The bill amends K.S.A. 43-158 and K.S.A. 43-159 regarding the excusal of individuals from jury service in Kansas. It removes the provision that excused mothers breastfeeding their children from jury duty, instead allowing them to request a deferral of service. The new language specifies that if a breastfeeding mother requests a deferral, her jury service will be postponed for at least one year. Additionally, the bill emphasizes that reasonable accommodations should be made for breastfeeding mothers who choose to serve.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the categories of individuals who may be excused from jury service, including those who are physically or mentally infirm, those whose presence is required for public welfare, and those facing extraordinary personal hardship. The previous language that allowed for excusal based on personal relationships or interests in the case has been retained but restructured. Overall, the bill aims to modernize the jury service excusal criteria while ensuring that the needs of breastfeeding mothers are adequately addressed.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 43-158, 43-159