Kansas State Treasurer, Kansas Bankers Association propose plan to provide COVID-19 relief for Kansas businesses

Topeka— The Kansas Bankers Association today proposed the start of the Kansas Economic Recovery Linked Deposit Loan Program with the full support of Kansas State Treasurer Jake LaTurner and other stakeholders. This COVID-19 relief measure would utilize existing state idle funds to provide low-interest loans to businesses seeking relief from losses sustained due to COVID-19.

In order to fund the program, the legislature would need to allow for the reallocation of $60-million dollars currently set aside for the Kansas Housing Loan Deposit Program (KHLDP), which began in 2008 and is currently not being utilized. The funds are distributed to banks using what is called a linked deposit program model where the State of Kansas makes a certain amount of its idle funds available for banks to borrow at less than the daily market rate so that they can turn around and provide loans to their customers at a lower rate.

“Kansas businesses have taken some devastating losses during the drastic economic downturn we are facing due to COVID-19, and the time to act is now. We owe it to our businesses and ag producers to utilize the resources we have available to help them during this time,” said LaTurner. “This is not a government handout. It is a free market solution to assist our Kansas businesses and families. I urge the legislature and the governor to make this law as quickly as possible so that we can assist as Kansans rebuild from this pandemic.”

The Kansas linked deposit program was successfully utilized in 2000 when the Kansas Legislature allocated $50 million for the Kansas Agricultural Production Loan Deposit Program (APLDP) to assist struggling Kansas farmers with their day-to-day farming expenses at a low interest rate. Within 3 weeks of the KS Legislature approving the $50 million to be used for the program, 36 banks had requested and received nearly the full amount allocated for the benefit of over 400 borrowers. In 2001 the Kansas Legislature added an additional $5 million to the program.

In this new proposal for the Economic Recovery Linked Deposit Loan Program, loans would be authorized for a length up to 10 years with a maximum individual loan limit of $250,000. Participating financial institutions would be responsible for the underwriting of each loan and the state would be repaid on those deposits at a floating rate of 2% below market rate with a floor of 0.25%. The interest rate spread for participating institutions would be capped at 3%.

Doug Wareham, President and CEO of the Kansas Bankers Association has been working closely with legislative leaders to develop a robust state-level response addressing the need for low-cost credit for Kansas businesses and supports repurposing the KHLDP funds for COVID-19 relief.

“We support the Kansas State Treasurer and policymakers arming the business community with tools needed to restructure debt when feasible and to allow struggling businesses to manage their way through this crisis,” said Wareham. “The COVID-19 pandemic has severely harmed businesses, including farmers and ranchers, across Kansas. Shuttered storefronts, a crippled energy sector, low farm commodity prices and disruptions in the food processing sector are causing a ripple effect that will negatively impact the cash flows of agricultural operators and small businesses for the foreseeable future. The negative economic impact of COVID-19 has been unprecedented and Kansas businesses will need both short and long-term credit strategies to remain viable.”

Surrounding states, such as Missouri, Oklahoma and Iowa have similar programs that are currently infusing

hundreds of millions of working capital dollars into businesses in their respective states.

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Forty highway projects selected for IKE development pipeline

Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) Secretary Julie Lorenz announced today that preliminary engineering work will begin on 40 highway modernization and expansion projects.

These are the first projects to move forward under the Eisenhower Transportation Legacy Program (IKE), which was created in March.

“These transportation investments come at a critical time for our state’s economy. A robust development pipeline will help jumpstart our economic recovery by creating jobs and allowing the state to take advantage of potential federal stimulus dollars,” said Governor Kelly. “I’m thankful to the Legislature for passing IKE, a critical employment tool that will help put more Kansans back to work.”

“A modern transportation system moves people, freight and technology and these 40 projects will allow us to do all those things better in every region of the state,” Secretary Lorenz said. “We’ve selected smaller projects, which can advance to construction quickly, and larger projects that will employ many people in all phases of development or construction.”

