Category Archives: Kansas

Topeka Government Offices Reopen Tomorrow

Governor Kelly Announces State Offices to Re-Open Thursday for State Employees in Shawnee County

TOPEKA— Governor Laura Kelly announced Wednesday that she has ordered state offices in Shawnee County to re-open on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025. Governor Kelly previously ordered state offices in Shawnee County closed on Wednesday due to safety concerns regarding potentially hazardous conditions resulting from the winter storm.

“Thanks to the hard work of crews, roadway conditions have improved, and state offices will return to normal operations on Thursday,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Please exercise caution when traveling and continue to give crews the necessary space as they keep working to clear roadways.”

All non-essential state employees in Executive Branch agencies under the governor’s jurisdiction who work in Shawnee County are required to report to work as normal.

For continuously updated road information, go to www.KanDrive.gov and click on the Road Condition map. Other construction information, camera views, weather websites and travel details are also available. You can also call 511 – for Kansas road condition information from anywhere in the U.S., call 1-866-511-KDOT (5368).

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Ks Senator Caryn Tyson’s Weekly Legislative Report

Caryn Tyson

 

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

February 7, 2025

 

Property Taxes are high, and most people would agree the system is not always accurate or fair, so the Senate acted by passing a constitutional amendment, Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR) 1603, to limit taxable valuation increases of real property to a maximum of 3% a year, unless certain triggers occur. Local governments often rely on skyrocketing valuations to collect more property taxes.  SCR 1603 would limit the tax value of real properties so local governments would have to vote to raise the mill levy, providing more transparency to property tax increases.

 

The SCR would have to pass the House and then voters would decide to amend the Kansas Constitution and limit taxable valuation increases each year or not.  It passed the Senate on a bipartisan vote 28 to 11.  I voted yes.

 

Election ends on election day, SB 4, would require all ballots to be returned by 7 p.m. on election, not three days later.  It passed the Senate 29 to 10.  I voted yes.

 

Rank choice voting, where you can rate the candidates on the ballot by selecting your first choice, your second choice, your third chose and so on, would be banned in Kansas if SB 6 becomes law.  It is a voting system in which the candidates are ranked when you vote.  It’s difficult to count and can delay election results.  SB 6 passed 29 to 10.  I voted yes to ban this election system in Kansas.

 

Budgets can be used for political volley.  It’s disappointing but it does happen.  To correct this, the Senate passed Senate Bill (SB) 14 so that if a budget is not passed into law by June 30th, then the state government would not shut down because the previous year’s budget would be adopted.  It passed the Senate 31 to 8.  I supported this effort.

 

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

Governor Kelly Vetoes Divisive Legislation


TOPEKA –
Governor Laura Kelly on Tuesday vetoed Senate Bill 63.

The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of Senate Bill 63:

“Right now, the Legislature should be focused on ways to help Kansans cope with rising prices. That is the most important issue for Kansans. That is where my focus is.

“Infringing on parental rights is not appropriate, nor is it a Kansas value. As I’ve said before, it is not the job of politicians to stand between a parent and a child who needs medical care of any kind. This legislation will also drive families, businesses, and health care workers out of our state, stifling our economy and exacerbating our workforce shortage issue.

“It is disappointing that the Legislature continues to push for government interference in Kansans’ private medical decisions instead of focusing on issues that improve all Kansans’ lives.

“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto Senate Bill 63.”

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State Offices in Topeka Will Be Closed Tomorrow

Governor Kelly Orders State Office Buildings
in Shawnee County
Closed Wednesday
Due to Inclement Weather


TOPEKA
– Due to safety concerns regarding winter weather conditions resulting from the approaching winter storm, Governor Laura Kelly has issued a Declaration of Inclement Weather for Shawnee County, ordering state office buildings in Shawnee County to be closed on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025.

The declaration takes effect at 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, and lasts through 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 12. A reassessment of weather conditions will be made on Wednesday to determine if the declaration will be extended further.

“In anticipation of a winter storm impacting state operations, we are closing state office buildings in Shawnee County on Wednesday,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “As I have done in the past, I urge all Kansans to exercise increased caution when driving and to take measures to make sure their families are prepared for potentially hazardous winter storm conditions by making an emergency plan and a home emergency kit.”

This declaration applies to all non-essential state employees in the Executive Branch agencies under the Governor’s jurisdiction who work in Shawnee County. Appointing authorities in offices located outside Shawnee County have the option to declare Inclement Weather for those counties.

During the period of Inclement Weather, essential employees are required to report to work as normal. Benefits-eligible non-essential employees should record Inclement Weather Leave during the period of Inclement Weather. Remote work is not being required.

For continuously updated road information, go to www.KanDrive.org and click on the Road Condition map. Other construction information, camera views, weather websites and travel details are also available. You can also call 511 – for Kansas road condition information from anywhere in the U.S., call 1-866-511-KDOT (5368).

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KDHE Takes Lead on Youth Risk Behavior Survey for Kansas Highschoolers

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announces that it will be responsible for administering the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) across Kansas. The YRBS is a vital tool that gathers data on the health behaviors of high school students in Kansas. It provides essential insights into the challenges facing today’s youth and paves the way for programs and policies that promote their well-being.

