Category Archives: Kansas

Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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Caryn Tyson

 

March 3, 2023

 

The Senate did not work any bills on the floor this week.  Hopefully, that will not be the case next week.  The floor schedule is not made available until the evening before – so stay tuned.

 

Here are a few more highlights from the previous week when over 30 bills were debated and voted on in two days.

 

Personal Property Tax, such as trailers, golf carts, some mobile homes, and other items have very steep penalties if owners do not file a form with the county appraiser on or before March 15 each year.  Senate Bill (SB) 8 lowers the failure to file penalty from 50% to 12.5%, late filing penalties from 25% to 10% and other penalties from 5% to 2%.  The bill would also limit required filings to an initial filing and when there has been a change to the report or property previously listed so that you don’t have to file every year.  It passed the Senate unanimously.

 

Education Opportunities were expanded for low income students in SB 83 by increasing the eligibility.  It eliminates the requirement a student must qualify for the free and reduced lunch program and increases the income limit to 400% above federal poverty.  Children who are adopted or in foster care, and children of parents in law enforcement, firefighter, or emergency medical service provider are eligible.  The tax credit for donors will increase from 70 to 75% with a limit of $100,000 per donor.  The program is capped at $10 million and could be increased each year certain conditions are met until a final cap of $20 million.  Some argue that this program hurts K-12 public education funding.  However, K-12 funding has increased to record highs in the past few years the program has been in existence.  The bill passed 22 to 16.  I voted yes.

 

Child Mutilation Prevention would prohibit gender reassignment surgery on children.  The Kansas State Board of Healing Arts would be required to revoke the license of medical person(s) who preformed the surgery.  The bill passed 26 to 11.  I voted yes.

 

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

Caryn

Government, Kansas

Free Library Services For The Blind: Talking Books

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Governor Laura Kelly signs proclamation for Kansas Talking Books Week

TOPEKA –Govenor Laura Kelly signed a new proclamation in late February designating this week, March 6-10, 2023, as Kansas Talking Books Week.

The week-long celebration marks the anniversary of the enactment of legislation establishing free library services for the blind.

The Pratt-Smoot Act, signed March 3, 1931, placed the responsibility of providing adequate library materials for the use of blind adults under the administration of the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled in the Library of Congress. Several updates to the original Act included additional funding and provisions for people with print disabilities other than blindness to be included.

Kansas Talking Books, a division of the State Library of Kansas, presently serves patrons in all 105 counties across the state. Print-impaired Kansans enrolled in the program are connected to a collection of more than 140,000 items. Materials include digital and braille books, popular magazines, and locally produced materials of particular interest to Kansans or by Kansas authors. All services are provided at no cost to the patron.

Talking Book Week programming will be shared on social media at https://www.facebook.com/kansas.talking.books.service. Information about the webinars, book club meeting, and other activities can be found at kslib.info/talking.

Patrons, caregivers, and community members can find more information and the application for services at the same web address. Those in the Emporia area can call 620-341-6280. Other regions in Kansas can call toll-free at 800-362-0699.

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Government, Health Care, Kansas

Take Down Tobacco

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Kansas Department of Health and Environment Resist Program, and the Tobacco Free Kansas Coalition host National Take Down Tobacco Day at the Capitol

TOPEKA – Today, members of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Resist program and the Tobacco Free Kansas Coalition hosted Take Down Tobacco Day at the Capitol – a national day of activism where youth are encouraged to speak out against commercial tobacco companies and speak with policymakers about tobacco prevention.

“Take Down Tobacco Day is a great opportunity to unite communities and create a unified voice to stand up to commercial tobacco companies,” said Bryce Chitanavong, youth tobacco prevention coordinator. “Tobacco companies use deceitful marketing tactics to target the youth because they see them as future customers. We want them to know that we won’t allow it.”

For most people, tobacco use starts when they are young. Nearly 9 out of 10 adults who smoke cigarettes daily first try smoking by the age of 18. Young people are even more vulnerable to nicotine addiction as their brains develop. Commercial tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease, disability and death in the United States. The use of tobacco products in any form is unsafe, regardless of whether it is smoked or not.