More than 2,000 Kansans participated in local consult discussions that shaped the IKE program and modernized how transportation should be delivered in Kansas. Here are a few notable features:

• IKE is a rolling program, which means major highway modernization and expansion projects will be selected every two years rather than once a decade as previous programs did. This ensures the State can address the most pressing needs and adjust to fluctuating revenues.

• Emphasis on right-sized, practical improvements.  For example, utilizing passing lanes rather than 4-lane expressways where applicable.

• New partnership programs (Cost Share, Local Bridge) between the State and local governments to address more needs.

• Investments in broadband and new technologies.

• Continued commitment to multimodal transportation with public transit, aviation, short-line rail and bike/pedestrian programs.

Previously, the only projects in KDOT’s development pipeline were the remaining T-WORKS projects.  The development pipeline includes all the phases of work prior to construction such as design, acquiring right-of-way or moving utilities. KDOT is not committing to constructing these 40 projects, but this will allow the necessary advance work to begin.

“I’ve directed KDOT to explore all options for accelerating project delivery for these 40 projects and for the delayed T-WORKS projects, which we remain committed to constructing,” the Governor said. “Transportation investments provide short-term and long-term economic benefits to communities and we’re committed to capturing as many of those opportunities as we can.”

The 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the last stimulus for transportation infrastructure, prioritized shovel-ready projects. Currently, discussions are underway for a new federal stimulus bill for infrastructure, which will likely have similar requirements. Today’s announcement will allow KDOT to get more projects shovel ready.

“Thanks to Governor Kelly, the Legislature and Kansans, IKE was tailor made for this moment,” Lorenz said.  “It provides us the flexibility we need now and in the future. Today’s announcement is only the beginning. We know we have much more work to do.”

More information about IKE, including the list of 40 projects selected, is available at http://www.ksdot.org/IKE.asp

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has added one state to the quarantine list: Maryland, and removed two states from the list: Colorado and Louisiana. This includes removal of the specific Colorado counties listed previously. This is effective for persons returning today, May 12, and moving forward. A comprehensive list of those individuals in Kansas needing to quarantine for 14 days includes those who have:

Traveled to:

• • Maryland on or after May 12.
• • Massachusetts and Rhode Island on or after April 30.
• • Connecticut on or after April 6.
• • Illinois or New Jersey on or after March 23.
• • New York on or after March 15.
• • Been on a cruise ship or river cruise on or after March 15.
• • International travel on or after March 15.

Others needing to continue quarantining:

• • People who have previously been told by Public Health to quarantine because of their cruise ship travel should finish out their quarantine.
• • People who have previously been told by Public Health to quarantine because of their international travel to China, South Korea, Japan, Italy and Iran should finish out their quarantine.
• • Received notification from public health officials (state or local) that you are a close contact of a laboratory-confirmed case of COVID-19.

Please note these quarantine orders do not apply to critical infrastructure sectors needed to continue operations during this pandemic. Public health, including hospitals, clinics, law enforcement, meatpacking supply, etc. need to have the staffing resources to continue serving Kansans. While KDHE strongly recommends these quarantine restrictions for everyone, we do recognize that services need to continue.

KDHE encourages facilities to ensure they have updated their Emergency Preparedness Plans and implement protocols to ensure that no employee comes to work symptomatic.

For more information on COVID-19, please visit the KDHE website at www.kdhe.ks.gov/coronavirus.

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KDADS Receives More Than $6.7 Million in Additional CARES Act Funding to Support Older Americans Act Programs

TOPEKA – Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) Secretary Laura Howard announced today that Kansas has received more than $6.7 million in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) grants from the Administration for Community Living (ACL) to help communities provide supportive services, meals, caregiver support services and long-term care ombudsman services for older adults.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, signed into law March 27, 2020, provided additional funding to states, territories and tribes for the various programs authorized by the Older Americans Act (OAA) of 1965. KDADS has received $6,785,425 under this grant program, the third part of a congressional economic stimulus bill, and is distributing the federal dollars to fund supportive services, caregiver support services, long-term care ombudsman services, and nutrition services. The funds for nutrition services are in addition to the more than $2 million provided by the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) KDADS received in March of this year.

