Marshall Fights to Permanently Repeal Death Tax for Kansas Farmers
(Washington, D.C., March 11, 2021) – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. joined dozens of his Senate colleagues to introduce legislation to permanently repeal the federal estate tax, more commonly known as the death tax. The Death Tax Repeal Act of 2021, would finally end this purely punitive tax that has the potential to hit family-run farms, ranches, and businesses as the result of the owner’s death.
“There is a saying in Kansas that farmers live poor but die rich. That’s because much of a farmer’s net worth is in land assets that appreciate in value,” said Senator Marshall. “After spending years paying off land with income already taxed each year, farmers are taxed again, at death, trying to pass the land on to their children. The death tax only punishes the hard work of working families trying to keep their farms or small businesses generational.”
Background:
The Death Tax Repeal Act of 2021 is supported by the American Farm Bureau Federation, the National Cattleman’s Beef Association, NFIB, the National Association of Manufacturers, the Family Business Coalition, the Family Business Estate Tax Coalition, the Policy and Taxation Group, the Associated General Contractors of America, the National Taxpayers Union, and many others.
The Regular City Council Meeting on March 9, 2021 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:00 PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman (7:04), Amber Kelly, and Charles Wehry. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Clerk Sally Johnson, Loren Korte, Matt Korte, Katie Towne, Mike Towne, Lynn Oharah, Leah Hall, Derek Hall, Seth Martin, and Bill Griffith.
Mayor Jurgensen moved the Old Business item “Whether to pass on gas daily gas prices in February to customers” to between Consent Agenda and Department Reports to accommodate those in attendance.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
Personal Service Insurance, Loren & Matt Korte – Gave a presentation of the proposed renewal of the City’s insurance coverages. There is a nominal increase in overall premium.
CITIZENS REQUEST
None
FINANCIAL REPORT
Treasurer Bolinger presented the February Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $448,749.10, Receipts $39,679.74, Transfers Out $3,026.00, Expenditures $57,121.66, Checking Account Closing Balance $428,281.18. Bank Statement Balance $438,575.77, including Checking Account Interest of $34.16, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $10,294.59, Reconciled Balance $428,281.18. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $26,943.16, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $17,415.62, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $23,238.93, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $495,878.89. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $70.27 and Utility CDs $64.80 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $135.07. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of February 2021, Beginning Balance $225.33, Receipts $0, Expenditures $225.33, Ending Balance $0. February Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,400.00, from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,622.00, for Total Transfers of $3,026.00. Net Loss for the month of February $20,467.92, Year-to-Date Net Income $27,182.71. Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $16,508.49 (16.5%), Expenditures $16,325.66 (13.2%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $5,768.94 (16.6%), Expenditures $3,993.61 (9.2%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $40,828.94 (31.6%), Expenditures $19,879.57 (6.0%); General Fund YTD Revenue $39,038.01 (34.1%), Expenditures $14,918.32 (9.1%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $1,734.33 (29.0%), Expenditures $0 (0.0%). The March 2021 estimated payables including estimate gas supply invoice in the amount of $255,046.33 were presented.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 5-0, to approve Consent Agenda including:
Minutes of February 9, 2021 Regular Council Meeting and February 18, 2021 Special Council Meeting
Whether to pass on gas daily gas prices in February to customers – The latest estimated invoice amount is $232, 624. The 5-year historical average cost for February is $3,380, leaving an extraordinary amount of $229,244. State legislature passed House Substitute for Senate Bill No. 88 City Utility Low-Interest Loan Program to allow cities to borrow from the State to help pay for the extraordinary costs from the extreme winter weather. Clerk Johnson explained that we would have to use as much of our reserves as possible to qualify for the loan. She has determined reserves available for this bill would be $130,000, leaving $99,244 that would have to be covered by the loan.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to adopt Resolution 2021-0309-1 authorizing the City of Uniontown, Kansas to apply for the City Utility Low-Interest Loan Program for the purpose of obtaining a loan from the State of Kansas to finance extraordinary electric and/or natural gas costs incurred during the extreme winter weather event of February 2021.
