TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has amended its travel quarantine list to include the countries Brazil, Namibia, Oman and Saint Kitts and Nevis. The countries of Bahrain, Chile, Paraguay and Saint Martin have been removed. These changes are effective today, July 1.
A comprehensive list of those individuals needing to quarantine includes visitors and Kansans who have:
Traveled on or after July 1 to Brazil, Namibia, Oman or Saint Kitts and Nevis.
Traveled on or after June 17 to Kuwait or Mongolia.
Traveled on or after June 3 to Colombia or Suriname.
Traveled on or after May 20 to Costa Rica or French Guiana.
Traveled on or after May 6 to Maldives or Seychelles.
Traveled on or after April 22 to Argentina.
Traveled on or after April 8 to Uruguay.
Traveled between June 17 and July 1 to Saint Martin.
Traveled between June 3 and July 1 to Chile or Paraguay.
Traveled between April 22 and July 1 to Bahrain.
Attendance at any out-of-state mass gatherings of 500 or more where individuals do not socially distance (6 feet) and wear a mask.
Been on a cruise ship or river cruise on or after March 15, 2020.
The travel quarantine period is seven days with a negative test result or 10 days without testing, with release from quarantine on Day 8 and Day 11, respectively. Further information on quarantine periods can be found on KDHE’s website.
For those traveling internationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is requiring testing within three days of flights into the U.S. For further information on this and other requirements, visit their website.
For those who are fully vaccinated (meaning it has been greater than two weeks since they completed their vaccinations) they are not required to quarantine regarding travel if they meet all of the following criteria:
Are fully vaccinated (i.e., ≥2 weeks following receipt of the second dose in a 2- dose series, or ≥2 weeks following receipt of one dose of a single-dose vaccine).
Have remained asymptomatic since the travel.
Persons who do not meet the above criteria should continue to follow current quarantine guidance for travel.
Additionally, people with previous COVID-19 disease are not required to quarantine following travel if they meet all of the following criteria:
Have evidence of a previous infection supported by a positive PCR or antigen test
Are within 6 months following infection. If an investigation was done documenting the date that symptoms resolved, or the date isolation measures were discontinued for asymptomatic patients, then the 6-month period can start from that end date. If those dates are not available, then the period will start from the date of the positive laboratory test. A serology or antibody test may not be substituted for a laboratory report of a viral diagnostic test.
Have remained asymptomatic since the travel
Persons who do not meet all three of the above criteria should continue to follow current quarantine guidance for travel.
The travel quarantine list is determined using a formula to evaluate new cases over a two-week period, then adjusted for population size to provide a case rate per 100,000 population. This provides a number that can then be compared to the rate in Kansas. Locations with significantly higher rates — approximately 3x higher — are added to the list.
Governor Laura Kelly Announces Poet Laureate Program Returns to Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced the return of the Poet Laureate program to the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC).
“Promoting the humanities preserves the legacy of the generations that came before us, inspires the artists of the future, and drives community and economic development,” Governor Kelly said. “KCAIC does great work in measuring, promoting, supporting, and expanding the arts to grow the state’s economy and generate creative industry-related jobs – and I know the Commission will be a good steward of the Poet Laureate program to continue that mission.”
The Poet Laureate program is designed to encourage the appreciation of poetry in Kansas by making high quality poetry freely available to a wider audience. It recognizes a citizen poet of exceptional talent and accomplishment and designates them as the top poet representing the state.
The program is returning to KCAIC after having previously been housed within Humanities Kansas. KCAIC is part of the Community Development Division in the Kansas Department of Commerce.
“As the state’s leading agency in support of all creative disciplines, I’m very excited the Poet Laureate program is making its way back to KCAIC and Commerce,” Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland said. “The arts are a vital part of economic development – they’re how we remind each other why we do the work we do to build our communities and our world. Sharing beauty and perspective with the people of Kansas is a fantastic way to ensure they’re happy to continue living and working in our state, and I’m very pleased that we are resurrecting this program at the Department of Commerce.”
“Kansas has a long and proud history of supporting poetry and producing great poets. Incorporating the Poet Laureate into our programming will allow us to highlight that legacy and build upon its success,” KCAIC Director Peter Jasso said.
To learn more about the Poet Laureate Program, visit the Poet Laureate page at the Department of Commerce website.
The current Poet Laureate of Kansas is Huascar Medina. Medina is a poet, writer, and performer based in Topeka. He currently works as a freelance copywriter and as the Literary Editor for seveneightfive magazine publishing stories that spotlight literary and artistic events in northeast Kansas.
The Poet Laureate program is free of charge to all Kansas non-profit organizations. If you are interested in hosting Huascar Medina as a speaker or presenter, please contact kcaic@ks.gov for more information.
