The bill amends K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 45-221, which governs the exemptions for public agencies regarding the disclosure of certain records. It clarifies that public agencies are not obligated to disclose records that are restricted by federal law, state statute, or court rules, including those related to medical treatment, personnel records, and criminal investigations. The bill introduces a provision allowing individuals in specific public service roles, such as law enforcement officers and judges, to request the restriction of their identifying information from public access on agency websites, with a processing requirement of ten business days and a validity period of five years for the request. Additionally, it deletes the requirement for public agencies to maintain a register of information held on computer facilities, thereby streamlining the disclosure process while enhancing privacy protections.

Moreover, the bill specifies that records related to cyber security threats and utility operations, as well as financial information of taxpayers, are not to be disclosed unless mandated by law. It mandates that public agencies separate or delete non-disclosable material from public records to provide access to remaining content. The bill also establishes that public records older than 70 years will be open for inspection unless restricted by specific laws, and it protects confidential records related to security measures from subpoenas. The bill repeals K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 45-221 and will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 45-221