Opinion

I Hope I Don’t Disappoint by Patty LaRoche

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Patty LaRoche. 2023.
Author: A Little Faith Lift…Finding Joy Beyond Rejection
www.alittlefaithlift.com
AWSA (Advanced Writers & Speakers Assoc.)

Have you ever been called to “love the unlovely”?  You know, like Jesus did.  I recently realized how hard that really is…not because I can’t love the unlovely but because sometimes they don’t love me.  People I know have been disappointed in me, and my Christian character has been ridiculed.  Compared to how I felt when a dear friend said that I didn’t mask my double-chin well when I delivered my Tedx Talk or how another addressed my unflattering outfit or when someone shared that I overdid my makeup at my book signing, and I bet you know which hurt worse.

Yep, when my Christian character was maligned.

I want desperately to please God.  I do.  I want people to see in me a joy, a peace, a freedom, so infectious that they ask my secret.  That doesn’t always happen.

Today was the exception.  A sweet, young waitress told me that I make a difference in her life, that every time she waits on me, she feels that she has someone in her corner.  Her grandparents and father are deceased, and her mother is an addict.  She, a divorcee, has young children and struggles being a good mother, but, she said, she believes that I care.  She is right.  From the first time she waited on me, I knew there was something in her I admired.

She is lovely, personable, hard-working and determined to give her children a better life.  She asked if we could exchange phone numbers.  Of course we could, and we did.  She explained that she wants to leave her present job and move into something more fulfilling, something that would provide better for her kids.  I assured her that I would try and make that happen.

Then she said something I did not expect.  “I am pregnant.”  She spoke about how amazing the father is, how he treats her well, but how she knows things now are more complicated in her hunt for a new job.  I couldn’t help but think, “Would Jesus call this complicated?”  Absolutely not.  He loved everyone, even those who think they disappoint. No story reflected that better than when Jesus met the Samaritan woman at the well.

According to John 4:1-42, she, the lowest of the low, an unmarried female of a race despised by Jews, meets Jesus on his way to Galilee.  His disciples are in town buying food when Jesus asks this woman, coming to draw water from the well, for a drink. In that era, women drew water in groups in the morning, but this outcast drew water alone midday.

The Samaritan woman questions how this man can ask her, a woman, for a drink.  Jesus’ responses confound her as he explains that he offers “living water,” the kind that leads to eternal life, to everyone. The dialogue continues until Jesus switches gears and reveals that she has been married five times and is not married to her current affair.  Still, he offers her a chance. She then gets it: she who has disappointed for as long as she can remember is talking to the Messiah.  And he’s not disappointed.

When this woman believed, she immediately ran off to tell others. Her words made an impact. As Scripture tells us, “Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony.”

Loving the unlovely is Jesus’ way.  My job is to love those who don’t love me, those who judge me or criticize me, to see them as Jesus does, so they can know him too.

Along the way, I hope I don’t disappoint.

Bourbon County, Government

Draft Minutes of the Uniontown City Council for March 10

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The Regular Council Meeting on March 10, 2026 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, and Kyle Knight.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting was City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Treasurer Sally Johnson and City Clerk Haley Arnold.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

 

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

 

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Johnson presented the February 2026 Treasurer’s Report.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $244,279.23, Receipts $30,427.36, Transfers Out $3,024.25, Expenditures $50,647.95, Checking Account Closing Balance $221,034.39. Bank Statement Balance $221,850.42, including Checking Account Interest of $45.56, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $816.03, Reconciled Balance $221,034.39.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $43,432.35, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $24,422.45, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $50,925.50, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $339,814.69. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $92.47, and Utility CDs $633.31 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $725.78.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of February 2026, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0.  February Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,400.25; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, for Total Transfers of $3,024.25.  Net loss for the month of February $23,244.84, Year-to-Date Net Income $20,288.93.  Budget vs Actual Gas Fund YTD Revenue $41,872.97 (32.4%), Expenditures $16,034.84 (12.2%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $6,743.25 (18.7%), Expenditures $5,159.58 (12.1%); Water Fund YTD Revenue $22,994.33 (18.5%), Expenditures $12,604.35 (8.8%); General Fund YTD Revenue $33,972.85 (23.1%), Expenditures $17,454.62 (7.4%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $2,010.48 (27.6%), Expenditures $1,422.03 (12.7%).  The March 2026 payables to date in the amount of $23,075.39.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Kelly, Second by Pemberton, Approved 3-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of February 10, 2026 Regular Meeting
  • February Treasurer’s Report, Profit & Loss Report by Class & March Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Superintendent Rich informed the Council that the cost of Bio Mist used for mosquito fogging has increased to $111.00 per gallon, totaling approximately $278 per fogging session.  The Council and Rich discussed the possibility of more affordable alternatives; however, Rich reported that he has been unsuccessful in identifying any cheaper effective options.  The Council agreed to continue using the current product.  Beginning in April, fogging will be scheduled every three weeks instead of every two weeks.  As peak mosquito season approaches, the schedule will return to every two weeks.  Rich also suggested including a paragraph in the city newsletter to remind residents that standing water in yards or around homes serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. The notice will include tips on how individuals can help reduce the mosquito population.

