This bill amends existing laws regarding the reporting of child abuse or neglect in Kansas. It prohibits the Secretary for Children and Families from accepting or assigning anonymous reports, requiring that reporters provide their name, telephone number, and residential address. The Secretary must inform individuals attempting to report anonymously about this prohibition and provide information on confidentiality and penalties for false reporting. However, law enforcement agencies are permitted to accept anonymous reports and must maintain the confidentiality of the reporter's information in their records.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of various professionals and entities required to report suspected child abuse or neglect, including medical personnel, educators, and law enforcement. It establishes penalties for failing to report or for making false reports, both classified as class B misdemeanors. The bill also emphasizes the confidentiality of identifying information provided by reporters and grants immunity from civil liability to those who report in good faith. The existing sections of K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 38-2213 and 38-2223 are repealed, and the new provisions will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 38-2213, 38-2223