Previously known as Kick Butts Day, Take Down Tobacco Day provides an opportunity to educate students about the importance of youth advocacy in tobacco prevention. The American Heart Association provided advocacy training on the evening of March 1 to prepare students to speak with their policymakers. Each group that registered will get a chance to meet with their local representative and discuss tobacco prevention with them.

Resist is a youth-led program focusing on peer-to-peer education, awareness and policies preventing tobacco and electronic cigarette/vaping use. Resist chapters are locally established and hold community awareness events to promote tobacco-free environments. Resist is made possible with the support of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Tobacco Free Kansas Coalition.

Resources are available for people who want to quit smoking or vaping. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669) or visit ksquit.org.

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Government, Kansas

KDADS Announces $66 Million in Facility and Workforce Training Expansion Grants

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services today announced $66 million has been made available through the Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Executive Committee and State Finance Council to close service gaps in the continuum of care by addressing statewide shortages of health and behavioral health services and the state’s increasing demand for a well-trained healthcare workforce.

The funds, approved by the State Finance Council in December, are available to service providers, educational institutions, local units of government, and non-profit organizations to specifically address three program areas: expansion of health care facilities; expanding the reach of current service providers; and workforce training expansion.

“The $66 million in SPARK funding allocated to KDADS can make a significant difference in expanding access to services by funding new facilities, program expansions, and workforce training,” KDADS Deputy Secretary of Hospitals and Facilities Scott Brunner said. “KDADS is excited to put these funds to use in communities across Kansas to meet the needs of people with mental illness, disabilities, and long-term care needs.”

Applicants must specify which of the following three program areas their proposal addresses:

Program 1: Expansion of health care facilities.  KDADS seeks applications from service providers, local units of government, established partnerships of providers, or non-profit organizations to expand health care facilities.  The facility expansion must result in more services being delivered within a defined geographic area or clearly increase service capacity through more licensed bed space, expanded treatment facilities, or additional credentialed providers.  Expanded health care facilities must deliver more services in one or more of the following areas:

  • Behavioral health
  • Services for adults or children in acute psychiatric crisis
  • Forensic evaluation and restoration for criminal competency cases
  • Community based services for individuals with disabilities that would otherwise require nursing facility level of care

Program 2: Expand reach of current service providers.  KDADS seeks applications from Medicaid enrolled service providers to deliver Medicaid services through innovative delivery models using technology to expand the reach of current service providers or to reach additional Medicaid eligible beneficiaries.  Grantees must describe how their proposed intervention expands access to services for underserved individuals or communities.

Program 3: Workforce Training Expansion.  KDADS seeks applications from providers, local units of government, educational institutions, or non-profit organizations to expand workforce training.  Workforce training expansion must result in an increase in students being trained to serve in the medical field.  Grantees must document the number of trainees and how they will impact the future health care workforce.

KDADS’s application process is open now, with submissions closing March 17 at 5:00 p.m. and awards announced March 29.

Applicants and any questions regarding the funding opportunity should be submitted to [email protected]. More information about this funding opportunity and the complete Request for Application can be found on the KDADS website: https://kdads.ks.gov/funding-opportunities.

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Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly Proclaims March Problem Gambling Awareness Month

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Governor Kelly Proclaims March Problem Gambling Awareness Month

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has signed a proclamation designating March Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) in Kansas. The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Serves (KDADS), in collaboration with the Kansas Coalition on Problem Gambling (KCPG), recognizes March as PGAM as part of the national campaign held annually. The 2023 campaign theme is “Celebrating 20 Years” (#PGAM2023).

Problem gambling is defined as all gambling behavior patterns that compromise, disrupt or damage personal, family or vocational pursuits. Approximately 2 million U.S. adults (1% of the population) are estimated to meet criteria for severe problem gambling. Another 4-6 million (2-3%) meet the criteria for mild or moderate problem gambling. Problem gambling affects thousands of Kansans of all ages, races and ethnic backgrounds and can have a significant societal and economic cost for individuals, families, businesses, and communities.

“The good news is problem gambling is treatable and treatment is effective in minimizing harm,” KDADS Problem Gambling Program Manager Carol Spiker, LAC, KCGC, said. “It’s vital to de-stigmatize issues around problem gambling so we can reach more people to let them know there are programs and information out there to address their problem head on.”