Clerk Arnold reminded the Council of upcoming City Hall closures on March 11–13 due to the CCMFOA Conference, and on March 26–27 due to the Municipal Court Clerk Conference.  Arnold asked the Council to determine dates for the Spring and Fall citywide cleanups.  The Council decided that two roll-off dumpsters would be provided for the 2026 cleanups, scheduled for April 27–30 and August 31–September 3.  There was discussion regarding hosting a town-wide garage sale this year; however, the Council ultimately decided against it due to low community participation in previous years.  Arnold also confirmed with the Council whether to order fish food again this year for the pond located by the school.  The Council approved the purchase and requested that Arnold obtain pricing from multiple vendors.

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Knight – requested an update on when Marbery Concrete Inc. would begin work on the FEMA project at 2nd and Clay Streets.  Mayor Jurgensen reported that a recent vehicle accident involving Marbery Concrete Inc. resulted in the loss of equipment, which put a delay on the start of the project. Weather permitting, work is expected to begin once conditions allow.  Knight also asked if new culverts will be put in and Treasurer Johnson had confirmed they will replace with new culverts to help with water flow.

Councilwoman Kelly – none

Councilwoman Pemberton – inquired about who is responsible for unlocking the storm shelters during severe weather events.  Superintendent Rich informed the Council that the shelters remain unlocked during this time of year due to the increased likelihood of inclement weather.  Pemberton also asked whether it would be possible for someone not affiliated with the city to perform ditch cleanout and replace a culvert at 201 2nd St.  Mayor Jurgensen responded that this is not allowed, as the city is responsible for ditch and culvert maintenance.  Superintendent Rich added that he would inspect the area and address the ditch and culvert to the best of his ability.

Councilwoman Pritchett – absent

Councilman Stewart – absent

Mayor Jurgensen – none

 

OLD BUSINESS

FEMA Flooding– As previously discussed earlier in the meeting, Marbery Concrete Inc. will begin repairs when weather permits. Mayor Jurgensen and Treasurer Johnson informed the Council that a one-year extension on the project has been filed and approved.

Water and Sewer Rate Adjustments– Treasurer Johnson informed the Council that the City has not raised water rates since 2024 and sewer rates have not been increased since 2013.  Johnson proposed new water and sewer rates to take effect in April 2026.  The Council reviewed the figures provided and discussed the proposed adjustments.

Moved by Pemberton, seconded by Knight, and approved 3–0, to set the minimum monthly water rate for users within city limits at $28.66 for the first 1,000 gallons, with an additional $12.98 per 1,000 gallons thereafter. For users outside city limits, the minimum monthly rate will be $29.90 for the first 1,000 gallons, with a charge of $13.55 per 1,000 gallons thereafter. The motion also includes an additional 3% annual increase on the water rate.

Moved by Kelly, seconded by Pemberton, and approved 3–0, to set the minimum monthly sewer fee at $27.50 for the first 1,000 gallons of water usage, with an additional $0.31 per 1,000 gallons thereafter, per water meter. The motion also includes an additional 3% annual increase on the sewer rate.

Knight asked how the City’s rates compare to those of surrounding areas.  A discussion followed regarding rates in neighboring communities and the differences in bulk water purchase rates compared to those areas.

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

Moved by Kelly, Second by Knight, Approved 3-0, to adjourn at 7:55PM.

Government, Kansas

KS Kansas Sports Facilities Authority Act is Signed Amid Others

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Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill Creating Kansas Sports Facilities Authority Act

~~Instrumental Legislation Establishes Governance of Kansas City Chiefs’
New World-Class Stadium, Practice Facility in Kansas~~

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has signed House Bill 2466, creating the Kansas Sports Facilities Authority Act. The bill enables the construction of a sports facility and related infrastructure for a National Football League (NFL) franchise team to play its home games and extends the Sales Tax and Revenue (STAR) Bonds program. Governor Kelly and the Kansas City Chiefs announced in December 2025 that an agreement has been reached to build a domed stadium and a mixed-use entertainment district, as well as a new team headquarters, training facility, and mixed-use development in Kansas.

