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Bill

SB 248

Requiring criminal history record check information relating to hemp producers to be sent to the state fire marshal, updating the fingerprinting language for the state banking commissioner for money transmitters and earned wage access services providers and authorizing the state gaming agency and attorney general to have access to more criminal history record information.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Kansas expands criminal background check data sharing to fire marshal, gaming agency, and attorney general while updating banking commissioner fingerprinting procedures for financial services oversight.

Died in Committee
#attorneygeneral
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Bill Summary · SB 248

Legislative bill overview

SB 248 expands criminal background check information sharing across multiple Kansas state agencies. The bill requires criminal history records for hemp producers to go to the state fire marshal, updates fingerprinting procedures for the banking commissioner overseeing money transmitters and earned wage access providers, and grants the gaming agency and attorney general broader access to criminal history records.

Why is this important

Criminal background information is a key tool for regulatory oversight and public safety. Expanding access to this data allows agencies to better vet applicants in industries like cannabis production, financial services, and gaming—sectors with significant fraud, money laundering, or safety risks. However, this represents broader government surveillance capabilities and information-sharing practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy concerns: Expanding criminal record access across multiple agencies increases data sharing and potential misuse risks, particularly regarding sensitive personal information
  • Scope clarity: The bill's language on "more criminal history record information" for gaming and AG access is vague—it's unclear what specific additional records they would receive and under what circumstances
  • Consistency in procedures: Different standards for fingerprinting (banking commissioner) versus criminal history checks (fire marshal, gaming agency) may create uneven enforcement and compliance confusion across regulated industries

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

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