Chairwoman Warren opened the hearing on SB408.

Natalie Scott, Revisor's Office, provided an overview of the bill and stood for questions  (Attachment 2)

Kristalle Hendrick, CEO, Children's Alliance of Kansas, provided testimony in support of the bill.  She stated it is critical that child welfare resources remain focused on children who are experiencing actual abuse or neglect.  When agencies and courts are asked to intervene in situations that do not involve genuine safety concerns, resources are diverted from children who truly need protection services. (Attachment 3)

Tanya Keys, Deputy Secretary, Department for Children and Families, testified in support of the bill.  She stated they believe their practice aligns with the bill.  They will update their policies and procedures should this bill pass. (Attachment 4)

Diane Redleaf, Legal Consultant to Let Grow, testified in favor of the bill.  She stated that they hope and believe this bill will reduce confusion about when a call to child welfare is necessary.  This will allow them to focus on cases that truly need the state's intervention. (Attachment 5)

Lenore Skenazy, President of Let Grow, testified in favor of the bill.  She said this is a bill that allows reasonable childhood independence, a law that would allow parents to feel completely reassured that they can take away the phone and open the door, giving childhood back to Kansas kids. (Attachment 6)

Proponents, written only testimony was submitted by the following:

• Peter Gray, Research Professor in Psychology and Neuroscience, Boston College (Attachment 7)

• Jonathan Haidt, Professor Author, The Anxious Generation, Tomas Cooley Professor of Ethical Leadership, New York University (Attachment 8)

• Chance Berndt, Assistant Public Defender, BIDS Legislative Committee (Attachment 9)

• Kerrie Lonard, Child Advocate (Attachment 10)

• Michael Ramey, President, Parental Rights Foundation (Attachment 11)

Proponents stood for questions discussion.

Chairwoman Warren closed the hearing on SB408.