The bill amends K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 45-221 to create an exception for records held by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks concerning the locations of threatened, endangered, or conservation-dependent species. This amendment exempts these specific records from the disclosure requirements of the Kansas Open Records Act, thereby safeguarding sensitive information that could jeopardize wildlife conservation efforts. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that allow for the non-disclosure of such information unless requested by a landowner regarding their own property.
Moreover, the bill repeals an existing section of K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 45-221 and modifies the publication requirement for the act from the "statute book" to the "Kansas register." It also clarifies that confidential records related to security measures are not subject to subpoena or discovery in legal proceedings. The overall aim of the bill is to enhance the protection of vulnerable species and sensitive information while ensuring compliance with legal standards.
Statutes affected: As introduced: 45-221
As Amended by House Committee: 45-221
As Amended by Senate Committee: 45-221