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Category Archives: Government
New City Commissioner: Melissa Guns
Melissa Guns, 43, was recently selected to serve on the Fort Scott City Commissioner, replacing Josh Jones, who moved outside the city limits.
She was sworn in directly after being selected on June 18.
“The duties of the position include working with other council members to make fiscally and ethically sound decisions, closely reviewing and monitoring the budget and expenditures, creating the budget, passing ordinances that will benefit the greatest number of citizens possible, ensuring city policies do not harm vulnerable populations, bringing concerns and needs regarding the day-to-day operations to the attention of the City Manager, listening to citizens’ concerns and viewpoints, passing policies that will help the growth of the city’s economy, working to reduce or minimize the tax burden of citizens whenever possible, and collective oversight of the City Manager,” she said.
Citizens may contact Guns with concerns or comments by emailing [email protected] or calling City Hall and leaving a message with the City Clerk.
Background
Guns graduated from Barnesville High School in 1998, then earned a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science in 2005 and Master of Education in 2012, both through Wilmington University, New Castle, DE
She is currently employed as a Program Evaluator at Greenbush Education Service Center in the Research, Evaluation and Grants Department.
“In my current role, I have written three grants for 21st Century Community Learning Center (21st CCLC) all of which were funded for $500,000 each over five years.”
She evaluates and writes grants. These grants provided funding for improving literacy by providing training for teachers, access to books, etc.
Guns is part of the Kansas Prevention Collaborative (KPC) evaluating for the Kansas Prevention Collaborative and other coalitions who have received prevention grants from the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services (KDADS).
She also evaluates the Kansas Prevention Collaborative trainings, events, and workforce.
“I also build surveys and other evaluation tools, most recently supporting the State Opioid Response, Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers, Community Mental Health Centers, Assisted Outpatient Treatment, and the KS Heart Program, and has also written smaller grants outside of Greenbush.
Prior to moving to Kansas in 2016, she was an administrative assistant for Bradco Services, a small construction company, putting together bids and familiarizing herself with the International Building Code Standards, learning federal payroll compliance, developing marketing and media to promote the business.
In her youth, she taught Bible classes to younger children, went on mission trips within the U.S. and Honduras, cared for the elderly at an assisted living home, and participated in AmeriCorp/VISTA as a Volunteer Coordinator for a summer reading and nutrition program in Parkersburg, WV.
Philosophy
Guns believes good citizenship is a duty.
She loves the area in Ohio where she grew up and learned first-hand that there is a need to have ” a broad enough industry to provide jobs to people from all walks of life and education levels. I believe that if a town is not moving forward to ensure jobs, housing, infrastructure, and financial stability it will slowly die.”
“I want to ensure Fort Scott retains small town values while expanding enough that no matter what path our children take when they graduate high school, Fort Scott is a thriving desirable community where they will not have to choose between making their own homes in Fort Scott or having to move away in order to have a job in their chosen profession,” she said.
“The choices we make now will determine the future,” she said. “It is imperative that Fort Scott makes sound fiscal decisions, grows economically, and repairs infrastructure in a way that supports future maintenance and expansion, while retaining the City’s rich history. That is the reason I submitted my letter of interest for the open position. I want to help Fort Scott achieve these goals and believe my experience will allow me to examine the decisions that need to be made from multiple perspectives to determine the best course of action.”
“I am working on creating a public Facebook page by which citizens may also contact me,” she said. “Please note that the ability to post on my page will be limited as this is meant to be a method of contact and not a public forum. Any questions, information, or issues that are appropriate for the City Manager to handle will be forwarded to him. I will respond to let you know the issue has been brought to his attention and any actions that are taken as a result. If citizens would like to share their viewpoint on an issue, I am happy to listen. I will not and cannot comment regarding personnel issues or instruct city personnel, as the only city employee under the direct purview of the committee is the City Manager.”
“Issues or concerns regarding employees other than the City Manager should be directed to Brad Matkin,” she said. “I will however, listen to and confer appreciation and accolades for city staff. ”
Family
Doug and Melissa have five children. Doug Jr. lives in Virginia. Their son Zander and daughter Emma attend Fort Scott High School, son John attends FSMS, and youngest son Lincoln attends Winfield Scott Elementary School.