One intervention tool, or harm reduction strategy, that has seen success in recent years in Kansas is the self-exclusion program. Self-exclusion is a voluntary process where a person bans themselves from entering specific gambling venues, or from accessing online providers. All Kansas gambling providers are required to provide the option to customers to self-exclude from accessing their venue or their products. Individuals enter into an agreement that excludes them for an agreed minimum period of time. The agreements authorize venue management to take reasonable steps to remove individuals on the self-exclusion list from state-owned casino property or the online gaming app of a state-owned casino. For some, self-exclusion is a step taken when other methods of minimizing harm have been tried without much success. For others, self-exclusion can be the first step.

Problem Gambling Awareness Month is designed to help raise awareness of the prevention, treatment and recovery services, and harm reduction strategies available to those adversely affected by gambling.

To get help for a gambling problem for you or a loved one, please call the Kansas Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 (or 1-800-GAMBLER). The call is free and confidential. No-cost treatment is available to problem gamblers and concerned others through the Problem Gambling and Addictions Grant Fund. For more information about problem gambling and the resources available in Kansas, go to ksgamblinghelp.com.

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Government, Kansas

KS Tax Collections Exceed Estimates in February

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Governor Kelly Announces February Total Tax Collections Exceed Estimates by Nearly $37 Million

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that total tax-only collections for February were $549.8 million. That is $36.8 million, or 7.2%, more than the monthly estimate. Those collections were also $47.3 million, or 9.4%, more than in February 2022.

“Revenues have exceeded estimates for 30 out of the last 31 months – a clear sign that our efforts to make Kansas a place where businesses and families want to call home is paying off,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “These revenues will continue to grow our historic budget surplus, making it possible for our legislature to pass responsible tax cuts that help every Kansan, like my ‘Axing Your Taxes’ plan.”

Consistently strong revenues were one of the reasons S&P Global improved Kansas’ credit outlook, which the firm announced yesterday. In its report, S&P cited Governor Kelly’s recommended budgets for fiscal years 2023 and 2024 as indicators of continued fiscal responsibility that could lead to a credit rating upgrade and warned against irresponsible tax plans that could lead to a credit rating downgrade.

Individual income tax collections were $211.3 million in February. That is $6.3 million, or 3.1%, above the estimate and $27.9 million, or 15.2%, more than February 2022.

“The positive trend in tax receipts continues with all of the major tax types, individual income tax, corporate income tax, retailer’s sales tax, and compensating use tax, performing well,” Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart said.

Corporate income tax collections were $15.3 million, which is $324,000, or 2.2%, more than the February 2023 estimate. Those collections are $8.1 million, or 34.5%, less than in February 2022. It should be noted that February 2022 corporate income tax receipts were greater than February 2023 because of the higher-than-expected collection of nonrecurring corporate audit assessments that occurred that month.

Retail sales tax collections were $203.8 million, which is $13.8 million, or 7.3%, more than the estimate. Those collections are also $8.5 million, or 4.4%, greater than February 2022. Compensating use tax collections were $64.2 million, which is $849,000, or 1.3%, less than the estimate. Those collections were $4.7 million, or 8.0%, more than in February 2022.

Click here to view the February 2023 revenue numbers.

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Government, Kansas

KDADS Announces $66 Million in Facility and Workforce Training Expansion Grants

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services today announced $66 million has been made available through the Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Executive Committee and State Finance Council to close service gaps in the continuum of care by addressing statewide shortages of health and behavioral health services and the state’s increasing demand for a well-trained healthcare workforce.

The funds, approved by the State Finance Council in December, are available to service providers, educational institutions, local units of government, and non-profit organizations to specifically address three program areas: expansion of health care facilities; expanding the reach of current service providers; and workforce training expansion.

“The $66 million in SPARK funding allocated to KDADS can make a significant difference in expanding access to services by funding new facilities, program expansions, and workforce training,” KDADS Deputy Secretary of Hospitals and Facilities Scott Brunner said. “KDADS is excited to put these funds to use in communities across Kansas to meet the needs of people with mental illness, disabilities, and long-term care needs.”

