Category Archives: Government

Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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Note: Bourbon County is represented by Kansas Senator Tim Shallenberger and Representative Rich James. They have not responded to requests for a weekly newsletter. In the interest of providing legislative information, Senator Tyson provides a weekly newsletter. U.S. Rep. Derek Schmidt has recently started providing information at the federal level.

Caryn Tyson

March 21, 2025

 

It was a difficult week in the legislature.  Over 80 bills were worked on the Senate floor.  It was intense and made for a long week.  There were too many bills to discuss in this update.  All the legislation is posted at www.KSLegislature.gov.

 

Property Taxes are a concern for most Kansans.  The Senate Tax Committee held hearings on the House position of limiting taxable valuation increases in House Concurrent Resolution (HCR) 5011 and repealing part of the Truth in Taxation, Revenue Neutral notices, in House Bill (HB) 2396.  The Committee didn’t support the House averaging over several years to limit tax values and instead supported the 3% tax value limit passed in Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR) 1603, 28 to 12 on February 5th.  So, the Committee voted to put the same language in 1603 into 5011.  The Senate then passed 5011 on a bipartisan vote of 30 to 10.  I voted Yes.

 

The Tax Committee also rejected repealing Revenue Neutral notices, but did move forward on a protest petition that would block local governments from increasing their property tax revenues (i.e. taxes).  The Senate lowered the threshold to 3% or an inflation index, whichever is lower, plus new construction and voted on bonds.  If the local government unit increases property taxes greater than that amount, voters could block the increase by signing a protest petition.  Some of the logistics still need to be worked out, but it is being considered.  One thing that most of us can agree on is that the current system is taxing people out of their homes and needs attention.

 

Slowing State Government Growth by passing SB 259, automatic income tax reductions would be set in place based on taxes collected the previous year.  For years Kansas taxpayers have been paying more, growing the beast that is big government.  SB 259 would trigger a personal income tax cut for the next year when taxes collected are greater than inflation until the personal income tax bracket is 4.5%.  Once 4.5% is reached, the trigger would be used to decrease corporate and privilege taxes until comparable reductions are reached.  The bill passed 30 to 10.  I voted Yes.

 

Illegals Voting in Kansas elections would be exposed if HB 2020 becomes law.  It would require the Department of Revenue to notify the Secretary of State of any noncitizens drivers licenses issued.  The Secretary would then be required to investigate any names on the noncitizen list with voter registrations and direct county clerks to remove the registered voter from the voter rolls.  The bill passed 32 to 8.  I voted Yes.

 

Special Elections that often increase taxes will only be held in April, August, or November if HB 2022 becomes law with the Senate changes.  A recent election in Sedgewick County cost taxpayers $136,000.  If it would have been on the August or November ballot, there wouldn’t have been an extra expense.  I voted yes.  It passed 24 to 16.

 

Artificial Intelligence generated visual sexual images of children will be a sex crime if HB 2183 becomes law.  It passed the Senate unanimously.

 

Prayers for those who have lost loved ones.  It was a difficult week in the Kansas Senate, as a few senators lost loved ones.  It is one of the hardest things we face in life.  For all who have lost a loved one, their life was a gift from God and may their memory continue to bless you.

 

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

Caryn

 

Government, Kansas

K-52 resurfacing project will begin soon in Linn County

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The week of March 31, the Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin a resurfacing project on K-52 in Linn County. The 14-mile project area includes two highway sections: from K-31 northeast to the U.S. 69 south junction, and from the U.S. 69 north junction east to the Kansas-Missouri state line.

 

Project activity includes a mill and overlay. Flaggers and a pilot car with guide one-lane traffic through the work zone during weekday daylight hours; expect delays of 15 minutes or less. Weather permitting, the work should be completed by June.

 

KDOT awarded Bettis Asphalt & Construction Inc., of Topeka, the $3.2 million construction contract. Persons with questions may contact Ian Stringham, (785) 433-6116, or Priscilla Petersen, (620) 902-6433.

KDOT urges drivers to slow down and obey the posted signs in all work zones. For information on this project and other construction activity on state highways in Kansas, visit www.kandrive.gov or call 5-1-1.

 

 

 

Government, Kansas

Construction Careers Highlighted at Kansas Virtual Job Fair

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KANSASWORKS Highlighting Construction Careers at Upcoming Virtual Job Fair

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today encouraged jobseekers and employers interested in construction careers to take advantage of an upcoming virtual job fair. Hosted by KANSASWORKS, the sector-specific fair will be from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 9.