Kansas Tax Receipts Exceed Estimate
Governor Kelly Announces June Total Tax Receipts Exceed Estimate by Over $17M, Closes Fiscal Year Nearly $26M Ahead of Projections
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that total tax collections for June 2023 were $989.0 million. That is $17.3 million, or 1.8%, more than the estimate and $70.2 million, or 7.6%, more than June 2022.
“Time and again, we have seen our monthly revenues exceed estimates because of my administration’s success in attracting businesses, expanding our workforce, and growing our state’s economy,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This past legislative session, I fought for responsible tax cuts on groceries, property, and Social Security to put this money back in the hands of working Kansans. Come January, I am committed to partnering with legislators to get Kansans relief.”
Individual income tax collections were $379.0 million. That is $4.0 million, or 1.1%, less than the estimate but $14.3 million, or 3.9%, more than June 2022. Corporate income tax collections were $226.2 million. That’s $26.2 million, or 13.1%, more than the estimate and up 52.7% from June 2022.
Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $303.5 million. That is $1.5 million, or 0.5%, more than the estimate but less than June 2022 by only 0.1%.
Kansas will end FY 2023 with total tax collections of nearly $10.2 billion, which exceeds the FY 2023 revised estimate by $25.9 million.
Click here to view the June 2023 revenue numbers.
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U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter
Announcing Federal Investment for KU Cancer Center
On Thursday, I announced a $43 million federal investment to plan and help build a new cancer research facility at The University of Kansas Cancer Center. This funding will play a critical role in supporting the center’s research and development and translating the findings into effective treatments for patients.
In addition to the $43 million in federal funding, the event also featured an announcement regarding the single largest private donation made to the University of Kansas Medical Center and the University of Kansas Health System. The Sunderland Foundation, a family foundation focused on improving the quality of life in Kansas City through philanthropic donations, announced a $100 million donation to the University of Kansas Health System and University of Kansas Medical Center to further the research, patient care and expansion of the institution.
The University of Kansas Cancer Center is a nationally recognized leader in the fight to treat and cure cancer, and last year I announced it was awarded the National Cancer Institute’s comprehensive cancer center designation, opening up new avenues for federal investments and research. With this new facility and the comprehensive designation, the University of Kansas Cancer Center will be able to recruit the best talent from around the world and expand its legacy and capabilities to conduct innovative research to cure and treat cancer.
Continue reading U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter
Agenda for the Bo Co Commission Special Meeting on July 3
Bourbon County Courthouse
210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800
Fax: 620-223-5832
Bourbon County, Kansas
Nelson Blythe
1st District Commissioner
Jim Harris, Chairman
2nd District Commissioner
Clifton Beth
3rd District Commissioner
Bourbon County Commission Agenda 210 S. National Ave.
Fort Scott, KS 66701
July 3, 2023 9:00 a.m.
- Call Meeting to Order
- Discussion of CARES Provider Relief Fund Invoice
- Public Comments
- Commission Comments
- Meeting Adjourn
Executive Session Justifications:
KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the
attorney-client relationship.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the
representative(s) of the body or agency.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual proprietorships
KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to the security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting
would jeopardize such security measures.
Kobach statement regarding Governor’s decision not to enforce SB 180
In response to the Governor announcing she will not comply with the changes commanded by SB 180, Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach released the following statement:
“The Governor has stated that SB 180 changes nothing with respect to drivers licenses and birth certificates. That is nonsense. The Legislature passed SB 180 and overrode Governor Kelly’s veto specifically to ensure that those documents reflect biological sex at birth. The Governor doesn’t get to veto a bill and then ignore the Legislature’s override. She is violating her oath of office to uphold Kansas law. We will see her in court.”
FS Design Review Board To Discuss the 1st Colored Infantry Mural on July 10
DESIGN REVIEW BOARD MEETING TO DISCUSS THE 1ST COLORED INFANTRY MURAL ON MONDAY, JULY 10TH , 4:00 PM AT CITY HALL
Keep Your Independence Day Safe with a Few Tips from the Experts
Enjoy a Safe, Fun Celebration with Family and Friends
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), Office of the State Fire Marshal and Safe Kids Kansas would like to share some important safety tips to ensure that all Kansans have a safe and fun Independence Day this year.
In 2022, there were a total of 102 injuries caused by fireworks in Kansas. The person igniting the firework was most likely to be injured, and the hands were the most common body part to be injured. Over half of the injuries that occurred from fireworks that happened on July Fourth were from burns. There was a 43 percent decrease in reported injuries from 2021.