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.
About the Community Development Division
Established in 2019, the Community Development Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce exists to improve quality-of-life in communities across the state through various programs and services. The Kansas Department of Commerce understands the immense role played by strong communities in economic development and prioritizes investments in people and communities as major contributors to the overall strength of the Kansas economy. To learn more, visit the Community Development page at the Kansas Commerce website
Governor Laura Kelly Announces Applications Open for Kansas Angel Investor Tax Credit Program
~Bipartisan effort will help Kansas recruit innovative new companies, grow economy~
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced applications are being accepted for Kansas startups seeking investment through the Kansas Angel Investor Tax Credit (KAITC) program for 2021. Through bipartisan Senate Bill 66, the Angels program was extended for five years.
“Paired with our pro-business environment and talented workforce, the Angels program will help Kansas recruit dynamic startups to strengthen our growing economy,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “This program will allow Kansas to compete with every state in the nation to attract new businesses, industries, and families. I want to thank the Kansas Department of Commerce and the Legislature for supporting this bipartisan initiative.”
The program offers Kansas income tax credits to qualified individuals investing in new Kansas businesses. Eligible entrepreneurs include those engaged in the development, implementation and commercialization of new and innovative technologies, products, and services.
The KAITC program is administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce, and is designed to encourage investment in new, innovative Kansas startups. Senate Bill 66 extended KAITC for the next five years. Important updates have been made to the program, including changes to credit investment amounts, increased budget appropriations and more.
“As we know from the Framework for Growth, innovation is a vital component in building the economy of the future, and it’s an aspect we can’t ignore,” Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland said. “I’m grateful to Governor Kelly and to our partners in the Legislature for seeing the limitless potential in the Angels program. If you’re looking to create the next big thing, we want you to do it here – and we have this tool to help you make it happen.”
“By ensuring tools such as the Angel Investor Tax Credit are available, we are sending a clear message to the start-up community that Kansas supports innovation and collaboration,” Kansas Representative Stephen Owens said. “Our goal is your goal, to grow strong Kansas companies. I look forward to continuing to work with the Commerce Department and the Kansas Legislature on additional new tools to further bolster growth in entrepreneurship in the next session.”
“I’m excited to see that we’re going to keep investing in this program,” Kansas Senator Robert Olson said. “Angels has created so many jobs and brought so much new investment to Kansas. Continuing with Angels is right for our state.”
Companies must qualify in order to participate in KAITC and receive tax credits. Eligibility requirements can be found at kansascommerce.gov/angels.
Startups seeking investment can apply now at kansascommerce.gov/angels, with applications accepted until August 31.
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 in 2021 was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award and was named Site Selection Magazine’sBest Business Climate in the West North Central region of the United States.
About the Community Development Division
Established in 2019, the Community Development Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce exists to improve quality-of-life in communities across the state through various programs and services. The Kansas Department of Commerce understands the immense role played by strong communities in economic development and prioritizes investments in people and communities as major contributors to the overall strength of the Kansas economy. To learn more, visit the Community Development page at the Kansas Commerce website.
Red, Bite, and Blue: KDHE Recommends Mosquito Bite Prevention Over July 4th Holiday
Topeka – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment recommends Kansans take preventive measures against mosquito bites over the July 4th holiday. Five of six regions in Kansas are now at the ‘High’ risk level for West Nile virus. Mosquito surveillance in Reno, Sedgwick, and Shawnee counties has shown an increase Culex mosquitoes which can spread West Nile virus and other viruses that can affect humans and horses. This species of mosquitoes is most active at dawn and dusk.
West Nile virus can be spread to people through bites from infected mosquitoes, but it is not contagious from person to person. Symptoms range from a slight headache and low-grade fever to swelling of the brain or brain tissue and, in rare cases, death. Since 2002 there have been 692 cases and 35 deaths in Kansans from West Nile virus. People who have had West Nile virus before are considered immune. Cases are most common from mid-July through late September.
KDHE has developed West Nile virus risk levels to help guide prevention efforts for both communities and individuals. These risk level reports are updated weekly at http://www.kdheks.gov/epi/arboviral_disease.htm from mid-May to October.
KDHE recommends the following precautions to protect against West Nile virus:
When you are outdoors, use insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient on skin and clothing, including DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535. Follow the directions on the package.
Many mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn. Be sure to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants at these times or consider staying indoors during these hours.
The elderly or immunocompromised should consider limiting their exposure outside during dusk and dawn when the Culex species mosquitos are most active.
Make sure you have good screens on your windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out.
Get rid of mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from flower pots, buckets and barrels. Change the water in pet dishes and replace the water in bird baths weekly. Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out. Keep children’s wading pools empty and on their sides when they aren’t being used.
