The bill amends the Kansas offender registration act to include individuals convicted of distribution of a controlled substance that results in great bodily harm or death as "violent offenders," thereby requiring them to register. This addition is reflected in the updated definition in K.S.A. 22-4902. The bill also establishes a 15-year registration period for these offenders following their conviction or release, as outlined in the amended K.S.A. 22-4906. In conjunction with these new requirements, the bill repeals existing sections of K.S.A. 22-4902 and K.S.A. 22-4906, modernizing the legal framework for offender registration in Kansas to enhance public safety.

Additionally, the bill sets specific registration durations for various offenses, including a 25-year registration for certain sexual offenses, with lifetime registration for repeat offenders. It also introduces provisions for juvenile offenders, allowing those under 14 to register until they turn 18, with potential for non-public registration. For offenders aged 14 and older, registration requirements may vary based on the offense's severity and court discretion. The repeal of the previous statutes signifies a comprehensive update to the registration process and requirements for offenders in Kansas.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 22-4902, 22-4906