Criminal Justice (Victims' Rights)

SB 240 creates a new civil process allowing Kansas' insurance commissioner to sue individuals or entities for insurance fraud, seeking fines up to $10,000 per violation, restitution for harmed insurers, and recovery of investigation costs. It requires applicants for insurance producer or public adjuster licenses to disclose even expunged criminal records related to fraud, overriding standard expungement protections for such offenses. The bill also extends these fraud provisions to include automobile assigned claims plans. These changes directly affect insurance professionals seeking licensure and insurers pursuing fraud claims, focusing on strengthening enforcement against insurance fraud while modifying how criminal records impact licensing.

SB 255, the "Second Look Act," allows certain Kansas inmates to request a court review of their sentences after specific time periods based on their age at the time of the crime, veteran status, or completion of rehabilitation programs. Eligible inmates (e.g., those under 25 at sentencing after 10 years, 25-50 after 15 years, or over 50 after 10 years) can file a verified petition with court details, prompting a hearing where victims may testify. Courts may reduce sentences, adjust post-release supervision, or release inmates, but mandatory minimum terms remain unaffected. The bill requires victim notification and prohibits new petitions for five years after a denial.