The bill amends the Kansas Open Records Act to strengthen the criteria for establishing exceptions to public record disclosures. It specifies that exceptions can only be created for records that are sensitive, necessary for effective government administration, or involve confidential information. Additionally, any new exceptions or significant amendments to existing exceptions will automatically expire five years after their enactment unless the legislature takes action to extend them. The bill also requires the legislature to review these exceptions prior to their expiration, ensuring they serve a compelling public purpose and do not unduly limit access to public records.

Moreover, the bill addresses the confidentiality of information shared during a state of disaster emergency, particularly in relation to COVID-19, stating that such information will not be classified as public records under the Kansas Open Records Act. It repeals certain existing sections and amends K.S.A. 65-7616, which pertains to disciplinary actions against acupuncturists, including confidentiality provisions that will also expire unless reenacted. The bill mandates that all administrative proceedings comply with the Kansas administrative procedure act and be subject to review under the Kansas judicial review act, with the act taking effect upon its publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 45-229d, 45-229, 48-962, 65-7616