People should protect their horses too as West Nile virus in horses can be fatal. The virus can cause inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Approximately 33% of horses infected with West Nile virus will die. A West Nile virus vaccine for horses is available and owners are encouraged to vaccinate or booster their animals. In addition, these mosquitoes can transmit heartworms to dogs. Contact your veterinarian to discuss a West Nile virus vaccine for your horses and heartworm prevention for your dogs.
KDHE maintains an Arboviral Disease Surveillance web page that is updated weekly: http://www.kdheks.gov/epi/arboviral_disease.htm. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides this web page with additional information about West Nile virus and preventing mosquito bites: https://www.cdc.gov/westnile/prevention/index.html. For questions about West Nile virus or other arboviral diseases contact the KDHE Epidemiology Hotline at 877-427-7317.
Governor Laura Kelly Announces Childcare Resources for Kansans and Providers
~More Kansas families will be eligible for financial assistance; new round of sustainability grants support childcare providers~
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that, in an effort to improve access to quality, affordable childcare, more Kansas families will now be eligible to take advantage of the Hero Relief Child Care Assistance Program.
First implemented at the beginning of the pandemic to assist essential workers with the costs of childcare, this new round of assistance allows all Kansas workers to take advantage of expanded financial eligibility guidelines.
“Kansas has experienced a record amount of economic activity this year. In order to support our growing economy, Kansans in the workforce need reliable access to quality childcare,” Governor Kelly said. “Expanding the Hero Relief Program helps businesses and parents, and ensures children, our most precious resource, have opportunities to develop in nurturing environments.”
Under the new guidelines, any Kansas worker who makes 250% or less of the federal poverty level is now eligible for childcare assistance. The expansion also includes waiving the family share deduction for essential workers and reducing the deduction for all others. Families also will see an expanded eligibility period from six to 12 months.
The income eligibility chart provides monthly income guidelines for the program:
This program is available to families who need child care for employment as long as the adults in the household are employed an average of 20 hours a week. Some education or training activities also may be supported under the traditional Child Care Assistance Program.
“I am pleased that more families can now take advantage of the Hero Relief Program,” Department for Children and Families Secretary Laura Howard said. “Parents have faced additional challenges because of the pandemic, and it was important to me that we provide meaningful assistance to families.”
For more information and for instructions on how to apply, visit www.KSHeroRelief.com.
Governor Kelly also announced today that DCF, in partnership with Child Care Aware of Kansas, is launching the Child Care Sustainability Grant program to aid child care providers in meeting the costs of operating their business. Nearly $50 million will be distributed through the program, with grant awards ranging from $5,000 for family child care programs to $60,000 for large centers.
This support comes at a critical time for Kansas providers. Many have struggled to stay afloat amid increased costs to provide child care in line with CDC COVID-19 mitigation guidelines and, in many cases, experienced a decrease in revenue due to illness. This funding is intended to give them the assistance needed to continue providing the best quality care for the children in their programs.
“At Child Care Aware of Kansas, we take pride in our ability to support child care providers and are very excited to see this funding become available,” Kelly Davydov, Executive Director, said. “Child care is essential for a thriving Kansas economy. When child care providers operate a safe, happy, nurturing environment, families can feel at peace knowing that their child is in good hands.”
“This grant program is the perfect example of how we can use federal relief dollars to support small businesses,” Governor Kelly said. “I want to thank Child Care Aware of Kansas for partnering in continued efforts to boost access to child care and strengthen our economy.”
The Child Care Sustainability grant application will be available via the Child Care Aware of Kansas website starting July 1, and must be received by July 30, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. All child care facilities that are licensed by and in good standing with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment are eligible to apply. Funds may be used for any normal operational expenses, additional expenses the child care program has due to meeting CDC guidance for mitigating the spread of COVID-19, and other activities necessary to maintain or resume the operation of programs.
Funding for these programs comes from federal relief dollars included in the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act and the American Rescue Plan.
Repairs to the collapsing sanitary sewer manhole and pipe located in the outfield of the 3rd Street Ball Park began this week. Radell Construction was contracted by the City of Fort Scott to complete this work. The on-field repairs should be finalized within two weeks. Please note, the ball field will be closed to the public until repairs are complete. No sewer service interruption to customers is expected.
Please contact City Hall with any questions, 620-223-0550.
SPTP resident John Freeman Colt walked away at approximately 7 a.m. Wednesday morning
Larned – Sexual Predator Treatment Program (SPTP) resident John Freeman Colt, a 42-year-old white male, walked away this morning from Larned State Hospital (LSH) and is currently considered absent without permission. Colt was seen on video walking out of the Dillon Building at approximately 7 a.m. He had shaved his beard and changed his hair and used a fraudulent identity badge to get through the security checkpoint.
