TOPEKA –The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) are announcing the beginning of the Harmful Algal Bloom season.

The water recreation season in Kansas officially runs from April 1 to October 31, as do the harmful algae blooms (HAB) response program’s active operations. Kansans should remain vigilant while engaging in activities taking place in or on the water, such as swimming, boating, and fishing.

A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying algae on the shore, avoid contact and keep dogs away. These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g., direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat, and headache.

If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae rinse the area with clean, fresh water. Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported as soon as possible at kdhe.ks.gov/1163.

Kansas recognizes three advisory levels:

A Hazard status indicates that a HAB is present, and extreme conditions exist.

When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

• Signage should be posted at all public access locations.
• It is recommended that either a portion of the lake or the entire lake or zone, be closed to the public.
• In some cases, the adjacent land should be closed as well. Actual setback distances will be determined on a site-specific basis, if necessary.
• In zoned lakes, if a lake zone is issued at a Hazard level, all other adjacent lake zones may be recommended for an advisory status dependent on lake conditions.

A Warning status indicates that a HAB is expected or present.

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

• Signage should be posted at all public access locations.
• Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.
• Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.
• Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.
• Water contact should be avoided.
• Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.
• Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.
• If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.
• Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.

A Watch status means that a HAB is possible and may be present.

During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

• Signage should be posted at all public access locations.
• Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.
• Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.
• Swimming, wading, skiing, and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.
• Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.
• Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.

Advisories are Lifted when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.

KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE and KDWP report on potentially harmful conditions.

If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps, or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a HAB or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential HAB’s, please visit kdhe.ks.gov/HAB and view our interactive story and informative video.

In late 2024, the KDHE HAB response program identified a new and evolving health concern at a Kansas public waterbody associated with another species and growth form of blue-green algae, Harmful Algal Mats (HAMs). HAMs are blue-green algae that grow attached to the bottom of the waterbody or other surfaces. However, these blue-green algae mats can become detached and float or wash up on shore. In addition, HAMs can be mixed with non-harmful green algae and other aquatic vegetation.

HABs and HAMs can produce the same toxins, but their growth types are different, as do the advisory messages and signage issued for them. HABs are composed of high densities of usually small, microscopic blue-green algae dispersed in the water column that can change the color of water and often form a surface scum, especially during warmer months. HABs can be unpredictable, and conditions can change rapidly. On the other hand, HAMs can reside in water that looks clear and clean and may often appear as excess growth that is brown or black in color that carpets the bottom of the waterbody or other surfaces. HAMs may continue to persist and grow year-round in affected waterbodies.

The health risk from HAMs is greatest when exposure occurs through ingestion and when contact or disturbance of algal mat material occurs (particularly for small children and dogs). KDHE HAB Response Program will notify public waterbody managers if HAMs are detected at the waterbody while responding to algae bloom complaints and recommend that signage be posted.

If you notice HAM signage posted at the waterbody or excess algal growth that appears black or brown in color, be aware that potential health risks may be present when engaging in recreational activities. KDHE HAB Response Program recommends the following precautions be taken at HAM affected waters:

• Do not allow people or pets to eat algal mats or ingest lake water.
• Do not touch or contact algal mats. Use caution when engaging in recreational activities, especially primary contact recreation, such as swimming. Wash with clean water after skin contact with lake water.
• Do not transport algal mats to other waterbodies and follow KDWP’s guidance for cleaning boats and equipment.

For more information on Harmful Algal Mats, please visit:www.kdhe.ks.gov/HAM

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TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly and Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland recently participated in a roundtable surrounding the Department of Defense (DoD) SkillBridge program and the efforts taking place at Commerce to grow the workforce and elevate the Kansas economy.

“Military values are Kansas values,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Our troops dedicate years of their lives serving our nation — and Kansas is committed to easing their transition back to civilian life by connecting them and their families to lucrative careers.”

At the event, Commerce and DoD professionals discussed the importance of workforce resources specifically targeted to veterans seeking employment following their successful military service.

