Governor Declares Drought Emergency, Warnings and Watches for Kansas Counties
The Governor’s Drought Team examines conditions; and recommends updates to the Governor
Today, Governor Kelly approved updated drought declarations for Kansas counties with Executive Order #22-03. This drought declaration places all 105 Kansas counties either in watch, warning or emergency status.
“The majority of the state of Kansas has experienced drought or abnormally dry conditions for the past several months,” said Governor Kelly. “Unfortunately, these conditions are forecast to persist or get worse, so I strongly encourage Kansans to be mindful of drought conditions and work to minimize the threat of fires across the state.”
The drought declaration placed 19 counties into an emergency status, 61 counties in a warning status and 25 into a watch status. This action was recommended by Connie Owen, Director of the Kansas Water Office and Chair of the Governor’s Drought Response Team. Kansas has continued to experience drier than normal conditions all across the state. Most areas have a departure from normal precipitation of more than three inches over the last six months.
“We have watched drought conditions continue to get worse since this past fall or longer in some areas, causing concern with groundwater supplies, reservoirs, stream flow, crop production, elevated wildfire risk and more,” said Owen. “The Governor’s Drought Response Team will continue to monitor the situation and make recommendations to the Governor as necessary, as future outlooks call for drought conditions to persist as we enter spring.”
Through an interagency agreement between the Kansas Water Office, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and Kansas Division of Emergency Management, counties in emergency stage are eligible for emergency use of water from certain state fishing lakes. These counties also become eligible for water in some Federal reservoirs.
Individuals and communities need to contact the Kansas Water Office for a water supply request prior to any withdrawals from lakes. These requests will in turn be referred to the appropriate office to obtain necessary permits to withdraw requested water.
This Executive Order shall remain in effect for those counties so identified until rescinded by Executive Order or superseded by a subsequent Executive Order revising the drought stage status of the affected counties.
Effective immediately, Executive Order #22-03:
Declares a Drought Emergency, Warning or Drought Watch for the counties as identified below;
Authorizes and direct all agencies under the jurisdiction of the Governor to implement the appropriate watch, warning or emergency level-drought response actions assigned in the Operations Plan of the Governor’s Drought Response Team.
The Governor’s Drought Response Team will continue to watch the situation closely and work to minimize the effects drought has on Kansans.
For more detailed information about current conditions, see the Kansas Climate Summary and Drought Report on the Kansas Water Office website at kwo.ks.gov.
Senate Bill 282 started out as an Aviation Tax Credit bill. It passed out of the Tax Committee last year and was amended on the Senate floor last week. The bill would provide employers in aviation a tax credit beginning in tax year 2023 for tuition or certain program-specific course-fee reimbursements. There were several amendments that went on the bill: a housing development tax credits for suitable housing in communities that are in need of increased housing; up to $250 tax credit for teachers purchasing classroom supplies out of their own pocket; an income tax credit for any property tax increases for low income seniors and disabled veterans – basically freezing property taxes for qualifying Kansans; and increasing the $20,000 property tax subtraction on the K-12 20 mil to $65,000. The bill had some good and some not so good changes to the tax code, but overall it will help Kansas taxpayers so I voted Yes. It passed on a vote of 33 to 4.
Increased access to health care by expanding access to Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs). Senate Substitute for House Bill (Sen Sub HB) 2279 removes the requirement that APRNs have to work with a physician and allows them to work independently. APRNs would be required to maintain malpractice insurance, as do doctors. The bill passed 30 to 7. I voted Yes to provide more access to healthcare in our rural communities.
Currently, Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) cannot be removed in Kansas. HB 2594 would allow the VIN plate for antique vehicles to be removed while restoring a vehicle. The bill passed unanimously.
Kansas Employment Retirement System (KPERS) funding has been and is still an issue. In order to pay some of the unfunded liability down, SB 523 would transfer $1 billion from the State General Fund to KPERS over a two year period. I voted Yes. We need to fix KPERS. The bill passed 28 to 12.
Foster care and adoption agencies issues have also plagued Kansas. In an attempt to address some of the problems, the Senate passed HB 2075 that would allow adoption proceedings to take place in a county where Department of Children and Families (DCF) or subcontractor has an office. This should help improve the adoption process and adoption of children in the foster care program. The bill passed 34 to 6. I voted Yes.
