This bill proposes significant changes to the governance of the State Corporation Commission in Kansas by transitioning from gubernatorial appointments to a system of statewide elections for its commissioners. The bill establishes a schedule for primary and general elections, with the first primary for the first commissioner position set for August 2026 and subsequent elections for the other positions in 2028. Until the elections occur, the governor is authorized to appoint commissioners, who will serve until their successors are elected. The bill also amends several existing statutes to reflect these changes and repeals outdated provisions.

In addition to the election provisions, the bill includes amendments to various sections of the Kansas Statutes Annotated, specifically K.S.A. 25-101, 25-101a, 25-4001, 74-601, 74-605, and 74-630. Notably, it removes references to the vice president in K.S.A. 25-101 and clarifies the terms of office for the commissioners, which will now be four years, aligning with the new election schedule. The bill also stipulates that commissioners must be qualified electors of Kansas and outlines the process for filling vacancies. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance democratic accountability within the State Corporation Commission by allowing voters to elect their commissioners directly.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 74-601, 25-101, 25-101a, 25-205, 25-4001, 74-605, 74-630