Category Archives: Kansas

Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly Vetoes Senate Bill 368

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TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today vetoed Senate Bill 368.

The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of Senate Bill 368:

“There’s a reason that regulators across the country are taking action against these so-called health care ministries because too often, everyday people are left with huge medical bills. These health care ministries aren’t regulated, which opens the door to all sorts of fraud and abuse.

“Let me be clear, this is not about limiting anyone’s ability to practice their faith freely, it’s entirely about ensuring that Kansans are in a health care system that’s reliable and actually covers their medical expenses.

“Therefore, pursuant to Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution of the State of Kansas, I hereby veto Senate Bill 368.”

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Kansas, Youth

Foster Home Initiative: A Home For Every Child

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Kansas Joins National ‘A Home for Every Child’ Initiative to Bolster Access to Foster Homes

~~Kansas Becomes 7th State to Join Nationwide Initiative Aimed at Improving Ratio of Homes to Youth in Foster Care, 1st State with Approved Plan~~

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly on Thursday announced that Kansas has joined the United States Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families’ (ACF) ‘A Home for Every Child’ initiative to improve the ratio of foster homes to children in Kansas and across the country. Governor Kelly made the announcement alongside federal officials from ACF and the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF). Kansas is the first state to receive ACF approval for its ‘A Home for Every Child’ plan.

“This initiative underscores my administration’s work to strengthen Kansas’ child welfare system by expanding support for foster children and families,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “By taking steps to eliminate barriers to safe, reliable foster homes, we’re setting more Kansas children up for long-term success and empowering them to live full, thriving lives in comfortable and supportive environments.”

‘A Home for Every Child’ reinforces Governor Kelly’s longstanding commitment to making Kansas the best state to raise a family. According to ACF, nationwide there are only 57 homes for every 100 children entering foster care. The ‘A Home for Every Child’ initiative aims to achieve a foster-home-to-child ratio of at least 1:1 nationwide through effective collaboration with states, which includes cutting bureaucratic red tape, improved data collection and reporting, new incentives, support for kin-first placements, and more.

“The Administration for Children and Families is grateful for the bipartisan support behind A Home for Every Child, and we are confident Governor Kelly’s leadership will continue to deliver meaningful reforms to child welfare that protect children and keep families together when possible,” said Assistant Secretary Alex Adams, Administration for Children and Families. “By joining A Home for Every Child, Kansas is focusing on what matters most while allowing its caseworkers to spend more time actually serving children and families across the state rather than filling out federal paperwork.”

ACF offered states the ability to voluntarily transition from existing Child and Family Services Review Program Improvement Plans into the ‘A Home for Every Child’ pilot framework. This shift enables Kansas to become more outcome focused and relies on data-driven accountability. As the 7th state to join ‘A Home for Every Child,’ Kansas has the opportunity to engage early, contribute to federal learning, and modernize performance improvement efforts while maintaining accountability for safety, permanency, and well-being.

“We’re proud to partner in this opportunity to further achieve meaningful outcomes for Kansas families. This effort provides flexibility for innovative approaches alongside families through targeted, practical measures that reflect our state’s goals to prevent and reduce the need for foster care,” said Secretary Laura Howard, Kansas Department for Children and Families. “Every child deserves safety, stability, and a sense of community—and every family deserves the support needed to thrive.”

Additional information about ACF’s ‘A Home for Every Child’ initiative can be found here.

Photos from today’s event are available for media use below:

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Government, Kansas

Kobach warns consumers to be wary of fake traffic violation scam

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CONSUMER ALERT

 

TOPEKA – (March 26, 2026) –Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach today issued a consumer alert warning Kansans about a growing scam involving fraudulent “Notice of Hearing” notices for alleged traffic violations.

Scammers are sending fake notices via text message and email that mimic official court documents. These notices often include realistic details such as court headings, case numbers, statute citations, and a QR code or link directing recipients to pay a fictitious fine and associated costs.

“Courts do not serve legal documents on individuals via text or email,” Kobach said. “Kansans should not respond to unsolicited messages or emails containing purported legal documents from courts requesting payments. Kansans should also avoid interacting with texts or emails that include alleged notices or direct the consumer to scan any QR code within them. If you receive any of these notices, please report it to my office so we can investigate.”

How to Spot and Avoid the Scam

  • Unsolicited delivery: Real court notices for traffic violations or hearings are never sent by text or email.
  • Pressure to pay: The notices urge quick payment via QR code or link to “resolve” the matter and avoid further penalties.
  • Professional appearance: They often feature official-looking formatting to appear legitimate.

What to Do If You Receive One

  • Do not reply, call any provided number, scan the QR code, or click any links. Interacting with the message could introduce malware to your device.
  • Verify any claim independently: Contact the clerk of the relevant court directly using a phone number from the court’s official website (never one listed in the suspicious message).
  • Think before you act: Pause and double-check before responding to any unexpected legal communication.

Kansans who receive these fraudulent notices are encouraged to report them to the Kansas Attorney General’s Public Protection Division at www.ag.ks.gov or by calling (785) 296-3751 or 1-800-432-2310.

About the Kansas Attorney General’s Office

The Kansas Attorney General’s Office protects Kansas consumers through enforcement of the Kansas Consumer Protection Act, investigation of fraud and scams, and education to help residents avoid deceptive practices. For more information, visit www.ag.ks.gov.

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

Cold Weather Rule and LIEAP application period end soon

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) wants to remind utility customers that there are two important dates coming up next week.  First, the Cold Weather Rule ends on Tuesday, March 31. The Cold Weather Rule protects residential customers, served by KCC regulated utilities, from disconnection when temperatures are forecast to drop below 35 degrees.

