KS HB2538

Restores a traditional insanity defense in Kansas by allowing defendants to be found not guilty if, due to mental disease or defect, they did not know the nature and quality of their act or that the act was wrong

Expands existing law beyond the current "mens rea" defense (lacking required mental state for the crime) to include a separate affirmative defense based on inability to understand wrongfulness

Requires defendants to file written notice of intent to use the mental disease/defect defense no more than 30 days after entering a not guilty plea, with court-ordered mental examinations to follow

Mandates commitment to the state security hospital or secure facility for defendants acquitted under this defense, with evaluation within 90 days and court hearing within 30 days to determine ongoing mental illness status

Amends K.S.A. 21-5209, 22-3219, 22-3221, 22-3222, and 22-3428, taking effect upon publication in the statute book