The bill amends the Kansas Code for Care of Children to improve access to records for parents and victims of childhood abuse or neglect. It allows parents to access records related to investigations involving their children and grants victims the right to access records of substantiated reports or investigations of their own abuse or neglect. The bill specifically amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 38-2211, 38-2212, and 38-2213, while repealing existing sections. It includes provisions for parents to request information from the Secretary of Children and Families within three days, ensuring that the identity of the reporter remains confidential.

Additionally, the bill outlines limited disclosure principles for confidential law enforcement records concerning children in need of care, allowing access only to those with a legitimate need. It specifies that various individuals and entities, such as healthcare professionals and school administrators, can access these records when necessary for their responsibilities or the welfare of the child. The bill removes the phrase "in need of care" from certain sections to streamline the language and establishes that legislative committees can access these records during closed meetings, with strict limitations on further disclosure. It also allows parents to request access to law enforcement records within three days and includes provisions for court-ordered disclosure when in the best interest of the child, indicating a significant update to the legal framework governing child welfare and record access.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 38-2212, 38-2213, 38-2211