County election officers would be able to remove names from the registered voter list if a person has not voted in a four-calendar year period or does not respond to a confirmation notice sent by the county election officer. I vote Yes to clean up voter rolls. SB 439 passed the Senate 33 to 6.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
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Postal Reform Passes the Senate
Throughout my time representing Kansans in Congress, I have advocated for the preservation of rural post offices and sensible reforms that ensure the Postal Service’s stability. This week, the United States Senate passed H.R. 3076, the Postal Service Reform Act of 2022 to help improve and sustain the United States Postal Service (USPS).
For rural Kansans and older residents, the Postal Service is the glue that keeps them connected to the rest of the country. Kansans have always detailed to me the adverse impact the declining quality of USPS has on their lives and expressed the need for reforms to improve its efficiency. In 2015, I first introduced the Postal Service Reform Act and again introduced this legislation in 2018 and 2021. The Postal Service is an indispensable piece of infrastructure that can reach nearly every address in America, and I am pleased we are one step closer to getting this critical reform across the finish line. Click here or below to watch my remarks.
To read the Kansas City Star’s report on postal reform passing the Senate, click here.
Putin’s Unjust War with Ukraine
Russia’s war in Ukraine has raged on for nearly three weeks, and Russia’s brutality is on full display. There is evidence of maternity wards at hospitals being bombed, and hundreds of civilians have been killed. I joined my colleagues in introducing a resolution that encourages investigations into war crimes by Russian President Vladimir Putin and other Russian leaders responsible for these outrages. There are now 2.5 million Ukrainian refugees fleeing the conflict, with many more who are displaced from their homes within Ukraine. When the war first started, I called for humanitarian assistance to Ukrainians, and Congress passed more than $13 billion in aid to Ukraine, with $6.7 billion going specifically for humanitarian purposes. The United States will continue to support Ukrainians in their fight for freedom.
Responding to President Biden’s Announcement to Ban U.S. Purchase of Russian Oil
On Tuesday, President Biden announced a ban on the U.S. purchase of Russian oil. My colleagues and I made clear the United States cannot continue subsidizing Russia’s aggression by purchasing Russian oil. Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine must be a wake-up call to the Biden administration to maximize home-grown energy and not diminish American energy independence. We need an all-of-the-above approach to energy independence, and it can’t be accomplished without enabling our oil and gas producers to play a larger role.
Banning the purchase of Russian oil is a good first step, but now President Biden must immediately reinstate the Keystone pipeline, allow for new drilling leases on federal lands and waters, and retreat from proposals that would install burdensome regulations and tax increases on domestic oil and gas producers. Until we take these actions to unleash American energy, gas prices will continue to rise and we will remain reliant on our adversaries for energy production.
Ahead of the State of the Union, Sen. Marshall and I teamed up on a letter to President Biden calling for an embargo on Russian energy and introduced legislation that would ban the import of Russian oil. Read the full letter here.
Protecting and Supporting Kansas Law Enforcement
Securing Critical Resources in FY2022 Appropriations Package
This week, Congress passed its FY2022 Appropriations Package. As the lead Republican on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science, I secured new resources for Kansas law enforcement in the FY2022 Appropriations Package, in addition to increased funding for the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant program and Community Oriented Policing Service Hiring Program.
At a time in which certain groups are calling to defund the police, in which the work and dedication of men and women in blue is questioned, I have and will continue to be an advocate for our law enforcement officers. After attempts to gut law enforcement programs, my committee was able to protect and increase vital resources for our men and women in blue. This includes new funding to make certain police officers receive the best training, the newest technology and the tools they need to protect our communities and keep our officers safe.
I appreciate the county sheriffs, chiefs of police, state troopers and officers who speak with me frequently about what their departments are facing on a daily basis and inform me of the resources they need to be successful in our communities. I stand with our law enforcement and will continue to do everything I can to support them in the United States Senate. Our police need to know that we care about them; we respect them; and we’ve got their six.
Kansas Congressional Delegation Honors Olathe East High School Heroes
This week, I joined Congresswoman Sharice Davids and members of the Kansas Delegation, including Sen. Marshall and Representatives Tracey Mann and Jake LaTurner, in recognizing the heroic actions of Olathe East High School School Resource Officer (SRO) Erik Clark and Assistant Principal Kaleb Stoppel on Friday, March 4, 2022.
The heroic actions and quick response of Officer Clark and Dr. Stoppel saved lives at Olathe East High School last Friday. The outpouring of support for the Olathe East community has been inspiring, and this resolution is one more way in which we can honor the actions they took to protect others and thank them for the love, care and sacrifice they showed towards their students and fellow educators. Full text of the resolution can be found here.
