This bill amends various sections of Kansas law to enhance support for veterans and streamline processes related to identification and occupational licensing. It updates the definitions of "veteran" and "disabled veteran," specifying that a "disabled veteran" must have served in active military service, received an honorable discharge, and possess a service-connected disability rating of 50% or higher. The bill also removes the requirement for active military service members to hold occupational licenses, facilitating their transition to civilian careers. Additionally, it introduces provisions for veterans to obtain distinctive license plates and identification cards that indicate their veteran status, while also ensuring that individuals with cognitive impairments can obtain identification cards that reflect their needs.

Moreover, the bill establishes a framework for issuing permanent hunting and fishing licenses free of charge to disabled veterans and mandates that licensing bodies issue credentials to military spouses and servicemembers within specified timeframes. It emphasizes the need for a uniform license verification portal by January 1, 2025, to streamline the verification of license statuses across various professions. The legislation also includes provisions for veterans' preference in state employment and clarifies definitions related to veterans and their businesses, ensuring that disabled veteran businesses receive a minimum of 3% of state contracts. Overall, the bill aims to improve recognition and support for veterans and their families while ensuring compliance with existing regulations.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 65-6112, 65-6119, 65-6120, 65-6129a, 65-6135, 65-6144, 65-6121, 65-6149a
As Amended by Senate Committee: 65-6112, 65-6119, 65-6120, 65-6121, 65-6129a, 65-6135, 65-6144, 65-6149a
Enrolled: 8-160, 8-1, 8-243, 8-1324, 22-4901, 32-934, 48-3406, 48-3601, 50-676, 73-201, 73-230, 73-1239, 73-1244, 75-3740, 79-4502