Bill > SB104

This bill modifies the existing law regarding citizens commissions on local government in Kansas counties by changing the language from a mandatory requirement to a permissive option, specifically for counties with populations between 170,000 and 200,000 people. Previously, such counties were required to establish a citizens commission; now, the board of county commissioners has the discretion to create one. The commission would continue to include representatives from various local government entities, such as county commissioners, city governments, township trustees, school district boards, public utility boards, and drainage district boards. Additionally, the commission would include 18 appointed residents who are not current government officers or employees. The key change is the shift from "shall" (must) to "may" (optional), giving Shawnee County (which fits the population criteria) more flexibility in establishing such a commission. The bill also includes a provision to repeal the existing version of the statute, effectively replacing the old law with this new, more flexible approach.

Government Affairs

Local Government, Transparency and Ethics (Senate)

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb104/