Kansas House Bill HB2192

Kansas 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/25
• Refer: 1/31/25
• Report Pass: 2/18/25
• Engrossed: 2/25/25
• Refer: 2/26/25
• Report Pass: 3/18/25

Caption

Limiting or prohibiting work release for people convicted of a second or third offense of domestic battery.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2192 will have significant implications for the state's legal framework surrounding domestic violence offenses. The bill modifies K.S.A. 21-5414 to establish that those convicted of domestic battery will face stricter sentencing and fewer opportunities for rehabilitation through work release programs. This change aligns with a growing recognition of the need for more stringent measures to address repeated incidents of domestic violence, signaling a step towards handling these crimes with greater severity.

Summary

House Bill 2192 seeks to amend the existing domestic battery laws in Kansas by limiting or prohibiting work release options for individuals convicted of a second or third offense of domestic battery. The bill recognizes the severity of repeated domestic violence and aims to enhance the consequences faced by offenders. By imposing stricter guidelines on work release programs, the bill intends to emphasize the seriousness of repeated offenses and provide greater protection for victims of domestic violence.

Contention

Despite the bill's focus on protecting victims, there may be points of contention among legal analysts and civil rights advocates who argue that the restrictions on work release could disproportionately affect offenders seeking to reintegrate into society. Critics may raise concerns about the balance between accountability and the potential for rehabilitation, suggesting that overly harsh penalties could lead to negative outcomes in addressing the root causes of domestic violence. The legislative debates may explore whether such measures might facilitate change or foster resentment among offenders without effectively deterring future instances of domestic violence.