This bill amends the employee award and recognition program for state agencies in Kansas, allowing for hiring, recruitment, and retention bonuses, and increasing the maximum award limit from $3,500 to $10,000. It eliminates the secretary of administration's authority to adopt rules and regulations regarding these awards, instead requiring the secretary to submit an annual report to legislative committees detailing the awards and bonuses given. The bill also clarifies definitions related to awards and establishes a state employee suggestion program that incentivizes cost-saving suggestions from employees.

Additionally, the bill repeals the existing section of K.S.A. 75-37,105 and introduces new provisions that ensure awards are not considered compensation under the Kansas public employees retirement system. It mandates that state agencies report on the monetary awards given and their categories annually, and it specifies that elected or appointed officials cannot receive monetary awards under this program. The changes aim to enhance the recognition of state employees while ensuring accountability and transparency in the award process.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 75-37
Enrolled: 75-37