Legislative Modernization

SB 51 provides a sales tax exemption in Kansas for qualified data center construction, equipment, and eligible labor costs, targeting firms committing to a minimum $250 million investment and creating 20 new Kansas-based jobs within two years of operations. The exemption covers construction/remodeling of data centers, data center equipment (like servers and cooling systems), and installation/maintenance labor, but excludes electricity costs. To qualify, companies must register with the state, submit an application, and sign an agreement with the Commerce Secretary outlining investment and job creation commitments. Failure to meet these requirements may result in repayment of tax exemptions or termination of the benefit.

HB 2592 establishes a Kansas task force to study artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies. The task force, composed of six legislative members (appointed by leadership) and five expert nonvoting members (including government officials and AI specialists), will examine AI's impacts on jobs, government efficiency, public education, and regulatory needs. It must submit its first report to the governor and legislature by December 31, 2026, with annual updates thereafter, recommending potential policy changes. The task force expires on January 1, 2028, with no direct effect on citizens beyond informing future state AI-related decisions.

HB 2671, the Kansas Community Harmed by AI Technology Act, requires AI chatbots in Kansas that simulate emotional or therapeutic interactions (called "companion AI chatbots") to verify user age using commercial methods. It mandates parental consent for minors under 18, blocks minors from accessing content involving suicidal ideation or explicit material, and requires clear pop-up notifications informing users they are interacting with AI. Covered entities must protect age data confidentiality, monitor for suicidal ideation in minor interactions, and provide crisis resources. Compliance guidance from the attorney general is due by December 2026, with enforcement under Kansas consumer protection laws. The bill directly affects AI chatbot companies operating in Kansas and minors using these services.

This Kansas House Resolution expresses strong opposition to any federal laws or policies that would override state authority to regulate artificial intelligence. The measure specifically rejects proposals that would prevent Kansas from creating its own rules for AI use in critical areas such as elections, public safety, employment, and healthcare. While opposing federal preemption, the resolution supports a federal baseline of protections that allows states to maintain their ability to enact stricter regulations tailored to local needs.

HB 2657 requires social media platforms to block children under 16 from creating, maintaining, or accessing accounts without verified parental permission. Platforms must implement reliable age-verification systems that minimize data collection and suspend accounts of minors until consent is confirmed. Parents or guardians can revoke consent anytime or request account deletion. The Kansas Attorney General enforces this under the state’s consumer protection law, treating violations as deceptive acts without requiring proof of a transaction. The bill directly affects minors under 16, social media companies, and parents/guardians managing children’s online access.