Applicants must specify which of the following three program areas their proposal addresses:

Program 1: Expansion of health care facilities.  KDADS seeks applications from service providers, local units of government, established partnerships of providers, or non-profit organizations to expand health care facilities.  The facility expansion must result in more services being delivered within a defined geographic area or clearly increase service capacity through more licensed bed space, expanded treatment facilities, or additional credentialed providers.  Expanded health care facilities must deliver more services in one or more of the following areas:

  • Behavioral health
  • Services for adults or children in acute psychiatric crisis
  • Forensic evaluation and restoration for criminal competency cases
  • Community based services for individuals with disabilities that would otherwise require nursing facility level of care

Program 2: Expand reach of current service providers.  KDADS seeks applications from Medicaid enrolled service providers to deliver Medicaid services through innovative delivery models using technology to expand the reach of current service providers or to reach additional Medicaid eligible beneficiaries.  Grantees must describe how their proposed intervention expands access to services for underserved individuals or communities.

Program 3: Workforce Training Expansion.  KDADS seeks applications from providers, local units of government, educational institutions, or non-profit organizations to expand workforce training.  Workforce training expansion must result in an increase in students being trained to serve in the medical field.  Grantees must document the number of trainees and how they will impact the future health care workforce.

KDADS’s application process is open now, with submissions closing March 17 at 5:00 p.m. and awards announced March 29.

Applicants and any questions regarding the funding opportunity should be submitted to [email protected]. More information about this funding opportunity and the complete Request for Application can be found on the KDADS website: https://kdads.ks.gov/funding-opportunities.

Art, Government, Kansas

Mural, Public Art Funding Available from Department of Commerce

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced multiple opportunities to support the creation of murals and public art in the state though coordinated funding programs from the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC) and the Office of Rural Prosperity (ORP). The programs will provide funding for communities to use public spaces for the purposes of artistic use and creative endeavors.

“Public art is one of many factors that drives decisions about where people will stop for a meal, open a business or move their family,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Commerce looks forward to partnering with communities across Kansas on this important quality-of-life opportunity that supports economic growth and community pride.”

The programs are designed to utilize artists, creative interventions, and arts organizations to increase community vibrancy and provide space for artistic expression and public engagement.

KCAIC’s Mural and Public Art Program applications are open through March 13 to all 501c3 organizations, units of local government, and federally recognized tribes across Kansas. The maximum request is $10,000. A 100% match is required for the award which must be at least 25% cash match and up to 75% in-kind match. Projects must be completed by December 31, 2024. Applications may be found here.

“Public art projects provide an opportunity for communities to reflect on and celebrate their unique story,” KCAIC Interim Director Kate Van Steenhuyse said. “Whether large or small in scale, public art becomes part of community identity, and can have far-reaching benefits well beyond the installation itself.”

ORP’s Rural Mural Program will also be accepting new applications from March 13 to May 1. The maximum grant award will be $7,500. Only applicants from communities with a population fewer than 15,000 are eligible. A 100% match is required for the award which must be at least 25% cash match and up to 75% in-kind match. Projects must be completed by December 31, 2023. ORP will have a Rural Mural Planning Webinar at 2:00 p.m. Friday, March 3 (register here). Once the application window is open, applications will be available here.

“Last year, a total of 37 Rural Mural projects were completed in 14 different communities,” ORP Director Trisha Purdon said. “Our office looks forward to working with a whole new group of partners in 2023.”

The Kansas Department of Commerce is committed to helping communities through financial support, technical assistance and process guidance as they imagine new projects through the Mural Making initiative. As part of this effort, an online resource guide designed to put communities on a path for growth and prosperity through arts and culture and place-based community development is available 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 and 2022, and was awarded the 2021 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

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Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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February 24, 2023

 

What a difference a week makes?  In the two days before turnaround, the halfway point in session, 42 bills were scheduled for debate on the Senate floor, 3 of them were pulled for various reasons.  The list of bills is not made available to Senators or the public until the evening before debate.  On Tuesday evening, 27 bills were scheduled for debate Wednesday.  It makes for an intense environment.  Think of it this way.  In 7 weeks of session, 280 Senate bills have been introduced, 62 that passed out of committee were selected by leadership for debate on the senate floor and passed to the House.  Thirty-eight of the 62 were passed in two days.  Here are a few highlights.

