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Bill

SB 276

Removing the state fire marshal from the adult care home licensure act and the providers of disability services act and requiring the state fire marshal to complete training in person-centered care and responding to individuals with Alzheimer's disease and intellectual and developmental disabilities.

2025-2026 Regular Session

SB 276 removes Kansas State Fire Marshal from adult care and disability services licensure while mandating person-centered care and dementia/disability response training for the Marshal's office.

Died in Committee
#aginganddisabilityservices #departmentfor #fireandfireprotection
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Bill Summary · SB 276

Legislative bill overview

SB 276 removes the State Fire Marshal's authority from the licensure process for adult care homes and disability services providers in Kansas. The bill simultaneously requires the State Fire Marshal's office to complete training in person-centered care and responses to individuals with Alzheimer's disease and intellectual/developmental disabilities.

Why is this important

This bill addresses a potential structural conflict: the Fire Marshal's traditional focus on safety codes and compliance enforcement may conflict with person-centered care approaches that prioritize individual autonomy and preferences. The bill suggests realigning oversight responsibilities while attempting to build cultural competency within the Fire Marshal's office itself.

Potential points of contention

  • Unclear oversight authority: Removing the Fire Marshal without explicitly stating which agency assumes fire safety licensure responsibilities could create regulatory gaps or duplication
  • Effectiveness of training requirement: It's unclear whether training alone resolves philosophical differences between enforcement-based and person-centered approaches, or if this adequately prepares staff for the nuanced decision-making required
  • Implementation timeline: The canceled hearing suggests potential procedural or substantive concerns that may need clarification before passage

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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