Category Archives: Kansas

Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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March 20, 2026

 

In the last week of regular session, the Senate debated too many bills to cover here.  All the bills can be found at www.KSLegislature.gov.  Here are some of the bills that may impact you:

 

Banks and other financial institutions would be allowed to establish a trusted contact that could be contacted if there is suspected fraud.  HB 2591 would also allow suspicious transactions to be delayed for up to 10 business days when the institution has reported the suspected fraud to law enforcement or to the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF).  There was a series fraud case in Linn County that involved cryptocurrency and we need this protection.  It passed unanimously.

 

Cryptocurrency Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) would be required to warn users before a transaction occurs.  The warning must be in bold letters, “WARNING: CONSUMER FRAUD OFTEN STARTS WITH CONTACT FROM A STRANGER…”  Virtual currency kiosks, crypto ATMs, would also be limited on the transaction amount should HB 2515 became law.  It passed unanimously.

 

Invasion of Privacy laws are strengthened in HB 2518 by making it clear that violations can involve any kind of image, video, or digital recording, including altered or AI-generated content.  It significantly increases penalties when young victims are involved.  It passed unanimously.

 

Property tax appeals at the Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA) would require county appraisers to use a single-property appraisal that evaluates the specific characteristics of an individual property, rather than relying on mass appraisals that assess groups of properties.  It passed 38 to 2.  I voted yes.

 

Kansas Law Enforcement and federal immigration authorities’ cooperation would be strengthened by Senate Substitute for HB 2372.  Sheriffs would be able to detain individuals based on valid ICE detainer requests or warrants.  It establishes procedures for detention and release and would help detain criminals who entered the country illegally.  The bill passed the Senate on a partisan vote 31 to 9.  I voted yes.

 

The Crush Transnational Repression in Kansas Act, created by SB 454, would protect individuals from foreign intimidation and coercion within the state.  It targets transnational repression and extortion, where foreign governments attempt to threaten, surveil, or control people living in Kansas. The bill increases criminal penalties for offenses like harassment, stalking, or threats when tied to these efforts and requires training to help law enforcement better recognize and respond to such cases.  It passed unanimously.

 

Alcoholic Beverages would be authorized for sale 23 hours a day, seven days a week, if a county opts in and SB 393 becomes law for the duration of the FIFA 2026 World Cup – another bill just for the World Cup.  I voted no, but the bill passed on a vote of 21 to 19.

 

Property Tax Relief Efforts are ongoing as the House and Senate advanced different constitutional amendments.  The House proposal would average property values starting in 2028, while the Senate supports a 3% annual assessment value cap beginning in 2027.  Lawmakers will now negotiate a compromise, aiming to provide relief and predictability for taxpayers.  It’s much needed reform, like in 1975 when Kansans passed a Constitutional Amendment to protect farmers and ranchers from rising taxes.  Polls show strong support for a 3% cap.  In fact, 75% of those polled want the cap.

 

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

Caryn

Government, Kansas

KS Bill Banning Use of Personal Electronic Devices During School Day Is Signed

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Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill
Banning Cell Phone Use During School Day


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has signed Senate Substitute for Substitute for House Bill 2299 (Sub for HB 2299), banning the use of cell phones and personal electronic devices during the school day. Governor Kelly signed the bill on Thursday alongside a bipartisan group of legislators and advocates at the Kansas Statehouse.

“In our rapidly changing world, technology dominates our lives, and that’s why it’s essential that we reduce distractions in the classroom,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “We must have one uniform standard across the state to tackle this issue and set our students up for success. By banning cell phone use during the school day, we’re taking a commonsense approach to address the impact smartphones and social media have on Kansas children’s academic performance, learning environments, and mental health.”

The bill requires Kansas public schools and accredited private schools to prohibit the use of personal electronic devices during the school day on school premises. These devices include, but are not limited to, cell phones, tablets, computers, watches, wireless headphones or earbuds, text messaging devices, and personal digital assistants. Students’ personal devices must be turned off and securely stored during the school day.