Motion by Kelly, Second by Ervin, Approved 5-0 pass Ordinance No. 193 authorizing the execution of a loan agreement between the City of Uniontown, Kansas and the State of Kansas, acting by and through the Kansas State Treasurer for the purpose of obtaining a loan pursuant to the City Utility Low-Interest Loan Program to finance extraordinary electric and /or natural gas costs incurred during the extreme winter weather event of February 2021; establishing a dedicated source of revenue for repayment of such loan; authorizing and approving certain documents in connection therewith; and authorizing certain other actions in connection with the loan agreement.
It was agreed by the council that only the loan with interest should be passed on to the customers. The loan term was agreed to be 60 months. Clerk Johnson had calculated February usage for all customers and estimated monthly payments based on latest estimated figures. She will send a statement to each customer with the full amount due. Payment options will be included. She will also establish an accounts receivable system to track receipts and payments. All payments will be used exclusively for loan repayment.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to send each customer a statement for full amount due. They may pay full amount up front or 60 monthly payments with interest possibly changing every January. Customers will be eligible to pay off at any time without penalty. Statements will be sent at least annually or upon request to City Clerk. City Clerk will establish an accounts receivable system to track receipts and payment. If the customer chooses to close gas account, any balance due will be added to the final bill. If the City is reimbursed from Federal, State, or litigation sources the customers will be reimbursed accordingly.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Superintendent Rich reported that the school has a big pile of dirt they will give to the city that could be used to construct a berm on the north end of town to divert water flow into town.
Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to accept dirt from school
Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan addressed a property that needs cleaned up that we are getting nowhere with. The information was submitted to our attorney but a court summons was never issued. It was suggested to send out request for qualifications for an attorney.
He also addressed a reported dog bite. The dog owner was here to explain to Council what they had and are doing to keep their dogs in their control.
Mayor Jurgensen reported that he has been receiving complaints about the camper parked on Second Street near the intersection with Fulton St blocking sightline for the intersection. He also has received complaints about the Bradford pear tree branches impeding two-way traffic on Clay Street and Second Street.
It was also reported that 405 Clay has a big limb hanging down that is blocking sightline.
Clerk Johnson let the Council know that Fort Scott’s citywide yard sales are May 8. Last month it was approved to have either the week before or week after Fort Scott, but it usually rains then.
Motion by Kelly, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to hold the Citywide Yard Sales on August 28.
A homeowner has requested his meter deposits be returned to him by check instead of applied to his account. Historically we apply deposits of homeowners back to their account in December after at least a year of on-time payments. His would be applied in December this year. Council directed Clerk Johnson to cut homeowner a check for deposit refund and present amendments to Ordinance No. 159 stating the deposit refund policy.
JBHS LLC notified us this week that the service window has been delivered to his house but not all parts were delivered. He is following up with the company.
COUNCIL REPORT
Councilman Ervin – nothing
Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing
Councilman Hartman – nothing
Councilwoman Kelly – nothing
Councilman Wehry – nothing
Mayor Jurgensen – nothing
OLD BUSINESS
Utility Hearings – Mayor Jurgensen wanted to prepare hearing officers that there may be several request hearing this month due to the increased gas usage due to the extreme cold. Hartman and Esslinger are the hearing officers for this month.
NEW BUSINESS
None
Moved by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0, to adjourn at 9:47PM
MEETING WILL BE HELD IN COMMISSION ROOM. ANYONE ATTENDING THE MEETING WILL BE REQUIRED TO WEAR A MASK PROVIDED BY THE COUNTY. MUST MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING.
TOPEKA – In conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance issued Monday for those who have been vaccinated, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is issuing similar guidance in Kansas.
Two weeks after Kansans receive their completed vaccination (two weeks after the second dose for Pfizer and Moderna, two weeks after the single dose for Johnson & Johnson), Kansans may begin to gather in their private homes with other fully vaccinated people, in small groups, without masks or social distancing.
The guidance also allows for vaccinated people to gather in private homes with unvaccinated people so long as the unvaccinated people are from a single household and are at low risk for developing severe disease.
“These changes are an important step in moving forward,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “This will allow grandparents to socialize with families, friends and neighbors to gather.”
