The bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 38-2212 to enhance access to records related to substantiated reports or investigations of childhood abuse or neglect. It allows victims of such abuse or neglect, who are 18 years of age or older, to access information from agency records concerning their cases. The bill specifies that this information must not identify the reporter of the abuse or neglect. Additionally, it outlines the various entities and individuals who may access these records, including parents, guardians, legal representatives, and certain professionals involved in the care or treatment of the child.

Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for public disclosure of records in cases of child fatalities or near fatalities resulting from abuse or neglect, making such records subject to the Kansas Open Records Act. It mandates that the Secretary of Children and Families notify affected individuals of open records requests and allows for court intervention to prevent disclosure if necessary. The existing section of K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 38-2212 is repealed, and the new provisions will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 38-2212