“As we continue on our strong trajectory of economic growth, there has been a corresponding increase in new building construction across the state,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Many employers are eager to hire hardworking Kansans ready to fill the many open construction roles – and at the same time help build a new and better Kansas.”

The virtual job fair allows anyone searching for a new position to fill out applications, chat live, and interview virtually with participating employers.

The virtual job fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers, and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers may request to engage in a video interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodation by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.

Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click here.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

About the KANSASWORKS:

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

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Bourbon County, Government

Unapproved Minutes of the March 11 Uniontown City Council

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The Regular Council Meeting on March 11, 2025 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Jess Ervin, Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, Savannah Pritchett, and Bradley Stewart.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Joe George, the PSU Nursing Students Anthony Arulzu, Shannon Kalgreen, Mia Perez, Cora Simpson, City Treasurer Sally Johnson, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, and City Clerk Danea Esslinger.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Public Restroom toilets, Taylor Plumbing–not in attendance, Mitchell Trenching submitted a bid for replacing lines from main through building.

 

Motion by Kelly, Second by Pritchett, Approved 5-0 to accept Mitchell Trenching bid of $900.

 

SEED Grant bid opening–one bid was received by Terry Nading for all SEED projects total material and labor $14,440.

Terry Nading provided 2 sizes for the bullet proof glass window: 58 ¾” x 29 7/8” for $1,600 or 36” x 29 7/8” for $800 and labor $1,260.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0 to accept Terry Nading bid proposal for all but the window at this time.

 

FEMA Flooding bid opening–2 bids were received for all 4 components by Marbery Concrete, Inc. and Roger and Sons Concrete. No decision made on theses bids at this time as Council is waiting until after the FEMA meeting on 3/18/25.

 

2 Sidewalk bid opening-2 concrete bids were received. Marbery Concrete, Inc. and Roger and Sons Concrete. No decision made on the 2 concrete bids at this time as Council is waiting on response from business owner.

 

 

CITIZENS REQUESTS

None

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Johnson presented the February 2025 financial reports.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds for February was $306,769.02, Receipts $37,051.18, Transfers Out $3,024.00, Expenditures $59,968.41, Checking Account Closing Balance $280,827.79. Bank Statement Balance $289,529.93, including Checking Account Interest of $58.11, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $8,702.14, Reconciled Balance $280,827.79.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $38,042.59, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $2,2822.26, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $44,871.48, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $386,564.12. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $119.73, and Utility CDs $581.65 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $701.38.  Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,622.00 for Total Transfers of $3,024.00. Net Loss for the month of February $25,941.23, Year-to-Date Net Income $16,964.05.  Appropriations to date for February 2025 are $50,641.45

 

APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Ervin, Second byKelly, Approved 5-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of February 11, 2024 Regular Council Meeting.
  • Treasurer’s Reports & Monthly Transaction Report for February 2025 and the Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Superintendent:  Bobby Rich

Tractor-tractor repair completed, Brad Stewart delivered and picked up tractor with his trailer and fuel, please compensate him for

wear and tear on equipment and fuel costs for $500

 

Motion by Kelly, Second by Pritchett, Approved 4-0-1 (Stewart abstain) to approve payment.

 

Mosquito Workshop-superintendent requested workshop attendance.

 

Motion by Kelly, Second by Stewart, Approved 5-0 to approve Mosquito workshop attendance.

 

Clerk Report:  Danea Esslinger  

Jayhawk software & Quickbooks online update-started the Jayhawk software requirements and have not started Quickbooks online.

Telephone/Blue Tooth Ear Headset/Monitor-asked Council for 2 new monitors, new updated telephones, and blue tooth headset

 

Motion by Kelly, Second by Stewart, Approved 5-0 to approve requested equipment.

 

Reminders for upcoming events for the City of Uniontown:

Rabies Clinic will be on 3/29/25 @ 1:30pm to 3pm with Dr. Lora Holeman

City Office will be closed on March 19, 20, 21, 27, & 28, 2025

CCMFOA Conference – March 19-21, Manhattan

KACM Conference – March 27-28, Manhattan

Dogs at large-Dog catcher has been unable to catch the dogs at large in the City. Council advise to send 2 citations for repeat offenders, and a certified letter to the other offender.