“The Kansas City Chiefs’ historic agreement with the State of Kansas is monumental for our economy, creating thousands of new jobs, attracting tourists from around the world, and elevating Kansas as an elite place to put down roots,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This bill provides the necessary governance structure and guardrails to manage and oversee the team’s facilities, ensuring Kansans for generations to come will continue to cheer on our beloved team at home. We’re turning Kansas into a premier destination for sports and entertainment, without raising state taxes or taking funding away from essential services.”

The Kansas Sports Facilities Authority Act establishes the Kansas Sports Facilities Authority to govern the stadium and practice facility. The authority will consist of 11 voting members who are Kansas residents with relevant education, training, and experience related to facility administration, accounting, law, marketing, or other related fields. The authority’s voting members will be the secretary of the Kansas Department of Commerce, and one member appointed by each of the following: governor, president of the Senate, speaker of the House of Representatives, the majority and minority leaders of the House and Senate, and the team. The mayors of the two cities where the team’s facilities are located would also be entitled to appoint a voting member to the authority, which could be themselves, as long as the city participates in a STAR Bond project. The initial members must be appointed by August 31, 2026. The authority is required to conduct annual independent financial audits, maintain a public website, and submit annual reports to the Legislature.

“This bipartisan legislation establishes a responsible path forward that brings the Chiefs to Kansas while ensuring the State’s investment is carefully structured and protected,” said Representative Sean Tarwater, District 27. “I commend the Legislature for making those protections a priority, and I appreciate Governor Kelly’s support in signing this important bill into law.”

The agreement with the Chiefs is a massive economic win for Kansas, with the construction phase alone creating over 20,000 jobs and $4.4 billion in economic impact for the state. From there, the stadium will bring over $1 billion in annual impact. The agreement is a public-private partnership that includes a $3 billion stadium in Wyandotte County, which will open at the start of the 2031 NFL season, and a new Chiefs headquarters and training facility in the City of Olathe in Johnson County. Both sites will have mixed-use developments that could include sports, entertainment, dining, shopping, office, hotel, and residential properties.

“The Chiefs’ decision to come to Kansas is transformational for our workforce and economy and puts Kansas on the map as a global tourism destination,” said Senator Oletha Faust Goudeau, District 29. “In passing this bipartisan bill, we’re building a brighter future for Kansas by putting responsible structures in place to oversee construction and operation of the stadium and practice facility and be good stewards of taxpayer dollars.”

In addition to House Bill 2466, Governor Kelly also signed the following bipartisan bills:

Substitute for House Bill 2114: Clarifying which structures shall be considered water obstructions and not a dam, increasing application fees for a permit to construct, modify or add to a dam, requiring preconstruction permit fees, and requiring any licensed professional engineer who conducts inspections to be approved by the chief engineer or a certified intern engineer who is under the supervision of a licensed professional engineer.

House Bill 2116: Requiring cities and counties of certain population sizes to use standard contract provisions as used in state contracts.

House Bill 2192: Limiting or prohibiting work release for people convicted of a second or third offense of domestic battery, requiring an offender convicted of a first offense to undergo a domestic violence offender assessment, excluding certain offenders convicted of a nonperson felony from participation in certified drug abuse treatment programs, and authorizing community correctional services officers to complete criminal risk-need assessments for divertees who are committed to such programs.

House Bill 2413: Providing that theft of livestock or implements of husbandry is a severity level 5, nonperson felony. Additionally, the bill amends the criminal statute for cruelty to animals to exclude the actions of a person who catches a feral cat to provide vaccination, spaying, or neutering and returns the cat back to the location where the cat was caught after providing such care. The bill would also provide enhanced penalties for offenses committed related to transnational repression (TNR) and require the development of TNR recognition and response training.

House Bill 2462: Requiring rules and regulations for potable reusable water to be adopted and making changes to the sunset, funding transfers, and grant process for the Water Technical Assistance Fund and Water Projects Grant Fund.

House Bill 2464: Extending the sunset date of the Angel Investor Tax Credit, the number of years that new credits may be issued or earned for contributions to graduates of aerospace and aviation-related educational programs and employers of program graduates and the tax credits for contributions to the Eisenhower Foundation and Friends of Cedar Crest Association

House Bill 2479: Authorizing electronic monitoring with victim notification as a condition of release prior to trial for certain offenders charged with a domestic violence offense, domestic battery, stalking, or violation of a protective order; increasing penalties for the crimes of endangering a child and aggravated endangering a child when the child is less than 6 years of age; and amending provisions of the Kansas Criminal Code related to the crimes of breach of privacy, blackmail, and unlawful sexual relations.

