The bill amends the Kansas code for the care of children by introducing a definition of haircare and requiring that a haircare plan be included in the case plan for children under 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 address the specific haircare needs of children. By July 1, 2026, the Department is responsible for developing resources and training for caregivers, with the haircare plan needing to consider the child's connection to their gender, race, religion, or culture, and allowing for the child's input when appropriate.

Additionally, the bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 38-2201a to include the right to a haircare plan as part of the foster care bill of rights for children in the welfare system, emphasizing culturally competent care and the active participation of children and caregivers in the planning process. It also repeals existing sections that may conflict with these new provisions, reinforcing the commitment to providing appropriate and respectful care that acknowledges children's cultural and personal identities. The bill further updates various definitions related to child welfare, including terms like "harm," "haircare," and "neglect," and introduces new terms such as "SOUL family legal permanency." The act will take effect upon its publication in the statute book, marking a significant shift in child welfare legislation in Kansas.

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