The bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 2-3906 to create a regulatory framework for the commercial production of industrial hemp in Kansas. It assigns the Kansas Department of Agriculture, in collaboration with the governor and attorney general, the responsibility of submitting a comprehensive plan to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This plan will include procedures for monitoring hemp production, maintaining records, testing THC levels, and ensuring compliance with federal regulations. The bill also outlines corrective actions for hemp producers who violate regulations, including reporting requirements and potential disqualification after multiple infractions. Additionally, it mandates fingerprinting and criminal history checks for individuals seeking licensure as hemp producers, with disqualifications for certain felony convictions.

Moreover, the bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 9-555 to define terms and establish the Kansas Money Transmission Act, which regulates money transmission activities in the state. It clarifies the responsibilities of the state bank commissioner and the requirements for individuals in control of a licensee, including the need for fingerprinting and criminal history checks, while exempting individuals who have resided outside the U.S. for the past ten years from these requirements. The bill also modifies the powers of the commissioner to collect fees for investigations and examinations, allowing for criminal history checks without the need for fingerprints. It emphasizes the confidentiality of examination reports and criminal history checks, which will not be subject to public disclosure under the open records act. The provisions of this bill are set to take effect on January 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 2-3906, 2-3901, 9-555, 9-565, 9-2411, 45-229, 22-4714, 75-7b01