Chairwoman Warren opened the hearing on SB481.

Dahnika Short, Revisors Office,  provided an overview of the bill and stood for questions (Attachment 3)

John Goodyear, General Counsel, of the League of Kansas Municipalities, gave testimony in support of the bill.  He states it offers meaningful flexibility to municipal courts.  The bill allows a municipal judge to order a competency evaluation when warranted, to dismiss charges and refer the matter as appropriate, and it clarifies the prosecutor or city attorney's ability to file a case in district court under the Kansas Care and Treatment Act for Mentally Ill Persons. (Attachment 4)

Brenda Stoss, Judge, Salina Municipal Court, provided testimony in support of the bill.  She stated for defendants appearing in municipal courts who raise question about their competency, this bill would clearly provide authority for municipal courts to determine competency while ensuring that a defendant's rights are protected.  (Attachment 5)

Proponent, written only testimony was submitted by the following:

• Michael Koss, City Attorney, City of Overland Park (Attachment 6)

Neutral, written only testimony was submitted by the following:

• Laura Nordgren, Executive Director Kansas Judicial Council (Attachment 7)

Conferees stood for questions and further discussion.

Chairwoman Warren closed the hearing on SB481.