While private home guidance has changed for those who are fully vaccinated, public health measures in public still apply to everyone, including those vaccinated.
Wear a mask
Stay at least 6 feet away from others
Avoid crowds
Avoid poorly ventilated spaces
Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
“Thank you for continuing to keep your fellow Kansans safe,” Dr. Norman said.
Governor Laura Kelly’s Council on Tax Reform Discusses Current Legislation & Federal Recovery Funds
TOPEKA – On March 5, Governor Kelly’s Council on Tax Reform discussed the fiscal implications of tax legislation being debated in the Kansas Statehouse and recommended caution regarding how federal COVID-19 recovery funds are earmarked and spent.
“As we continue to recover from the pandemic, the last thing Kansas needs is another fiscally irresponsible tax experiment,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “My administration continues to prioritize pragmatic, strategic solutions to reinvest in our state’s foundation and strengthen our economy statewide.”
A Division of Budget presentation showed that Governor Laura Kelly’s proposed Fiscal Year 2022 Budget featured a positive ending balance of $600 million. At Senate Minority Leader Sykes’ request, legislative research provided a State General Fund profile that showed what the current “Senate position” would do to the ending balance. This profile includes the significant negative impact of SB 22 as it passed the Senate on February 9th, along with no enactment of Governor Kelly’s recommendations closing sales tax loopholes or Kansas Public Employee Retirement System (KPERS) reamortization. Even without the spending that has been added above what was recommended in the Governor’s Budget Report, SB 22 and these other policies would put Kansas in the red ink by more than $100 million by next year. That type of structurally unbalanced budget is similar to what Kansas lawmakers grappled with during the 2012-2017 legislative sessions.
Council Actions and Recommendations
The Council unanimously voted to urge Governor Kelly and the legislature to consider a more prudent long-term fiscal strategy than that which appears to be emerging from the Kansas Senate. A motion was adopted noting that stability and consistency in the budgetary process (as opposed to wild and volatile boom-and-bust cycles) leaves policymakers not having eventually to consider a smorgasbord of unattractive choices that include painful budget cuts, back-filling tax hikes, and additional penny-wise and pound-foolish options that rob from the future.
The Council also adopted several recommendations made by its property tax subcommittee chaired by former Senate Minority Leader Anthony Hensley, including encouraging local units of government to use federal aid under the American Rescue Plan for one-time capital improvements, infrastructure investments, or for debt reduction; supporting the House Taxation Committee version of SB 13 regarding property tax transparency (as opposed to the House Committee of the Whole version, which added K-12 schools to the bill and removed an exemption for relatively small local units); amending SB 23 to provide tax relief for storm-damaged property through a refundable income tax credit as opposed to an expanded abatement authority of county commissions; and opposing SB 72, which makes unnecessary changes to education requirements and qualifications for becoming a county appraiser.
The Council adopted another motion regarding the usage of one-time federal funds from the American Rescue Plan coming directly to the state, specifically suggesting that such monies not be built into agency budgets or provide for permanent ongoing tax cuts, with the exception of a relatively small amount (approximately $46 million) that would be targeted for residential property tax relief by increasing from $20,000 to $40,000 the “homestead” exemption from the mandatory school district general fund levy. The current exemption of $20,000 was set in 1997.
The Governor’s proposal to utilize revenue from a carefully-controlled medical marijuana program to fund the state’s portion of badly needed Medicaid Expansion also was outlined at the meeting. At the direction of Co-Chairs Janis Lee and Steve Morris, the Council will be receiving additional information at its next meeting about the extent to which Medicaid Expansion can prevent additional rural facility closures and reduce long-term social costs – all of which has important implications for the health of the public sector in the future and the resumption of more equitable tax policy. The Council also plans to receive additional information on the American Rescue Plan and potential long-term budget impacts of one-time pandemic era funding and policies.
(Updated) – The Fort Scott City Commission will meet on Tuesday, March 9th, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Commission Meeting Room at 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas to hold a work session to discuss economic development and potholes on Wall Street. This meeting is open to the public, but no action will be taken.
The work session will also be available on the City’s YouTube channel.