 

Income Tax cuts passed the Senate in Senate Bill (SB) 33 and SB 169.  SB 33 would exempt Social Security from state income tax.  Some of the amendments that passed during debate include increasing standard deductions each year based on inflation, exempting all retirement accounts from state income tax, and increasing qualifying parameters for the property tax freeze for seniors and disabled veterans that became law last year.  The home valuation limit would go from $350,000 to $595,000.  The 50% exemption of Social Security from income would be 100%.  More Kansans will qualify for the program with these changes.  SB 33 bill passed 36 to 3.  I voted Yes.

 

SB 169 would create a single 4.75 state income tax rate without increasing taxes.  The bill exempts the first $10,450 for married filing jointly or $5,225 filing single.  This exemption is what keeps the 4.75 rate from being a tax increase on lower income earners.  Currently, individuals with taxable income of $2,500 or below are not taxed, $5,000 for married filing jointly.  But if a taxpayer makes $2501, there is a “cliff”, meaning that a dollar difference results in a taxpayer paying 3.1 percent on the entire income amount.  After a single filer reaches the $2,501 threshold, taxable income not over $15,000 is taxed at 3.1, income between $15,001 and $30,000 is taxed at 5.25, and income above $30,000 is taxed at 5.75.  For married filing jointly, the thresholds double.  It is obvious the 4.75 rate simplifies state income taxes and would get rid of the cliff for low-income filers.  It will allow Kansans to keep more of their hard-earned money, instead of growing government.  I voted yes.  The bill passed 22 to 17.

 

State Grocery Taxes are scheduled to go to zero in 2025, unless SB 248 becomes law.  In SB 248, all grocery taxes, state and local, would go to zero in 2024.  It is a big change.  Some local governments are against the bill, but it is tax relief that many Kansans need.  The bill passed 22 to 16.  I voted yes.

 

Secure Elections by prohibiting ballot drop boxes passed the Senate 21 to 19 in SB 208.  I voted yes.  Another attempt was made to make odd year elections partisan in SB 210.  I did not support this change.  The bill failed on a vote of 16 to 24.  Write-in candidates for certain elections would have to file an affidavit in SB 221.  The bill was brought by election officials that want to save time when counting ballots, so if a person writes in Micky Mouse it will not count unless there is a signed affidavit for Micky.  It’s your ballot and you should be able to write-in whomever you please.  I voted no, but the bill passed 29 to 7.

 

Women’s Bill of Rights, SB 180, would designate biological sex at birth, male or female.  It will protect women’s sports and stop situations such as males being housed in a female prison because it would require separate accommodations.  It should also stop this nonsense on school trips – Eudora girl forced to room with biological male on school-sponsored overseas trip. The Senate passed it on a vote of 26 to 10.  I supported the legislation.

 

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

Caryn

Government, Kansas

Commerce Makes $4.1M in Community Service Tax Credits Available

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced $4.1 million in tax credits will once again be made available under the Community Service Tax Credit Program (CSP).

CSP assists private nonprofit organizations and public healthcare entities undertaking major capital campaigns for projects involving:

  • Community service, including childcare
  • Non-governmental crime prevention
  • Youth apprenticeship and technical training
  • Healthcare services.

Under this program, the state authorizes nonprofit organizations to offer tax credits to donors making contributions towards approved projects. Organizations are chosen through a competitive selection process. The application window is open from March 1 through April 30, 2023, at kansascommerce.gov/csp. Applicants may request up to $200,000 in tax credits.

Proposed projects should be unique or one-time in nature and create lasting value for charitable organizations. For example, projects might include a capital campaign, major equipment purchase, major renovation, capacity building, etc. As was the case in 2022, CSP has earmarked up to $1 million for childcare and early childhood development projects for services to those under the age of 5.

Applicant organizations in rural areas (less than 15,000 population) are eligible for a 70 percent credit. Applicant organizations in non-rural areas are eligible for a 50 percent credit.

If your organization is interested in applying for the CSP program, the Department of Commerce invites you to an introductory webinar at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 1. Registration is required. For more information and to register, click here.