“As a father of four young boys, I see firsthand how today’s technology can affect kids’ ability to learn and grow,” said Senate Majority Leader Chase Blasi, District 26. “I’m proud the legislature came together to pass a bill that puts Kansas kids first.”

Sub for HB 2299 includes exceptions if a device is needed for the implementation of a student’s individualized education program or 504 plan, or if approved by a physician as a medical necessity. Students may still contact a parent or guardian via school phone. The bill does not apply to technology that is issued to students by school districts.

“We will look back on this moment and know that we took a step in the right direction to protect Kansas kids. Research has shown us that our students’ mental health, test scores, and concentration levels are negatively impacted by overuse of social media and cell phones,” said Senate Democratic Leader Dinah Sykes, District 21. “I am proud of the bipartisan work put into this bill, and the many discussions we have had with stakeholders, local officials, lawmakers, and the Governor’s office. It is time that we got cell phones out of Kansas classrooms. Our kids deserve policies that prioritize their health and strengthen their future, and that is what HB 2299 does.”

The bill also prohibits employees of school districts from using social media to communicate with students for official school purposes, or from requiring the use of social media for any assignment or extracurricular activity.

“This is about creating a school environment where kids can focus on learning, protect their mental health, and simply be kids again,” said Representative Angela Martinez, District 103.

“Senate Substitute for Substitute for HB 2299 is about setting a clear, student-centered standard—and then working hand-in-hand with our districts to implement it in a way that works for their communities,” said Representative Jason Goetz, District 119. “Because passing a bill is not the finish line. It’s the starting point. Our commitment moving forward is to partner with schools, to listen, to adjust where needed, and to make sure this policy works not just on paper—but in real classrooms, with real students.”

 

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Government, Kansas

Updating Interstate Foster Care Compact

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Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill
Updating Interstate Foster Care Compact


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has signed House Bill 2557, which enacts the revised Interstate Compact for the Placement of Children (ICPC).

“This bill builds upon my commitment to Kansas children and families by making necessary reforms to the child welfare system,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “In signing this legislation, we are ensuring that children who require out-of-state placement receive the same protections and services that would be provided if they remained in their home states.”

The ICPC governs the placement of children across state lines through foster care, and both public and private adoptions. Under this legislation, Kansas becomes the 21st state to join the updated version of the compact. By moving forward at this time, Kansas also becomes a member of the compact’s rulemaking body – ensuring the state continues to have a voice in protecting the interests of its children, families, and placement providers.

“First enacted in Kansas in 1976, the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children has served an important role, but it has not kept pace with today’s child welfare system,” said Representative Cyndi Howerton, District 98. “HB 2557 is a practical and necessary update—modernizing outdated language, strengthening interstate collaboration, and ensuring Kansas children can safely access appropriate placements across state lines. By adopting the revised compact and engaging in rulemaking from day one, Kansas continues to lead in protecting children, supporting families, and ensuring accountability in every placement.”

HB 2557 expands upon the significant steps Governor Kelly has taken throughout her time in office to reform Kansas’ child welfare system. In January 2025, Governor Kelly signed Executive Order 25-01, a first of its kind executive order to reform the allocation of federal benefits to youth in foster care. In April 2023, Governor Kelly signed House Bill 2024, establishing Kansas’ Foster Care Bill of Rights and outlining the rights of foster youth, foster parents, and family care providers.

“By updating the Interstate Compact for the Placement of Children, we’re taking reasonable steps to connect children in our child welfare system to safe, reliable homes,” said Representative Jarrod Ousley, District 24. “This legislation is doing right by children and families.”

In addition to House Bill 2557, Governor Kelly also signed the following bipartisan bills:

House Bill 2711: Modifying and updating procedures for dissolution of cities of the third class, which have a population of less than 2,000 residents.

House Bill 2733: Requiring any person who is a candidate or who has been elected to certain offices shall be and must remain a resident of Kansas or the appropriate district.

House Bill 2433: Reaffirming the state’s authority over the transfer or appropriation of water by explicitly placing such authority, except for domestic use, with the chief engineer and the water transfer hearing panel.