 

COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS

Councilman Ervin –none

Councilman Kelly – none

Councilwoman Pemberton – are we are still needing and accepting book donations? Treasurer Johnson said yes.

Councilwoman Pritchett –letter needed to tenant and landlord regarding trash on front porch and now in back yard

Councilman Stewart– none

Mayor Jurgensen –none

 

OLD BUSINESS

Warehouse Building Electric update-have electricity installed and have rollup doors programed

Council stated to get a bids for the foam installation for the warehouse building.

 

Motion by Pritchett, Second by Ervin, Approved 5-0 to get bids for the foam installation of the Warehouse.

 

Park electric –electrician is waiting for boring to be completed

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

Motion by Kelly, Second by Pritchett, Approved 5-0, to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 9:00 PM.

 

Johnson called in at 8:45, out at 9:00.

 

Motion by Kelly, Second by Pritchett, Approved 5-0, to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 9:15 PM.

 

Esslinger called in at 9:03, out at 9:20.

 

Motion by Kelly, Second by Pritchett, Approved 5-0, to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 9:30 PM.

 

Open meeting resumed at 9:30.  No action from executive session.

 

City Clerk asked the council if need to send a debtor to collections with CBK, Inc. Council agreed to send.

 

Council member stated need to change the next month meeting from April 8, 2025 at 7:00 PM to April 9, 2025 at 5:30 PM.

 

Motion by Kelly, Second by Ervin, Approved 5-0 to move date and time of next month meeting to April 9, 2025 at 5:30 PM.

 

ADJOURN Time 9:45 Moved by Ervin, 2nd Kelly, Approved 5-0

 

Government, Kansas

Kansas Supreme Court announces new portal to search appellate cases

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TOPEKA—Beginning today, people can search appellate cases using a public access portal that not only gives case information but also public case documents.

 

The Kansas Appellate Courts Public Access Portal is part of the Kansas eCourt project to centralize case information on a single web-based platform, transforming the way courts serve the people of Kansas. The multiyear project introduced a new case management system in district and appellate courts, making it possible to search statewide court case information online.

 

“We are thrilled to announce this much-anticipated milestone for the Kansas court system,” said Chief Justice Marla Luckert. “For the first time in the history of our courts, public case information and case documents in both district and appellate courts can be searched online without cost.”

 

Using the portal to search cases

 

Before searching cases on the Kansas Appellate Courts Public Access Portal, a person must register as a portal user. A link to the registration form is in the top right corner of the portal home page.

 

All registered users must abide by the Kansas Courts Public Access Portal User Agreement.

 

If a person is registered to use the Kansas District Court Public Access Portal, they do not need to register to use the Kansas Appellate Courts Public Access Portal. Their registration transfers to the appellate portal and their username and password are the same.

 

Case information and case documents

 

People who use the portal to search appellate cases will get information that includes party names and a register of events. It can also include case documents.

 

Only case documents filed after March 13, 2025, will be available on the portal. To access a public case document filed prior to March 13, 2025, a user would need to request it from the clerk of the appellate courts.

 

More information about the portal and what it offers is on the kscourts.gov webpage Search Appellate Court Records.

 

Some case information, documents not available

 

Sealed cases and sealed records are not public, and some cases are exempt from disclosure under the Kansas Open Records Act (K.S.A. 45-221). Other records may be exempt by judicial rule, order, or caselaw.

 

Cases and records not available through the public access portal are identified in Supreme Court Kansas eCourt Rules (20–25).

 

Supreme Court Rule 22: Access to Public Electronic District Court and Appellate Case Records

 

Updated Supreme Court Rule 22

 

Administrative Order 2025-RL-027 signed and filed Friday, March 21, adopted modifications to Supreme Court Rule 22 that take effect today, March 24. Modifications to Supreme Court Rule 22 make more case types searchable through the district court and appellate courts public access portals.

 

Under updates to Rule 22, certain case types in the domestic, juvenile offender, and probate case categories become available on the public access portals effective today, March 24, 2025.

 

Searching these case types will give registered users access to case events but not case documents. To access public case documents, a user must visit a courthouse or the Kansas Judicial Center to use a computer terminal to search these case types.

 

Kansas eCourt case management system

 

Beginning in 2019, district courts were brought onto a centralized case management system following a statewide rollout plan. The last district court moved to the new system in November 2024.