Investments to Advance U.S. Space Exploration
As the lead Republican on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science (CJS), and Related Agencies, I was pleased to continue my strong support of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) within the FY2022 Appropriations Package.
This bill reflects my commitment to accelerate NASA’s missions and cement America’s leadership in space exploration. Since the creation of the Artemis program, I have worked to lay the foundation to return American astronauts to the Moon, and I’m pleased this legislation advances this goal by supporting each key element of the Artemis program.
The legislation also continues to invest in NASA’s STEM education programs, critical science missions and aeronautic research. Thank you to Sen. Shaheen for her strong partnership in crafting a bipartisan bill that includes investments across multiple arenas and prioritizes the important work at NASA and their commercial partners.
Banking Committee Work
Speaking at the American Bankers Association Conference
On Wednesday, I spoke at the American Bankers Association’s annual conference in Washington, D.C. We discussed the consequences of Putin’s invasion of Ukraine and the disruptions to global financial markets and energy prices. Additionally, we discussed the Enhancing Credit Opportunities for Rural America (ECORA) Act, legislation I introduced to benefit borrowers of agricultural credit and rural home mortgages through lower interest rates and increased access to credit. With increasing inflation significantly affecting farmers and ranchers, Congress needs to do everything we can to help agricultural producers and our rural towns. Thank you to Kansas Bankers Association President Doug Wareham for moderating our conversation and to ABA for inviting me to participate.
Meeting with the Kansas Bankers Association
I also welcomed the Kansas Bankers Association (KBA) leadership team to Washington, D.C. this week. In order to support the credit needs of local families and businesses, community banks need tailored regulations which decrease the cost of credit. We discussed legislative efforts to bolster the competitiveness of rural and agriculture-focused banks and encourage growth. Another key issue we covered is the Community Bank Leverage Ratio (CBLR). In response to the large amount of deposits banks received through pandemic stimulus funds, I introduced legislation to allow small lenders greater regulatory flexibility in meeting the financing needs of their local communities. As a member of the Senate Banking Committee, I will continue to advocate for the local lenders which are often the backbone of communities across Kansas.
Announcing Grant for Fort Hays State University to Recruit STEM Educators
This week, I announced a grant to Fort Hays State University to recruit and prepare STEM teachers to work in rural areas with a high need for STEM educators.
Effective and passionate teachers play an important role in inspiring young people to pursue careers in STEM, and these fields are critical to American competitiveness on the global stage. This federal grant will increase the number of science teachers equipped to teach in Kansas’ rural school districts, while also contributing to national research on how to better train STEM educators to serve in rural America. I have a been a longtime supporter of STEM education, and this federal grant will contribute to making certain more of our next generation of engineers, scientists and technology professionals call rural Kansas home.
Good News for Kansas: NAIR-WSU Contract to Benefit Wichita
The National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) at Wichita State University has been awarded the largest contract award in the school’s history.
Read more about my work to highlight Kansas’ strong aviation capabilities from the Wichita Business Journal here.
Veterans’ Affairs Committee Work
Meeting with Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough
This week, I met with Secretary McDonough to discuss our collaborative work over the last year to deliver health care and benefits to veterans exposed to toxic substances during military service. The Senate unanimously approved my Health Care for Burn Pit Veterans Act last month which would enable Post-9/11, combat-deployed veterans to enroll in the VA health care system. This was the Senate’s first step in a multi-pronged approach to address this issue. The remaining steps we discussed are a bipartisan path forward on creating a framework for the secretary’s quicker decisions on toxic exposure presumptions, as well as establishing actual presumptions of service-connection for certain diseases which can now be linked to military service.
The secretary and I also covered the receipt of nominations from the administration to fill vacancies in the important positions of VA Under Secretary for Health, VA Under Secretary for Benefits and at the Asset and Infrastructure Review (AIR) Commission. The secretary gave me a rundown on each nomination for these positions, which the Senate received on March 10. I wrote to President Biden last month on the need to fill these long-overdue vacancies so I was pleased the secretary was able to deliver this good news. I’m looking forward to learning more about the nominees during the upcoming confirmation process.
Finally, the secretary and I discussed his recommendations for review by the AIR Commission to be made public on March 14. His recommendations on facility realignments, openings and closures around the country will serve as the AIR Commission’s starting point in an effort that will modernize VA’s infrastructure to ensure veterans have access to world-class medical facilities for decades to come. I will be following this statutorily-mandated process closely, particularly as they impact Kansans.