House Bill 2481: Authorizing local governments to opt in to the sale of alcoholic beverages 23 hours a day, seven days a week, for the duration of the FIFA 2026 World Cup, between May 15, 2026, and July 25, 2026, requiring the collection of transient guest taxes for any short-term rental or vacation unit, and prohibiting city and county governments from limiting the number of permits or other authorizations required for the operation of such units.

House Bill 2482: Removing the requirement that the state board of education use a certain exam provider to deliver certain college entrance and career readiness exams and requiring the board to provide for such exams using any provider.

House Bill 2485: Amending the Kansas blueprint for literacy to provide certain requirements for the state board of education, the state board of regents and school districts with regard to literacy education and reporting; requiring the development of a comprehensive literacy implementation plan; authorizing the chief executive officer of the state board of regents to negotiate and settle any repayment obligations arising under any scholarship, grant, or other financial aid program administered by the board; directing the governor to approve short-term workforce training programs for Pell grant eligibility; providing for the transferability of credentials earned through career readiness assessments toward a degree; prohibiting Kansas promise scholarship awards from being used to fund remedial hours offered as part of corequisite courses; providing requirements for agreements between postsecondary educational institutions and school districts for the provision of postsecondary courses taught in secondary schools.

House Bill 2507:Increasing the cap on certain stamp fees, amending the Kansas Open Records Act, and authorizing the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to adopt certain rules and regulations.

House Bill 2509: Adding advanced practice registered nurse to the definition of healthcare provider for purposes of the healthcare provider insurance availability act and adding an advanced practice registered nurse position to the board of governors of the healthcare stabilization fund. The bill also permits licensed physical therapists to perform certain capillary blood tests.

House Bill 2042: Authorizing the adoption of certain rules and regulations related to hazardous waste monitoring and permit application fees by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

House Bill 2647: Authorizing the Kansas Department of Transportation to establish a statewide conduit system for fiber optic transmissions of broadband connections.

House Bill 2124: Amending the law regarding speed limits in residence districts and the operation of golf carts.

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Government, Kansas

KS Bipartisan Bill Strengthening Public Safety Signed Amid Others

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Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill
Strengthening Public Safety


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced she has signed Senate Bill 374, which requires further consideration of evaluation and treatment during competency proceedings for defendants charged with the most serious offenses. This legislation strengthens public safety protections by closing a critical gap in Kansas statute that could lead to potentially dangerous defendants being released after being found incompetent to stand trial, while also balancing the due process rights of defendants.

Senate Bill 374 is also known as the Logan and Austin Bill, named after Logan and Austin Jackson, who were murdered by their father in 2020. Their mother, Tara, provided testimony on the bill and has been an advocate for closing loopholes that could result in violent and potentially dangerous offenders being released into the public.

“I am proud to sign Senate Bill 374, the Logan and Austin Bill, into law,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This unanimous, bipartisan legislation sends a clear message that protecting Kansas families is a shared priority. By closing a critical loophole, we are ensuring that individuals who pose a serious danger are no longer left in legal limbo and that courts have the guidance they need to act appropriately and swiftly.”

When considering further treatment and evaluation for a defendant who’s been found incompetent to stand trial, this bill ensures courts can now consider the prior behavior of the defendant when determining whether the individual would pose public safety risks to the community upon release.

“I appreciate the Governor’s swift action to sign Senate Bill 374, the Logan and Austin Act, into law, and I’m proud to have worked alongside our local County Attorney Todd Thompson and the Kansas Attorney General’s Office on this bipartisan effort to close a loophole and better protect Kansas families,” said Senator Jeff Klemp, District 5.

Senate Bill 374 addresses and clarifies several matters:

  • Allows prosecuting attorneys to initiate and participate in involuntary commitment proceedings.
  • Clarifies what must be included in petitions and recognizes the harm that the defendant poses to themselves or others.
  • Allows courts to consider the full scope of risk, including prior convictions, pending charges, and a defendant’s overall behavior.
  • Provides a tiered, proportionate approach to dismissal.
  • Acknowledges that the State has a compelling interest in continued treatment and supervision in the most serious cases.

“The bill ensures public safety while seeing to it that those convicted of serious crimes get the mental health assistance they need to at least be able to participate in their own defense,” Representative Tobias Schlingensiepen, District 55, said. “I applaud Governor Kelly’s willingness to sign this bill into law.”