House Bill 2478: Requiring that advanced practice registered nurses and registered nurse anesthetists submit to a criminal history check upon application for a nursing license.

Senate Bill 146: Requiring the secretary for aging and disability services and the City of Osawatomie to execute and record an amendment to the original deed for conveyance of certain real property in Miami County, extending the conveyance to July 1, 2046.

Senate Bill 299: Requiring the Supreme Court Nominating Commission to release certain records under the Kansas Open Records Act.

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Government, Kansas

Support for Fallen Law Enforcement Officers and Their Families

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Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill Strengthening Support for Fallen Law Enforcement Officers
and Their Families


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has signed Senate Bill 445, which requires the Kansas Highway Patrol and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to provide support and assistance for fallen law enforcement officers’ funerals as well as to their families and agencies.

“Every day, Kansas law enforcement officers put their lives at risk in service to their state and to their fellow Kansans. This legislation is a solemn reminder that we must be prepared to provide support if officers make the ultimate sacrifice,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Through Senate Bill 445, we are ensuring fallen officers’ agencies and families have the assistance and support they need when they have to face an unimaginable loss.”

Under Senate Bill 445, temporary personnel and other assistance will be available, upon a submitted request from the relevant Kansas law enforcement agency, to support funeral services in honor of officers who have died in the line of duty.

“Law enforcement families share the risks and weight of public service. When an officer is killed in the line of duty, their family should not shoulder the burden of this sacrifice on their own,” said Senator Ethan Corson, District 7. “Senate Bill 445 goes beyond words of gratitude and offers meaningful support for funeral and memorial ceremonies to ensure their loved one is properly honored. This bipartisan legislation, signed into law by Governor Kelly, guarantees these families receive the dignity and care they deserve.”

Senate Bill 445 will help agencies honor fallen officers, aid fallen officers’ families, and take proactive steps to provide key support during a tragic and difficult time for the law enforcement community, reinforcing Kansas’ commitment to stand by law enforcement officers across the state.

“Senate Bill 445 helps ensure Kansas law enforcement agencies and families have steady support during incredibly difficult times, and it guarantees this support will be in place for future tragic events,” said Senator Elaine Bowers, District 36. “In 2025, we lost four brave officers — Deputy Brandon Gaede of Phillips County, Deputy Elijah Ming of Wyandotte County, Officer Hunter Simoncic of Kansas City, Kansas, and Sergeant Scott Heimann of Hays — and this bill honors their service by supporting those they left behind.”

In addition to Senate Bill 445, Governor Kelly also signed the following bipartisan bills:

House Bill 2332: Establishing a seal for the house of representatives and providing for its custody and use.

House Bill 2477: Requiring the Kansas Department of Agriculture to publish a map on its official website that shows the location of all applied-for diversions of water and requested changes of more than 300 feet.

House Bill 2624: Authorizing a board of county commissioners to disorganize a fire district at any time when the fire district contains no territory.

House Bill 2555: Provides legislative oversight of the Rural Health Transformation Program by requiring certain information pertaining to the program be regularly submitted to certain legislative committees.

House Bill 2540: Exempting contingent deferred annuities from the standard nonforfeiture law for individual deferred annuities.

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Government, Kansas

Rural Apprenticeship Grant Opportunity

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Grant Applications Open to Expand Rural Registered Apprenticeship Programs

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced $500,000 in Rural Apprenticeship Innovation for a Strong Economy (RAISE) funding to support the expansion of Registered Apprenticeship programs across rural Kansas.

This new grant opportunity is administered through the Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship and is available to the state’s educational institutions, businesses, nonprofit organizations, joint apprenticeship training councils and workforce boards seeking to attract and retain skilled employees through registered apprenticeships in rural areas.

“We have been purposeful in attracting new businesses to all areas of the state to advance economic opportunities for all,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “These grants will support further expanding Registered Apprenticeship programs in rural areas so we can continue to build our workforce, provide skill building and job opportunities for more Kansans and keep pace with our historic growth.”

Applicants can receive up to $100,000 in funding to support technical instruction, outreach, staffing, partnerships and administrative costs. A dollar-for-dollar match is required, and funded projects must be completed within a 12-month period.

