Chairwoman Warren opened the hearing on HB2651.

Natalie Scott, Revisor's Office, provided an overview of the bill and stood for questions.  (Attachment 5)

Garrett Tillery, Private Citizen, provided testimony in support of the bill.  His testimony described the situation he was faced with for child support. Since he voluntarily acknowledged paternity at the birth, he had to continue to pay child support., even after DNA proof that he was not the biological father.  (Attachment 6)

Tom Kessler, 96th District, Kansas House of Representatives, provided testimony in support of the bill. He states this bill addresses a narrow but very real problem in Kansas law involving voluntary acknowledgement of paternity (VAPs).  This bill brings Kansas law into better alignment with common-sense justice.  It recognizes that truth matters, that circumstances can change, and that the legal system should be capable of correcting clear errors without arbitrary deadlines standing in the way. (Attachment  7)

Chasen Sowell, Private Citizen, provided testimony in support of the bill.  He stated this action is not in the best interests of the child, him, or his family.  It appears to prioritize administrative convenience over justice, fairness,and the constitutional rights of all parties involved.   (Attachment 8)

Neutral written only testimony was submitted by the following.

• Marcilyn Martinez, Director, Child Support Services, Department for Children and Families.  (Attachment 9)

Chairwoman Warren closed the hearing on HB2651.