The bill establishes a new referral process for cases involving children of military personnel who are in need of care. It mandates that the Secretary for Children and Families refer such cases to appropriate military organizations to provide families with services typically offered by military family advocacy programs. The bill also requires the Secretary to enter into a memorandum of understanding with specific military organizations, including Fort Riley, McConnell Air Force Base, and the Kansas National Guard, to facilitate these referrals. The language regarding referrals to a military family advocacy program at military installations has been removed, and instead, the focus is on referring to the appropriate military organization.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law to include the military status of a child's parent or legal guardian as part of the preliminary inquiry process when determining if a child is in need of care. It emphasizes the importance of identifying military families and ensuring they receive the necessary support while maintaining compliance with confidentiality requirements. The existing section of K.S.A. 38-2230 is repealed, and the new provisions are intended to enhance the protection and welfare of children in military families.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 38-2230
As Amended by House Committee: 38-2230