“This grant ensures rural Kansas isn’t left behind,” Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship Director Shonda Anderson said. “By expanding high-wage, high-demand registered apprenticeships in rural communities, we’re creating strong workforce pathways and supporting long-term economic vitality close to home.”

Registered Apprenticeship programs interested in applying must meet the following criteria:

  • Must be a registered apprenticeship program in Kansas or commit to developing a new program within three months of receiving funding
  • Must demonstrate a plan to engage existing or potential employers and apprentices residing in counties with populations under 50,000
  • Must provide a 1:1 matching contribution

For more details and additional requirements, visit the webpage here.

Eligible Kansas Registered Apprenticeship programs are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted through April 17. To apply, 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 Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship:

The Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship was established by Governor Laura Kelly on Sept. 6, 2022, through Executive Order #22-07. The Office supports apprenticeships across multiple industries to provide a highly skilled source of labor for employers and ensure occupational proficiency for career-seekers. The program incorporates on-the-job learning, technical instruction and mentorship to create long-term employment opportunities in Kansas.

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Government, Kansas

Ken Collins Kansas State Representative-Second District Newsletter

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Ken Collins. Submitted photo.

Thoughts From Under the Dome

Turnaround has happened in the Kansas Legislature so now a large part of our time is being spent by the two houses hearing and voting on the other houses bills. Because of that  I am happy to report that the Senate has heard and approved Benny’s Bill (HB 2412) unanimously 40-0. It will now come back to the House for concurrence on a technical amendment before it goes to Governor Kelly’s desk for her approval. Again, for those who don’t know the background behind this legislation it strengthens the penalties for child endangerment and aggravated child endangerment when the victim is under the age of six. I am sponsoring it because of the case of Benny Cannon who suffered lifelong disabilities after a daycare incident when he was four months old. Two daycare workers were found responsible after pleading guilty in court but received light sentences in my opinion considering the damage that was inflicted.

 

HB 2368 is a bill that I mentioned before that would allow for the licensure of Anesthesiology Assistants (AA) in Kansas. I have repeatedly opposed this bill because Kansas is already served by Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists who possess a higher degree of training than their AA counterparts. The bill was voted down once this year but it was revived to be shot down with a motion to return it to committee. The motion pretty much kills the bill  because the last day for committees to meet has passed.

 

Another nursing related bill that we just voted on was SB 334 which lowers the minimum education level required to be an instructor in Kansas nursing schools. I have heard from people in the nursing profession who don’t like this bill because it doesn’t make for better trained nurses and that it could potentially jeopardize accreditation of their institutions. I was a no vote on that but it did pass by 81-43.

 

On to other news I am planning to hold some town hall meetings this spring with the first one being in Mulberry on April 13th at 6:30.  More details will be coming but I hope to see you there or at another event.  Until next time, Ad Astra Per Aspera.

Government, Kansas

KS Announces Program for Revitalizing Industrial/Manufacturing Buildings

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Pilot Commerce Grant to Support Renovating Industrial, Manufacturing Buildings

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the launch of the Industrial Renovation for Opportunity and New Economic Development (IRONED) pilot program, a funding opportunity designed to help rural Kansas communities revitalize underused industrial and manufacturing buildings and prepare them for new or expanding businesses.

A total of $200,000 in funding is available through IRONED for Kansas communities with a population of 50,000 or less. Grants up to $100,000 will support projects already in the planning phase that preserve and bring new economic activity to underutilized, vacant or dilapidated industrial and manufacturing facilities. The grants are intended to close financing gaps.

“There are plenty of industrial buildings throughout Kansas with the potential to support new business ventures if they can be brought back to productive use,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said, “By providing targeted support for renovation costs, Commerce can help rural communities move innovative projects across the finish line and start driving local economic growth.”

The IRONED program is administered by the Kansas Office of Rural Prosperity at the Department of Commerce. The application window opens March 18 and will close at 5:00 p.m. June 17. Awards will be announced in August.

For those interested in applying for funding, there will be a webinar at 4:00 p.m. Monday, March 23. Registration is required (click here).