Each age group saw a decrease except for a slight increase in 0-3 year-olds. The highest incidents of injuries were caused by mortars or artillery fireworks and other fireworks like parachutes, fountains and spinning items. This 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,” 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 summertime gatherings. Make sure grills are used outdoors only, away from the home and 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.”
Here are some tips to keep your celebrations safe:
Have adults supervise children and pets around grills and fireworks.
Designate a child-free safety zone around grills and areas where fireworks are being lit.
Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.
Fireworks should only be handled by adults. Consider giving children glow sticks, which also help you see little ones after dark.
Have a water supply ready, such as a bucket of water or garden hose.
Dispose of used fireworks carefully, as they may reignite.
Keep a first-aid kit available and nearby.
Ignite fireworks outdoors on a flat surface.
Light only one firework at a time.
Never stand over fireworks when lighting or holding a firework in your hand when lighting the fuse and wear eye protection.
Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
Never attempt to make your own fireworks.
Bottle rockets are illegal and M80 type of “fireworks” are considered explosives, and it is a felony in Kansas to possess, manufacture or use, as well as being extremely dangerous. The use or sale of these banned fireworks and explosives 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.
For more information on fireworks safety, visit firemarshal.ks.gov/216/ or safekidskansas.org/
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Courthouse Closed and No Bo Co Commission Meeting For Independence Day
There will not be a Bourbon County Commission Meeting held on Monday, July 3, 2023.
The Courthouse and Transfer Station will be closed on July 4 in observance of Independence Day
U235 Special Board Meeting June 30
UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 235
UNIONTOWN, KANSAS
SPECIAL BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Friday, June 30, 2023
7:00 a.m.
AGENDA
- I. Call to Order.
- Flag salute.
B. District Mission Statement. - B. Approve the Agenda.
- Information Items:
- Purchase of Vehicle.
- Selection of Construction Manager at Risk.
III. Action Items:
- Approve Purchase of Vehicle.
- Approve Construction Manager at Risk.
- Adjournment.
Next regular board meeting date is Monday July 10, 2023 at 7:30.
Bo Co Commission Minutes of June 19
June 19, 2023 Monday, 5:30 p.m.
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners and the County Clerk present at the Bourbon County Courthouse.
Teri Hulsey, Clint Walker, Rachel Walker, and Deb McCoy were present for some or all of the meeting.
Jim Harris opened the meeting with the flag salute followed by a prayer led by Nelson Blythe.
Nelson made a motion to approve the consent agenda which includes the approval of minutes from 6/12/2023, approval of payroll totaling $337,222.05, and approval of accounts payable totaling $433,607.15. Clifton seconded the motion and all approved.
Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda to move Susan Bancroft and the discussion of the HRSA notice before the department updates sections. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.
Susan Bancroft, CFO, informed the Commission that a notice was received Friday from the Department of Health and Human Services regarding the first payment of Cares Act funding for EMS. The payment was issued with the stipulation that the county had to make application and do reporting. The reporting was never completed and Susan was unable to obtain an extension since the reporting cutoff was in 2021. Susan said Jody was the initial contact, and is unsure where the letters went from the time she left until Jennifer received the final notice letter. Jennifer and Susan looked unsuccessfully through files over the weekend for documentation regarding the funding. Since the cutoff period has passed with the county’s obligations not met, we will have to pay back more than $38,000 plus penalty which started assessing as of May 28, 2023 unless Susan can get a grievance. Nelson questioned why we never received notices, and Susan said it was due to turnover. Susan stated we need to have a county contact with a general email address so when people leave, we are still in touch and receiving all the information we need. Clifton said that by state statute the County Clerk is the County Commissioners secretary so he feels she should be a contact, and Jim agreed. Justin said there should be at least two contacts and recommended the Treasurer, Chairman, and CFO. Jim made a motion to allow Susan to file a grievance so we won’t have to pay back the funding. Clifton seconded the motion, and all approved.
