The bill amends the Kansas code for the care of children to enhance parental rights and notifications during investigations of child abuse or neglect. It requires the secretary for children and families or law enforcement officers to provide both written and verbal notifications to parents at the start of an investigation or when a child is taken into custody. This notification must include a summary of investigation procedures, the parent's rights to legal counsel, and the ability to withhold certain information unless ordered by a court. Additionally, the bill mandates documentation of these notifications and the development of materials to ensure compliance. It also establishes a framework for parents to enter into agreements with the secretary when a child is removed from the home, clarifying that such agreements do not imply an admission of abuse or neglect.

Moreover, the bill emphasizes cooperation among law enforcement, educational institutions, and the secretary responsible for child welfare, mandating their assistance in protecting children during investigations. It specifies that law enforcement officers should ideally not be in uniform when interviewing children on school premises to reduce distress. The bill also introduces provisions for the secretary to access a child during investigations under certain circumstances, outlines the process for obtaining court orders for documents, and establishes rights for individuals to contest subpoenas. Additionally, it repeals certain existing statutes, indicating a significant update to the legal framework governing child abuse investigations.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 38-2217, 38-2226, 38-2229