This bill establishes certification standards for peer support specialists within the Kansas healthcare system, under the authority of the secretary for aging and disability services. It mandates that the secretary provide training and certification opportunities, including a requirement for background checks through the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. The bill outlines specific service hour limits for different levels of peer support specialists, as well as regulations regarding training sessions. Additionally, it allows certified peer support specialists to provide services via telehealth, which will be eligible for Medicaid reimbursement.

The bill amends existing law, specifically K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 22-4715, to include provisions for the release of criminal history record information for applicants seeking peer support specialist certification. It also repeals the previous version of this section. The secretary for aging and disability services is granted the authority to adopt necessary rules and regulations to implement these changes. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the quality and accessibility of peer support services in Kansas while ensuring that practitioners meet established standards and undergo thorough background checks.

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