A member of the community picked up a person matching Colt’s description. He was taken to the City of Larned and dropped off at the Kwik Shop. He was seen leaving the Kwik Shop walking north.
“My leadership team at Larned is working closely with local law enforcement to ensure this resident is apprehended quickly and without incident,” Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services Secretary Laura Howard said. “I am in constant contact with the superintendent at Larned and am actively monitoring the situation.”
Colt is 5 feet 6 inches tall, weighs 201 pounds, and was last seen wearing a face mask, dress pants, and a dress shirt. He has a tattoo on his upper left arm with the initials BH. The Pawnee County Sheriff was made aware of the situation and activated the local farmer’s alert. The Kansas Highway Patrol and Kansas Bureau of Investigation have also been notified.
LSH and KDADS officials are fully cooperating with law enforcement’s ongoing investigation. New information will be released as it becomes available.
Governor Laura Kelly Launches Public Service Announcements Addressing New COVID-19 Variant
~ Governor Kelly and Congresswoman Sharice Davids ask Kansans to get tested and vaccinated to stop the spread of COVID-19 ahead of Fourth of July Holiday~
TOPEKA – With the increased presence of the new Delta variant in the region, Governor Laura Kelly has launched public service announcements (PSAs) asking Kansans to stay vigilant as they travel and celebrate the July 4th holiday. Governor Kelly is reminding Kansans how they can get tested or schedule a vaccine appointment and is asking people to stay safe by continuing to physically distance and wear masks while around unvaccinated people.
“As we all begin to travel and gather with friends and family, it’s critically important to keep our communities and loved ones safe,” Governor Kelly said. “We all have a role to play in preventing the spread of COVID-19, especially as new strains emerge. We can all do our part to keep our communities safe by continuing to physically distance and wear masks until we are all vaccinated.”
The PSAs are part of a renewed effort to mobilize Kansans to get vaccinated and for unvaccinated Kansans to get tested to stop the spread of COVID-19 and protect themselves and loved ones. According to the CDC, the Delta variant is 60% more transmissible than the B. 117 variant which was previously the dominant strain. The new variant appears to be spreading most quickly in communities that have the lowest vaccination rates.
The Governor will appear with Congresswoman Sharice Davids in the PSAs in the Kansas City area.
“In the Third District and across Kansas, we’ve made progress towards getting more folks vaccinated—but the road to recovery is long, and we have to keep up the momentum,” Representative Davids said. “These vaccines work, and in the coming months, it will be critical to use every resource to get vaccines into arms so that we can put our kids back in school safely, get people back to work, and ensure the continued success of our economic recovery.”
The PSA campaign will continue through the Fourth of July weekend and reinforce ongoing efforts to get Kansans vaccinated against COVID-19.
For more information on where you can be tested for COVID-19 ahead of the holiday weekend, visit: KnowBeforeYouGoKS.com
To learn more about the vaccines and schedule a vaccination appointment, visit: kansasvaccine.gov/
Governor Laura Kelly Directs DCF to Continue Emergency Food Assistance for Kansans
~Emergency allotments began last spring due to COVID-19 pandemic~
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today directed the Kansas Department for Children and Families to continue emergency food assistance (SNAP) benefits to current program households. The emergency allotment increases a household’s monthly benefit to the maximum allowed for the size of family.
“While Kansas continues its steady return to normal, the pandemic caused challenges for families – and many still need support,” Governor Kelly said. “Extending emergency SNAP benefits is part of our commitment to protecting Kansas children and families during the pandemic and beyond, and ensuring our kids have reliable access to quality, healthy foods.”
Under Governor Kelly’s direction, DCF Secretary Laura Howard issued a Declaration of Continuing Benefits due to COVID-19 — under K.S.A. 39-708c, et seq. — which directs the agency to continue taking all necessary actions to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic throughout the State of Kansas.
DCF estimates the extension will bring an additional $14.5 million in benefits per month to Kansas.
“I appreciate our federal partners for continuing this valuable support for vulnerable Kansans,” SecretaryHoward said. “These emergency benefits will help ensure Kansas families have access to healthy groceries as we continue to recover from this pandemic.”
The continuance of the emergency allotment is effective through December 31, 2021, or upon the termination of the federal declaration of a Public Health Emergency, whichever occurs sooner.
No application is necessary to receive the emergency food assistance funds. The distribution will continue to follow the standard alphabetical schedule.
Those that don’t currently receive food assistance but are interested in applying can visit the DCF website at www.dcf.ks.gov.
