Gov. Laura Kelly signs bills altering defendant competency process, child health care program

Gov. Laura Kelly announces the signing of more than 50 bills approved by the 2026 Kansas Legislature.

By: Tim Carpenter

Outlets: Kansas Reflector

Published: April 10, 2026

Words: 1,039

Last Updated: 3 months, 3 weeks ago

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TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly signed a bill unanimously approved by the Kansas Legislature requiring individuals charged with serious offenses but found incompetent to stand trial to receive expanded evaluation and treatment for mental health disorders while in custody.

The changes contained in Senate Bill 374 were designed to maintain due process rights of defendants while strengthening public safety by closing a gap in statute that could result in dangerous defendants being released …

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