Bail enforcement agents – commonly known as “bounty hunters” – operating in Kansas are now required to be licensed by the attorney general’s office under the provisions of a law enacted by the Legislature earlier this year, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said today.
Forms are now available on the attorney general’s website, www.ag.ks.gov, under the “Licensing Programs” tab for individuals to begin registering.
The new law, enacted as Senate Substitute for House Bill 2056, defines bail enforcement agents as “a person not performing the duties of a law enforcement officer who tracks down, captures and surrenders to the custody of a court a fugitive who has violated a surety or bail bond agreement, commonly referred to as a bounty hunter.”
Temporary regulations implementing the new law were approved by the State Rules and Regulations Board earlier this week. Permanent regulations have also been proposed, and a public comment period on those regulations is now open. The regulations and a comment form are also available on the attorney general’s website. The website also contains frequently asked questions about the new law.
Violating the new law carries potential criminal and civil penalties. Bail enforcement agents or others who have questions may contact the attorney general’s office at (785) 296-4240.