 

The appellate courts began operating on the appellate version of the same case management system in June 2024. Additional time was needed to prepare to offer case information and documents online through a public access portal.

Kansas Judicial Branch

Office of Judicial Administration

301 SW 10th Avenue

Topeka, KS 66612-1507

785-296-2256

kscourts.gov

Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly Vetoes Restrictive Voting Legislation

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TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly on Monday vetoed Senate Bill 4.

The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of Senate Bill 4:

“The three-day grace period for mail ballots was a bipartisan solution approved by the Legislature in 2017 to address delays in processing of mail by the United States Postal Service, particularly in rural areas. The goal was to ensure that all Kansans had their votes counted, no matter where they lived.

“Not only will removing the three-day grace period for mail ballots disenfranchise thousands of Kansas voters, but it also shows a lack of understanding of our elections in Kansas. Implementing this will create confusion among county election officials, who will have to update policies and procedures on handling of mail ballots in a higher turnout election year.

“This bill is an attack on rural Kansans who want to participate in the electoral process guaranteed by our Constitution. I will not sign legislation that deprives Kansans from having their vote counted.

“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto Senate Bill 4.”

Government, Kansas

Move-Over Protections for all Highway Drivers Bill

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Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill Expanding Move-Over Protections for all Highway Drivers


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly signed on Monday  Senate Bill 8, which requires drivers to move over when passing stationary vehicles displaying hazard warning lights.

“Thanks to this commonsense bill, all drivers will now be required to move over or slow down if there is a vehicle on the side of the road with flashing lights,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This bill will improve safety and will make it easier to educate the driving public.”

Senate Bill 8 works to protect both drivers of disabled vehicles displaying hazard warning signal lights and other drivers on the road. The bill requires drivers on the road to proceed with caution and change lanes away from the disabled vehicle if it is possible and safe to do so.

“Eighty-two crashes occurred from 2018-2023 with someone in a vehicle while on the side of the road,” said State Representative for the 125th District Shannon Francis. “This bill will improve driver behavior by creating consistency with other move-over bills for law enforcement, first responders, and utility vehicles, among others.”

Historically, move-over protections had been limited to emergency personnel. Over time, these protections included road service vehicles, utility, and tow trucks. This year, move-over protections will apply to all highway vehicles.

“Senate Bill 8 is a commonsense safety measure that will enhance protections for all travelers on Kansas roadways,” said Senator for District 7 Ethan Corson  “With its enactment, we’re taking meaningful steps to look out for drivers and passengers.”

In addition to Senate Bill 8, Governor Kelly also signed the following bipartisan bills:

Senate Bill 2: Validates the election results for the bond issuance question submitted by the board of education of USD 200, Greeley County, at a special election held on May 21, 2024.

Senate Bill 7: Increases the statutory limits on bonds issued by a township based on township population and purpose of the bond issuance, increasing townships’ ability to access resources for infrastructure and facility improvements.

Senate Bill 88: Ensures the state long-term care ombudsman and regional ombudsman receive memory care training to better serve Kansans with dementia and other memory illnesses.

Senate Bill 175: Modernizes the definition of athletic trainer and provides an exemption for trainers licensed in other states or countries to practice in Kansas.

House Bill 2261: Resolves ambiguity surrounding the classification of Kansas Highway Patrol majors.

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Area News, Business, Government, Kansas

Gamechangers and Champions Event

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Kansas Innovation Partners Gather for Gamechangers and Champions Event

TOPEKA – The Kansas Office of Innovation served as a convening partner last week for the Gamechangers and Champions event, held in Wichita, which brought together a diverse set of partners to support entrepreneurship and innovative startup development in Kansas. The 2025 Gamechangers and Champions was co-presented by NXTUS, a Wichita-based catalyst for the startup ecosystem.

“By bringing together startups, angel investors and ecosystem champions from across Kansas, we are creating a space where groundbreaking ideas can take root, partnerships can spark, and the future of our state’s innovation ecosystem can be shaped,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “This collaboration with NXTUS reflects our enduring commitment to empowering local startups, cultivating collaboration and fostering a culture of innovation that drives economic growth and opportunity for all Kansans.”

In addition to professional development and networking, Kansas startups competed in the Bracket Bash for Innovators and Angels — a startup pitch competition — where entrepreneurs had the opportunity to showcase their businesses, gain exposure to investors, and compete for funding that could propel their ventures forward. A $20,000 grand prize was delivered to pitch competition winner, Andrew Marquez with VU Scholarships of Roeland Park. And, selected by a vote of the more than 200 attendees, Matt Williams with Noonan brought home the “Fan’s Choice” award, which carried a $2,500 prize.