When the Cold Weather Rule is in effect, regulated utilities are required to offer a 12-month payment plan upon request, even if a previous payment plan has been broken. When that protection ends on Tuesday, failure to make arrangements or failure to adhere to an already established payment plan could result in disconnection. Reconnection after March 31 may require past due balances to be paid in full, depending on the utility’s policy. That is why it is important to call now – while regulated utilities are still required to offer the Cold Weather Rule 12-month payment plan.

In addition, March 31 is the deadline to apply for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program, known as LIEAP. Applications for the federally funded program must be received by the Kansas Department of Children and Families by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31.  Information about the program is available at https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/EnergyAssistance.aspx.

The Commission urges all customers facing financial difficulties to act now to stay connected. To find out more about utility assistance programs in your area, please contact your utility or the KCC Consumer Protection Office at 800-662-0027 or 785-271-3140. Utility assistance program information is also posted on the KCC’s website.

It is important to note that the Commission does not regulate co-ops or municipal utilities, although many of those utilities also offer a cold weather payment plan. For a complete list of utilities regulated by the KCC visit: http://kcc.ks.gov/about-us/jurisdiction.

 

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Government, Kansas

The Kansas Water Authority (KWA) will meet April 8,

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 Kansas Water Authority Meeting in Great Bend

April 8, Camp Aldrich Dining & Events Center

The Kansas Water Authority (KWA) will meet Wednesday, April 8, 2026, outside of Great Bend at the Camp Aldrich Dining and Events Center located at 884 NE 110 Ave, Claflin, KS 67525. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m.

For additional meeting information and the online meeting link, visit the Kansas Water Office website calendar at kwo.ks.gov or call (785) 296-3185.

The KWA is responsible for advising the Governor, Legislature and Director of the Kansas Water Office on water policy issues. They also ensure that water policies and programs address the needs of all Kansans as well as serve as advisors of the Kansas Water Plan. The KWA was established in 1981 and consists of 13 voting members who are appointed by the Governor or Legislative leadership. State agency directors serve as ex-officio members.

If accommodations are needed for a person with disabilities, please notify the Kansas Water Office at 900 SW Jackson Street, Suite 404, Topeka, KS 66611-1249 or call (785) 296-3185 at least five working days prior to the meeting.

Note to Editor: The Americans with Disabilities Act, (42 U.S.C. 12101), requires the Kansas Water Office to print the reasonable accommodations messages.
Government, Kansas

Small Business Grants For Registered Apprenticeships Awarded

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Registered Apprenticeship Small Business Grants Awarded; New Round Opens

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland and the Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship today announced that $28,000 has been awarded to four small businesses across Kansas for projects that will attract and retain workers and continue building the state’s workforce through apprenticeships. Each awarded company will receive $7,000.

“Over the last seven years, Kansas has invested heavily in workforce development and retention — and our Registered Apprenticeship programs have been a key part of our strategy,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “By supporting apprenticeship opportunities, we’re not just investing in Kansas businesses of all sizes — we’re providing pathways for hardworking Kansans to achieve prosperity in our state.”

The Small Business Registered Apprenticeship Grant Program assists existing Registered Apprenticeship programs with technical instruction, outreach, on-the-job training, marketing, staffing, partnerships and administrative costs. These opportunities continue to expand high-wage, high-demand Registered Apprenticeship programs across the state.

The grant awardees are:

  • Dalton’s Heating and Cooling, Franklin County ($7,000): Developing heating and cooling (HVAC) apprenticeships
  • Gifted Care Service, LLC, Geary County ($7,000): Creating healthcare and direct care service apprenticeships
  • Little Kyngs and Queens Daycare, Sedgwick County ($7,000): Developing early childhood education apprenticeships
  • Rincks Dwood Plumbing LLC, Montgomery County ($7,000): Establishing plumbing apprenticeships

“Apprenticeships have been crucial for urban communities — and especially for our rural towns and businesses in Kansas,” Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship Director Shonda Anderson said. “By awarding these funds, we’re creating a pipeline for career-seekers to obtain education that comes with a guaranteed job lined up after completion — and, in the process, ensuring we keep our skilled workforce right here in Kansas.”

The Small Business Grant Awards are open now for an additional round of funding. The application deadline is Friday, April 24.

For this new round of funding, the program will:

  • Increase the employee cap from 10 to 25 full-time employees to expand eligibility to more small businesses in Kansas; and
  • Allow current apprenticeship employers who have not hired an apprentice to apply, encouraging participation from existing programs and increasing participation

This round of funds may be used for staff time to develop programs, training equipment, related technical instruction, contracted services and administrative costs. Funding cannot be used for apprenticeship wages.

To apply or learn more about eligibility requirements, click here.

For additional information about the Kansas Office of Registered Apprenticeship, visit the webpage 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

“State Employees Deserve Better Than Table Scraps”

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Governor Kelly Issues Statement:
“State Employees Deserve
Better Than Table Scraps”


TOPEKA – Today, Governor Kelly issued the below statement regarding state employee pay increases:

“Kansas depends on the good work done by state employees year-round: from clearing roads of snow in the winter to mitigating wildfires in the spring; from keeping Kansas children safe and healthy to honoring our promises to veterans after their service to our nation, and putting themselves in harm’s way daily to maintain safety and public order.

“And yet, once again, the Legislature disrespects these hardworking Kansans by leaving consideration of pay raises until the end of the budget process while securing pay increases for themselves. They’ve already given themselves a 93% pay increase two years ago on top of a 4% increase this year even as they work fewer legislative days. And the Legislature had no difficulty finding a way to give their own staff a 10% raise.

“The Legislature needs to fund the 2.5% pay increase that I called for in my budget at the beginning of this legislative session.”

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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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