“These funds will go directly toward helping agencies that deliver these vital support services in communities across our state support older adults in staying healthy and safe during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Howard said. “We appreciate their tireless efforts and ability to adapt and scale the increased needs of this crisis as they relate to the needs of our seniors and disabled individuals.”

The OAA Title III programs and services reach more than 300,000 Kansans each year, through community-based, in-home and statewide supports. The need for many of these services has increased as community measures to slow transmission of COVID-19 have closed congregate settings.

The state aging network is using innovative strategies to continue to serve older adults and support communities.

“Many of our local restaurants are struggling to keep their doors open, and we see this as an opportunity to collaborate and begin providing senior meals through an Older Americans Act voucher program with local restaurants in Northwest Kansas,” Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging Executive Director Michelle Morgan said. “We see this as a way to provide seniors with needed, nutritious meals while supporting our local businesses during this difficult time.”

Older adults who need assistance can find services and information in their neighborhood or community by calling the Area Agencies on Aging at 855-200-2372 where they will be directed to assistance in their area.

The Kansas Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman continues to advocate for civil and human rights, and support and empower consumers by resolving individual complaints while working to improve and enhance the long-term care system for residents and their families. The office serves individuals residing in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, board and care home, home plus facilities, adult day centers and residential health care facilities.

“Restrictions on visitation have significantly increased demand for ombudsman services, as families seek assistance in ensuring the well-being of their loved ones. This funding will give the Kansas Ombudsman program the ability to expand its virtual presence to residents and their families, to provide personal protective equipment once in-person visits resume and continue to promote the health, safety welfare, and rights of residents in the context of COVID-19,” Kansas Long-Term Care Ombudsman Barbara Hickert said.

Long-term care residents or their family members with questions or concerns related to COVID-19, or who need help facilitating communication with their family members may contact the Long-term Care Ombudsman at 877-662-8362.

There currently is a need for additional volunteers to deliver meals across the state. If you would like to volunteer and do not fall into any of the high-risk categories for COVID-19, please call 855-200-2372.

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Governor Laura Kelly orders flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of Office Mike Mosher and Peace Officers Memorial Day

In accordance with Executive Order 20-30, Governor Laura Kelly has ordered U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff on Wednesday, May 13, until sunset in honor of Overland Park Police Officer Mike Mosher.

“Officer Mosher tragically lost his life in the line of duty, while protecting his community,” Kelly said. “He was dedicated to service, and we owe him immeasurable gratitude for his career-long commitment to helping others.”

In accordance with Executive Order 20-30, the Governor also ordered all flags at public institutions throughout Kansas to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Friday, May 15, in observance of Peace Officers Memorial Day. President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation on Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week 2020 that called for the lowering of the flag.

“This week, as we honor the loss of one fallen officer, we also must recognize the continued sacrifices all of our law enforcement officers make as they serve and protect,” Kelly said. “We are able to live freely because of the brave women and men who suit up every day to protect our communities.”

Kansas receives grant to transform the Kansas early childhood system 

Governor Laura Kelly and other early childhood leaders from across Kansas announced today that an $8.9 million grant from the Administration for Children and Families has been awarded to continue efforts to strengthen the early childhood system in Kansas. The funding is the first installment of a 3-year renewal of Kansas’s Preschool Development Grant Birth Through Five (PDG B-5) initiative.  

“These funds will be imperative in helping to keep up our current momentum as we work to improve our state’s early childhood system,” Governor Kelly said. “This grant is particularly welcome now, as the COVID-19 pandemic has caused an additional degree of stress on early childhood in Kansas. With it, we will continue to fight for the health and safety of children and families in our state.”  