Keep your holiday celebrations safe from fire and firework-related injuries
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Office of the State Fire Marshal and Safe Kids Kansas would, again, like to remind Kansans of the importance of safety this Independence Day. Make sure your gatherings are safe for everyone by following public health guidance regarding COVID-19 and following safety recommendations for fireworks and outdoor grills.
In 2020, there were a total of 180 injuries caused by fireworks in Kansas. This is an increase from 2019. The person igniting the firework was most likely to be injured and hands were the most common body part to be injured. Over half of injuries occurred from fireworks happened on the 4th of July and most persons received burns. The majority of injuries occurred to those between the ages of 25 and 34; but there was also an increase in injuries to those between the ages of 45 and 54. The highest number of injuries were caused by mortars or artillery fireworks. Data was collected through voluntary reporting from Kansas hospitals and administered by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
“Remember that fireworks are explosives and should be handled with care,” said Cherie Sage, Director of Safe Kids Kansas, said. “Children should not light fireworks, including sparklers, which burn at a temperature hot enough to melt glass. We encourage parents to let their little ones use glow sticks instead of sparklers and leave the rest to grownups.”
Grilling is another favorite part of many 4th of July gatherings. Make sure grills are used outdoors only, away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. Keep children and pets away from the grill area and never leave your grill unattended. Clean your grill regularly to prevent grease fires.
“We want everyone to have a fun and safe celebration on Independence Day,” Doug Jorgensen, State Fire Marshal, said. “Taking a few simple precautions if you’re lighting off fireworks or grilling can ensure that your family and friends are safe and injury free this fourth of July. If possible, go to a public fireworks display, and let the trained professionals handle the risks.”
Other tips include:
Have adults supervise around grills and fireworks
Designate a child-free safety zone around grills and areas where fireworks are being ignited
Have a water supply near grills and fireworks
Have a first-aid kit on hand, and make sure its contents are updated and ready to use
Only ignite fireworks outdoors
Light only one firework at a time
Never try to re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks
Never attempt to make your own fireworks
Store fireworks in a cool, dry place
Dispose of used fireworks carefully, as they may reignite
Bottle rockets and M80s are illegal in Kansas and extremely dangerous. The use or sale of these banned fireworks is considered a crime under Kansas law. It is also illegal in Kansas to shoot fireworks on or under any vehicle, on any public roadway, within 50 feet of a fireworks stand or where fireworks are stored, and at gas stations or any place liquid gas – including propane – is stored.
Always refer to the local ordinances as to whether fireworks are allowed in your area as well as what types. Some cities or counties have restricted dates/times or types of fireworks that may be sold or discharged.
In addition, out of respect for veterans when it comes to the individual discharge of fireworks, please keep in mind the noise and stress (PTSD) your activities may cause near VA facilities.
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.
Kansas Informational Resources
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
Andy Schlapp, Wichita State University, Wichita
Mark Gardiner, Gardiner Angus Ranch, Ashland
Craig Owens, City Manager, Lawrence
Robbie Mankien, KC Transit Authority, Kansas City
Kent Heermann, Regional Development Authority of East Central Kansas, Emporia
Pat Ottensmeyer, Kansas City Southern, KCK
Dr. Jeff and Connie Curtis, Hays Med, Hays
Dennis Hupe, Kansas Soybean Association, Perry
Marcia Mies, Manufacturing Development, Inc., Cheney
Dr. John Kovac, MD, Family Medicine Clinic, Junction City
Karyn Page, Kansas Global Trade Services, Inc., Wichita
Trent Sterneck, US District Court, KCK
Dr. Mark Brady, MD, AdventHealth, Shawnee
Rod Landrum, Four Chimney Farm, Parsons
Gordon Ramsey, Chief of Police, Wichita
Hello,
Welcome to “Kansas Common Sense.” Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them.
Hosting the Aviation Manufacturing Jobs Protection Program Information Session in Wichita
Congressman Estes and I hosted an information session at Wichita State University on the Aviation Manufacturing Jobs Protection (AMJP) Program to help aviation manufacturers learn more about the federal aid that is available to them.
This program was created by legislation I introduced with Congressman Estes to help protect the aviation manufacturer workforce as the entire aviation industry continues to weather the effects of the pandemic. This program provides funding to eligible businesses to pay up to half of their compensation costs for certain categories of employees, for up to six months.
The aviation manufacturing industry in Wichita plays a critical role in providing Kansans high-paying jobs and supporting commercial and general aviation across the country. I’m pleased this program is now available to support this industry and their invaluable workforce while recovering from the pandemic. I appreciated U.S. Department of Transportation AMJP Program Director Elliott Black for attending and answering questions from industry leaders. Thank you also to Tom Gentile, CEO of Spirit AeroSystems, Paul Feldman, Vice President of Government Affairs at General Aviation Manufacturers Association and Dr. Sheree Utash, WSU Tech President, for welcoming us to the world renowned National Center for Aviation Training (NCAT).
