The bill amends the Kansas Code for 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 to provide both written and verbal notifications to parents when an investigation is initiated or a child is taken into custody. This notification must include a summary of investigation procedures, parental rights, and information on accessing their child if removed from the home. Additionally, the Secretary is mandated to document these notifications and develop compliance materials, while ensuring that any information obtained from parents without proper notification cannot be used against them in civil proceedings.

Moreover, the bill introduces a provision for parents to enter into a voluntary agreement with the Secretary when a child is removed, outlining responsibilities and conditions for parental access. It clarifies that this agreement does not imply an admission of abuse or neglect and can be renewed under specific conditions. The bill also amends laws regarding medical treatment for children in custody, allowing necessary examinations without parental consent in certain situations while protecting parents' rights to contest such actions. It emphasizes cooperation among law enforcement, educational institutions, and the Secretary in protecting children, mandates access for interviews in schools, and includes provisions for visual observation of the child during investigations. Significant changes include new circumstances for the Secretary's access to a child and the process for obtaining investigation-related documents, along with the repeal of conflicting statutes. The bill will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

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