Annual VSO Hearings
On Tuesday, the Senate and House Veterans’ Affairs Committees held our final joint hearing with testimony from the American Legion and several other veteran service organizations (VSOs). These hearings are an important feature of the committee’s work, affording us opportunities each year to hear directly from veteran advocates about their priorities and their work on behalf of their members. We discussed the Emporia American Legion Post’s ATLAS pod I announced last March, which will begin hosting VA clinical appointments by the end of this month. I am pleased that Kansas veterans in the area will now have better access to VA telehealth and I am grateful for the VA, American Legion and Philips partnership to reach veterans where they are with VA care.
As the Ranking Member of the Senate VA Committee, I also discussed the importance of caring for the health needs of toxic-exposed veterans without further delay. My legislation with Sen. Tester, the Health Care for Burn Pit Veterans Act, would get veterans in need of health care into the VA quicker than any other bill in Congress, and I urged my colleagues in the House to send it to the President’s desk for signature. I look forward to continuing to work with the VSO community, as well as across the aisle and across Capitol Hill, to craft the next phase of our approach to fix the system for toxic-exposed veterans.
Remembering Roger Kemp
This week, I spoke on the Senate Floor in memory of Roger Kemp, a passionate member of the Kansas City community and a staunch women’s advocate following the tragic murder of his daughter, Ali.
In 2002, Ali was murdered at the age of 19 while she was working as a pool life guard. Living through every parent’s worst nightmare, Roger channeled his grief into bringing his daughter’s murderer to account for his heinous crime. Roger demanded nothing less than absolute justice for his daughter. He worked tirelessly, including through a billboard advertisement campaign, to find Ali’s killer. This campaign not only worked to bring her killer to justice but led law enforcement—both locally and nationally—to adopt a similar strategy that has been credited with helping apprehend hundreds of other suspected killers.
Over the nearly 20 years since its founding, the Ali Kemp Educational Foundation and its T.A.K.E. Defense programs have trained more than 70,000 girls and women across the country, ranging in age from 12 to 90 – no doubt saving more than one life. He was a loving father and husband, a dedicated member of his community and a man who created good from the devastating loss of his daughter.
My prayers are with Kathy, Tyler and Drew, and all that knew and loved Roger in this time of sorrow. I’m honored to have considered him a friend, and it comforts me to think that he has reunited with Ali once more.
Meeting with Aviation Leaders I joined Harlow Aerostructures, Spirit AeroSystems and Honeywell this week to discuss their contributions to Sikorsky helicopters that carry out critical missions for our military. We discussed their work on the CH-53K Super Stallion, the Marine Corps’ heavy-lift helicopter, and the UH-60 Blackhawk, the Army’s aviation workhorse. As we look at the crisis in Ukraine and toward potential conflicts with China, we need the most capable and efficient helicopters to defend American assets. I am proud that these Kansas companies are partnering with the military to provide our servicemembers with the best technology that is available. As a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, I will continue to support our suppliers and manufacturers who serve our military men and women.
Meeting with Cerebral Palsy Research Foundation of Kansas
Executive Director Pat Jones and I met virtually this week to discuss the inspirational work being done by the Cerebral Palsy Research Foundation in Wichita. Pat provided an update on the Timbers, a 100-unit, ADA accessible housing community located in northeast Wichita. The Cerebral Palsy Research Foundation of Kansas understood the need to support independent living options for individuals with disabilities and in response, created the Timbers apartment units. I appreciate the work Pat is doing to renovate the Timbers and look forward to following its success as the project expands.
Remembering George Nettels Jr. George learned from his father that life is a gift and the length of it was not guaranteed. He took that lesson to heart, making sure that while he was on this Earth, he bettered his hometown of Pittsburg, made countless memories with his family and friends, and was always ready for an adventure.
This week, I spoke on the Senate Floor in memory of George Nettels Jr. Robba and I extend our sympathies to his family and friends, and all those who knew and loved him.
Meeting with Dianne Macheers It was great to meet with Kansan Dianne Macheers in Washington, D.C. this week. We had the opportunity to discuss the future of assisted living homes as we come out of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dianne serves America’s senior citizens in her position as Vice President of Corporate Communication at the Ridge Senior Living and her expertise was appreciated as I continue working to ensure Kansas’ seniors receive quality care. Over the past year, I have continually advocated to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for Provider Relief Fund (PRF) emergency assistance to be directed to assisted living homes. HHS has been focused on sending PRF funding assistance to Medicare and Medicaid facilities, but it is essential to ensure assisted living homes are not left behind.