Leaders from the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund, the Kansas State Department of Education, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Children and Families began this collaborative work with a PDG B-5 planning grant in January 2019. The initial grant funded a comprehensive statewide needs assessment, which illuminated what Kansans need and want from their early childhood care and education system.  

Over 6,100 parents, early childcare and education professionals, civic and business leaders, and community members provided input. Addressing the findings from these efforts is the foundation of a new statewide strategic plan for early childhood, which was finalized earlier this month.   

“After touring the state throughout 2019, it’s clear that although Kansans recognize the importance of high-quality early childhood programs and services, we have work to do,” said Melissa Rooker, Executive Director of the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund. “This grant will allow us to focus on implementation of our strategic plan as we work to strengthen our system and achieve our vision that every Kansas child has the best possible start in life.” 

Funding from this grant will support systems-alignment, infrastructure, and innovation at the local and state level. Kansans can expect to see investments in activities that build a sustainable infrastructure for the early childhood system. 

Visit the Systems Building tab at www.kschildrenscabinet.org for more information and to stay engaged in the work to strengthen the early childhood system in the coming years. 

Funds for this project are provided through the Department of Health and Human Services (HSS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF) Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). The Preschool Development Grant Birth through Five 90TP0016-01-00 ($4,482,305) was awarded to the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE).  The Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund, the Kansas Department for Children and Families, and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment are leading this work with KSDE. This information or content and conclusions should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by HHS, ACF, or the U.S. Government.  

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Kansas Department of Revenue announces plan to reopen driver’s license offices

TOPEKA – Since March 24, 2020, extensions to driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations have been made through Executive Order 20-12 signed by Governor Laura Kelly. While those extensions are still valid, the Kansas Department of Revenue will start to reopen driver’s license offices on Tuesday, May 12, 2020.

Under Ad Astra: A plan to reopen Kansas, presented at the end of April by Governor Kelly, steps will be made to ensure the health and well-being of all who enter Kansas Department of Revenue offices. This includes requiring appointments and screenings before entering offices and implementing all social distancing guidelines.

“Following the procedures of the Ad Astra Plan and data presented by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, we are making concerted efforts to open in a thoughtful and safe manner,” Secretary Mark Burghart said.

“This is done by looking at the county COVID-19 case data and applicable guidelines on social distancing to make the necessary decisions to reopen and possibly temporarily reclose offices.”

Only essential services will be conducted in reopened driver’s license offices. These include:

• Drivers needing to transfer a license from another state
• Teen drivers receiving a license for the first time
• Drivers turning 21 or turning 50 years-of-age
• Applications for a new state identification card
• If there is no online access to the customer or other restriction to online service apply by statute, including not having an eye exam within the last 12 months

“It is important to note that Governor Kelly’s Executive Order 20-12, which allows extensions on driver’s license renewals and vehicle registrations, is still in effect,” David Harper, Director of Vehicles said.

“We encourage customers who can perform these services online to do so as we continue to evaluate the reopening of the more than 100 office locations with the partnership of county governments.”

Renewals to Governor Kelly’s extensions must be completed within 60 days of the expiration of the State of Disaster Emergency Proclamation, originally made in March, and extended due to the ongoing impact of COVID-19 to the state.

To schedule an appointment, customers are asked to call their driver’s license office or use the already established scheduling program, Q-Flow, for offices with that availability.

Beginning on May 12, the following offices will reopen by appointment only:

Moving forward, the reopened office listing is available at https://www.ksrevenue.org/reopening.html.

Online renewals of identification cards, driver’s licenses, and vehicle tag renewals can be done online at ikan.ks.gov or in the iKan app available in the Apple iTunes or Google Play stores. Some statutory restrictions apply. For those restrictions, an office visit will need to be scheduled.

To contact the Division of Vehicles about issues relating to a title, registration, or driver’s licenses, phone and email information can be found at ksrevenue.org/dovcontact.html.