Category Archives: Kansas

Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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January 26, 2024

 

Tax relief was vetoed by the Governor.  A bipartisan vote sent CCR 2284 to the Governor’s desk. The Governor vetoed the legislation the same day it was put on her desk – blocking major tax cuts that would:

 

  • Eliminate state income taxes for over 340,000 low income tax filers
  • Eliminate state income tax on Social Security
  • Increase standard deductions to offset inflation
  • Increase personal income tax exemptions to offset inflation
  • Increase personal exemption increase for Veterans with 100% disability to offset inflation
  • Provide property tax relief to over one million residents – increased each year to offset inflation
  • Eliminate the state sales tax on groceries in April 1, 2024, instead of 2025

 

It is disappointing the Governor has given over $1 billion in tax breaks to one foreign company, but she vetoes tax bills that will help Kansans.  In 2021, she vetoed a tax bill saying it was reckless and would break the state.  The legislature overrode the veto and there is still over $3 billion in the state coffers.  She favors major corporations over Kansans struggling to pay their bills.  Last year she vetoed two tax bills that she said would “break the state” or “had too many provisions” – her words.  Yet she signed tax bills with more provisions into law and gave billions in tax breaks to corporations.  Her actions speak volumes.

 

You would think there would be a sure path to a veto override.  We will find out where legislators stand on this important issue.  The Governor says she will not sign a bill with a flat tax and that it only helps the rich.  How can eliminating state income tax for over 340,000 low income Kansans be helping the rich?  Also, it is not a flat tax even though people are using that terminology.  Check the facts.

 

Committee work is the main focus early in session.  It is an important part of the legislative process.  Hearings are held.  Legislators listen and ask questions before debating and voting on bills.  All bills can be found at www.kslegislature.org.

 

Protect the Border there is legislation being worked on to send the Kansas National Guard to Texas to help secure the border and build the wall.  A few of us are working to secure funds to support Texas in their efforts and a resolution is also being drafted.  There is also legislation being written to model Texas which would say you cannot reside in Kansas if you entered this country illegally.  It is controversial, but we must stop this border crisis and I am doing what I can as a state legislator.

 

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.

Caryn

 

Government, Kansas

KS Marketing Campaign Launched

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Kansas Tourism celebrates Kansas Day by Launching 2024 Marketing Campaign

TOPEKA — To commemorate Kansas Day, Kansas Tourism has released a new video inviting audiences to reclaim their vacation in Kansas. The video kicks off Kansas Tourism’s 2024 marketing campaign that focuses on the true meaning of a vacation and how Kansas is the perfect vacation destination.

To watch the video, click here. Kansans and non-Kansans alike are encouraged to join the movement by sharing the video on social media and making their plans to vacation in Kansas at the Tourism website here.

“Too many trips leave us drained instead of refreshed, but it doesn’t have to be that way,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Instead of counting vacation days, we want visitors to make their vacation days count in Kansas.”

The concept of a vacation was first popularized in the 1860s and was intended to encourage people to “vacate their homes” to experience the wilderness and reconnect through rest and relaxation, essential to living a healthy life. But nowadays, vacations are often stress-inducing, jam-packed and expensive.

“Let’s get back to the heart of what a vacation is meant to be,” Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “We know that you can find it in Kansas.”

Kansas Tourism provides valuable free resources to help plan a Kansas trip, including a free travel guide available to be mailed or immediately downloaded. The TravelKS.com website features an entire Plan Your Trip section.

“Visitors worldwide should plan a Kansas vacation in 2024 because Kansas is filled with outdoor adventure, inspirational history, world-class attractions, and exceptional arts and entertainment,” Jobe said.

Kansas Day, January 29, provides the perfect opportunity for Kansans to come together and honor the unique history that has shaped the Sunflower State and to kick-off the 2024 tourism marketing campaign. On this day in 1861, Kansas officially entered the Union as the 34th state, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s history. This celebration provides the opportunity to acknowledge contributions of Kansans throughout the years, from the pioneers who settled the prairies to the modern-day innovators driving the state’s progress.

