KS SB446

Licensed social workers working under attorney supervision are exempt from mandatory reporting requirements for suspected child abuse, neglect, or exploitation when the suspicion arises solely during legal representation or while a prospective client is seeking representation in criminal, civil, domestic, or juvenile matters.

Attorneys may require supervised licensed social workers to maintain confidentiality in compliance with the Kansas Rules of Professional Conduct, effectively extending attorney-client privilege protections to these social workers.

The exemptions apply across multiple reporting contexts: child abuse/neglect (K.S.A. 38-2223), adult care facility residents (K.S.A. 39-1402), and adults in need of protective services (K.S.A. 39-1431).

Employers cannot terminate or sanction social workers for maintaining confidentiality when required by a supervising attorney under these provisions.

The act amends K.S.A. 38-2224, 39-1402, 39-1403, 39-1431, 39-1432, 65-6315, and K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 38-2223, taking effect upon publication in the statute book.