Dustin Hall, Assistant Public Works Director, gave and update and thanked the First Church of the Nazarene who provided an appreciation breakfast for the public works crew this morning. The asphalting on Valley Road has been completed and they will now be heading south on 245th Street to Soldier Road. Dustin reported there was a delay in receiving asphalt oil that is being delivered from Oklahoma due to the storms they received over the weekend. Dustin gave an update on noxious weed chemicals stating the 160-acre maximum per person per chemical has been re-instated and a chemical order was placed and will arrive Friday. Clifton questioned the 160-acre maximum stating individuals should be spot spraying to eradicate noxious weed not spraying entire pastures. Clifton said when he purchased chemical from the county in the past you had to pay for the chemical that day. Clifton also questioned why we are providing so many types of chemicals and that he feels we are subsidizing people with county tax dollars and that is infuriating to him. Jim suggested putting reasonable limits on what we sell. Nelson brought up the voucher program that Linn County uses, however Dustin said he fears it would cost the county more money to do. Dustin asked for permission to go out for bid on a mini-excavator and trailer for the bridge crew and road graders. Dustin discussed the equipment replacement plan that Public Works has and how they plan to get on a schedule so they can replace equipment while it still has some trade-in value. Jim told Dustin to check fuel consumption on the road graders as they bid because an additional four gallons per hour over five years would result in substantial savings for the county. Nelson clarified that Dustin was just going out for bid at this time and not actually buying equipment, which Dustin confirmed. Jim expressed his concern about not having the mowers out mowing the ditches. Dustin updated the Commissioners on parts they have ordered and are still waiting for to fix one of the mowers. Nelson asked Dustin where they were on dust control. Dustin stated the truck is tied up asphalting now and they are waiting for a final number of participants this year so they can spray the dust control between asphalting projects. Dustin said the price to participate is $1.75 per linear foot again this year with a minimum of 300 feet. Nelson said he was contacted by USD 235 who received a grant to rebuild their walking trail and it was questioned if the county would help remove the old trail. Dustin said if the Commission gave the approval, then they would make it happen.
Jennifer Hawkins, County Clerk, presented Gary Hall’s fence viewing application again to try to set up a time with the Commissioners to attend a viewing. Clifton called Gary who after discussion over times said he would try to figure out a time for the following week and let the Commission know.
Teri Hulsey, EMS Director, handed out quotes for repairs to one of the ambulances. Dustin said the ambulance had been previously sent out to a company for repairs, and Teri said she doesn’t think it had been in service one week since it was picked up from the company. Dustin said they have had a hard time finding companies to do the repairs in our area and were looking for some in the Kansas City area. Another ambulance is needing repairs and Dustin had a quote for $29,000 but he felt it was high and will be getting quotes from the additional companies in the Kansas City area. Dustin suggested the Commission consider purchasing a new ambulance since they are three years out on delivery dates. Teri said the company they purchased the last ambulance from will work with us to order now and set up payment options so that we comply with cash basis law.
Susan Bancroft requested a 10-minute executive session. Clifton made a motion to go into a 10-minute executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy. The executive session will include the three Commissioners, Susan Bancroft, and Justin Meeks and will return at 6:29. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 6:29 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.
Clifton made a motion to go into a 10-minute executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy. The executive session will include the three Commissioners, Susan Bancroft, and Justin Meeks and will return at 6:40. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 6:40 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.
During the public comments section Clint Walker discussed noxious weeds and how they can build up resistance to chemicals if sprayed with them over and over.
During the Commission comments Clifton explained he had over 35 years of experience farming over 3,000 acres and he knows about noxious weeds. Jim asked Justin Meeks, County Counselor, why the Commission were going to a fence viewing if the fence was already built. Justin explained they have to go in an open meeting to view the fence to determine who all pays for the fence. Jim also asked about having a meeting on the night of July 3rd since most fireworks shows will be held that night. Jim made a motion to not hold a meeting on the night of July 3rd. Clifton seconded the motion and all approved. Justin asked if the Commission will be holding meetings in Redfield or Bronson. After discussion it was determined to hold a meeting in Redfield on June 26, no meeting on July 3, be back in Fort Scott on July 10 and possibly hold a meeting in Bronson on July 17.
Clifton made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:48. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.
Approved 6-26-2023
THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS
___________________, Chairman
___________________, Commissioner
ATTEST: ___________________, Commissioner
Jennifer Hawkins, Bourbon County Clerk
_______________, Approved Date
U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter
Introducing Legislation to Improve the VA
This week, I introduced the Restore Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability Act. This legislation would strengthen the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) authority to hold bad employees accountable and put the interests of our veterans first. I was joined by my colleagues, Senators Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), in introducing this important bill in the Senate and by Congressman Mike Bost (R-IL), the chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, who introduced it in the House of Representatives.