Follow Kansas Tourism on:

Facebook – / travelks 

Instagram – / kansastourism 

#VacationinKansas

#ToTheStarsKS

About Kansas Tourism:

The mission of Kansas Tourism is to inspire travel to and throughout Kansas to maximize the positive impacts that tourism has on our state and local communities. Kansas Tourism works hand in hand with other Commerce community programs to elevate and promote Kansas as a tourist destination. Kansas Tourism oversees all tourism marketing and PR for the state, produces travel publications and advertising, manages state Travel Information Centers, manages both the Kansas By-ways program and the Kansas Agritourism program, approves tourist signage applications, produces the KANSAS! Magazine, and provides financial and educational support to the tourism industry in Kansas through grants, education, and support.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022 and 2023, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

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Government, Kansas

KS Broadband Grants Available

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Broadband Acceleration Grant Makes $10M Available

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced $10 million is available to enhance broadband infrastructure statewide through the Broadband Acceleration Grant program. Grants funded through this program are designed to offset the capital expenses needed to deploy in unserved areas.

In its fourth year through the bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE), the Broadband Acceleration Grant program aims to provide high-quality, reliable broadband access throughout the state, prioritizing unserved areas, economically distressed communities, and areas of compelling need.

“Empowering communities through broadband infrastructure buildout allows Kansas to lean into our innovative spirit as we grow businesses, keep talent here, and pursue new opportunities,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The IKE program is a great example of how state agencies, local communities and the private sector provide high speed internet to all Kansans.”

During the first three years of this program, high-speed internet has been delivered to 8,000 homes and businesses in 25 counties. The cumulative $15 million generated another $17.5 million in matching funds.

“The IKE Program is founded on strong partnerships to leverage investments in critical infrastructure sectors, like broadband,” Secretary of the Kansas Department of Transportation Calvin Reed said. “I’m proud KDOT investments support Kansas communities to meet the needs of businesses and citizens now and in the future.”

The Broadband Acceleration Grant program is action-oriented to connect all Kansans. Through this ongoing infrastructure investment, Kansas aspires to be a top 10 state for broadband, improving the lives of Kansans and fostering economic growth for all.

“It is important to focus taxpayer resources on projects that provide sustainable economic benefits that help to grow our state and will encourage people to live and do business in Kansas,” Senate President Ty Masterson said. “The IKE program and the Broadband Acceleration Grant accomplishes that by providing high-quality, reliable broadband access throughout the state, prioritizing the areas that need it the most.”

“Expanding access to quality broadband services not only helps to develop our Kansas workforce but provides more tools for small businesses as well, which is why we included it in the IKE Transportation program,” House Speaker Dan Hawkins said. “After four years of this program, I’m looking forward to seeing the difference these grants make in our underserved communities.”

Key highlights for the fourth round of the Broadband Acceleration Grant program include:

  • Maximum grant funding request of $1 million
  • Qualifying program speed of 100/20 Megabits Per Second (Mbps)
  • Requirement of 50% matching funds for the project, including the possibility of an in-kind match of up to 50% of the required match
  • Co-investment required by sources other than the applicant

“Building digital infrastructure enables KOBD to serve underserved and unserved Kansans, supporting buildout in previously neglected areas,” Office of Broadband Development Director Jade Piros de Carvalho said. “The Broadband Acceleration Program allows KOBD to strategically align with our Five-Year Action Plan, working towards the goal of bringing affordable broadband to every corner of the state.”

The application period runs from January 29 to March 11. The Office of Broadband Development will have a kickoff webinar from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Monday, January 29. For more information about the program, register for the webinar, or to apply for the Broadband Acceleration Grant Program, click here.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022 and 2023, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

Government, Kansas

Local Food Producer Workshops Offered from the KS Department of Agriculture

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MANHATTAN, Kansas — The Kansas Department of Agriculture and K-State Research and Extension (KSRE) will offer four regional Local Food Producer Workshops to assist farmers’ market vendors and managers, and for those wanting to sell food products directly to consumers.

Kansas farmers’ markets not only provide a fresh food source, but also stimulate the local economy. In 2023, more than 100 farmers’ markets were registered with KDA’s Central Registration of Farmers’ Markets.

“It’s part of our mission to provide education to Kansas farmers’ markets and agricultural businesses to help them grow,” said Russell Plaschka, KDA marketing director. “These workshops will support them in their endeavors to provide safe and abundant food to Kansas communities.”

