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Bill

HB 2723

Requiring the supreme court to develop or procure a court date reminder program for the purpose of sending advance notifications to individuals with scheduled court dates for a criminal case or an infraction and requiring all courts to send certain notifications using such program.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Kansas must create a statewide court reminder system to reduce missed criminal and infraction hearings through advance defendant notifications.

Died in Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 2723

Legislative bill overview

HB 2723 mandates that Kansas's Supreme Court develop or purchase a court date reminder system to send advance notifications to individuals with scheduled criminal or infraction court dates. The bill requires all Kansas courts to utilize this program to send these notifications to defendants and relevant parties.

Why is this important

Court no-shows are a persistent problem that disrupts judicial proceedings, wastes resources, and can result in additional criminal consequences for defendants. Automated reminder systems have proven effective at reducing missed court appearances in other jurisdictions, potentially improving court efficiency and reducing the burden on defendants who might otherwise face arrest warrants.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Developing or procuring a statewide system requires significant upfront investment; unclear whether funding mechanisms are specified in the bill
  • Scope limitations: Bill addresses only criminal cases and infractions—unclear if civil cases, traffic violations, or other proceedings are excluded intentionally or by oversight
  • Technological accessibility: May disadvantage individuals without reliable phone/email access or those experiencing homelessness, potentially creating equity concerns despite good intentions
  • Responsibility ambiguity: Unclear whether courts bear full responsibility for ensuring notifications reach all individuals or if defendants retain obligation to track their own court dates

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

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