The bill amends the licensure requirements for family foster homes in Kansas, allowing for the maintenance of licensure even when certain individuals with convictions or adjudications reside in these homes. Specifically, the Secretary for Children and Families is required to permit the maintenance of licensure if the applicant or licensee qualifies and if a resident has been convicted or adjudicated of an offense, provided they were previously in custody and placed in the home by the Secretary. Additionally, the Secretary may grant a license or allow maintenance of licensure when there are no safety concerns, even if the resident is older than 26 or has additional convictions after release.

The bill also establishes an appeal process for family foster homes that are denied licensure or maintenance of licensure. It includes provisions for the Secretary to conduct national criminal history checks and outlines the creation of a child care criminal background and fingerprinting fund to cover the costs associated with these checks. Furthermore, it repeals existing language that required day care facility operators to be high school graduates, thus providing more flexibility in the licensure process. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the ability of family foster homes to operate while ensuring the safety and welfare of children in care.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 65-516
As Amended by House Committee: 65-516
Enrolled: 65-516