The bill amends K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 38-2201a, establishing a comprehensive set of rights for children in the custody of the Secretary for Children and Families in Kansas. It mandates that these children receive notification of their rights, which includes provisions for maintaining records of this notification and the child's acknowledgment of their rights. The bill emphasizes the importance of ensuring that children understand their rights through written confirmation of comprehension. Additionally, it outlines the rights of foster parents and kinship caregivers, ensuring they are treated with dignity and respect, receive necessary training, and have access to relevant information regarding the children in their care.

Key provisions include the requirement for the Secretary to provide both oral and written notification of rights to children in a manner that is age-appropriate, and to maintain documentation of this process. The bill also repeals the existing section of K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 38-2201a, indicating a significant update to the legal framework governing the rights of children and caregivers within the child welfare system. The rights outlined in the bill aim to enhance the well-being and protection of children in care, while also recognizing the vital role of foster parents and kinship caregivers in supporting these children.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 38-2201a