Kan. Stat. § 74-5015
On January 12, 1987, all officers and employees who were engaged immediately prior to such date in the performance of powers, duties, and functions of the department of economic development and who in the opinion of the secretary of commerce are necessary to perform the powers, duties, and functions of the department of commerce, or of any division, section, office or other unit thereof shall become officers and employees of the department of commerce, and shall retain all retirement benefits and all rights of civil service which such officer or employee had before January 12, 1987, and their services shall be deemed to have been continuous. All transfers and any abolishment of positions of personnel in the classified civil service shall be in accordance with civil service laws and rules and regulations.
K.S.A. 74-5015