Please see below the above opening for the Fort Scott Planning Commission:
One opening (City resident) on the Fort Scott Planning Commission.
The function of the Planning Commission is to review and adopt (as well as update) the Comprehensive Plan for the City of Fort Scott, to establish zoning districts and allowable uses, to review zoning regulations within the City and to review requests for special permits or conditional uses within certain zoning districts in the City. Also reviews site plans for planned areas and is responsible for zoning within the 3-mile limit of the City of Fort Scott. Their recommendations are given to the City Commission for final approval. They meet on an “as needed” basis.
If you have a desire to serve on this Board and meet the above requirements, please submit a letter of interest to the City Clerk, Diane Clay, 123 S. Main, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701. She will then submit your letter of interest for consideration by the City Commission. All of the boards and commissions serve on a volunteer basis and are not compensated. If you would like more information on any of these boards, please contact Diane Clay, City Clerk at 620-223-0550 or [email protected]. Please submit your letter of interest by March 26th, 2021.
The Street Advisory Board will meet on Thursday, March 11th, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. at the City Commission Meeting Room at 123 S. Main Street. This meeting is open to the public.
This meeting will be made available via the City’s you tube channel at City of Fort Scott.
To find further resources on how to protect you and your family, visit coronavirus.gov or the Kansas Department of Health and Environment website here.
Vaccines in Kansas
Visit kansasvaccine.gov for information regarding COVID-19 vaccinations in Kansas, including availability and FAQs.
To find providers offering COVID-19 vaccinations, use KDHE’s Find My Vaccine map tool. Enter your zip code or address to find the providers nearest you.
Assistance
If you are a Kansas resident and you or your family needs assistance with matters related to COVID-19, please click here.
If your employment situation has been impacted by COVID-19, including reduced work hours, please refer to these resources from the Kansas Department of Labor:
Please visit the Kansas Department of Health and Environment here.
U.S. Small Business Administration Resources
For information regarding the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), including second draw loans, please visit the U.S. Small Business Administration’s website by clicking here.
For information regarding Economic Injury Disaster loans, please click here.
Veteran Resources
For information on veteran and VA related topics, resources and contact information, please click here.
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Phone Calls to Kansans
Tom Gentile, Spirit AeroSystems, Wichita
Shelly Hansen, Community Development, Harper County, Anthony
President Stuart Swetland, Donnelly College, Kansas City
Edward Hecht of Osage City
Emily Lair, Office of Vice President Pence, Chanute
Ryan & Christie Kriegshauser, Kriegshauser Ney Law Group, Olathe
Kevin White, Memorial Hospital, Medicine Lodge
President Ben Shears, Northwest Kansas Technical College, Goodland
Tom & Maggie Dechant, Dechant & Taylor Chartered, LaCrosse
Bishop Carl Kemme, Catholic Diocese of Wichita, Wichita
Gary Oborny, Occidental Managment, Inc,, Wichita
Wink & Libba Hartman, Hartman Oil, Wichita
Josh Dreher, Bank of Hays, Hays
Dr. Neal & Julie Lintecum, Memorial Hospital, Lawrence
Ken & Mary McCauley, K & M Farms, White Cloud
Mark Nichols, Koch Public Sector, Wichita
Mike Morgan, Koch Industries, Wichita
Darin Meyers, Administrator, Ellis County
Lt. General James Rainey, Ft. Leavenworth
Scott Redler, Freddy’s Frozen Custard, Wichita
H.J Swender, Jr., American Warrior, Garden City,
Earl & Karen Watkins of Lenexa
Jaden Richardson, Bank of Hays, Hays
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Identifying the Remains of Father Emil Kapaun
On Thursday, I announced that the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) had identified the remains of Kansan Father Emil Kapaun. Father Kapaun served as an Army Chaplain during WWII and the Korean War, and was taken captive as a prisoner of war in 1950. He continued to minister to Americans as a POW before passing away on May 23, 1951. Father Kapaun went above and beyond the call of duty to serve others, and his bravery and sacrifice should never be forgotten.
