The bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 60-3107 to enhance the provisions related to protection orders under the Protection from Abuse Act in Kansas. It establishes that child-related orders issued under this act will take precedence over other custody or parenting orders, ensuring that the safety of minor children is prioritized. The bill outlines various orders that the court may grant, including restraining defendants from abusing or interfering with the plaintiff or minor children, granting possession of the residence to the plaintiff, and requiring defendants to provide alternate housing. Additionally, it specifies that any protection order shall remain in effect for a fixed period of one to two years, with provisions for extensions based on the defendant's behavior.

Significantly, the bill introduces new language regarding the modification of protection orders, stating that such orders may be modified by subsequent final orders in related actions, provided they reference the original protection order. It also clarifies that legal custody or parenting time orders issued under the revised Kansas code for care of children or juvenile justice code will take precedence over those issued under the Protection from Abuse Act. The bill repeals the existing section of K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 60-3107, thereby consolidating and updating the legal framework surrounding protection orders in Kansas.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 60-3107, 21-5414, 21-5924
As Amended by House Committee: 60-3107, 21-5414, 21-5924
Enrolled: 60-3107, 21-5414