Workshop topics will vary slightly by location. Highlighted topics include:

  • Marketing
  • SNAP and Double Up Food Bucks
  • Food Safety
  • Regulations on Selling Meat, Eggs and Poultry
  • Sales Tax for Vendors

KDA’s weights and measures program will also offer free scale certification at the workshops for attendees.

Dates and locations for the Local Food Producer Workshops are as follows:

Friday, Feb. 9 — Olathe: K-State Olathe

Saturday, Feb. 10 — Hutchinson: Hutchinson Community College

Friday, Feb. 23 — Parsons: Southeast Research–Extension Center

Friday, March 1 — Hays: K-State Agricultural Research Center

Registration for the workshops is now open and is $20 per participant. Registration forms can be found at FromtheLandofKansas.com/FMworkshop or at local extension offices.

For more information, contact Robin Dolby, KDA’s From the Land of Kansas marketing coordinator, at 785-564-6756 or [email protected]. The workshops are funded by the Kansas Center for Sustainable Agriculture and Alternative Crops, Kansas Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program, and sponsored by KSRE and KDA.

KDA is committed to providing an environment that enhances and encourages economic growth of the agriculture industry and the Kansas economy. The Kansas Ag Growth Strategy has identified training for small companies via workshops as a key growth outcome for the specialty crop sector. The Local Food Producer Workshops will provide education through partnerships to help make Kansas farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses more successful.

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Government, Kansas

Learn About Radon Risks

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Get Ready for Kansas Radon Action Month in January

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in partnership with the Kansas Radon Program, encourages Kansans to take action this January by learning about radon and how its risks can be lowered.

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, behind cigarette smoking. 1 in 4 homes in Kansas test high for radon. It is a radioactive gas from the breakdown of naturally occurring uranium in the soil. Radon can’t be seen, heard or smelled, so the only way to know if a home has high levels of radon is to test.

The risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure increases dramatically in people who smoke. People who smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke and are exposed to radon have a ten times greater risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure compared with people who do not smoke and are exposed to the same radon levels.

The Cancer Burden Report of 2021 states, on average, each year, more than 1,900 lung cancers are diagnosed among Kansas residents, and more than 70% of them (about 1,350 cases) are diagnosed in late stage. In addition, about 1,500 Kansans die from the disease annually.

There are several ways to lower the risk of lung cancer. The best thing to prevent lung cancer is never to start smoking or to quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke whenever possible. No matter how long an individual has used tobacco, quitting can reduce their risk for cancer and other chronic diseases. Homes can also be tested for high radon levels and fixed if the radon levels are too high.

Learn more about what Kansas is doing to reduce the risk of cancer among Kansans by reading the 2022-2027 Kansas Cancer Prevention and Control Plan.

Get a low-cost, short-term radon test kit at your local K-State Extension office.

Learn more about the relationship between tobacco and radon here.

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Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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Caryn Tyson

 

January 19, 2024

 

Tax relief was debated and passed both chambers.  A bipartisan vote sent Conference Committee Report (CCR) 2284 on its way to the Governor’s desk.  Before the House voted on the CCR, she announced she will veto it.  If she does veto CCR 2284, she’ll stop major tax cuts on:

  • Income tax relief for ALL
  • Eliminates state income taxes for over 340,000 low income tax filers
  • Eliminates state income tax on Social Security helping over 92,000 people
  • Standard deduction increases each year that inflation increases
  • Personal income tax exemption increase to $2,300 per person and increases to offset inflation
  • Veterans with 100% disability personal exemption increase to $4600 with inflation increases
  • Eliminates income tax on all income up to $6,150 ($12,300 married filing jointly) and levels the brackets to 5.25 for taxable income
  • Property tax relief for homeowners that increases each year to offset inflation
  • Eliminates the state sales tax on groceries in 2024, instead of 2025

 

CCR 2284 will provide much needed tax relief and is sustainable.  These are ideas that have been diligently and thoroughly vetted.  In fact, most of the policy was passed last year and vetoed by the Governor.  The veto override failed by one vote in the Senate.  Some believe that it will happen again.  There is over $3 billion sitting in the state coffers. The government has taken too much money from the people.  CCR 2284 will cut taxes and help Kansans.