This legislation closes critical loopholes, strengthening safeguards and ensuring those who have committed serious crimes are evaluated appropriately and not put in positions to threaten themselves, victims, and the general public.

In addition to Senate Bill 374, Governor Kelly also signed the following bipartisan bills:

House Bill 2068: Amending various provisions in the Pharmacy Act of the State of Kansas and the Pharmacy Practice Act regarding pharmacist scope of practice, pharmaceutical compounding, authority to delegate access to the state’s prescription monitoring program database, and the remote practice of pharmacy

House Bill 2518: Creating the Kansas Transparency in Consumer Legal Funding Act.

House Bill 2533: Enacting four multistate licensure compacts: the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact; the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact; the Esthetics Licensure Compact; and the Athletic Trainer Licensure Compact.

House Bill 2534: Requiring school districts to develop fentanyl abuse education programs and to maintain a stock supply of naloxone, creating the Student Safe at School Act regarding the conduct of active shooter drills and simulations, amending the definition of “crisis drill” for purposes of rules and regulations promulgated by the State Fire Marshal, and amending requirements concerning school district at-risk accountability plans.

House Bill 2560: Authorizing the sale of certain property on behalf of Kansas State University and amending statute to exempt state educational institutions from certain statutes concerning the execution of contracts, procurement of goods and services, transactions involving easements, disposition of surplus property, establishment of hospitality limitations, and participation in the Kansas Quality Program.

House Bill 2573: Amending statutes concerning the Kansas board of accountancy; relating to licensure requirements for certified public accountants.

House Bill 2590: Creating the Kansas Community Property Trust Act and amending the Kansas Uniform Trust Code.

House Bill 2591: Allowing a financial institution to establish a trusted contact program, allowing for suspected financial exploitation reporting, delaying suspicious transactions, creating the Virtual Currency Kiosk Consumer Protection Act as part of the Kansas Money Transmitter Act, prohibiting state receivership of a technology-enabled fiduciary financial institution (TEFFI) that becomes insolvent or declares bankruptcy, requiring earned wage access service registrants to be subject to the Kansas Financial Institutions Information Security Act, and other technical changes.

House Bill 2596: Creating a limited exception to the Prison-made Goods Act of Kansas to authorize the Secretary of Corrections to establish a pilot program at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility to enter into contracts for production of manufactured or modular homes.

House Bill 2601: Establishing a Child Abuse and Neglect Registry maintained by the Secretary for Children and Families and requiring administrative hearings.

House Bill 2613: Providing for the crime victims compensation board to establish fees for examinations of persons who may be victims of sexual assault, authorizing the board to adopt rules and regulations to administer such fees and to use money in the crime victims compensation fund for the payment of such fees and allowing certain exceptions to the confidentiality of records and information given to the board.

House Bill 2615: Designating a portion of US-56 as the Bill Tucker Memorial Highway, a portion of US-75 as the Big Gen George H Wark Memorial Highway, and removing the portion of US-75 from the Purple Heart/Combat Wounded Veterans Highway.

House Bill 2653: Requiring the secretary of corrections to assist inmates with obtaining identification and employment-related documentation prior to release from custody.

House Bill 2700: Establishing the Kansas digital right-to-repair act to provide the right for persons who purchase digital electronic equipment to obtain the legal authorization and necessary documentation and parts from original equipment manufacturers to diagnose, maintain and repair such equipment.

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Government, Kansas

Expanding  Health Coverage for Kansas Children Bill is Signed Amid Others

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Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill to Expand
Health Coverage for Kansas Children


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced she has signed Senate Bill 271, bipartisan legislation that permanently updates the outdated income eligibility requirements for Kansas’ Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and protects access to affordable health coverage for Kansas children.

“Every Kansas child deserves access to quality, affordable health care,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “For far too long, Kansas has relied on temporary fixes to address the outdated standards that made it harder for families to get the coverage they need. I’m pleased to sign this bipartisan, commonsense legislation that cements these updates to the Kansas CHIP income eligibility requirements and prioritizes the health, well-being, and future of Kansas kids.”

Senate Bill 271 adjusts the household income eligibility threshold for the State CHIP from 250 percent of the 2008 federal poverty level to 250 percent of the current federal poverty income guidelines, aligning Kansas with the rest of the nation. This change safeguards access to coverage for working families while ensuring income eligibility keeps pace with today’s economic realities.

“This was a true bipartisan effort to pass a clean SB 271,” said Representative Susan Ruiz, District 23. “We recognized that passing this bill has been a long time coming and was the right thing to do for the children of Kansas.”