The Office of Rural Prosperity will host virtual Office Hours from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. April 16, May 14 and June 11. To sign up, click here.

For additional information about the IRONED program, 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.

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Government, Kansas

Victim assistance grant opportunities open for application

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TOPEKA – (March 18, 2026) – Six grant programs serving victims of crime across Kansas are open for application, Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach announced today.

More than $2.3 million in grant funds were awarded last year from six state programs through the Office of the Attorney General. Funds are used to assist local and state crime victim assistance organizations across Kansas in providing direct services to crime victims, as well as in developing prevention programs to address violence.

Grant opportunities are open in the following programs:

Child Exchange and Visitation Center Program (CEVC) – This fund seeks to provide supervised child exchange and visitation to children and families at risk due to circumstances relating to domestic or family violence.

Human Trafficking Victim Assistance Fund (HTVAF) – This fund was established by the Legislature in 2013 (K.S.A. 75-758) to provide training regarding human trafficking for law enforcement agencies throughout Kansas, and to support the care, treatment and other services for victims of human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation of a child.

Child Abuse and Neglect (CVAF-CA) – This fund seeks to provide for ongoing operating expenses of programs assisting child victims.

Crime Victims Assistance Fund (CVAF) – This fund seeks to provide for ongoing operating expenses of programs assisting crime victims and establishing and maintaining new programs providing services to the victims of crimes.

State Protection from Abuse Fund (PFA) – This fund seeks to provide temporary emergency shelter for adult victims of domestic violence or sexual assault and their dependent children, counseling and assistance to those victims and their children, or educational services directed at reducing the incidence of domestic violence or sexual assault and diminishing its impact on victims.

Child Advocacy Center Fund (CAC): This fund seeks to provide for ongoing operating expenses of Child Advocacy Centers.

More detailed information on the application process for each of the grant programs can be found at www.ag.ks.gov/divisions/victim-services/grant-programs. Applications will be accepted through the Grant Management System located on the website. The first step in the application process is due April 10, 2026.

Awards will be made this summer. These grant programs are administered by the attorney general’s Victim Services Division and the Victim Rights Coordinator.

 

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Kansas Attorney General’s Office | 120 SW 10th Ave. | Topeka, KS 66612 US
Government, Kansas

Spring into a New Career at Upcoming Weekend Virtual Job Fair on March 27

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Feeling Lucky? Spring into a New Career at Upcoming Weekend Virtual Job Fair

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this year’s first Weekend Virtual Statewide Job Fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, starting from 8:00 a.m., Friday, March 27 through to 5:00 p.m., Sunday March 29.

“As spring starts to roll in, so are new career opportunities — and they’re showing up all across Kansas,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Whether you’re a company looking to expand your staff — or a jobseeker looking for a new career — we have something for you right here in the Sunflower State.”

The Virtual Job Fair format allows anyone searching for a new job to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.

This month’s Virtual Statewide 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 they might be asked to engage in an 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 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

KS Supreme Court Seeking Application to Fill Justice Marla Luckert Vacancy

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Supreme Court Nominating Commission accepting applications to fill upcoming vacancy 

TOPEKA—The Supreme Court Nominating Commission is accepting applications to fill a vacancy on the Kansas Supreme Court created when Justice Marla Luckert retires March 28.

 

Luckert’s retirement triggers a merit-based nomination process that involves the Supreme Court Nominating Commission, which reviews nominees, and the governor, who makes the appointments.

 

Application process

 

The application form and release are available on the judicial branch website or from the clerk of the appellate courts office in the Kansas Judicial Center in Topeka.

 

Only applications submitted on the application form will be accepted. An original and one copy of the application and release must be received by the appellate clerk’s office by noon Friday, April 17.

 

The application and release with original signatures may be hand-delivered or submitted by mail to:

 

Douglas T. Shima

Clerk of the Appellate Courts

Kansas Judicial Center

301 SW 10th Ave., Room 107

Topeka KS 66612-1507

 

The application and release with original signatures may be emailed to [email protected]. Documents will not be accepted by fax.