The AMJP application process is open and closes at 5:00pm ET on Tuesday, July 13th. I urge any eligible business interested in applying to visit the U.S. Department of Transportation’s webpage for more information here.
Additionally, anyone is free to submit questions, particularly about the application process, to AMJP@dot.gov. An overview of the AMJP application process is available here.
Infrastructure Should Be a Bipartisan Effort
Improving our infrastructure is vital to our nation’s economy, safety and to our ability to compete in the global economy. We can pass an infrastructure package in a bipartisan way without raising taxes, without recklessly spending trillions of dollars and without eliminating the filibuster.
On Tuesday morning, I joined Squawk Box on CNBC to discuss the bipartisan infrastructure framework. Watch by clicking here or below.
For the People Act Was Designed to Fail, Underscored the Importance of the Filibuster
On Tuesday, Senate Democrats forced a vote on S.1, the partisan “For the People Act” on the U.S. Senate floor. This legislation is an unprecedented power grab that will undermine the sanctity of our elections. I’ve said it before: this is one of the most monstrous bills I’ve seen during my time in Congress, and it is an affront to the United States Constitution.
On Wednesday, following the vote, I spoke on the Senate floor regarding S.1 and its role in underscoring the importance of maintaining the filibuster, the 60 vote threshold needed to pass legislation.
The Democrats attempted an unprecedented power grab in the Senate that in my view clearly would have impacted the sanctity of our elections and violated the Constitution. The vote was designed to fail in order to pressure Democratic Senators into altering the rules of the Senate and render this place a majority-run institution.
This 60-vote rule is designed to moderate both sides of a question to something that is more acceptable to the American people than anything we might decide on our own, Republican or Democrat. America is better when we work together, and 60 votes requires us to do just that.
Securing a Commitment from Treasury for Utility Bill Relief following Winter Storm Uri
This week, the United States Treasury made clear that the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – the federal funding distributed to states, counties and municipalities in May – may be used for grants to local businesses and households to pay extraordinarily costly utility bills resulting from the natural gas supply shortages in February. After calling on the Treasury Secretary to work with me to ensure this was a permissible use of the funds in March during a Senate Banking hearing, the Treasury made this clear in updated guidance, and I confirmed this with the Secretary during an Appropriations Subcommittee hearing on Wednesday. Small businesses, households and local government leaders across affected communities in Kansas and the central U.S. should now have confidence in using this funding to resolve exorbitant February utility bills.
Increasing Opportunities for Meat Processors
On Monday, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the Meat and Poultry Inspection Readiness Grant (MPIRG) program is now accepting applications to help small and midsized meat processors increase market opportunities. This program was created by my legislation, the Requiring Assistance to Meat Processers for Upgrading Plants (RAMP-UP) Act, and provides $55.2 million in grants for small and midsized meatpacking plants to make the necessary investments to become federally inspected. Currently, meatpacking facilities can only make sales across state lines if they are federally inspected.
Small meatpackers in Kansas play an important role in providing new markets for livestock producers and meeting a growing, nationwide demand for quality meat. I’m pleased to see the RAMP-UP Act become a reality, giving meat processing facilities the tools they need to increase their market opportunities while strengthening our food supply chain for consumers. I encourage meat and poultry processing facilities in Kansas and across the country that qualify to utilize this program to meet the standards necessary to sell their products across state lines, and I will continue to work to make sure our food supply chain is more resilient and provides greater market opportunities for producers.
MPIRG applications must be submitted electronically through www.grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. ET on Monday, August 2, 2021. For more information about grant eligibility and program requirements, visit the MPIRG webpage, or contact mpirg@usda.gov.
Working to Strengthen Network Resiliency
On Tuesday, as a member of the Commerce Subcommittee on Communications, Media and Broadband, I participated in a hearing regarding network resiliency and broadband deployment. I questioned witnesses about the structure of current and future federal broadband initiatives and about the importance of the Universal Service Fund. There is a persistent “digital divide” in the United States, as an estimated 14.5 million Americans lack access to broadband, with the majority of these people being in rural and tribal areas. Congress has worked to close this gap, but additional support is being considered as part of infrastructure package negotiations. I asked witnesses about how they believe broadband funds included in infrastructure should be spent, ensuring that currently unserved areas are able to access quality broadband service efficiently, without wasting limited federal resources. I will continue to work with my Senate colleagues to ensure that more Kansans have access to the broadband service they need for telemedicine, distance learning and to connect to the online economy.