Visiting with Kansas Collegiate Leaders Visiting Donnelly College in KCK
Before heading to Washington on Monday morning, I visited Donnelly College to receive and update from President Monsignor Stuart Swetland and tour new buildings on campus. We also took time to discuss issues relevant to my role on the Senate Committee with jurisdiction over educational issues, such as federal Pell Grants, and steps they took to increase access to their nursing program. Training new nurses for the workforce is extremely important to all areas of our state but especially for our rural hospitals.
Special thanks to Monsignor Swetland for the tour and CCO Lisa Stoothoff, CFO Bernard Barry and Donnelly Board Member Maureen Mahoney for joining us.
Meeting with President Ben Schears of Northwest Kansas Technical College
I was pleased to meet virtually with President Ben Schears of Northwest Kansas Technical College (NWKTC) this week. President Schears updated me on the college’s interest in expanding educational offerings to further aid development of the high-skilled workforce Kansas employers and communities desperately need. We also discussed how federal resources can help support the college’s efforts to educate students in high-demand fields and prepare them for quick and successful entry into the workforce. I thank President Schears for his leadership and clear attention to the educational and workforce needs of our state.
Visiting with Members of the Truckers Convoy in Washington, D.C. This week, I met with Kansans who drove to our nation’s capital with the truckers convoy. Our conversation touched on the concerns with COVID-19 vaccine mandates and the negative impact these mandates have had on a variety of industries, including health care and transportation. We also discussed the need for the Biden administration to increase America’s domestic oil production. Our nation is safer when we are not reliant on volatile regions or hostile nations in order to support our nation’s energy needs. I’m grateful to have met with fellow Kansans who understand the importance of vocal engagement in public policy.
Honored to Serve You in Washington It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a form of letter, a Facebook comment or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard.
Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email by clicking here. You can also click here to contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C. office.
Very truly yours,
Jerry
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Hays
1200 Main St.,
Suite 402
P.O. Box 249
Hays, KS 67601
Phone: (785) 628-6401
Proof of Concepts Applications Open through the End of the Month
TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced that the Kansas Innovation & Technology Enterprises (KITE) Proof of Concept (POC) applications for the third quarter of fiscal year 2022 are being accepted through Thursday, March 31. The POC program helps cultivate and support innovation in Kansas by supporting companies with advanced, innovative technology.
The program is designed to fill a need for support where typical funding mechanisms are not available, acting as a bridge to commercialization and funding by angel or venture investors. The program aims to assist in:
the establishment of promising new technology-based entrepreneurial ventures within the State; and
the commercialization of inventions resulting from research conducted at Kansas public universities.
“Promoting innovation and entrepreneurship is one of the key initiatives in our Framework for Growth,” Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Tolandsaid. “Driving innovation in our economy is a critical component to attracting businesses and people to Kansas. I’m pleased we are able to offer this funding to help Kansas entrepreneurs develop new technologies and reach their goals.”
The POC funding is designed to help develop a project/product to the point where the entity can raise significant amounts of external capital. Typically, these awards will be used for commercial assessment and/or technology validation, such as advanced testing or prototype development.
Applications for POC funding are accepted throughout the year. The POC review committee meets on a quarterly basis to review proposals and make recommendations for funding in two categories: For-profit Entity and Faculty Led. Award amounts can be between $5,000 – $25,000 per application. Award notifications for the application period ending March 31 will be made in late April.
POC applications can be found here. For additional information, please contact Wade Wiebe at [email protected].
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 in 2021 was awarded Site Selection Magazine’sGovernor’s Cup award, Area Development Magazine’s Gold Shovel award and was named Site Selection Magazine’sBest Business Climate in the West North Central region of the United States. Find the Department’s strategic plan for economic growth here: Kansas Framework for Growth.
USDA Confirms Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Backyard Flock in Kansas
For Immediate Release:
March 12, 2022
For more information:
Heather Lansdowne
785-564-6706 [email protected]
MANHATTAN, Kansas — The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a non-commercial backyard mixed species flock (poultry) in Franklin County, Kansas. Samples from the flock were tested at the Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory and confirmed at the USDA–APHIS National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) in Ames, Iowa.