The roundtable also featured leadership and professionals from Kansas Military Affairs, Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth, McConnell Air Force, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and Hiring Our Heros. The discussions focused on the approaches necessary to foster economic opportunities for veterans, service members and military spouses in Kansas.

“SkillBridge is an important tool we can leverage with employers to get transitioning service members into lucrative careers as soon as possible — and make sure we keep them in our state for years to come,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “We have outstanding service members already here — and excellent employers willing to invest in strong talent pipelines. Quite simply, Kansas is the ideal place to foster SkillBridge success.”

The DoD SkillBridge program assists veterans with post-military employment opportunities such as training, apprenticeships and internships that prepare them for permanent employment at the conclusion of their service. Participating service members are granted up to 180 days as their separation date approaches to focus solely on training and gaining in-demand work experience.

“Hiring veterans after they complete their time in the military is not only the right thing to do, it allows companies to benefit from the value and skills they bring to the table,” Vice President of Hiring our Heroes at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and SkillBridge Advisor Elizabeth O’Brien said. “We’ve been impressed with Kansas’ commitment to pairing its workforce resources with DoD’s efforts – and become a top five state in retention through the SkillBridge program.”

With economic opportunities expanding in Kansas and an already established focus on post-military education and employment, Kansas is an ideal partner for elevating the work of the SkillBridge program and growing the workforce pipeline in Kansas.

To learn more about the SkillBridge program, visit here.

Interested in learning more about KANSASWORKS and employment resources? 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 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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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today launched the Supporting Innovative Growth through New Signage (SIGNS) grant, a new initiative aimed improving the appearance and appeal of retail and commercial business signage in downtowns across the state. The total funding amount available is $250,000 and will be distributed to support innovative, high-quality signage projects.

“Downtown districts are the heartbeat of our rural communities,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Through the new SIGNS grant, we’re directly investing in locally owned businesses and their ability to attract more customers while preserving the charm and character of their historic downtowns.”

Eligible applicants are businesses or building owners, municipalities, Main Street organization, economic development groups, chambers, foundations, tribal organization and other nonprofit community entities. Communities can apply for funding ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, with a required cash match based on the community’s population:

• 50% match for communities with populations between 2,500 and 50,000
• 25% match for communities with fewer than 2,500 residents

To preserve the unique character of Kansas’ historic downtowns, the grant prioritizes projects that adhere to the Kansas Commerce Sign Guidelines, ensuring that all signage complements existing architectural features. Preference will be given to three-dimensional signs created and installed by Kansas-based businesses.

Funds will be used to enhance community vitality and contribute to the downtown’s historical and aesthetic character. Awarded funds can be used for the design, purchase, lighting and installation of signs. The program is intended to support multiple buildings and businesses in a downtown region. A minimum of three signs must be proposed in each application.

Applications will be reviewed on a monthly first-come, first-served basis, until the funds are fully allocated. Applicants should ensure proposed projects comply with state and local regulations and that all grant-funded signage is completed within six months of the award approval.

“Historically, rural and small communities often lack the resources to revitalize their towns — that’s why this new funding opportunity is critical,” Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. “These investments in our downtowns and small businesses will foster growth and drive economic vitality across the state.”

For more information about the SIGNS grant, click here or contact Quality Places Manager Sara Bloom at [email protected] or (785) 506-9278.

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 Quality Places Division:

Established in 2024, the Quality Places Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce exists to improve quality of life in communities across the state through various programs and services. The Kansas Department of Commerce understands the immense role played by strong communities in economic development and prioritizes investments in people and communities as major contributors to the overall strength of the Kansas economy. To learn more, click here.

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced the launch of an innovative program to support community-driven projects that enhance the quality and functionality of public spaces in Kansas communities. The Transformative Art for Public Spaces (TAPS) grant will have a total of $150,000 available to support the creative transformation of often overlooked infrastructure into vibrant and engaging elements for the community.