 

The Governor has proposed tax legislation, but it doesn’t have the tax cut for the 340,000 low income taxpayers; it doesn’t cut income taxes for all Kansans; it doesn’t provide more relief to our 100% disabled veterans;  it doesn’t fight against inflation and cost living increases.  Remember, in 2021 the Governor vetoed tax cuts, calling them reckless and said they would break the state.  We overrode the veto.  The tax cuts didn’t break the state and neither will CCR 2284.

 

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.

Caryn

 

Government, Kansas

Kansas Renewable Energy Projects Announced

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U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Kansas Director Christy Davis today announced that Rural Development is investing $2.8 million in renewable energy projects to lower energy bills, boost energy production and create jobs.

“Rural Development is helping farmers, ranchers and small businesses be a part of the clean energy economy and directly benefit from it,” Director Davis said. “These investments expand renewable energy infrastructure and save Kansans money on their energy costs that can be invested back into their businesses and communities.”

The details of the Kansas projects are:

  • A $79,960 grant will help purchase and install two 15 kilowatt (kW) wind turbines for Viets Brothers Inc. of Girard. The project is expected to generate 71,699 kilowatt hours (kWh) per year, 100 percent of the company’s electrical usage and enough to power 6.7 homes.
  • A $43,800 grant will help purchase and install a 15 kW wind turbine for Blevins Farms Inc. of Highland. The project is expected to generate 37,337 kWh per year, 100 percent of the company’s electrical usage and enough electricity to power 3.5 homes.
  • A $22,300 grant will help purchase and install a 16.28 kW solar photovoltaic system for Casey Andersen of Gove County. This project will realize $2,335 per year in savings and will replace 21,358 kWh, enough energy to power two homes.
  • A $39,800 grant will help purchase and install a 15 kW wind turbine for Gene Moritz of Greely County. This project will realize $3,424 per year in savings and will replace 35,124 kWh, enough electricity to power three homes.
  • A $1,000,000 grant will help install an anaerobic digester to produce biomethane gas for Rio Vista Farms LLC of Hamilton County. This project will generate an estimated 80,286 Million British Thermal Units (MMBtu) per year.
  • A $1,000,000 grant will help install an anaerobic digester to produce biomethane gas for Frontier Dairy LLC in Hamilton County. This project will generate an estimated 84,629 MMBtu per year.
  • A $98,720 grant will help purchase and install a 149 kW solar array for Mackey & Sons Inc. of Newton. The project is estimated to replace 187,991 kWh per year, enough energy to power 17 homes. Mackey & Sons Inc. currently has 22 employees.
  • A $100,728 grant will help purchase and install a 180 kW solar array for Bold LLC in Hutchinson. This project is estimated to replace 158,385 kWh per year, enough energy to power 14 homes. Bold LLC currently has 85 employees.
  • A $25,182 grant will help purchase and install a 13.5 kW solar array for Mid Kansas Marine and RV Inc. of Hutchinson. This project is estimated to replace 19,068 kWh per year, enough energy to power one home. Mid Kansas Marine & RV currently has eight employees.
  • A $216,000 grant will help purchase and install a 180 kW solar array for Ade-Wifco Steel Products Inc. of Hutchinson. This project is estimated to replace 277,933kWh per year, enough energy to power 26 homes. Ade-Wifco Steel Products currently has ten employees.
  • A $162,845 grant will help purchase and install a 175 kW solar array for Board of Trade Management LLC of Salina. This project is estimated to replace 237,078 kWh per year, enough energy to power 22 homes. Board of Trade Management currently has four employees.
  • A $26,875 grant will help purchase and install a 15 kW wind turbine for Flat Land Farms in Wichita County. This project will realize $2,024 per year in savings and will replace 19,216 kWh, enough electricity to power 1.5 homes.

Please see the attached press release for full details. If you would like an interview with Kansas Director Christy Davis, call 785 207-1171.

 

Allen Pickert

Public Affairs Specialist

State office, Rural Development

United States Department of Agriculture

Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly’s Medicaid Expansion Proposal Introduced in Both Chambers of State Legislature

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TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly’s commonsense proposal to expand Medicaid to 150,000 additional Kansans, the Cutting Healthcare Costs for All Kansans Act, was introduced into both chambers of the Kansas legislature. Governor Kelly then called for hearings on the bill in both chambers by Kansas Day, January 29.