The Kansas Department of Agriculture is working closely with USDA–APHIS on a joint incident response. KDA officials quarantined the affected premises, and birds on the property will be depopulated to prevent the spread of the disease.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is a highly contagious viral disease that can infect chickens, turkeys and other birds and can cause severe illness and/or sudden death in infected birds. Attentively monitor your birds for symptoms of HPAI which include: coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and other signs of respiratory distress; lack of energy and appetite; decreased water consumption; decreased egg production and/or soft-shelled, misshapen eggs; incoordination; and diarrhea. Avian influenza can also cause sudden death in birds even if they aren’t showing other symptoms.
If these symptoms are observed in your birds, immediately contact your veterinarian. If you don’t have a regular veterinarian, contact KDA’s Division of Animal Health office toll-free at 833-765-2006.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recent HPAI detections do not present an immediate public health concern. No human cases of these avian influenza viruses have been detected in the United States. Birds and eggs from the infected flock will not enter the food system. As a reminder, the proper handling and cooking of all poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165 ˚F is recommended as a general food safety precaution.
As part of existing avian influenza response plans, federal and state partners are working jointly on additional surveillance and testing in areas around the affected flocks. The United States has the strongest AI surveillance program in the world, and USDA is working with its partners to actively look for the disease in commercial poultry operations, live bird markets and in migratory wild bird populations.
For more information about HPAI, including current status of the confirmed cases in other states as well as more information about biosecurity for your flock, go to KDA’s avian influenza webpage at agriculture.ks.gov/AvianInfluenza or call KDA at 833-765-2006.
MANHATTAN, Kansas — The Kansas Department of Agriculture, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, has confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in wild waterfowl in central Kansas. This is the state’s first confirmed case of HPAI since 2015.
“Confirmed HPAI in wild birds in central Kansas is an indication that Kansas birds are at risk of exposure from the wild migratory bird population,” said Animal Health Commissioner Justin Smith. “We’ve encouraged Kansas poultry owners to be aware of this possibility, but now the reality is all poultry owners need to be vigilant in taking steps to protect their flocks from avian influenza. If you haven’t implemented biosecurity practices yet, the time to do it is now.”
Biosecurity refers to practices that prevent possible contamination. For poultry, biosecurity practices include:
Prevent contact with wild birds, especially wild waterfowl. Remove any potential nesting areas for wild birds.
Cover and enclose outdoor feeding areas, and cover stored feed.
Take all possible steps to separate wild birds from having any access to your flock or their living area.
Clean and disinfect any vehicle tires or equipment that has been on other farms or other locations where there is poultry or wild birds.
Wear clean clothing, boots and shoes when in contact with your flock.
Restrict unauthorized people and vehicles.
Isolate new birds.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is a highly contagious viral disease that can infect chickens, turkeys, and other birds and can cause severe illness and/or sudden death. HPAI has been identified in backyard flocks as well as commercial operations in neighboring states; at this time, it has not been detected in domestic birds in Kansas.
Attentively monitor your birds for symptoms of HPAI which include: coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and other signs of respiratory distress; lack of energy and appetite; decreased water consumption; decreased egg production and/or soft-shelled, misshapen eggs; incoordination; and diarrhea. Avian influenza can also cause sudden death in birds even if they aren’t showing other symptoms.
If these symptoms are observed in your birds, immediately contact your veterinarian. If you don’t have a regular veterinarian, contact KDA’s Division of Animal Health office toll-free at 833-765-2006.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recent HPAI detections do not present an immediate public health concern. No human cases of these avian influenza viruses have been detected in the United States. Avian influenza does not present a food safety risk. Poultry and eggs are safe to eat when handled and cooked properly.
As part of existing avian influenza response plans, federal and state partners are working jointly on additional surveillance and testing in areas around the affected flock. The United States has the strongest avian influenza surveillance program in the world, and USDA is working with its partners to actively look for the disease in commercial poultry operations, live bird markets and in migratory wild bird populations.
For more information about HPAI, including current status of the confirmed cases in other states as well as more information about biosecurity for your flock, go to the KDA’s avian influenza webpage at agriculture.ks.gov/AvianInfluenza or call KDA at 833-765-2006.
The 2022 legislative session is quickly coming to a close. Last week was turnaround, considered the halfway point of session. However, it is not the same amount of time to complete the “second half” of session. The first half is about 1.5 months, while the second half is less than 4 week. We have about two weeks for committee meetings and then a few full days on the floor to work bills.
