This bill amends the existing employee award and recognition program for state agencies in Kansas, allowing for the implementation of hiring, recruitment, and retention bonuses. The maximum limit for monetary awards has been increased from $3,500 to $10,000. Additionally, the bill 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 the definitions of "award" and "state agency," and establishes a state employee suggestion program that incentivizes cost-saving suggestions from employees.

Furthermore, the bill repeals the existing section of K.S.A. 75-37,105, which previously governed the employee award program. It specifies that monetary awards will not be considered compensation under the Kansas public employees retirement system and outlines the reporting requirements for state agencies regarding the awards given. The secretary of administration is tasked with compiling and reporting this information to the legislature annually, ensuring transparency and accountability in the award distribution process.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 75-37