Committee Minutes — HB2329
Mon, Jan 26, 2026

Chairwoman Warren opened the continuation of the Hearing on HB2329 for the Opponents testimony:

Megan Milner, Deputy Secretary, Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), provided opponent testimony.  She stated since the introduction of HB2329 in the 2025 session, KDOC has met with multiple stakeholders and community partners to better understand the needs communities have challenging youth behaviors.  We share the concerns.  KDOC is supportive of crisis stabilization centers as a prevention and early intervention model. The earlier we can intervene with youth and help connect youth and families with services, the more successful we will be. In the attached testimony, Ms Milner went on to describe aspects of the proposed language that influence KDOC'S opposition to the bill.  She stated it is also important to recognize the fiscal impact this bill may have on the Evidence Based Programs Fund.  (Attachment 1) (Attachment 2)  

Mike Fonkert, Dep Director, Kansas Appleseed, provided opponent testimony.  He said frustration with system gaps is understandable, but we cannot ask children to bear the cost of those failures.  He urges you to oppose the bill as written.  Doing so affirms a commitment to evidence, fiscal responsibility, and the well-being of Kansas children. (Attachment 3) 

Logan DeMond, Director of Policy and Research, ACLU of Kansas, gave testimony opposing the bill. He said the bill would increase detention, mandate incarceration without regard to individual circumstances, and expand commitment to juvenile correctional facilities to moderate-risk youth who are least likely to benefit and most likely to be harmed by secure confinement.  Kansas should continue investing in community-based, restorative, and rehabilitative approaches that reduce recidivism and strengthen family rather than expanding costly and counter productive incarceration. (Attachment 4)

Lara Blake Bors, Juvenile Justice Oversight Committee (JJOC), Legislative Chair, provided testimony in opposition to the bill.  She said after careful consideration and discussion, it is the request of the Juvenile Justice Oversight Committee that conversations and concerns in this topic continue, but that changes to current laws happen after a more statewide approach is conducted.   JJOC looks forward to being a part of the policy-making process and to fulfilling our statutory charge.(Attachment 5)

Desmond E. Bryant White, Progeny, provided testimony opposing the bill.  He stated he regularly visit youth in the Juvenile Detention Facility.  When he asks them what they need, the answers are consistent: guidance, opportunities, mentorship, education, and access to resources.  They are not asking for more time locked in a cell.  They are asking for support and a chance to do better.  (Attachment 6)

Khavayi Tsimonjela, Progeny, provided testimony opposing the bill. She stated the focus should be on early intervention, credible mentorship, trauma-informed care, mental health services, and well-funded community alternatives - not mandatory incarceration.  (Attachment 7)

Opponent, written only testimony was submitted by the following:

Chairwoman closed the hearing on HB2329

Meeting adjourned at 11:41 a.m.