MESSAGES FROM THE GOVERNOR

House Bill No. 2311

An Act concerning children and minors; relating to the secretary for children and families; prohibiting the secretary from adopting and enforcing policies for placement, custody or appointment of a custodian that may conflict with sincerely held religious or moral beliefs regarding sexual orientation or gender identity; creating a right of action for violations against the secretary for children and families.

Message to the Legislature of the State of Kansas:

The top priority of the Kansas Department for Children and Families should be adhering to the “best interest of the child” standard. Legislation like this detracts from this standard and stands in the way of best serving those in the child welfare system.

Children in need of care already face unique and complex challenges. I will not sign legislation that could further complicate their lives.

I also have concerns that this bill could expose the state to frivolous lawsuits and hinder the agency by taking time and resources away from critical services.

Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto House Bill 2311.

Laura Kelly, Governor

Dated April 3, 2025.