The bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 22-2809b to establish new regulations for compensated sureties involved in posting appearance bonds prior to trial. It defines key terms such as "compensated surety," "insurance agent surety," "property surety," and "bail agent," and outlines the application process for compensated sureties to operate within judicial districts. The bill mandates that compensated sureties charge a minimum appearance bond premium of 10% and specifies acceptable forms of payment for at least half of this premium. Notably, it prohibits compensated sureties from providing loans for the portion of the premium that must be paid upfront, ensuring that they cannot be affiliated with any financial institution making such loans.

Additionally, the bill introduces requirements for continuing education, mandating that compensated sureties complete at least eight hours of training annually. It allows judicial districts to impose further requirements and establishes grounds for the suspension or termination of a compensated surety's authorization based on various violations, such as filing false statements or failing to comply with premium requirements. The existing section of K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 22-2809b is repealed, and the new provisions will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 22-2809b
{As Amended by Senate Committee of the Whole}: 22-2809b