Bill > HB2342

This bill authorizes the secretary of commerce to request state and national criminal history background checks for final applicants and employees in sensitive positions within the department of commerce. The bill defines "sensitive positions" as high-ranking roles like division directors and assistant secretaries, as well as positions involving significant financial management, grant/loan programs, or access to confidential information. As a minimum standard, applicants and employees in these positions cannot have misdemeanor convictions related to theft, fraud, forgery, or financial crimes, or any felony convictions. The secretary may use the background check information to determine an applicant's qualifications and fitness for the position. The bill also updates several other sections of Kansas law related to criminal history record checks, expanding the ability of various state agencies like the attorney general, state gaming agency, and state bank commissioner to conduct similar background checks on applicants and employees. Additionally, the bill requires the secretary of labor to conduct criminal history checks on employees with access to federal tax information. The changes are intended to enhance the screening process for employees in sensitive or financially responsible positions across different state departments.

Business and Industry, Justice

Commerce, Labor and Economic Development (House)

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2342/