The policy was first outlined in a Nov. 15 memo to staff. It stated speaking with media or legislators without first obtaining permission from Angela de Rocha, the director of communications at the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, would be a violation.
Lawmakers from both parties, the state workers union and staff at Larned hospital have publicly objected to the policy, arguing it violates the state’s whistleblower law and establishes a culture of secrecy.
An updated version of the agency’s policy was distributed to Larned employees Thursday, which no longer includes any references to speaking with lawmakers.
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