The proposed Longitudinal Data Act establishes the Division of Longitudinal Data within the legislative research department, tasked with developing and managing the Kansas Longitudinal Data System. This system will securely link and analyze education, workforce, and related data. The Legislative Coordinating Council is authorized to appoint a director for the division, who will oversee operations and hire staff. The act also mandates the creation of a publicly accessible online registry of educational and occupational credentials while ensuring the protection of personally identifiable information. The bill allocates $3 million from the state general fund for the division for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws regarding the disclosure of student data, allowing for sharing with authorized personnel from the new division and under specific circumstances, such as legal subpoenas or with consent for postsecondary educational applications. It emphasizes data privacy by requiring that shared data be de-identified and used solely for research and analysis. The act also includes provisions for the division to conduct research and report findings to the Legislative Coordinating Council and the governor. Additionally, it repeals K.S.A. 72-6314, which previously governed aspects of student data confidentiality or disclosure, and will take effect immediately upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 72-6314