assessing the child's progress towards a permanency plan, documenting efforts made to return the child home or secure a suitable placement, and ensuring that the child's needs are being met in their current placement. It also emphasizes the importance of involving the child in discussions about their desired permanency outcome if they are able to participate. The existing section of K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 38-2264 is repealed, and the new provisions are set to take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 38-2264