This bill aims to enhance the rights of victims of childhood abuse or neglect by allowing them access to records related to substantiated reports or investigations of such abuse. It amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 38-2212 to specify that individuals aged 18 or older who were subjects of substantiated reports can access relevant agency records, while ensuring that the identities of reporters remain confidential. Additionally, the bill expands the list of entities authorized to access these records, including law enforcement agencies and educational institutions, and establishes guidelines for the disclosure of information in cases of child fatalities or near fatalities.

Furthermore, the bill extends the statute of limitations for civil actions related to childhood sexual abuse, changing the time frame from 13 years to 37 years after the victim turns 18 or three years after a related criminal conviction, whichever is later. This amendment is reflected in K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 60-523. The bill repeals the existing sections of these statutes, thereby updating the legal framework surrounding childhood abuse and neglect in Kansas.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 38-2212, 60-523