“It’s easy to sum up the Cutting Healthcare Costs for All Kansans Act: health care coverage for 150,000 Kansans, cost savings for everyone else. We protect our rural hospitals, and Kansas taxpayers pay nothing extra,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “The legislature should listen to the over 70% of Kansans who support Medicaid Expansion and give this bill a hearing by Kansas Day.”

The bill was introduced in the House Appropriations Committee by Representative Vic Miller and in the Senate Ways and Means Committee by Senator Pat Pettey.

“Medicaid expansion is not only popular, but it saves lives, creates jobs, and saves our rural hospitals. Hardworking Kansans shouldn’t die because of legislative inaction,” said House Minority Leader Vic Miller. “I’m happy to introduce this bill – again – and encourage my colleagues across the aisle to finally join us. Expanding Medicaid is the definition of a win for Kansas.”

“I introduced the Cutting Healthcare Costs for All Kansans Act into committee today because, by expanding Medicaid to 150,000 additional Kansans, we can support our hospitals, grow our nurses and doctors, and provide relief for Kansans shouldering the burden of rising healthcare costs,” said Senator Pat Pettey, Kansas Senate District 6. “My fellow legislators should hold a hearing on the bill by Kansas Day so we can get one step closer to expanding Medicaid once and for all.”

Republican legislators joined in calling for a hearing on the Cutting Healthcare Costs for All Kansans Act by Kansas Day.

“I appreciate that this bill has been introduced and it makes sense to give legislators the opportunity to debate this bill,” said Senator Brenda Dietrich, Kansas Senate District 20. “Medicaid Expansion has been a significant issue for our hospitals and workforce – we should debate its pros and cons in a hearing as soon as possible.”

“When a bipartisan approach was taken on a Medicaid Expansion bill in 2020, we held a hearing. It’s been 4 years and many of our newest legislators don’t know where they stand because they’ve never heard an actual debate,” said Representative Susan Concannon, Kansas House District 107. “I believe it’s time to hear from all sides to make an informed decision for the people of Kansas.”

“It’s abundantly clear that my fellow legislators want to debate Medicaid Expansion,” said Senator Carolyn McGinn, Kansas Senate District 31. “Instead of litigating the issue in an unrelated budget briefing, we should hold a hearing on the Cutting Healthcare Costs for All Kansans Act so all sides can present their point of view.”

“I support Medicaid Expansion and so do many of my constituents” said Representative David Younger, Kansas House District 124. “Kansans elect us to reflect their values, grow our economy, and support our businesses. One way to do that is by getting Medicaid expanded this session.”

“We can no longer ignore the state of our hospitals and health care workforce in rural Kansas,” said Senator John Doll, Kansas Senate District 39. “That’s why I urge my colleagues to hold a hearing on Medicaid Expansion by Kansas Day, so the legislature can debate and move forward on a solution to get 150,000 more Kansans affordable health care.”

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Government, Kansas

Commerce Expands Funding Opportunities for Arts and Culture in Kansas

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TOPEKA — Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the launch of two new Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC) grant programs, Arts Everywhere Grants and General Operating Support Grants, ushering in a new era of support for the arts in Kansas.

The enhanced grant programs reflect Commerce’s dedication to expanding funding opportunities for a more diverse range of organizations and projects throughout the state, all with the goal of leveraging the arts to grow the Kansas economy.

“The Kelly Administration is committed to fostering a dynamic cultural landscape in Kansas,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “These initiatives signify a strategic evolution, expanding funding opportunities and ensuring the arts reach every corner of our state. By supporting diverse projects and nurturing the ongoing operations of cultural organizations, we aim to enrich the lives of Kansans and strengthen the state’s economy.”

Building on the success of the prior Arts Integration and Strategic Investment Programs, Arts Everywhere Grants will open up funding opportunities to a broader range of projects and organizations. This program will support projects that bring the arts directly to communities, ensuring cultural enrichment is accessible statewide. Arts Everywhere Grants are intended to fund individual arts- and culture-based projects.

Non-profit organizations and community groups are encouraged to apply for Arts Everywhere Grants and transform their unique creative visions into impactful experiences for Kansans.