While the vast majority of VA employees work every day to do what’s best for veterans and their families, we have seen time and time again instances of veterans who are harmed by the bad actions of certain poor-performing VA staff. That is why, in 2017, Congress passed a bill I supported, the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act, to give the VA the ability to break through the bureaucracy and hold employees accountable. Unfortunately, recent decisions from the Federal Circuit, the Federal Labor Relations Authority and the Merit Systems Protection Board rendered the 2017 law unusable for most VA staff. The VA must be able to act quickly and fairly to right the wrongs of bad actors in the VA’s workforce so veterans can have confidence in the health care and benefits that the VA provides and VA employees can have a safe, well-functioning workplace. The Restore Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability Act would reaffirm the intent of the 2017 law, increase accountability for hundreds of thousands of VA staff across the country and – most importantly – put our nation’s veterans first. Like the 2017 law, the Restore Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability Act is supported by leading veteran and military service organizations. I look forward to working with them and my colleagues to send this bill to the President’s desk as quickly as possible.
You can read more from Military Times here.
Promoting the Air Capital of the World
Kansas has a rich history of aviation and manufacturing with a culture of innovation. Over the past several years, the state has seen a significant amount of new business and expanded opportunities for the companies that currently call Kansas home. As we build on these successes, I was pleased to work alongside the Greater Wichita Partnership and Wichita State University to lead the largest Kansas delegation ever to this year’s Paris Air Show, offering the ideal opportunity to share with the world Kansas’ capabilities in aviation, space and national defense.
This year’s aviation and defense forum offered the opportunity to meet with government and business leaders from around the world and to discuss current and future partnerships to bring new business to Kansas.
Promoting U.S. Capabilities in Aerospace & Defense
Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H) and I joined Bloomberg Markets live from the air show to the importance of the U.S. aviation and defense industry. You can watch the full interview here.
Meeting with President Macron
I also took the opportunity to urge our NATO allies, specifically France, to remain united in our shared support for Ukraine. I met with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss Putin’s unjust invasion of Ukraine and the implications the outcome of this war will have on the security of Europe and the Western Pacific. It is vital NATO allies are united behind Ukraine, and we reaffirmed to President Macron our resolve and long-term commitment to help Ukraine not just survive, but to win. It is an honor to represent Kansas’ aviation and manufacturing capabilities on the international stage, as well as our nation’s resolve in assisting Ukraine.
The U.S. Must Project Strength When Dealing with China
Over the weekend, I joined Neil Cavuto on Fox News to discuss Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s trip to China and need to project strength when dealing with China. You can watch the full interview here.
Writing to WSJ Journalist Evan Gershkovich
This week, I joined 30 of my Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Evan Gershkovich, a reporter for the Wall Street Journal who has been wrongfully detained by Russia since March. We expressed our anger over his current circumstances and pledged our support in advocating for his release and the release of Paul Whelan, who has been held unjustly in a Russian jail since 2018. When I met with President Emmanuel Macron of France in Paris, I worked to secure his commitment to work with the United States to bring our fellow citizens home. I hope this letter provides Evan some comfort and demonstrates the importance my colleagues and I place on securing his freedom.
One Year Since Supreme Court Ruling on Roe v. Wade
“It is time to heed the Constitution and return the issue of abortion to the people’s elected representatives.” – Justice Alito, Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization
Saturday marked one year since the Supreme Court of the United States struck down Roe v. Wade and ended nearly 50 years of widespread legalized abortion. In the year since this ruling, numerous states have passed laws to restrict abortion and save unborn lives. This ruling has paved the way for states to use their authority to pass laws based on the people they represent. The American people now have the opportunity to make their voices heard through their representatives and the legislative process to pass laws that protect the unborn and support their mothers.
Introducing Commissioner Starks to Commerce Committee
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) plays an important role as the primary regulator of the communications industry, and it is important that the right people are selected for its leadership. On Thursday, I questioned three FCC nominees about the role they believe the FCC should play in regulating broadband, access to broadband and securing Americans’ data. The expansion of broadband to Americans currently without access is vital for the economic success of rural parts of the U.S., which is most often where there is no broadband access. But the growth of internet applications has created new pathways for foreign adversaries to siphon off Americans’ personal and sensitive data, creating a national security risk. Congress and federal agencies, like the FCC, must counter this threat. I have introduced legislation to protect American data online and to provide the government the tools necessary to stop entities controlled by foreign adversaries from collecting such data. If these nominees are confirmed, I look forward to working with them to address this issue.