Additionally, Senate Bill 271 directs the Secretary of Health and Environment to codify the existing practice of using a sliding-fee scale that charges premiums per family and ensures that eligible children can maintain coverage at renewal if families remain eligible and pay all delinquent premiums. The legislation also removes outdated provisions regarding waiting periods and penalties for non-payment of premiums within a continuous eligibility period to align state and federal law.

“Making CHIP premiums based on a sliding-fee scale per family is a practical, family-first approach,” said Representative Will Carpenter, District 75. “Senate Bill 271 ensures costs are more affordable and predictable, so families don’t have to choose between paying for health coverage and other basic needs. This bill is a commonsense step to keep more Kansas kids covered.”

In addition to Senate Bill 271, Governor Kelly also signed the following bipartisan bills:

Senate Bill 380: Requiring retail electric suppliers to provide nondiscriminatory rates and services to entities that provide electric vehicle charging services and prohibiting any costs and expenses associated with a retail electric supplier’s electric vehicle charging stations from being recovered in electric rates.

Senate Bill 382: Providing for the administration of statewide assessments to virtual school students by such students’ virtual schools, adding third parties who contract with school districts to the definition of special teacher, providing for special education state aid reimbursement for certain qualified teachers, authorizing nonpublic schools to permit nonaccredited private elementary or secondary school students to participate in certain activities and authorizing foreign exchange students who reside with a host family to enroll in and attend the resident school district of the host family.

Senate Bill 403: Authorizing the Pheasants Forever, Quail Forever, and Delta Waterfowl license plates, prohibiting a license plate with any frame or other object on or around the plate that affects its visibility or legibility, and clarifying the definition of “conviction” in the Kansas Uniform Commercial Driver’s License Act.

Senate Bill 408: Excluding a child engaging in age-appropriate independent activities from the definition of a child in need of care in the revised Kansas code for care of children and requiring the Secretary for Children and Families to enter into a memorandum of understanding with military organizations and create a referral process for children in need of care cases involving children of military personnel to provide families with services.

Senate Bill 412: Imposing a duty on a conservator to notify certain entities and persons of any court order commanding performance or safekeeping of a conservatee’s estate assets.

Senate Bill 435: Authorizing the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System board of trustees to elect the vice chairperson of the board, requiring newly affiliated Kansas Police and Firemen’s Retirement System employers to contribute at the actuarial required rate for past and future service, and repealing certain working after retirement statutes for state and local elected officials.

Senate Bill 480: Reviving repealed statutes related to estates of absentees and requiring nonresident fiduciaries to appoint an agent residing in this state.

Senate Bill 487: Requiring the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to implement a statewide offender registration system for agencies who register offenders under the offender registration act, providing for a petition to determine that an offender is indigent, and authorizing a notice to appear to be issued for a violation of the act involving nonpayment of a fee.

Senate Substitute for House Bill 2099: Authorizing the Secretary of Corrections on behalf of the state of Kansas to convey a 57-acre parcel of land located in Leavenworth County, Kansas, to Leavenworth County.

House Bill 2158: Permitting beekeepers who meet certain requirements to sell packaged honey and honeycombs without holding a food establishment or food processing plant license under the Kansas food, drug and cosmetic act.

Senate Substitute for House Bill 2501: Providing for immunity from civil liability to federal firearms licensees for returning a firearm to the firearm owner at the termination of a firearm hold agreement, removing the criminal prohibition against firearm suppressors and shotgun barrel length requirements, and enhancing penalties for certain felonies committed while using a firearm suppressor or short-barrel shotgun.

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Government, Kansas

KS Pharmacy Benefit Managers Regulation Bill Signed Amid Others

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Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill
Lowering Costs for Kansans


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced she has signed Senate Bill 20, which regulates Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), the middlemen responsible for negotiating drug prices between manufacturers, pharmacies, and insurers, as well as setting reimbursement rates for prescription medications.

“I’m pleased to support smart, bipartisan legislation that places long overdue guardrails on PBMs by requiring those who conduct business in our state to do so in a fair and transparent manner,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Increasing regulation of PBMs is a critical, necessary step towards lowering costs for Kansans and ensuring that their health needs and best interests are put first.”

“We’ve seen more than 100 local Kansas pharmacies close in the past decade alone. This has left thousands of Kansans in pharmacy deserts, forcing them to travel long distances to pick up their needed prescriptions. Kansans deserve better, and that’s what SB 20 will do,” said Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, District 21. “This bill will increase transparency and accountability within our pharmaceutical industry, ensuring Kansans and locally-owned pharmacies are not being priced out of their life-saving medications or the pharmaceutical market. I am proud of the bipartisan work that went into crafting this legislation and getting it across the finish line. The path for this commonsense reform wasn’t without hurdles, but my colleagues and I worked across the aisle to provide much-needed relief to hardworking Kansans.”

