The bill amends the Kansas code for the care of children by requiring a haircare plan to be included in the case plan for children in the custody of the Secretary for Children and Family Services. It mandates that the Secretary provide training on culturally competent haircare to foster parents and kinship caregivers, ensuring they can meet the specific haircare needs of children. By July 1, 2026, the Department must develop resources and training for these caregivers, with the haircare plan addressing the child's connection to their gender, race, religion, or culture, as well as their specific haircare needs during emergencies and personal preferences.

Additionally, the bill updates various definitions related to child welfare, including terms like "educational institution," "educator," "harm," "haircare," "neglect," and "sexual abuse," while introducing new terms such as "SOUL family legal permanency" and "behavioral health crisis." It also repeals existing statutes K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 38-2201a and 38-2202 to incorporate these new provisions, enhancing the clarity and comprehensiveness of the legal framework governing child welfare. The act will take effect upon its publication in the statute book, ensuring prompt implementation of these updates.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 38-2201a, 38-2202