During the hearing, I was pleased to again introduce Commissioner Geoffrey Starks, a native of Leawood, to the committee. I first introduced Commissioner Starks in 2018, when he was nominated for the FCC by President Trump. One of the most important qualifications for an FCC Commissioner to me is the ability to work in a bipartisan, productive manner. Commissioner Starks has experience working on bipartisan issues like broadband access and network security, and I expect this would continue if he were confirmed. It is also important to me that Kansas is well represented in federal institutions, and I appreciate Commissioner Starks bringing Kansas values to the table at the FCC.
Questioning Amtrak Board Nominees During Commerce Hearing
On Wednesday, the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation held a hearing to consider nominations to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), as well as the Amtrak Board of Directors. When President Biden nominated his slate of directors, he did not comply with a provision in the 2021 Surface Transportation Reauthorization I authored, which requires at least four of the eight Amtrak board members to reside in or near regions of the United States that are geographically distributed outside the Northeast Corridor.
During the hearing, I spoke on the importance of a geographically diverse Board of Directors – not dominated by one particular region of the country – and the correct implementation of the law. I have held a long-time interest in making certain that long-distance Amtrak is a priority of the board, even by amending the law to make clearer Amtrak’s value of the long-distance routes. I questioned the nominees on, if confirmed, what their commitment to long-distance service would entail. I strongly urge the President to rescind one of his nominees who resides in the Northeast Corridor and amend his slate to come into compliance with the law.
You can read more from the Hutch Post here.
You can watch my remarks here.
Meeting with Kansans
Congressional Award Gold Medalists
On Wednesday, I met with Kyanne Carlgren and Amara Patel of Leawood to congratulate them on receiving the Congressional Award Gold Medal for their outstanding achievements. The Congressional Award aims to recognize excellence in young people by examining four areas of achievement: Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness and Expedition.
Over the course of two years, each awardee completed more than 400 hours of community service, dedicated 200 hours to a personal development activity, 200 hours to physical fitness and completed a 5-day, 4-night expedition. I commend Kyanne and Amara for their incredible accomplishments and selfless work on behalf of others. I was pleased to have the opportunity to congratulate them and their families.
Electric Cooperative Youth Tour
On Thursday, I met with Kansas students from the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour, an organization which has brought high school students to Washington, D.C., for a week in June every year since the late 1950s. Nearly 50,000 students from rural areas and small towns across America have participated in this program. Students apply and are selected for this program by their local electric cooperative and more than 2,400 young people and their chaperones from 44 states participate in the Youth Tour each year. I am always impressed by these students from all across Kansas and enjoy the chance to visit with them each year. I am always encouraged by their commitment to learn about public service, government and preserving the Kansas way of life in our state.
National Association of Fixed Annuities Award Presentation
I met with members of the National Association of Fixed Annuities (NAFA) this week and was grateful to be presented with their Legislator of the Year Award. I introduced a Senate Resolution honoring June as National Annuities Awareness Month, recognizing the efforts of groups like NAFA to promote strong financial futures for Kansans. The investments made now in retirement planning stand to benefit generations of hard-working American families, and I will continue to advocate for responsible federal retirement legislation that maintains state-based jurisdiction.
Madison Coyne of Overland Park
On Thursday, I visited with Madison Coyne of Overland Park, a high school student who served as one of my Senate pages over the summer. I received many compliments from my colleagues who noticed her dedication and hard work during her time serving as a Senate page, and I am grateful to Madison for her time spent serving in our nation’s capital.
Visiting with DEA Fellow Brian Hutchison and Family
This week, I visited with the family of my Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Congressional Fellow Brian Hutchison. During our meeting, I expressed my thanks to his wife Amber and their three children, Caden, Conner, and Charlie, for supporting Brian in the work he does to support our law enforcement. His experience with the DEA provides valuable insight into my work to make certain the men and women in law enforcement have the tools they need to perform their duties. I am grateful to Brian and his family for their sacrifices and heart for public service.
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