Senate Bill 20 enacts several changes to current PBM practices, including granting the Kansas Insurance Commissioner increased authority to regulate PBMs, ensuring all pharmacies are reimbursed using the National Average Drug Acquisition Cost (NADAC), mandating that drug rebates pass through to health plans, and bans spread pricing so PBMs can no longer charge health plans more than they reimburse pharmacies, which previously resulted in a profit for PBMs.

“Kansans deserve a prescription drug system that works for them, not one that operates behind closed doors by those who seek to profit from it,” said Senate Vice President Tim Shallenburger, District 13. “Senate Bill 20 brings transparency, fairness, and accountability to pharmacy benefit managers by banning spread pricing, ensuring fair reimbursement rates, and strengthening reporting requirements. Most importantly, this bill works to lower prescription costs, protect rural communities and independent pharmacies, and ensure Kansans across this state have access to care and medications they rely on every day.”

Through Senate Bill 20, a new regulatory framework guarantees that the needs of patients – not PBMs – are prioritized.

In addition to Senate Bill 20, Governor Kelly also signed the following bipartisan bills: 

Senate Bill 23: Authorizing the Department of Insurance to revoke the license of a nonresident agent without the requirement of a hearing and adjusting the time frame in which insurance agents and public adjusters must respond to inquiries from the Commissioner of Insurance.

Senate Bill 92: Amending parallel generation law to extend an exclusion regarding large-load facilities from July 1, 2026, to July 1, 2027.

Senate Bill 232: Establishing the Born to Invest Act, requiring the Office of Vital Statistics to provide certain information on children born in Kansas to the State Treasurer.

Senate Bill 321: Making various commemorative designations for bridges and highways.

Senate Bill 325: Creating the Vehicle Services Modernization Task Force, specify limits in paying for help in collecting motor vehicle registration and certificate of title fees, and renaming certain fees and authorizing an increase to a transaction fee.

Senate Bill 353: Designating an official Kansas Railroad Hall of Fame and establishing the Kansas Railroad Hall of Fame selection committee.

Senate Bill 356: Authorizing the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission (KRGC) to adopt proposed permanent administrative rules and regulations regarding sports wagering.

Substitute for House Bill 2250: Adding administering an emergency opioid antagonist up to 10 years past the product’s expiration date as a protected act immune from criminal prosecution, authorizing a licensed private psychiatrist hospital to maintain a stock supply of emergency medication kits for pharmaceutical emergencies, permitting pharmacists to distribute epinephrine delivery systems to schools for emergency medication kits, and authorizing the use of expedited partner therapy to treat sexually transmitted diseases.

House Bill 2357: Providing for expungement of certain court records and consideration of mediation in eviction actions in which the underlying rental agreement is governed by the residential landlord and tenant act.

House Bill 2497: Amending the Kansas Contracts and Promises statute by limiting the existing prohibition on prepayment penalties to only apply to consumer-purpose home loans.

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Church news, Fort Scott

First Southern Baptist’s SPRING CRAFT SHOW is April 10

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Sending on behalf of Chamber Member

First Southern Baptist Church

Kick off spring at First Southern Baptist’s

SPRING

CRAFT SHOW!

April 10th
8am-5pm

April 11th
8am-3pm

@ 1818 South Main St.

(across from Briggs Auto)

31 vendors confirmed

Shop a wide variety of handmade, boutique,

and one-of-a-kind finds!

Church sponsored meals:

Homemade Chicken Noodle Dinner – $10

(includes mashed potatoes, homemade chicken noodles, green beans, homemade roll, and 2 cookies)

Pulled Pork Sandwich – $10

(includes baked beans and 2 cookies)

** DINE IN, CARRY OUT, OR CALL FOR DELIVERY (2+ MEALS) AVAILABLE!

Delivery times

Friday: 10:30am-5pm

Saturday 10:30am -3pm

Questions?

417-262-3948 or 620-215-3202

Click HERE to visit the

First Southern Baptist Church

Facebook Page!

Click HERE to visit the

First Southern Baptist Church

Website!

A special Thank You to our Chamber Champion members below!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
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Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas

CHC/SEK to Offer Free Lung Cancer Screenings for Women

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FORT SCOTT, Kan.—The Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHC/SEK) is offering free low-dose CT lung cancer screenings for eligible women.