Improving Veterans’ Access to Health Care
Reviewing Legislation at a Senate VA Committee Hearing
On Wednesday, the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs held a legislative hearing to consider and solicit views on 21 pieces of legislation. A number of these bills address critical topics such as patient safety in VA medical centers, VA’s Solid Start program, alleviating veteran homelessness and VA provider accountability. Among the bills considered were my Guaranteeing Healthcare Access to Personnel who Served Act, or GHAPS Act, that would work to increase certainty and consistency for veterans who get their care from VHA and my VA Supply Chain Resiliency Act that would address VA’s supply chain processes during emergency periods. In addition to representatives from VA, I appreciated hearing from three of our VSO partners on these bills, including the American Legion. I am grateful to have the support of the American Legion, and multiple other VSOs and stakeholders, for the GHAPS Act. I look forward to its continued progress through the legislative process. Click here to watch the full hearing.
Addressing Roadblocks to Mental Health Services
This week, I introduced a bill in the Senate that would address some recently identified issues with the Veterans Crisis Line (VCL). While Congress has made substantial improvements to the VCL in recent years, deficiencies remain that must be addressed to ensure every veteran receives the care they deserve when in crisis. This legislation directs the VA to implement key recommendations made by the Office of Inspector General including improved VCL staff training, an extended safety planning pilot program, as well as a requirement for VA to develop enhanced guidance based on recent research to appropriately assist veterans in crisis with substance use disorders who are at an increased risk for overdose. Additionally, this bill ensures a smooth transition for veterans to 9-8-8 as the national three-digit suicide crisis hotline. Making certain our veterans have the best crisis intervention and suicide prevention services remains a top priority of mine with my work on the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.
Developing Apprenticeships in Tech
This week, I introduced the Championing Apprenticeships for New Careers and Employees in Technology (CHANCE in Tech) Act with Senator Heinrich, which would work to alleviate the skills gap that may slow the continued growth of the technology sector. Specifically, the legislation would provide industry intermediaries, like state tech associations, the ability to receive federal grants to develop apprenticeships within the technology sector. Apprenticeships give people hands-on learning opportunities to learn technical skills to benefit them in their careers, and aligning tech training with industry demands will help meet local workforce needs in Kansas and across the nation. I urge my Senate colleagues to support this legislation and will continue to work to fill the tech sector skills gap.
Evaluating FY2022 Budget Requests
Army, Navy and Marine Corps
On Tuesday and Thursday, I attended Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense hearings for the Army, Navy and Marine Corps. Prior to the hearing, I had the chance to meet with Secretary Wormuth and General McConville to discuss their priorities and Fort Riley and Fort Leavenworth’s unique history and contributions to our Army. During the hearing, I highlighted the importance of the Army’s Abrams program to make certain that Big Red One soldiers have the best possible equipment on the battlefield. I also discussed the research and development that is taking place in Kansas to develop digital design capabilities. Digital design will allow soldiers to utilize new technologies to maintain legacy weapons systems and design the next generation of Army programs.
During the Navy and Marine Corps hearing, I also had the opportunity to highlight the CH-53K program and its importance to the Marine Corps as Kansas contributes significantly to the research and manufacturing priorities of the Navy that provide key capabilities to the CH-53K.
FBI
On Wednesday, the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science welcomed Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray to discuss the funding priorities for the FBI and the critical issues facing our country. Among those issues was the rising prevalence of violent crime across the U.S., including in Kansas. I asked Director Wray how he planned to lead the FBI in addressing this surge in violent crime and if he would consider providing personnel and resources to cities and communities that are the worst affected. I also shared with him an update on violent crime in Wichita from Wichita Police Chief Gordon Ramsay to ensure Director Wray was aware of the situations we are facing in Kansas communities. We also discussed the rising threat of ransomware and cyberattacks to national security. I spoke to Director Wray about the methods the FBI plans to use to address the threat of ransomware and cyberattacks and what level of resources are needed so the bureau can adequately investigate and protect our country from these types of attacks.
As the lead Republican of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science that provides oversight to the FBI, I’m committed to working with Director Wray and my colleagues to make certain our nation’s law enforcement have the support and tools necessary to keep us safe.
Supporting Hotels’ COVID-19 Recovery
This week, I introduced the Restored, Equitable, Coronavirus Adjusted Lodging (RECAL) Act. This bipartisan legislation would support the hotel industry’s recovery from COVID-19 by freezing government per diem rates at pre-pandemic levels. The General Services Administration (GSA) establishes the per diem rates, which are the maximum allowances federal employees can be reimbursed for expenses incurred during official travel. Federal travelers are a significant part of the hotel industry’s customer base, and federal travel allowances should reflect a fair price for both travelers and hotels. Freezing these allowances so they are based off of lodging prices prior to the pandemic will provide much needed certainty to help the hotel industry’s recovery while also providing a fair price for their services. I will continue to seek out common sense policies that will further aid our nation’s economic recuperation.