“Most Kansans have no idea the breadth and quality of entrepreneurs who are building tomorrow’s great businesses right here in Kansas,” President and CEO of NXTUS Mary Beth Jarvis said. “We’re changing that, thanks to the support from the Kansas Department of Commerce, Barton School of Business at WSU and the dozens of other sponsors. For the first time ever, we’ll collide state-wide innovators – these gamechangers for our economy – with their champions – the investors and supporters who are lifting them up as they build companies around breakthroughs in every industry.”

In addition to the pitch competition that initially included 74 companies, Gamechangers and Champions 2025 featured a variety of engaging activities, including:

  • Opening Networking Session with Startup Grind and WIBA, sponsored by IMA
  • Startup Grind Fireside Chat with Graham Krizek, CEO of Voltage Cloud, presented by the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce
  • Expert-led breakout tracks – Focused educational sessions for both startups and investors, supported by the Greater Wichita Partnership, Lange Capital and Kansas State University
  • Business & Basketball Lounge – Thanks to Network Kansas’ eGrowth Ventures, attendees had access to networking sessions, complimentary headshots, and the NCAA Tournament games
  • Keynote remarks, sponsored by Koch, from Kevin Lockett – Former K-State and Kansas City Chiefs player and longtime entrepreneur, who now manages the investment firm Fulcrum Global Capital

The event successfully created a space for innovation, collaboration and the celebration of Kansas’ growing startup ecosystem.

“The Gamechangers and Champions event was a true celebration of the diverse innovators building disruptive startups right here in Kansas,” Commerce Chief Innovation and Strategy Officer Romaine Redman said. “Congratulations to Andrew Marquez and VU Scholarships on winning this year’s pitch competition as they march on toward many future successes. We’re incredibly grateful to our sponsors for making this celebration possible and to the city of Wichita for warmly welcoming innovators, investors and ecosystem partners from across the state.”

About NXTUS:

NXTUS Inc. helps entrepreneurs grow companies of significance. The organization works to connect startup founders with community resources, capital and customers. NXTUS manages NXTSTAGE programs, which are aimed at connecting startups to mature businesses and regional partners looking to become customers for their innovations and to help accelerate the pace of innovation and startup growth in the region, as well as Accelerate Venture Partners, a fast-growing regional angel investor syndicate.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

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Government

Derek Schmidt, U.S. House Representative Newsletter

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Rep. Derek Schmidt's header image

Friends,

 

I was back home this week, crisscrossing the district visiting businesses, schools, and many of the Kansans I’m blessed to represent. On the legislative side of things, I joined an effort to repeal an unnecessary and costly tax on our family farms and businesses.

 

Here are the highlights from a great week back home in eastern Kansas:

Supporting Local Businesses

I was in southeast Kansas on Tuesday, where I visited Progressive Products, Inc (PPI).

PPI has been providing good paying jobs and bolstering our southeast Kansas economy for nearly 45 years! The pneumatic conveying systems components they manufacture are used in factories, grain handling facilities, chemical plants, and other installations across the country and around the world. These components – which allow the rapid and efficient transportation of bulk dry solids during production and refining processes – are a critical part of our country’s food production process.

I also visited PPI’s sister company, Apex Stages, the 2nd largest hydraulic stage manufacturer in North America. Both companies operate out of facilities in Pittsburg.

 

Following my visit to PPI, I paid a impromptu visit to the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce. Staying connected with Kansas business leaders is critical to ensuring I’m doing my job to support our local economy at the federal level.

From high prices to overbearing federal regulations, the past few years have been hard on our businesses. That’s why I’m working hard every day to fight inflation, roll back these arcane rules, and provide Kansans with a government and an economy that works for them, not against them.

Repealing the Death Tax

When a family is grieving the death of a loved one, the last thing they need is a knock on the door from the IRS. Unfortunately, this situation plays out far too often for our farmers and ranchers because of the “Death Tax,” an unfair and costly fee on the transfer of property, land, and other assets from a deceased family member to heirs of family farms and small businesses.

