The bill establishes certification standards for peer support specialists under the secretary for aging and disability services, including requirements for training, service hours, and supervision. It mandates that a background check be conducted by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation for applicants seeking certification. Additionally, the bill allows certified peer support specialists to provide services via telehealth, which will be eligible for Medicaid reimbursement, and directs the secretary of health and environment to pursue necessary approvals for this implementation.

The bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 22-4715 to include provisions for the release of criminal history record information specifically for applicants seeking peer support specialist certification. It also repeals the existing section of K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 22-4715, streamlining the process for background checks related to this certification. The secretary for aging and disability services is authorized to adopt rules and regulations to facilitate the implementation of these new standards and requirements.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 40-2, 22-4715, 45-229