These screenings can help detect lung cancer before symptoms appear. “Catching lung cancer early gives you the best chance for successful treatment. This quick, painless scan could save your life,” said Kimberly Wass, CHC/SEK Radiology Lead.

“We know how busy life can get, so we’ve made screenings as easy and convenient as possible,” said Wass. “You’re welcome to schedule during one of our event dates or choose a day that works best for you. The screening itself takes just 15 minutes.”

The screenings will take place at 2322 S. Main in Fort Scott. To make an appointment, call 620-223-8484.

The event dates include:

  • Wednesday, April 15, 2026: 4 pm to 7 pm
  • Saturday, April 18, 2026: 9 am to 12 pm

Eligible participants include women ages 50 to 80 who:

  • Are uninsured or underinsured
  • Are current smokers with a 20-pack-year history or former smokers who quit within the past 15 years and also have a 20-pack-year history
  • Have not been diagnosed with lung cancer in the past five years
  • Do not currently have respiratory symptoms

Women with insurance are also encouraged to call; CHC/SEK staff can help them review their coverage options.

The program is funded by the Rita J. Bicknell Women’s Health Fund Women’s Giving Circle.

For more information, visit chcsek.org.

 

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About Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas
The Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHC/SEK) serves as a healthcare hub for communities in Kansas and Oklahoma. CHC/SEK delivers quality, integrated care to nearly 90,000 patients each year with a goal of improving health, sustaining rural communities, and providing purpose-driven work to 950 staff members. Beyond healthcare, CHC/SEK finds innovative ways to improve lives by focusing on education, housing, and transportation. Regardless of income or insurance status, CHC/SEK ensures everyone receives the care they need. For more information, visit chcsek.org.

Fort Scott, Gordon Parks Museum, History

Fort Scott Stories is more than a film

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Sending on behalf of Chamber Member

The Gordon Parks Museum

You’ve never seen Fort Scott like this before…Be part of something powerful. Be part of our story.

✨

The premiere of Fort Scott Stories is more than a film. It’s a moving look at the heart, history, and people that make our community what it is today ❤️

From youth to elders, business owners to community leaders… this is Fort Scott. Raw, real, and unforgettable.

Saturday, April 25, 2026

Doors Open: 6:30 PM

Film Begins: 7:00 PM

📍 Gordon Parks Museum (Ellis Fine Arts Building)

FREE Admission

(Donations are welcome)

Cash Bar Available

Click HERE to reserve your seat!

Seats will fill quickly. Don’t miss this unforgettable night celebrating the soul of Fort Scott!

Watch the Fort Scott Stories trailer by clicking the button below ⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️
CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO TRAILER

Click HERE to visit the

The Gordon Parks Museum

Facebook Page!

Click HERE to visit the

The Gordon Parks Museum

Website!

A special Thank You to our Chamber Champion members below!
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Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Destination Creation Workshop this coming Monday, April 13th

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The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

brings you

Destination Business Expert

Jon Schallert

For a Destination Creation Workshop
this coming Monday, April 13th

8:30am-2pm at River Room Event Center

Registration includes light breakfast
refreshments & lunch!

Don’t miss it!

We encourage you to sign up today!

The deadline to sign up is this Friday 4/10
so we can make necessary arrangements.

Jon’s strategies can apply to any type of business, attraction, nonprofit, our community and region!

We are fortunate to be bringing him here
thanks to partnerships of Network Kansas
and the City of Fort Scott, so we encourage your attendance to have a great showing!

IF you have heard Jon before, he says this will
be a “102” version with new content!

Visit jonschallert.com for more info.!

Join the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce for a powerful, hands-on workshop with nationally recognized destination business expert Jon Schallert. This isn’t just another seminar; it’s a strategy-driven experience designed to help you attract more customers, increase your sales, and turn your business into a true consumer destination.

April 13th
8:30am-2:15pm

(check in begins at 8am)a ,a

@ The River Room Event Center

3 W. Oak St.

In-County Attendee: $50

Out-of-County Attendee: $75

(Includes breakfast refreshments & lunch)

SCHEDULE

8:30-11:45 pm

Breakfast & Workshop

12:00-12:45 pm

Lunch

12:45-2:15 pm

Marketing Roundtable

To Register click the button below:
REGISTER HERE

This event wouldn’t be possible without our event sponsors, Network Kansas and The City of Fort Scott, and in partnership with The River Room Event Center and Sleep Inn & Suites.

If you’re serious about growing your business, this is the room you need to be in!

A special Thank You to our Chamber Champion members below!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
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