 

Family farms and small businesses are the lifeblood of our food supply and economy. In fact, families operate 95% of the the 1.9 million farms in the United States and account for 90% of our country’s total agricultural production value. Congress should be doing everything in our power to promote longevity and continuity for these family farms and businesses rather than using taxes to discourage multi-generational ownership. This is why I joined more than 170 of my colleagues to cosponsor the Death Tax Repeal Act.

 

This legislation has the support of more than 170 of my colleagues and more than 230 organizations, including the American Farm Bureau Federation, Agricultural Retailers Association, and National Federation of Independent Business. Senator John Thune has introduced companion legislation in the Senate, so I’m hopeful we can get this bill passed quickly and remove more of big government’s overreach into Americans’ lives.

Supporting Kansas Colleges

On Wednesday, I headed to Hillsboro to tour Tabor College.

Since 1908, Tabor has been providing quality higher education opportunities to our Kansas community. Thank you to the gracious faculty and staff who showed me around the beautiful campus! Our community is lucky to have you.

 

Like many Americans, I believe education is an issue best handled at the state and local levels. There’s been a lot in the news about the Department of Education this week as President Trump signed an order to begin moving its services to different government agencies. As I’ve said before and will say again, I’m 100% supportive of eliminating fraud, waste, and abuse in our federal government while ensuring programs Kansans rely on are preserved and strengthened.

 

Our nation’s education system is still dealing with the devastating pandemic loss of learning. We are the strongest country with the biggest economy in the world. There’s no reason our students should be lagging behind those in other nations. I’m hopeful these changes will refocus our education system on setting our students up for success rather than indoctrinating them with political agendas.

Supporting States’ Protection of their Citizens

Under the Biden administration, illegal aliens, drugs, and all manner of contraband flowed freely into our country. Left with nowhere to turn, states began taking matters into their own hands, passing laws to protect their citizens from the Biden border crisis. Instead of taking action to secure the borders, the Biden administration instead sued the states who passed laws allowing illegal aliens to be charged for entering the country unlawfully.

 

As attorney general, I argued and won Kansas v. Garcia at the United States Supreme Court. This case – which originated from three illegal aliens appealing their state convictions of identity theft on the grounds that their convictions were the result of lying on federal tax forms – reaffirmed states’ ability to enforce state identity theft laws against illegal aliens. I believe it’s beyond ridiculous for the federal government to spend time and taxpayer money fighting states trying to protect their citizens and stop illegal immigration.

 

Thankfully, the Trump administration moved to dismiss two Biden era lawsuits that sought to block states’ enforcement of laws aimed at combatting illegal immigration. Though the lawsuits have been dropped, the fight isn’t over. I believe Congress should fix federal law to ensure states have a proper role in securing our borders so no future president can simultaneously surrender our borders and prevent states from standing in the gap, which is why I intend to introduce legislation in the near future to do just that.

We’ll be back in Washington this week as we continue working to codify many of the policies that have begun to reverse the damages of the last four years. We have a real opportunity to make lasting, positive change in our country. I for one don’t plan to waste it.

As always, my office is here to serve you. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have. Be sure to also follow me on social media at the links below for timely updates from my office.

It’s an incredible honor to represent our Second Congressional District in Congress!

Sincerely,

Derek Schmidt

Member of Congress

Washington D.C. Office
1223 Longworth

House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Topeka Office

3550 SW 5th St.

Suite B

Topeka, KS 66606

Pittsburg Office

402 North Broadway St.

Suite B

Pittsburg, KS  66762
 

Bourbon County, Government, Health Care

Ten Cases of Measles In Kansas Are Reported

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Per the Kansas Dept. Of Health & Environment: “As of March 21, 2025, Kansas is reporting 10 measles cases in Grant, Morton, and Stevens counties, with no hospitalizations or deaths reported. The CDC is also reporting increases in measles with 378 cases nationwide across 15 jurisdictions. Due to measles’ highly contagious nature, additional cases are expected, especially among unvaccinated individuals in Kansas and nearby areas. The KDHE advises healthcare providers to promptly report suspected cases and to submit specimens to the Kansas Health and Environment Laboratory for testing. KDHE is providing new vaccine recommendations for those in outbreak-affected areas.”
If you live in or near the counties listed and have questions about your measles immunity, please contact your local health department.

There are no known cases of measles in Allen, Anderson, Bourbon or Woodson Counties at this time.

Submitted from Becky Johnson, Administrator/Southeast Kansas Local Health Officer