This bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 38-2231 to require law enforcement officers to contact and consult with the secretary for children and families before taking a child under 18 years of age into custody, specifically in situations where the officer believes the child may be harmed if not immediately removed. The bill mandates that the secretary maintain operations outside of regular hours to facilitate this consultation. Additionally, it outlines specific circumstances under which a law enforcement officer may take a child into custody, including cases of suspected human trafficking or behavioral health crises.

The bill also includes a provision that requires individuals providing shelter to a runaway child to promptly report the child's location to either law enforcement or the child's parent or custodian. If a law enforcement officer believes it is in the child's best interest, the child may be allowed to remain in the shelter while ensuring that the secretary is notified of the child's location and circumstances. The existing section of K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 38-2231 is repealed, and the new provisions will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 38-2231, 72-3120, 38-2232
As introduced: 38-2231, 72-3120, 38-2232