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 their records, while ensuring that the identities of reporters remain confidential. Additionally, the bill expands the list of entities and individuals authorized to access these records, including law enforcement agencies and various child welfare advocates, while also establishing guidelines for the disclosure of information in cases of child fatalities or near fatalities.

Furthermore, the bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 60-523 to extend the statute of limitations for filing civil actions related to childhood sexual abuse from 13 years to 37 years after the victim turns 18, or three years after a related criminal conviction, whichever is later. This change aims to provide victims with more time to seek justice and recovery for the damages they have suffered. The bill also repeals the existing sections of K.S.A. 38-2212 and 60-523, indicating a comprehensive overhaul of the legal framework surrounding childhood abuse and neglect in Kansas.

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