“The TAPS grant program is about more than making every-day objects look more presentable,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Having attractive public gathering spots encourages more people to utilize them, stay for longer periods of time, and spend more money at local establishments. These small investments will have long-term economic benefits for communities across the state.”

The TAPS grant offers awardees amounts of $1,500 to $2,000 per project to cover materials, supplies and artist compensation. Interested applicants are encouraged to collaborate with local artists, students and community members by offering them opportunities to contribute creatively to their communities. A maximum of five projects are allowed per applicant.

Approved and funded fixtures and overlooked structures include:

• Electrical boxes
• Fire hydrants
• Trashcans
• Water utilities
• Other infrastructures

Applications will be accepted through December 5 or until funds are depleted. Priority will be given to projects in communities that have not received funding from Commerce during the previous three years.

“The TAPS Grant is an exciting way to celebrate community identity while offering artists and residents the chance to make a lasting impact on their surroundings,” Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. “We can’t wait to see how these projects inspire collaboration and connections among our Kansas communities and residents.”

Organizations may submit proposals for multiple projects within a single application, provided each project meets the program’s guidelines. Projects that will not be supported include:

• Signs promoting businesses
• Murals or large-scale wall installations
• Live performances or temporary art
• Large undertakings requiring structural modifications

Applicants must work with their local municipality or property owner and be permitted to create art on the proposed structure. Documentation of this permission will be required for the application.

For more details, application forms, project examples and resources, click here.

Questions about the TAPS Grant can be directed to Quality Places Manager Sara Bloom at [email protected] or (785) 506-9278.

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 Quality Places Division:

Established in 2024, the Quality Places Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce exists to improve quality of life in communities across the state through various programs and services. The Kansas Department of Commerce understands the immense role played by strong communities in economic development and prioritizes investments in people and communities as major contributors to the overall strength of the Kansas economy. To learn more, click here.

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TOPEKA – The State of Kansas ends March 2025 with total tax collections at $636.9 million. That is $13.6 million, or 2.1%, below the estimate. Total tax collections were down 16.2% from March 2024.

Individual income tax collections were $261.6 million. That is $3.4 million, or 1.3% below the estimate. Individual income tax collections were down 28.3% from March 2024. Corporate income tax collections were $50.1 million. That is $26.9 million, or 34.9% below the estimate, and down 35.0% from March 2024.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $246.8 million, which is $8.2 million, or 3.2% below the estimate and down $14.5 million, or 5.5%, from March 2024.

The Consensus Revenue Estimating Group (CRE), comprised of the Department of Revenue, Division of Budget, Legislative Research Department, and economists from the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University, will meet on April 17, 2025, to review the fall estimate and make any revisions it may consider necessary.

Click here to view the March 2025 revenue numbers.

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TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has vetoed Senate Bill 5 and Senate Bill 14. Governor Kelly also allowed House Bill 2106, House Bill 2027, and Senate Bill 105 to become law without her signature.

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TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has signed Senate Bill 36, which increases the cap on the amount of money conservation districts can receive from the division of conservation and increases the amount of matching dollars the state can provide conservation districts.

“Addressing our state’s diverse water quality and quantity challenges will require on-the-ground action from local partners who know their communities the best,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This bill strengthens local capacity by providing our state’s conservation districts the resources they need to effectively implement state and federal natural resource programs.”

Under Senate Bill 36, the matching basis for state moneys disbursed to conservation districts will be based on amounts allocated by the board of county commissioners for such districts.

“Kansas Conservation Districts have been a vital part of responsibly maintaining our water supply and protecting against erosion for over eight decades,” said Representative for House District 116 Kyle Hoffman. “By ensuring these districts have the resources necessary to continue their important work, we are taking critical steps toward the future of agriculture in Kansas.”

This bill doubles the amount of money conservation districts can receive from $25,000 to $50,000 and makes matching dollars a $2 division contribution for every $1 from counties to match the funds allocated by county commissioners.

