Category Archives: Kansas

Government, Kansas

KS Dairy Producers Reminded to Obtain 2025 Dairy Margin Coverage by March 31   

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Manhattan, Kansas March 25, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is encouraging dairy producers to enroll in Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC), an important safety net program that helps offset milk and feed price differences. This year’s DMC signup began Jan. 29 and the deadline to enroll is March 31, 2025.

“We encourage producers to join the 67 dairy operations in Kansas that have already signed up for this important safety net program in advance of the deadline,” said USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) Deputy State Executive Director Joshua Ridder “At $0.15 per hundredweight for $9.50 coverage, risk protection through Dairy Margin Coverage is a cost-effective tool to manage risk and provide security for your operations.”

The American Relief Act, 2025 extended provisions of the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018 (2018 Farm Bill) authorizing DMC for coverage year 2025.

DMC provides dairy operations with risk management coverage that pays producers when the difference (the margin) between the national price of milk and the average cost of feed falls below a certain level selected by the program participants.

DMC offers different levels of coverage minus a $100 administrative fee. The administrative fee is waived for dairy producers who are considered limited resource, beginning, socially disadvantaged or a military veteran.

DMC payments are calculated using updated feed and premium hay costs, making the program more reflective of actual dairy producer expenses.  These updated feed calculations use 100% premium alfalfa hay.

For more information on DMC, visit the or contact your local USDA Service Center.

 

 

 

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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

 

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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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, Kansas

Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission to Meet in Topeka on March 27

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission will hold its next public meeting on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the Topeka & Shawnee County Library in Topeka. The meeting will begin at noon and continue until all agenda items are addressed.

The meeting will open with a report from the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, during which commissioners will hear about regulations currently in promulgation. Following the department report, commissioners will take comments on non-agenda items and listen to remarks from KDWP Secretary Christopher Kennedy.

A discussion on the night vision coyote hunting season will then take place, followed by workshop session items – topics that may be voted on in the future – including:

  • 2025-26 Waterfowl Season Date, Bag and Possession Limits
  • Kansas Duck Zones
  • K.A.R. 115-25-8 – Elk; open season, bag limit, and permits
  • K.A.R. 115-25-9 – Big Game Regulations
  • 2025 Deer Permit Quotas

The meeting will conclude with an additional opportunity for public comment on non-agenda items. The complete agenda can be viewed HERE.

Attendees can participate in the meetings in person or virtually. Instructions for joining via Zoom, phone, or live streaming are available HERE under “Instructions to Participate in Virtual Meeting.” Those who wish to provide input but cannot attend may fill out the “Contact All Commissioners” form HERE.

An interpreter for the hearing impaired can be requested by calling the Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing at 1-800-432-0698. Individuals with disabilities may request other accommodations by contacting the Commission secretary at (620) 672-0702.

The next commission meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 24, 2025, at the Flint Oak Hunting Resort in Fall River.

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Art, Bourbon County, Business, Government, Kansas

Awardees of the KS Governor’s Arts Announced.

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Governor Kelly Recognizes Melissa Etheridge, Others at Governor’s Arts Awards

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly and the Kansas Arts Commission (KAC) today announced the recipients of the 2025 Kansas Governor’s Arts Awards during a ceremony held at the Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center. The event was focused on celebrating remarkable individuals, organizations and communities for their exceptional contributions and leadership in advancing the arts across Kansas.

Grammy and Oscar Award-winning musician Melissa Etheridge was named this year’s recipient of the prestigious Governor’s Award.

“There are many talented Kansans involved in creative work across our state, and we know that art enhances their lives and the lives of those around them,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The people we recognized at the Governor’s Arts Awards tonight are using their talents and passions to strengthen communities all throughout Kansas and to enrich the culture of our great state.”

At the awards ceremony hosted by Wichita television personality Sierra Scott, 17 individuals and organizations were recognized for their work and efforts in elevating Kansas through arts and culture. Nominations for each award are thoroughly reviewed and chosen by a selection committee. The recipient for The Governor’s Award is chosen by Governor Kelly herself.

“Governor Kelly and I have had the privilege of learning about and witnessing the dedication of artists, organizations, advocates, communities and creative businesses located across every region of our state,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The Kansas arts and culture community plays a significant role in our growing economy by enriching the quality of place we call home. This impressive group of awardees is most deserving of the spotlight, and the state looks forward to see these inspiring leaders continue to enhance the cultural landscape of Kansas.”

The 2025 Governor’s Award recipient has been inspiring fans around the world for decades. Beyond Etheridge’s chart-topping records and stirring live performances, the Leavenworth native is known as a tireless advocate of Kansas who champions local causes through hands-on service.

“Across the nation and world, people are connecting with Etheridge’s music and can see how she truly embodies the Kansas values of hard work, self-reliance and kindness,” Kansas Arts Commission Director Curtis Young said. “She takes all the things that make Kansas great and shares them with the world — and she regularly brings it back home to benefit communities through her generosity and spirit.”

