The proposed bill, known as the Safe and Transparent Arrest Act, mandates that all law enforcement agencies in Kansas adopt a written policy regarding the use of facial coverings by officers. This policy must be publicly posted by July 1, 2026, and should include specific circumstances under which facial coverings may be used, such as during active undercover operations or tactical situations requiring protective gear. The bill prohibits officers from wearing facial coverings that conceal their identity while performing their duties, except as authorized by law. Additionally, it establishes that any officer found to have committed certain tortious acts while wearing a facial covering in violation of this policy will not be entitled to any privilege or immunity against civil liability.
The bill also allows members of the public or oversight bodies to challenge the policies adopted by law enforcement agencies if they believe they do not comply with the requirements set forth in the act. If an agency fails to address the challenge within 90 days, the complainant may seek a judicial determination regarding the agency's compliance. Violations of the act are classified as a class A nonperson misdemeanor, and the act emphasizes the importance of transparency, accountability, and public trust in law enforcement practices.