“Doubling the matching funds available could allow the district to hire a second staff member to focus on education and outreach,” said Senator for District 2 Marci Francisco. “Helping our farmers understand the advantages of conservation practices such as cover crops could in turn have a significant impact on both soil health and crop quality.”

In addition to Senate Bill 36, Governor Kelly also signed the following bipartisan bills:

Senate Bill 6: Reaffirms current law prohibiting the use of ranked-choice voting methods for conducting elections.

Senate Bill 58: Modifies the requirements and allocations for multi-year flex accounts, providing for additional flexibilities to maximize the efficiency of water usage and conservation.

House Bill 2254: Ensures Kansas milk producers are financially protected by requiring milk processors to hold payments in trust for producers until full payment is received.

House Bill 2085: Extends the expiration of permits issued under the water pollution control permit system from five to 10 years.

House Bill 2166: Continues existing exceptions to the disclosure of public records under the open records act pertaining to sensitive personal medical information.

House Bill 2182: Clarifies that victims shall not be charged a fee for service of process by a sheriff’s office under the Kansas protection order acts; with the goal of ensuring that said fee does not deter victims from pursuing a protection order for their safety.

House Bill 2238: Directs legislative administrative services to prepare all committee minutes.

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Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill Eliminating Barriers to State Employment

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly signed on Friday Senate Bill 166, the Fostering Competitive Career Opportunities Act.

“There are a multitude of factors that go into employment consideration, and a postsecondary degree should not always be the deciding factor,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “While this principal has already been implemented for agencies under my jurisdiction, I am pleased to sign this bill to codify this practice.”

Senate Bill 166 ensures that applicants for state jobs can’t be denied solely due to their lack of a postsecondary degree. The provisions of the bill would not apply to any positions for which a postsecondary degree is justifiably necessary. Currently, less than 15% of state employees work in jobs that require a postsecondary degree.

“As Chairman of the Commerce Committee for the past seven years, I’ve heard time and again from businesses and workers alike that experience in the field often outweighs classroom learning, and I know firsthand that I learned far more through work than I ever did earning my MBA,” said Representative for House District 27 Sean Tarwater. “This bill sends a clear message: Kansas values hard work and experience. Countless Kansans chose to build their careers rather than take on debt for a degree, and it’s time we recognize and reward their skills.”

This bill codifies current practice for executive branch agencies, continuing to allow flexibility in determining requirements for applicants for each job posting. Rather than being strictly limited to a postsecondary degree requirement, employers could consider prior direct experience, certifications, courses or specialized training, among other requirements.

“With this commonsense approach, Kansas is no longer tied to outdated requirements to demonstrate work readiness,” said Senator for District 25 Mary Ware. “For decades we’ve experienced ‘degree inflation’ which demands a post-secondary degree whether it’s truly necessary, but now previous work and life experience will be as important as a college degree for thousands of positions in our state’s workforce.”

In addition to Senate Bill 166, Governor Kelly also signed the following bipartisan bills:

Senate Bill 78: Requires postsecondary educational institutions to review and update accreditation policies regularly.

Senate Bill 194: Voids a restrictive covenant that limits the use of real property and includes discriminatory provisions, enabling an IXP project at Wichita State University to proceed.

House Bill 2092: Updates certain reporting and audit requirements for Professional Employer Organizations (PEO) with the secretary of state.

House Bill 2117: Modifies certain business filing and fee requirements for business trusts, foreign corporations and limited partnerships; and makes other technical changes.

Substitute for House Bill 2145: Reorganizes the Butler County Fair Board.

Substitute for House Bill 2102: Provides for the advance enrollment of a military student whose parent will be stationed in Kansas.

House Bill 2185: Provides additional educational supports for Kansas National Guard members and their families by updating the Educational Assistance Act to allow family of guard members to participate. The bill also updates the Kansas National Guard educational master’s for enhanced readiness and global excellence (EMERGE) program to include other advanced degrees.

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