TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A bill that some lawmakers say would make it more difficult for sex offenders confined for treatment to appeal for their release is facing fresh scrutiny after a report by the state auditor found flaws in the program.

The report released Tuesday said the cost of Kansas’ sexual predator treatment program could double by 2025 because only three have been released from it since 1994 and its population continues to rise.

Offenders deemed to be sexual predators are committed to Larned State Hospital after they serve their criminal penalties and are released only after completing a seven-phase treatment plan.

The bill would move patients’ grievances and petitions for release from a courtroom setting to a meeting with an administrative lawyer who would decide the case by phone or video conference.