The General Operating Support Grants program will provide financial assistance to Kansas public and private non-profit arts and cultural organizations. This initiative recognizes the vital role these organizations play in fostering creativity, preserving cultural heritage, and enhancing the economy and quality of life in our state.

Organizations with a demonstrated commitment to arts and culture are invited to apply for General Operating Support Grants to support ongoing operations and initiatives.

“We’re excited to expand arts funding opportunities to even more types of projects and organizations,” KCAIC Director Curtis Young said. “Our new programs maintain eligibility for projects covered under the previous programs, supporting the vibrant Kansas arts community and contributing to the economic vitality of our state.”

While the introduction of these two grants marks a new chapter, KCAIC reaffirms its continued support for the popular Public Art & Murals program and the Visiting Artists program. These programs remain largely unchanged, continuing to bring vibrant public art and enriching artistic experiences to communities statewide.

Detailed guidelines and application instructions for the Arts Everywhere Program can be found here; for General Operating Support, click here. Applications for all programs will be accepted through February 23.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022 and 2023, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

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Government, Kansas

Virtual Job Fair Opens Pathway to Hundreds of State Government Positions

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TOPEKA – Jobseekers are encouraged to take part in the first State of Kansas Agencies Virtual Job Fair of 2024, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 24. The virtual fair will highlight a host of employment opportunities across the state’s 98 government agencies, with more than 700 positions available.

“Working in the public sector is truly a selfless act. Day in, day out, the core of our work in government is to support Kansas and Kansans,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The Sunflower State is on a dominant trajectory of growth, and our agencies are looking for the right talent to continue this momentum. If you’re interested in joining a winning team, there is no better time than the present.”

Registration is required to participate in the event, regardless of previous participation. The Virtual Job Fair portal features a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers, and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers might request to engage in a video interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device, but it is highly recommended to use a computer to be most effective during the job fair. If a jobseeker does not have access to a personal computer, they are available at KANSASWORKS offices as well as local libraries throughout the state. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.

To register for the January 24 State of Kansas Agencies Virtual Job Fair, click here.

About KANSASWORKS:

KANSASWORKS links businesses, job candidates and educational institutions to ensure that employers can find skilled workers. Services are provided to employers and job candidates through the state’s 27 workforce centers, online or virtual services KANSASWORKS is completely free for all Kansans to use. Learn more at KANSASWORKS.com. State employment opportunities can be found at jobs.ks.gov.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022 and 2023, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

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Government, Kansas

Nearly $14 million to be Distributed to Kansas Families

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Supplemental P-EBT auto-issuance begins next week

TOPEKA – Kansas families with school-aged children will receive a one-time benefit of $120 per child as part of the Supplemental Pandemic Electronic Benefit (P-EBT) program. A total of $13.6 million will be distributed to approximately 114,000 school-aged children in January.

“The Supplemental P-EBT program helps parents and care providers access nutritious food for their families,” said Laura Howard, Secretary Kansas Department for Children and Families. “I am pleased that we are able to provide this benefit to Kansas children to reduce food insecurity for our youngest citizens.”

Supplemental P-EBT, a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the American Rescue Plan Act, is designed to benefit school-aged children who received free or reduced-price school meals through the National School Lunch Program during the 2022-23 school year. Due to the complexity of gathering the data, the benefit is for the summer months of June, July, and August of 2023.

The benefit distribution will be auto-issued through a direct certification process Jan. 17-26. Parents and guardians who believe their children are eligible, but do not receive a benefit in January may request the Supplemental benefit using the DCF Self-Service Portal Feb. 1-29, 2024.

Recipients may use their P-EBT funds to purchase eligible foods from approved retailers that accept Food Assistance benefits like grocery stores and online at Aldi, Amazon, or Walmart. For additional information visit www.dcf.ks.gov, Food Assistance.

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The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) mission to protect children, strengthen families and promote adult self-sufficiency. DCF’s more than 35 service centers across the state offers a wide range of support services including food, utility, and child care assistance, child support services, and employment education and training. DCF also partners with grantees to provide foster care services to children including case planning, placement, life skills, and foster parent recruitment and training. DCF works in partnership with organizations, communities and other agencies to support families, children and vulnerable adults connecting them with resources, supports and networks in their home communities.