In 2011, one of the first pieces of legislation I introduced as a Senator was to bestow Father Kapaun with the Presidential Medal of Honor, which was awarded in 2013. In 1993, Pope John Paul II declared Father Kapaun a Servant of God, the first step toward sainthood. While this announcement came decades after his death, I hope it brings peace to his family and loved ones who will finally have the opportunity to choose his final resting place.
$1.9 Trillion “COVID-19 Relief” Package
On Saturday, following more than 24 hours of debate and votes on amendments, the Senate passed without my support the FY2021 Budget Reconciliation package, known as the American Rescue Plan Act. Forced through by Senate Democrats in a party-line vote, the legislation includes $1.9 trillion in new spending, less than 10 percent of which is directly related to COVID-19 relief.
Each of the five previous COVID-19 relief packages passed Congress with overwhelming bipartisan support. That is why I joined a group of 10 Republican senators in offering President Biden a targeted alternative, with funding focused on meaningful COVID-19 relief and centered on the manufacturing and distribution of vaccines – the most important thing we can do to get healthy and get our economy moving again.
Unfortunately, Senator Schumer and Speaker Pelosi chose to ignore our work, which was supported by a majority of Americans, and rammed through a costly bill that has little to do with COVID-19. Congress has already provided $4 trillion of COVID-19 relief through five bipartisan packages, and nearly $1 trillion have yet to be spent. This $1.9 trillion bill is filled with Democrat wish list items such as unnecessary infrastructure projects, state bailouts, climate change provisions and billions of dollars that won’t be spent for several years.
Despite the many failures of the Democrats’ relief bill, there were still some positive measures that were included in the final package. First, my amendment to protect student veterans by closing a gap in federal law allowing for-profit educational institutions to count VA and Department of Defense (DOD) funds as non-federal – incentivizing these institutions to utilize deceptive marketing toward enrolling servicemembers and veterans – was one of the few amendments to pass, and did so in a unanimous, bipartisan vote.
Second, my legislation with Congressman Estes, the Aviation Manufacturing Jobs Protection Act, was also included in the final bill. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in significant financial losses leading to widespread layoffs and furloughs in the aviation manufacturing industry. This legislation will create a program to temporarily support aviation manufacturing in order to prevent workforce reductions, ensuring this invaluable sector remains intact when demand returns. To read more about my legislation with Congressman Estes, click here.
Third, my legislation, the Small Packer Overtime and Holiday Fee Relief COVID-19 Act was also included in the final package. This legislation will support small meatpacking plants that are operating longer hours during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Finally, my legislation based on the Veterans Economic Recovery Act will provide retraining opportunities for veterans who are out of work due to COVID-19 to find a job in a different occupation.
Calling for Students to Return to Classrooms
One of the most important things we can do – in fact the highest priority of many Kansans – is to get students safely back in the classroom. We know it can be done, and it can be done safely.
This week, I joined my colleagues to advocate for students across the country to safely return to the classrooms. Many students have already missed an entire year of school, and we cannot afford to have them miss any more time. Not only does this absence have an impact on the economy and whether or not parents can go to work, but it will also have a severe consequence into our kids’ futures. I’m pleased that students are back in the classroom for most of Kansas or have plans to return soon, and I urge communities across the country to safely reopen their schools.
I want to thank teachers who are doing everything they can to teach our kids virtually and also who are willing, able and interested in being back in the classroom. All teachers have been working overtime this year, and I want to thank them for their dedication to their students and for getting classrooms ready and safe for students to come back. Listen to my remarks by clicking here or below.
The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is currently offering first and second draw loans in order to best serve America’s smallest businesses and help them get the relief they need. Currently, the PPP loan application is open exclusively to small businesses with under 20 employees through tomorrow, March 9. All eligible small businesses can apply through March 31. Click here to learn more or find a local lender.
Hearing from Veteran Organizations
Conducting a Joint Hearing with VSOs
This week the Senate and House Veterans’ Affairs Committees conducted our first two annual joint veteran service organizations (VSO) hearings. Though we were not able to meet in person, the virtual legislative proposals provided value that my colleagues and I benefit from each year, hearing directly from veterans and veteran advocates.
