The bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 74-50,226 and K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 74-50,227 to enhance the transparency and accountability of economic development incentive programs in Kansas. It defines key terms such as "administering agency," "economic development incentive program," and "recipient," while also expanding the definition of "economic development incentive program" to include various local government-based programs. Notably, the bill introduces a requirement for a searchable database that will allow the public to access detailed information about these programs, including the total incentives claimed by year and the total unencumbered incentive awards. The database must be updated annually and will include a summary report detailing the most recent three years of economic incentives claimed.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that local governments must provide comprehensive information about their economic development incentive programs to the Department of Commerce, particularly for programs that provide more than $50,000 in annual incentives. Starting July 1, 2025, recipients of such incentives will also be required to submit necessary information to the Department. The bill includes provisions for the Secretary of Commerce to impose an administrative fee on recipients to cover the costs of maintaining the database. It repeals the previous versions of K.S.A. 74-50,226 and 74-50,227, indicating a significant overhaul of the existing framework governing economic development incentives in the state.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 74-50, 45-215
As Amended by House Committee: 74-50