Meeting with Taiwan Ambassador Bi-khim Hsiao
On Tuesday, I met with Taiwan’s Ambassador to the United States, Bi-khim Hsiao. We discussed the robust trade relationship between Taiwan and Kansas, the United States sharing COVID-19 vaccines with Taiwan and the threat China poses to Taiwan, its people and the world. I also had the opportunity to personally thank the ambassador for the 100,000 surgical masks Taiwan donated to Kansas in May of last year that helped protect our frontline medical professionals and those working in our vital food supply chains. I am grateful for the friendship between the United States and Taiwan, and I thank Ambassador Bi-khim Hsiao for our conversation.
Shaking Hands with David Boose
Retired EMT, firefighter and Vietnam veteran David Boose of Lecompton called into my office recently and asked me to stop by his home so he could shake my hand. Happy to report we got it accomplished this weekend!
Thank you for your lifetime of service, David. It was great to meet you.
Bolstering Kansas’ Aviation and Transportation Initiatives
Discussing the Supersonic Transportation Corridor with FAA Administrator Steve Dickson
This week, I met with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Steve Dickson to discuss the recently established Kansas Supersonic Transportation Corridor, an agreement finalized between the Kansas Department of Transportation and the FAA. As the first and only such commercial supersonic flight test route in the nation’s interior, we look forward to the partnerships and research that will stem from the corridor. Additionally, we discussed the 737 MAX and its movement forward after returning to service last November.
I also invited Steve Dickson to Kansas to see the strengths of our aviation state firsthand, and I look forward to continuing our working partnership.
Meeting with Robbie Makinen and Kansas City Area Transportation Authority
It was great to see Robbie Makinen, Terri Barr and Bryce Shields on Wednesday to discuss RideKC Transit services and Kansas City Area Transportation Authority’s (KCATA) ongoing initiatives to connect people to jobs, education, health care and housing. Robbie, Terri and Bryce also shared RideKC’s accomplishment of implementing a Zero Fare transit program, which has increased ridership and improved operator safety by eliminating 90 percent of driver-involved disturbances.
I was also pleased to announce a $3.3 million U.S. Department of Transportation grant to continue transitioning its fleet to zero-emission buses and expand its electric charging infrastructure this week. It was great to discuss this grant in person and hear more about the extension during our meeting. The need to improve service has long been identified as critical to creating and sustaining a robust transportation system in Kansas City, and I am glad that our community leaders have used innovative methods for addressing this need.
Speaking with the Kansas Electric Cooperative Youth Tour Conference
On Wednesday, I was pleased to speak with a group of students participating in the Kansas Electric Cooperative Youth Tour Conference, where we discussed a variety of issues important to Kansans and our nation. Our conversation centered around the negative impact changes to the inheritance tax and the step-up in basis would have on the ability of family farms and businesses to pass on their operations from one generation to the next, the importance of growing our nation’s export markets for Kansas commodities in places such as Cuba to avoid an overreliance on trade with China, and ways to better support our military families who sacrificed so much for our county. I appreciate hearing from students across Kansas and look forward to this group’s return to in-person trips to Washington, D.C.
Touring Kraft Telerobotics in Kansas City
This week, I visited Kraft Telerobotics in Kansas City. Founded in 1982, Kraft is a leading manufacturer of manipulator systems and remotely operated vehicles for use in hazardous environments. Their manipulator arms are used to complete difficult subsea tasks in support of offshore oil exploration, deep water drilling and underwater construction.
On land, their systems are used to demolish nuclear power plants, repair power lines as well as support the maintenance of the Space Station and other NASA programs. I appreciated learning more about Kraft’s impressive operations, and thank Owner Brett Kraft for his time.
Sons of American Legion Biscuit and Gravy Breakfast
I had a great breakfast on Saturday morning at the Sons of American Legion Biscuit and Gravy Breakfast at Pearce-Keller Post No. 17 The American Legion! Seeing so many familiar faces was a great way to start the weekend. I enjoyed catching up with those in attendance, including National Executive Committeeman of the Kansas Department of the American Legion Dan Wiley of Leavenworth.
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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P.O. Box 249
Hays, KS 67601
Phone: (785) 628-6401
State officials are seeking feedback from Kansans to help guide future housing development efforts. The initiative, part of the state’s first comprehensive housing needs assessment in nearly 30 years, aims to review current housing opportunities, identify strategic goals, and develop recommendations to guide future housing development.
We’ve wrapped up our statewide listening tour, and now it’s time to share your feedback in our statewide survey. Hurry! Our survey closes Wednesday, June 30.
All respondents who provide their email address will be entered in a drawing for a $100 VISA gift card!
