The bill amends K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 65-536 to establish guidelines for juvenile crisis intervention centers in Kansas. These centers are designed to provide short-term observation, assessment, treatment, and case planning for juveniles experiencing behavioral health crises. The bill outlines specific requirements for the centers, including the provision of a broad range of services, a non-restrictive environment, and the implementation of safety policies. It also stipulates that juveniles can be admitted to these centers under certain conditions, such as the determination of need by the center's head and authorization from a qualified mental health professional. The maximum stay for a juvenile is set at 30 days, with provisions for discharge planning involving managed care organizations and community mental health centers.

Additionally, the bill mandates the Secretary for Children and Families to create rules and regulations for the implementation of these centers by January 1, 2019, and requires annual reporting on the outcomes of juveniles admitted to the centers. The Secretary of Corrections is authorized to enter into agreements to provide funding for these services, not exceeding $2 million annually. The bill also includes definitions for key terms related to behavioral health crises and treatment. Importantly, the existing K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 65-536 is repealed, indicating a significant overhaul of the legal framework governing juvenile crisis intervention in the state.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 65-536