During the hearings, we had productive conversations with 14 different VSOs representing the many diverse corners of America’s veteran community, including The American Legion, Student Veterans of America, National Coalition of Homeless Veterans, Wounded Warrior Project, Vietnam Veterans of America and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. I look forward to continuing to partner with veterans and their VSO advocates to direct actions we can take to craft solutions to problems like the harmful effects of toxic exposures, making certain veterans’ community care is robust and reliable, the continued challenge of providing high-quality mental health care and suicide prevention services, ensuring VA’s educational benefits are best-suited to set up veterans for success after service and that our women and minority veterans have a VA that works for them. Oversight of VA’s implementation of recent legislation tackling these challenges will be crucial, and hearing from veterans on the ground is pivotal in that effort.
I look forward to hearing more from VSOs so that my work in Congress and as the lead Republican on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC) best serves the needs of America’s heroes and their advocates.
Increasing Kansas Veterans Access to Telehealth Services
During these testimonies, American Legion Commander Bill Oxford announced that a VA telehealth pod will be placed in Emporia to provide health care services to rural and medically underserved veterans. In 2019, I hand delivered a request to than-VA Secretary Wilkie urging Kansas to be considered for this program, and I am pleased this service will soon benefit our state’s veterans. Expected to open by this summer as part of VA’s Accessing Telehealth through Local Area Stations (ATLAS) initiative, the ATLAS pod is equipped with technology to allow veterans to connect with their health care providers.
As the first location in Kansas, this ATLAS pod will increase our veterans’ access to health care services, especially for those living far from VA facilities. This technology will also provide an important access point for VA mental health and suicide prevention programs for Kansas veterans. Thank you to The American Legion and Commander Oxford for providing a familiar venue for this technology, Philips for facilitating the technology needed for this community-based telehealth solution and other VA ATLAS partners for working to make certain our nation’s veterans can receive quality care no matter where they live.
On Friday, I joined Emporia’s KVOE radio to discuss this announcement. Listen here.
Meeting with VSO Leaders from the Wounded Warrior Project
Prior to the joint hearings, I met with officials of the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) to discuss WWP’s specific priorities ahead of its testimony. Specifically, I visited with retired Lt. Gen. and WWP CEO Michael Linnington, along with members of WWP’s leadership team. We discussed areas of common focus, such as the need to create a framework for establishing presumptions of service-connection for veterans exposed to toxic substances during military service, improving healthcare services at VA for women veterans, and ensuring Congress properly oversees VA’s implementation of the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act, a law intended to reduce bolster veteran suicide prevention services. WWP has been a staunch advocate for severely injured or ill servicemembers and veterans, so General Linnington’s perspective was one of acute value to me heading into this week’s important hearings.
Discussing Issues Facing Student Veterans
I also met virtually with Student Veterans of America, including three student veterans hailing from the SVA chapters at the University of Kansas and Kansas State University. We spoke about a variety of issues impacting student veterans today, including how to improve VA’s work study program, resources on VA’s website for student veterans and how to expand the Vet Success on Campus program. Student Veterans of America advocates each and every day for this new generation of veterans and they continue to work with Congress to improve and expand educational benefits and opportunities for our nation’s student veterans. Kansas student veterans are diligent advocates for each other and I appreciated hearing from them.
Opposing Potential Phosphate Fertilizer Tariffs
This week, I led a group of my Senate colleagues in urging Chairman of the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) Jason Kearns to not impose tariffs on certain imported phosphate fertilizers. Kansas farmers depend on affordable phosphate fertilizers to produce a variety of crops, including corn, soybeans, cotton, wheat and sorghum. Phosphorous is the second most widely used plant nutrient and accounts for approximately 20 percent of total fertilizer usage for producers. The imposition of duties on phosphate fertilizers would not only result in higher input costs for Kansas farmers but also limit their options for applying this necessary crop input. As Kansas producers recover from multiple years of low commodity prices, we must ensure policies do not raise farmers’ input costs and cause financial harm. As the lead Republican on the Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee, which oversees funding for the ITC, I will continue to work to avoid tariffs that will harm Kansas farmers and ranchers.