There are still some major issues to tackle – redistricting maps, a budget, election security, health freedom, and hopefully tax cuts, including sales tax on food. With so many important issues to be finished, the next few weeks will be extremely busy.
There were a few bills debated on the floor, but no final action was taken during the week.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that applications are currently being accepted for the Community Service Tax Credit Program (CSP). CSP provides an opportunity for private, non-profit organizations and public health care entities to improve their ability to undertake major capital campaigns for projects involving children and family services, non-governmental crime prevention, youth apprenticeship and youth technical training and health care.
“The Community Service Tax Credit program is an incredible opportunity for nonprofit organizations to create lasting, meaningful changes for people across Kansas,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “These tax credits will foster local solutions to local challenges, and they will help improve the quality of life for Kansans now and into the future.”
Under this program, the state authorizes nonprofit organizations to offer tax credits to donors making contributions towards approved projects. Proposed projects should be unique or one-time in nature and create a lasting value for charitable organizations. For example, projects might include a capital campaign, major equipment purchase, major renovation, capacity building, etc.
Since 2019, CSP has earmarked $1 million for childcare and early childhood development projects for services to those under the age of 5.
“These tax credits help local nonprofit and healthcare organizations streamline their fundraising efforts, to more effectively improve the health and economic wellbeing of Kansas communities,” Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland said. “We’re asking Kansans to tell us about their initiatives, and if they are a good fit for the CSP program, we will provide a significant resource to help bring these projects to fruition across Kansas.”
Applicants may request up to $200,000 in tax credits. 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. The application window is open through April 30, 2022 at kansascommerce.gov/csp.
CSP is administered by the Community Development Division of the Department of Commerce. More information on the program, guidelines, and application process may be found online 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 in 2021 was awarded Site Selection Magazine’sGovernor’s Cup award, Area Development Magazine’sGold Shovel award and was named Site Selection Magazine’sBest Business Climate in the West North Central region of the United States. Find the Department’s strategic plan for economic growth here: Kansas Framework for Growth.
Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site
June 3-18, 2022
TOPEKA— The Kansas Historical Society and the Kansas Anthropological Association announced that registration is now open for the Kansas Archeology Training Program (KATP), which will be held at Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, in Topeka, June 3-18, 2022. The public can register online through kshs.org through May 31, 2022. Participation is limited per day and will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis.
The annual field school will partner with the park and the National Park Service’s Midwest Archeological Center (MWAC). The park includes the Monroe Elementary School and commemorates the 1954 U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to end the nation’s legal segregation. This landmark victory for civil rights in America helped inspire the American Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s. Monroe Elementary School was built in 1927; the previous Monroe School was built in 1874. Both were intended as segregated schools for Black children, which provide a broader historical context to the location prior to the 1954 court decision.
The goal of this year’s field school is to expand knowledge of the school property from the early years when it was purchased by John Ritchie in 1855 and later when the current Monroe Elementary School was built. This will be an opportunity to explore structures buried on the property that once stood near the earlier Monroe School. Little is known regarding the preservation of these structures. Through archeology better understanding can be gained about those who lived in the school neighborhood. This project will help tell of the crucial time between the Civil War and the Civil Rights era, which profoundly impacted people’s lives throughout the nation. Research goals will be shaped by input from the National Park Service to assist in telling this story and gaining more understanding about the surrounding community.
The annual field school is an opportunity for the public to work alongside professional and avocational archeologists in finding and excavating archeological sites and processing the resulting artifacts. This year’s artifacts found at the site will be processed in the Kansas Historical Society’s archeology laboratory. No experience is necessary—just a desire to learn. Volunteers can attend a few days or the entire field school. Participants must be at least 12 years old, and children aged 12-17 must be accompanied by a parent or sponsor.
The registration fee for members of the Kansas Historical Society and the Kansas Anthropological Association is $35 for standard participants, $25 for participants 65 or older, and $15 for all students currently enrolled at a middle school, high school, or college. For individuals that are not members of either organization, the fee is $90.
A full schedule of evening programs will be held in Topeka; a tentative schedule will be posted online. Admission to the programs is free and open to the public. Please note, the field school is closed on Mondays (June 6 and June 13), which is a great opportunity for participants to explore the area. There is potential for other scheduled programming on these days.
Governor Laura Kelly Announces $160 Million to Support Child Care Providers in Kansas
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced $160 million in grants available for child care providers in Kansas. The third round of Child Care Sustainability Grants will aid child care providers in meeting the costs of operating their businesses through the remaining impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As we grow the economy, these grants will provide the continued support our child care facilities need to stay open and ensure that Kansas families have access to safe, quality child care.” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This support will help our child care facilities, it will help Kansas parents, and it will help our economy.”
