The bill amends K.S.A. 25-4169a to prohibit the use of public assets, including funds, vehicles, and equipment, by state officers or employees to advocate for or against state constitutional amendments and any ballot questions submitted to qualified electors. The existing language that allowed for certain exceptions, such as the use of internet connectivity by candidates or elected officials, has been retained, while specific references to subsections and definitions have been deleted for clarity. Additionally, the bill clarifies that municipalities cannot allow the distribution of political materials advocating for specific candidates unless all candidates are given equal opportunity to do so.
Furthermore, the bill establishes that any person violating these provisions will be guilty of a class C misdemeanor. It also includes a provision for the repeal of the existing section of K.S.A. 25-4169a, ensuring that the new regulations take precedence. The act will take effect upon its publication in the statute book, reinforcing the commitment to maintaining the integrity of public resources in the electoral process.
Statutes affected: As introduced: 25-4169a, 12-105a