Facilitating Collaboration between Aviation Industry Leaders and Federal Agencies
American aviation is entering a new era of innovation and growth, and industry leaders should have a seat at the table as the federal government creates programs to advance the development of this technology and sets safety and operation standards.
This week, I introduced the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Coordination and Leadership Act to facilitate collaboration between federal agencies and civil aviation industry leaders when developing policies regarding AAM. This legislation would instruct the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation to lead a working group comprised of members from nine government agencies to engage and work with the civil aviation industry. The working group would review policies and programs to help advance the maturation of AAM aircraft operations and create recommendations regarding safety, security and federal investments necessary for the development of AAM. Wichita leads the world in aviation, and this legislation will make certain Kansas aviation leaders have a role in developing policies designed to support a new chapter in aviation.
Announcing EDA Grants to Bolster Kansas Communities
This week, I was pleased to announce two CARES Act Recovery Assistance Grants to Kansas from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA). The two grants, totaling $2 million, will benefit the northwest and northeast regions of the state. A key component of recovering from this pandemic is building back a strong economy, and these investments and new resources for Kansas will help us accomplish that goal.
Northwest Technical College in Goodland will receive $1.2 million to expand their Diesel Tech training facility, increasing their capacity to train workers to compete for high-skill, high-wage jobs and positioning the region for recovery from the coronavirus pandemic. The project, to be matched with $295,986 in local funds, is expected to create nearly 300 jobs. The Kansas Center for Entrepreneurship in Wichita will receive $800,000 to capitalize and administer a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) to provide critical gap financing to small businesses and entrepreneurs adversely affected by the coronavirus pandemic in Clay, Douglas, Franklin, Jackson, Jefferson, Leavenworth, Lyon, Marshall, Miami, Morris, Nemaha, Osage, Pottawatomie, Shawnee and Wabaunsee counties.
These grants will not only help create new jobs in our state, but also provide resources to small businesses and entrepreneurs to keep their lights on and employees on the payroll. I will continue to work with our federal agencies to make certain that Kansas is a priority when these resources are distributed, especially as our state recovers from this pandemic
Expanding Access to Savings Accounts for People with Disabilities
This week, I introduced the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Age Adjustment Act with Senator Bob Casey to expand access to saving accounts created to help people with disabilities save for future expenses. This legislation would increase program eligibility and allow people who have acquired a disability before age 46 to open ABLE accounts. The accounts are managed by states and currently allow individuals who acquired a disability before age 26 to open a savings account without the risk of losing disability benefits. The savings plan created through the ABLE Act has provided Americans with disabilities better options in preparing for their future by removing burdensome barriers within federal entitlement programs. While the program has seen immense success, ABLE savings accounts are only available to individuals who acquire their disability prior to their 26th birthday, leaving out millions – including veterans – who would otherwise qualify. This legislation would expand the age of eligibility and help sustain this program on a long-term basis, providing substantial financial security for Americans with disabilities.
Hearing from the National Sunflower Association
This week, I met virtually with members of the National Sunflower Association (NSA) to discuss issues impacting sunflower producers. As a member of the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, I work to secure U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) research funding each fiscal year that benefits Kansas growers. During our conversation, we also discussed the role of sunflowers as a pollinator, and the ability of sunflowers to fit into policies that promote environmental sustainability and climate solutions. The producers also expressed the importance of science-based approaches to evaluating environmental and climate impacts of herbicides and farming practices. Finally, we discussed the important role the Goodland, Kansas crushing plant has played for Kansas producers and the future of the facility. I will continue to work to support sunflower producers, including making sure markets exist in Kansas for their crops.
Discussing Student Loan Challenges with the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges
This week, I met virtually with K-State’s College of Veterinary Medicine as part of the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges. We discussed the important role the K-State veterinary school has played in processing COVID-19 tests, and the financial assistance it received from the COVID-19 relief packages passed by Congress last year. I also heard about challenges veterinary students face, including graduating with significant student debt. As a member of the Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee, I work to secure funding for the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program to help students who serve in locations with a shortage of veterinarians pay down their student loans. I look forward to continuing to work to assist the K-State College of Veterinary Medicine and veterinarians across our state.