 

Nominating commission

 

The Supreme Court Nominating Commission has nine members. There is one lawyer and one nonlawyer from each of the state’s four congressional districts, plus one lawyer who serves as chairperson.

 

Nonlawyers are appointed by the governor. Lawyers are elected by other lawyers within their congressional districts. The chairperson is elected by lawyers statewide.

 

Merit-based selection process

 

Justices are appointed to the Supreme Court through a merit-based nomination process Kansas voters added to the Kansas Constitution in 1958. The process involves the Supreme Court Nominating Commission, which reviews nominees, and the governor, who makes the appointments.

 

When there is a vacancy on the bench, the Supreme Court Nominating Commission reviews applications and conducts public interviews of nominees. The commission narrows the nominee pool to three names that it sends to the governor. The governor chooses one nominee to appoint.

 

Eligibility requirements

 

A nominee must be:

 

  • at least 30 years old; and
  • a lawyer admitted to practice in Kansas and engaged in the practice of law for at least 10 years, whether as a lawyer, judge, or full-time teacher at an accredited law school.

 

Selection criteria

 

When the Supreme Court Nominating Commission reviews nominees for justice, they look at the person’s:

 

  • legal and judicial experience;
  • educational background;
  • character and ethics;
  • temperament;
  • service to the community;
  • impartiality; and
  • respect of colleagues.

 

Judicial conduct

 

Justices must follow the law and not be influenced by politics, special interest groups, public opinion, or their own personal beliefs.

 

Justices demonstrate their accountability by following a Code of Judicial Conduct that establishes standards of ethical behavior. They also take an oath of office that includes swearing to support, protect, and defend the U.S. Constitution and Kansas Constitution.

 

Retention elections

 

After a new justice serves one year on the court, he or she must stand for a retention vote in the next general election to remain in the position. If retained, the justice serves a six-year term.

 

Accommodation

 

Any person with a disability who requires accommodation to access the nomination form should notify the judicial branch ADA coordinator as early as possible:

 

ADA Coordinator

[email protected]

785-296-2256

TTY at 711

Kansas Judicial Branch

Office of Judicial Administration

301 SW 10th Avenue

Topeka, KS 66612-1507

785-296-2256

kscourts.gov

 
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Area News, Government, Kansas

Kratom Products Are Seized by Kansas ABC

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ABC Announces Statewide Enforcement Action Against Alcoholic Beverages Sold at Unlicensed Premises

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Revenue’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Division (ABC) today announced the results of a multi‑county enforcement operation targeting the unlawful sale of alcoholic products disguised as kratom extract “shots” in retail stores across the state. The action underscores ABC’s commitment to protecting public health and safety, educating consumers, and ensuring businesses comply with Kansas law.

The investigation began in September 2025 following a formal complaint alleging that O.P.M.S. Kratom Extract liquid products—commonly marketed as “shots”—contained alcohol and were being sold without proper licensing. These products were available in small bottles, intended for human consumption, and sold in stores not authorized to sell alcoholic beverages.

ABC enforcement agents initiated a comprehensive investigation, locating the products in multiple Kansas retail locations and purchasing samples of O.P.M.S Black Kratom Extract liquid and O.P.M.S. Gold Kratom Extract liquid. The products underwent field testing and were submitted to a federal forensic laboratory for chemical analysis. Laboratory results confirmed that the products contained between 15.7% and 16.1% ethanol alcohol, classifying them as alcoholic beverages under Kansas law.

The investigation determined that these unlicensed alcoholic products were being sold primarily in vape shops and similar businesses lacking the required alcoholic beverage licenses.

Working in coordination with county attorneys, ABC agents obtained search warrants for 12 business locations across Kansas, including:

  • Cowley County: El Dorado, Arkansas City
  • Crawford County: Pittsburg
  • Ellis County: Hays
  • Geary County: Junction City
  • Johnson County: Lenexa, Olathe, Overland Park
  • Saline County: Salina
  • Shawnee County: Topeka

At 11:00 a.m. on March 11, 2026, ABC agents simultaneously executed the search warrants. A total of 1,006 bottles of the illegal alcoholic products were seized. All 12 businesses were found to be in possession of the unlawful beverages.

