The bill amends Kansas statutes to improve oversight of individuals appointed to positions requiring Senate confirmation. It grants the chairperson and vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Confirmation Oversight access to tax information and background checks conducted by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) on these appointees. Key changes include the requirement for the KBI to conduct background checks involving fingerprinting and the release of criminal history records to Senate committee members. The bill emphasizes the confidentiality of the information obtained, prohibiting its disclosure for purposes other than assessing the qualifications of the appointees, and establishes penalties for unauthorized disclosure.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the definition of "office" pertains only to appointments subject to Senate confirmation and removes the previous requirement that the appointing authority cannot be the governor. It mandates nominees to complete a nomination form, consent to a background investigation, and be current on tax payments. The bill outlines procedures for handling confidential information and the destruction of records related to nominations that are withdrawn or not confirmed by the Senate. It will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 22-4714, 75-712, 75-4315d