Meeting with Heartland Credit Union Association
This week, I met with Heartland Credit Union Association members from Wichita, Hutchinson, Topeka, Olathe, Leawood and Overland Park. We discussed credit unions’ pandemic response to support families and their communities – including substantial philanthropic efforts to address pandemic needs, PPP lending for small businesses, and payment deferrals for struggling borrowers. Financial institutions were given a leading role in distributing a significant amount of the financial support in the COVID-19 relief legislation over the past year. The efforts by credit unions and their employees on behalf of their customers and communities were critical to keeping many Kansans impacted by the pandemic afloat. Lenders are pillars of their communities and I will continue advocating for policies that increase access to credit for Kansas families and businesses.
Honored to Serve You in Washington It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a form of letter, a Facebook comment or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard.
Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email by clicking here. You can also click here to contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C. office.
Very truly yours,
Jerry
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Hays
1200 Main St.,
Suite 402
P.O. Box 249
Hays, KS 67601
Phone: (785) 628-6401
The Senate worked over 40 bills in three days. Topics such as emergency powers, energy costs, tax, and others. There were too many bills to cover in this update. You can find all of the bills at www.KSLegislature.org.
Emergency Powers
Kansas has laws that allow the legislature to provide the Governor legislative authority in an emergency. The emergency power laws, passed decades ago, had been invoked during natural disasters but never a state-wide pandemic. Last year I spoke out against turning over all legislative authority to the Governor. I was accurate. The Governor overstepped and it has resulted in a financial crisis for many families. As a result of the crises and government overreach, the Senate voted to replace existing statute with SB 273. The bill would establish an emergency legislative oversight committee so there are checks and balances on any Executive Order (EO) issued during an emergency declaration. The bill passed 27 to 12. I voted Yes. The House passed their version so a conference committee made up of six legislators, three from each chamber, are working out differences. We’ll see what the final product looks like.
Energy Costs Skyrocket
Because of the record freeze a couple of weeks ago, most people will have higher energy costs. Can you imagine expecting a $200 bill and getting a $2,000 bill or maybe a $6,000 bill? Humboldt city manager reported their entire gas bill for the year 2020 was $270,139.14 and the estimated bill for just February is $1.5 million! Many communities throughout the state were impacted. House Sub for SB 88 was signed into law providing loans to help municipalities and others with extremely high electric and gas costs. The bill was needed but it is a prime example of how we get poor results. The bill gave all authority to the State Treasurer in deciding who gets the money so it is first-come first-serve for $100,000 million. Some of the larger communities could use all of that money with a few loans, leaving out-to-dry small communities like Ottawa, Fort Scott, Garnett, La-Cygne, Lane, Moran, Prescott, and at least 32 other towns in our senate district. There were reasons to vote No, but any money available in this emergency is needed to be in place so I voted Yes. The bill passed the senate 39 to 1. Myself and others asked the Senate President to form a special committee to investigate what happened and why one person is given the power to determine the fate of so many Kansas energy users. The President said he was thinking along those same lines so this isn’t the last you will hear on this topic.
Tax
Last week, SB 46 exempting your retirement accounts from state income tax passed out of the Senate Tax Committee. However, it doesn’t look like it will make it to the Senate floor on the grounds that the bill could be amended making it too expensive. Opponents argue the state cannot afford it. What they neglect to tell you is the State has collected $190 million over estimates since July 2020 – in 7 months. As I have said, Kansas can afford removing state income tax on retirement accounts – we just have to make it a priority.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Monday, March 15, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) plans to begin a field survey at the Little Osage River Bridge on K-3 in Bourbon County. The bridge is approximately two miles south of the Bourbon-Linn county line.
The length of the survey is 3,000 feet on the existing highway alignment. Survey findings will be used to design a bridge replacement project. KDOT expects the survey to be finished by April 16.
Activities include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the corridor. A member of the survey crew will contact property owners or tenants for permission to enter private property. Joe Bowen will oversee this KDOT survey. Persons with questions may contact KDOT Public Affairs Manager Priscilla Petersen, (620) 902-6433.