Qualifying child care providers are guaranteed nine months of payments ranging from $1,800 per month for family child care programs to $18,000 per month for large centers. In addition, the providers will be eligible for an additional five months of funding either in the same amount or more, depending on the utilization of the grants during the first nine months.
“When Covid-19 hit, we were so thankful that we were still able to be open and be there for our parents and the children who needed a safe and familiar place to go,” said Kristele Blessings, Precious Blessings Development Center. “During that time, we as a small business took a hit when some of our parents weren’t able to work due to the pandemic and we lost some of our expected income.
“These grants have afforded us the ability to provide child care in the safest and most precautious way for our staff, children, and parents,” she continued.
Precious Blessings Development Center received $20,000 in grants from the first two cycles. It is located in Topeka.
“As their businesses continue to recover from drop in classroom sizes, delayed capital improvements, and unexpected expenses for sanitization and personal protection equipment, child care providers can use the grant dollars how they need it most,” Department of Children and Families Secretary Laura Howard said. “These grants offer great flexibility to fulfill the needs of the providers.”
The grant program will be administered by Child Care Aware of Kansas. The grant application is available starting March 1 at www.ks.childcareaware.org. Applications are accepted until Nov. 30, 2022. Grant dollars may be used for personnel costs, rent/mortgage, utilities, personal protective equipment, goods or services, purchases of or updates to equipment and supplies, and mental health supports.
“Financial support from these grants represent an unprecedented investment in the stabilization of our existing child care infrastructure, ensuring that parents have a safe, nurturing environment for their young children,” said Kelly Davydov, Executive Director of Child Care Aware of Kansas. “These funds are critical to ensuring that child care businesses are able to keep paying staff, even when enrollment fluctuates due to illness. They also allow child care programs to absorb the increased cost of essential supplies, like food and personal protective equipment.”
To be considered for funding, newly licensed or established child care programs must maintain an active permanent license with Kansas Department of Health and Environment, whether they remain open or temporarily closed. Funds may be used for any normal operational expenses, additional expenses the child care program has due to meeting CDC guidance for mitigating the spread of COVID-19, and other activities necessary to maintain or resume the operation of programs.
Round 1 and 2 of the Child Care Sustainability Grants provided $97 million in support to Kansas child care providers. Child Care Aware of Kansas estimates that nearly 211,000 children were impacted by the grants.
Round no. 1: $49.5 million Round no. 2: $47.5 million
Governor Laura Kelly Announces February Total Tax Collections Continue to Exceed Estimates
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that total tax collections for February were $502.5 million. That is $18.7 million, or 3.9%, more than the February estimate. Those collections are also $46.6 million, or 10.2%, more than February 2021.
“My administration has taken steps to restore the Kansas economy, and that fiscal responsibility has paved the way to provide direct tax relief to Kansans,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I urge the Legislature to work together to send me a clean bill eliminating the state’s tax on food immediately, so that we can put this money back into the pockets of Kansas taxpayers.”
Individual income tax collections were $183.4 million in February. That is $6.6 million, or 3.5%, below the estimate. However, it is important to note that income tax refunds are being issued much quicker than in prior years. There have been 15,000 more refunds sent out in February 2022 compared to February 2021. The increase in refunds total $21.0 million more paid out in February compared to the same month of 2021.
“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. But for the larger number of refunds issued in February, individual income tax receipts also would have surpassed the February estimate,” said Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart. “We are pleased to be able to get individual income tax refunds paid more quickly and into the accounts of taxpayers.”
So far, nearly 281,000 refunds, totaling $147.0 million, have been paid out this filing season. Refunds for electronically filed returns can be expected to be deposited in taxpayers’ bank accounts in 4-7 days, with some deposits occurring in as little as three days.
Corporate income tax collections were $23.4 million, which is $12.4 million, or 112.8%, more than the February 2022 estimate. Those collections are $15.2 million, or 186.3% more than February 2021, reflecting substantial corporate profits.
Retail sales tax collections were $195.2 million, which is $5.2 million, or 2.8% more than the estimate. Those collections are also $16.0 million, or 8.9%, greater than February 2021. Compensating use tax collections were $59.4 million, which is $4.4 million, or 8.0%, more than the estimate. Those collections were $20.7 million, or 53.7%, more than February 2021.
