The bill amends the Open Records Act and the Open Meetings Act in Kansas to enhance transparency while safeguarding sensitive information. It limits the fees that public agencies can charge for access to records, ensuring they do not exceed the actual costs incurred, including staff time. The bill also exempts certain records from disclosure, such as those compiled during closed investigations with no violations found and records containing obscene material. Additionally, it requires county or district attorneys to report violations of these acts to the attorney general in October instead of January. The amendments clarify the process for requesting records and the circumstances under which certain records may be withheld.

Moreover, the bill establishes a framework for the certification of batterer intervention programs, creating a certification unit within the attorney general's office that will handle records related to domestic violence cases, which will remain confidential as mandated by law. It introduces exemptions for public record disclosure, including financial information from contractors and records related to intellectual property rights of state educational institutions. The bill also ensures that personal information, such as the home addresses of law enforcement officers, is protected from disclosure unless required by law. Overall, the amendments aim to balance the public's right to access information with the need to protect sensitive data and enhance safety for individuals involved in domestic violence situations.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 45-219
As Amended by House Committee: 45-219
As Amended by Senate Committee: 45-219
Enrolled: 45-219, 75-7d01, 75-753, 75-4318, 45-221