For questions regarding CSP Tax Credits, contact Community Development Specialist 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 and 2022, and was awarded the 2021 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine

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Government, Kansas, Schools

Learning Recovery Grants For Public School Students

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Governor Kelly Announces Qualifying Families
Can Now Apply for $1000 per Student
for Learning Recovery

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that the Kansas Education Enrichment Program (KEEP) is open to applications from qualifying parents and guardians of Kansas students. KEEP provides a $1,000 award per student to pay for various educational goods and services that promote learning recovery and facilitate academic enrichment opportunities.

“This program will provide Kansas students with new opportunities and resources to help them thrive in the classroom,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I encourage all families that qualify to apply for KEEP.”

KEEP funds may be used on various enrichment and educational activities, including:​

  • Day and overnight camps with academic-related curriculum such as music, arts, science, technology, agriculture, mathematics, and engineering
  • Curriculum and educational materials, including certain technological devices
  • Language classes
  • Musical instruments and lessons
  • Tutoring

The funds are not eligible for private school tuition.

Eligibility for KEEP funds is determined by financial need, and funds will be distributed to actively enrolled K-12 Kansas students between the ages of 5-18. Students whose household income is less than 185% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines are eligible.

Subject to funding availability, future waves of funding may be provided with expanded household income eligibility parameters.

Families can learn if they qualify, apply for the program, read the full handbook of rules and instructions, and browse the marketplace of qualified service providers at www.keep.ks.gov. Program participants will have access to a web and mobile app for using their awarded funds.

Earlier this year, businesses that offer educational opportunities and services were invited to join the KEEP Marketplace to assist students and families. Parents and guardians can now search for those opportunities across Kansas on the KEEP Marketplace. Parents and guardians may also submit requests for additional businesses to be added to the Marketplace if they know of a business that would qualify.

KEEP is being offered through a contract between Merit International, Inc. and the Kansas Office of Recovery to provide educational activities and learning opportunities to students across Kansas to promote educational learning recovery in response to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program is funded with American Rescue Plan Act dollars approved through the SPARK process.

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Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

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February 24, 2023

 

Removing Kansas Public Employee Retirement System (KPERS) 15% limit on alternative investments, Senate Bill (SB) 23, was scheduled for debate on the Senate floor.  Just before the bill was to be debated, it was pulled from the schedule because several of us questioned removing the limit.  We were told the bill was needed because current “alternative” investments are bumping the 15% limit and the KPERS Board would be forced to liquidate some investments at an inopportune time.  After more research, it was discovered that nothing requires liquidation or selling alternative investments at the 15% limit, but the Board is restricted from participating in additional alternate investments.

 

Gun Safety courses would be optional in public schools if SB 116 becomes law.  After a cordial debate, the bill passed the Senate 30 to 8.  I voted yes.

 

County Identifier on License Plates is the intent of SB 130.  It’s helpful to see the two character code identifying a Kansas county on license plates.  Custom plates and specialty plates have not been including the county ID.  SB 130 would require the county ID on these plates.  The county ID will help with people who have wrongly received a ticket or bill from the Kansas Turnpike Authority (KTA) because they have the same number on their license plate as someone from another county.  Many people like seeing the ID.  The bill passed the Senate 32 to 4.

 

Presidential Primary instead of Caucus is a bill that I requested.  Kansas has been holding party caucuses, instead of primary elections for President mainly because of cost.  National party conventions to nominate candidates for President are usually held in July, while Kansas primaries are in August.  Thus, party caucuses are used to decide Kansas nominees for President.  It would make sense to move the Kansas primary so that it could include candidates for President.  This would address the cost issue and allow primary winners more time between the primary and the general elections.

 

Property Tax Relief  Just a reminder about tax relief programs passed by the legislature last year.  The Secretary of Revenue is working on problems people have had using the forms to apply for these programs.  The link for the application for property tax relief for low income seniors and disabled veterans is posted at https://www.ksrevenue.gov/pdf/k-40svr.pdf and the application for some property tax relief for businesses shut-down or negatively impacted by the Governor’s shutdown during COVID is at https://www.kdor.ks.gov/Apps/Misc/PropTaxAssistance/StoreFront

 

You may also call KDOR at 785-368-8222 or e-mail [email protected] with questions about the programs and applications.

 

 

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

Caryn