Criminal charges will be submitted to the respective county attorney’s offices for review and prosecution.

“Sales of unlawful alcoholic beverages by unlicensed businesses pose a clear risk to consumers and undermine the integrity of Kansas’ regulated marketplace,” said ABC Director Debbi Beavers. “This operation demonstrates our ongoing commitment to safeguarding the public and ensuring that all businesses follow state law.”

ABC encourages consumers to report suspected violations to help protect Kansas communities from unsafe or unlawfully sold products.

Potential violations can be reported at www.ksrevenue.gov/abcindex.html

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Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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Caryn Tyson
March 13, 2026
Property Tax Relief: A historic opportunity is in Topeka to provide real property tax reform and certainty, but the clock is ticking.  While the Senate and House worked in good faith toward a comprehensive solution, a key piece of the puzzle, SCR 1616, the CAP Amendment, which would cap individual assessment increases at 3% per year, providing the predictability homeowners have been pleading for, stalled in the House and was sent back to the Tax Committee.  The Senate passed the CAP Amendment with a strong bipartisan vote of 30 to 10.  However, despite ongoing negotiations, the House has yet to pass the measure, favoring a revenue limit instead.  We need both to truly “reign in” an out-of-control system.  The Assessment Cap (The Senate Plan): Protects individual homeowners from “valuation shock” and ensures transparency by requiring local governments to explicitly raise the mill levy if they want more revenue.  The Revenue Limit (The House Plan): Would help control overall government spending.  While helpful for the big picture, it doesn’t protect the individual homeowner from being priced out of their home.  Last year, a Constitutional Amendment was passed in the House using a rolling average, but that unfortunately locks us in at today’s record-high valuations.  We need the CAP Amendment to provide a real ceiling.  Because of how the Kansas tax code is structured, the CAP Amendment is a Constitutional change.  Passing it doesn’t make it law—it simply puts it on the ballot, allowing the people of Kansas to vote on it.
 
We have a powerful precedent for this: In 1975, Kansas voters amended the Constitution to change how agricultural land is valued (moving from market value to “ag use” production value).  This saved countless farmers and ranchers from losing their land to high taxes. Today, Kansas families are facing that same threat.  Polls show that 75% of Kansans support a 3% assessment cap.  While the House and Senate continue to negotiate, the goal remains clear: protect our homes and provide lasting relief.  There is still time to pass both the assessment cap and the revenue limit.  Let’s finish this and give Kansans the protection they deserve.
Ethanol Fuel Tax Credit would be established in SB 498, for the sale of E-15 or higher blends for three years.  The bill was amended on the Senate floor to create a tax credit on the purchases of lockable gun and ammunition storage for tax years 2026 through 2028.  It also repealed some unused tax credits.  It passed 38 to 1.  I voted yes.
Active Shooter Drills would be established in schools if SB 263 is law.  It passed 38 to 1.  I voted yes.
Mandatory Recess for K-8 grade students if SB 339 becomes law.  It would prohibit withholding recess for disciplinary reasons.  It’s one of those bills you can see both sides.  After consideration, I voted yes.  It passed 24 to 15.
Cattle, Horse, and Ag Equipment Theft would be become a level 5 nonperson felony and forfeiture of contraband property used in the theft.  It would result in significant penalties, including imprisonment, depending on the thief’s previous record.  HB 2413 passed unanimously.
Grain and Hay Theft penalties would become a level 6 nonperson felony if HB 2422 becomes law. Punishment will depend on the thief’s criminal history. It passed unanimously.
Wildlife and Parks would be allowed to set fees through rules and regulations if HB 2568 becomes law.  It was controversial and only passed 23 to 16.  I voted no.
 
Governor Emergency Powers would be expanded during the World Cup (soccer) in Sen Sub for HB 2212.  The state gave $28 million for infrastructure changes for the World Cup and now they want emergency powers to suspend our laws for security concerns.  Where will it end?  I voted no.  It passed 38 to 2.

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