Bill > SB258

This bill modifies Kansas law regarding false representation of an election official by adding a specific intent requirement to the existing statute. Currently, the law prohibits falsely representing oneself as an election official through various communication methods, but the proposed changes clarify that the offense requires intentionally trying to make others believe the person is an election official. The bill specifically adds language about using official seals or insignia from election offices and emphasizes that the person must have the explicit intent to cause someone to believe they are an election official. The offense remains classified as a severity level 7, nonperson felony. The definition of "election official" remains unchanged, encompassing the secretary of state, county election commissioners, county clerks, and their employees. By adding the "intent" language, the bill appears to raise the legal standard for prosecuting such misrepresentations, potentially making it more difficult to prove the offense by requiring demonstrable proof of deliberate deception.

Government Affairs

Federal and State Affairs (Senate)

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb258/