This year’s award categories and recipients are:

  • Excellence in Artistic Achievement in Media Arts: Kiki Bush, Gypsum
  • Excellence in Artistic Achievement in Music: Bob McWilliams, Lawrence
  • Excellence in Artistic Achievement in Visual Arts: Shin-hee Chin, McPherson
  • Arts Advocacy: Brenda Meder, Hays
  • Arts Patron of the Year: Paul Dorrell, Roeland Park
  • Excellence in Arts Education: Tyler Dallis, Pratt
  • Excellence in the Arts in Business: The Artificers, Fort Scott
  • Emerging Arts Leader of the Year: Lacey Connell, Overland Park
  • Emerging Arts Organization of the Year: LV Arts, Leavenworth
  • Rural Arts Community of the Year: Clay Center
  • Urban Arts Community of the Year: NOTO Arts & Entertainment District, Topeka
  • Arts Leader of the Year: Katy Guthrie, Garden City
  • Arts Organization of the Year: Theatre in the Park, Overland Park
  • Arts Legacy Award: Constance “Connie” Bonfy, Wichita
  • Arts Legacy Award: Cecil Riney, Wichita
  • Arts Legacy Award: NedRa Bonds, Kansas City
  • The Governor’s Award: Melissa Etheridge, Leavenworth

To learn more about the Kansas Arts Commission, their programs or art resources, visit 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 Kansas Arts Commission (KAC):

The Kansas Arts Commission stewards the state’s investment in the arts by empowering creativity, fostering innovation, and strengthening the economy to enhance the vitality of every Kansas community. The Kansas Arts Commission is a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce. To learn more about KAC, click here or contact Ben Stanton at benjamin.stanton@ks.gov or (785) 213-5959.

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Government, Kansas

One Case of Measles Confirmed in a Kansas Resident

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Stevens County Health Department have reported a positive case of measles in a resident of Stevens County. It is currently unknown whether this case is linked to any ongoing measles outbreaks in the United States. KDHE, along with the Stevens County Health Department, are notifying individuals who may have been exposed to this case of measles. This incident marks the first measles case in Kansas since 2018.

Early symptoms of measles are a fever of more than 101 degrees Fahrenheit, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. Usually, one to four days after these early symptoms, a red rash appears on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Measles symptoms typically develop 10-14 days after exposure. Symptoms can develop as soon as seven days and as long as 21 days after exposure.

Measles is a respiratory disease caused by a virus. Measles is spread through the air by breathing, coughing or sneezing. Measles can be spread from an infected person to others from four days before, to four days after the rash appears.

Because measles is a highly infectious disease, it is very important for anyone exposed and experiencing symptoms to isolate from others with the exception of visiting a health care provider.

The best way to prevent measles is to get the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends children get their first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and a second dose at age 4 to 6 years. Infants ages 6 through 11 months old should get the MMR vaccination if traveling outside the United States. Adults are protected from measles if they have had at least one dose of the MMR vaccine, were born before 1957, or have evidence of immunity from a blood test.

If an individual has known exposure to someone with measles and they are not immune through vaccination or prior infection, they are recommended to:

  • Consult with a health care provider to determine if post-exposure prophylaxis is recommended.
  • Exclude themselves from public settings for 21 days from the last time they were exposed unless symptoms develop.
  • If symptoms develop, individuals should notify their local health department and stay away from public areas until four days after the rash appeared.
  • Individuals seeking health care are advised to call ahead to their health care provider and let them know their symptoms and exposure concerns. This will help limit exposure within the healthcare setting.

Per K.A.R. 28-1-2, measles is a four-hour reportable disease. If a health care provider, laboratory or hospital suspects, tests, or diagnoses an individual with measles, KDHE should be notified immediately. KDHE will work with the health care provider on testing recommendations. Teachers and school administrators are also required by law to report suspected cases to KDHE.

Measles cases rarely occur in Kansas and are usually associated with international travel.

For questions, call the Stevens County Health Department at 620-544-7177 or KDHE Epidemiology Hotline at 877-427-7317 (option 5).

Government, Jobs, Kansas

State Agency Jobs at March 19 Virtual Job Fair

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KANSASWORKS Highlights Available State Agency Jobs at March Job Fair

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this month’s Virtual State Agency Job Fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 19.

“Our state agencies have provided thousands of Kansans with fulfilling careers in public service,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “For those who are beginning the search for a professional career or those looking for a change of scenery — I encourage you to consider a purpose-driven role at one of our many departments and see what the State of Kansas has to offer.”

There are nearly 500 open agency positions located all across the state that range from entry to senior level careers. The virtual job fair format allows anyone searching for a state position to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating agencies.

This month’s Virtual State Agency Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating agencies, and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as they might be asked to engage in an interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations 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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