The bill amends K.S.A. 75-2549, 75-2550, and 75-2551 to update the process for establishing and managing regional systems of cooperating libraries in Kansas. It allows boards to petition the state board for the creation of such systems, specifying that the territory must include one or more counties, while excluding areas that levy a property tax of 0.25 mills or more for library support. The petition must include detailed information about the proposed system, including the purpose, participating libraries, and local support. The state board will determine the number of representatives from each participating board and will officially designate the regional system upon approval of the petition.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the authority of the system board, allowing it to operate library services, purchase services from participating libraries, and manage funds, including federal and state appropriations. It also establishes the budgetary process for the system board and permits it to levy a tax of up to 0.75 mills for library purposes on taxable property within the regional system, excluding properties in districts that have opted out. The bill repeals previous versions of K.S.A. 75-2549, 75-2550, and 75-2551, streamlining the legal framework governing library cooperation in Kansas.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 75-2549, 75-2550, 75-2551
As introduced: 75-2549, 75-2550, 75-2551