First completed in 1990, the YRBS is a nationwide survey conducted every two years. Its purpose is to monitor specific behaviors that can significantly impact the health and safety of adolescents in Kansas.

“By understanding these behaviors, KDHE can work with school and community leaders to develop targeted interventions and programs to address the unique needs of Kansas youth,” said Grace Harvey, YRBS School Survey Coordinator, “Taking on the administration of the YRBS reflects our commitment to supporting Kansas youth and addressing the factors that impact their health and safety.”

For years, the YRBS in Kansas was overseen by the Kansas State Department of Education. Now, KDHE is honored to continue this critical work. This transition will enable KDHE to directly integrate survey findings into the state’s public health initiatives, ensuring a seamless connection between data and action.

The YRBS captures data on a variety of topics, including:

  • Nutrition, physical activity and weight status
  • Bullying
  • Mental health and suicide
  • Tobacco, alcohol and drug use
  • Sexual behaviors that could lead to STDs, HIV, or unintended pregnancy
  • Behaviors contributing to unintentional injuries or violence

The YRBS is currently conducted in 50 randomly selected high schools across the state, with students in grades 9-12 anonymously participating. To protect privacy, no personal identifiers are collected, and participation is voluntary. KDHE will work directly with the participating schools to get active parental consent from each participating student. Schools will work closely with a designated YRBS coordinator to ensure the process is smooth and minimally disruptive. Each survey takes just one class period to complete.

KDHE is looking forward to leading this important initiative and is committed to using the YRBS insights to improve the lives of Kansas youth. By working collaboratively with schools, parents and community partners, we can turn data into meaningful action, fostering a healthier and brighter future for the next generation.

To learn more, visit the KDHE website.

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“The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime” Rescheduled to Feb. 14

 

 

 

Presentation Explores the History of Baseball in Kansas

Rescheduled Due to Forecasted Weather

 

Fort Scott, Kan. With the potential winter storm that is forecasted for this Wednesday, Feb 12, the Gordon Parks Museum hosted event “The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime,” a presentation and discussion by Phil Dixon is rescheduled to Friday, February 14, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at The Danny and Willa Ellis Family Fine Arts Center at 2108 S. Horton St. Members of the community are invited to attend the free program. Contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700 ext. 5850 for more information. The program is made possible by Humanities Kansas.

 

This is a free Lunch and Learn event, with desserts provided by Great West Dining. Drinks and chips will also be provided. Fort Scott T-Mobile will also have a table set up for free raffle drawing for a chance for the attendees to win T-Mobile prizes.

 

“Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend this presentation event to learn more about the Kansas City Monarchs” said Museum Director, Kirk Sharp.

 

2020 marked two major milestones for baseball: the Negro Leagues celebrated their 100th anniversary and Major League Baseball merged statistics of these African American players with those of the major league. The history of Negro League baseball in America mirrors the racial strife experienced by African Americans in society. It was plagued by discrimination, racism, and inequity, while its athletes were celebrated for their resiliency, professionalism, and athleticism. The Kansas City Monarchs barnstormed across Kansas and the region to play more than 400 games between 1920 and 1957 against local towns. This talk sheds new light on this sports history and the history of baseball in Kansas.

 

Phil S. Dixon a co-founder of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City. He is the author of nine books about baseball, including biographies about Wilber “Bullet” Rogan and John “Buck” O’Neil. In the course of his research, he has interviewed over 500 former Negro League players and family members.

 

“The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime” is part of Humanities Kansas’s Speakers Bureau, featuring humanities-based presentations designed to share stories that inspire, spark conversations that inform, and generate insights that strengthen civic engagement.

 

For more information about “The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime” in Fort Scott, Kansas, contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700 ext.5850 or visit gordonparkscenter.org.

 

About Humanities Kansas

Humanities Kansas is an independent nonprofit leading a movement of ideas to empower the people of Kansas to strengthen their communities and our democracy. Since 1972, our pioneering programming, grants, and partnerships have documented and shared stories to spark conversations and generate insights. Together with our partners and supporters, we inspire all Kansans to draw on history, literature, ethics, and culture to enrich their lives and serve the communities and state we all proudly call home. Visit humanitieskansas.org.

 

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Seven Kansas Non-profits Awarded Big Game Hunting Permits for Fundraising

 

PRATT – Seven lucky conservation organizations are set to receive Commission Big Game Hunting Permits after their applications were drawn by Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commissioners during the January 30th public meeting. The Commission Big Game Hunting Permit program allows Kansas-based non-profit organizations that focus on wildlife conservation and promoting the hunting and fishing heritage to apply for one of seven permits. The permits can then be sold by the winning group to raise funds for conservation projects in Kansas. The winning organizations typically raffle or auction the permit to the highest bidder and keep 15 percent of the sale price to support their missions. The remaining 85 percent is held by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) until a mutually agreed upon conservation project is approved.

“Last year, proceeds from Commission permits supported the Habitat Specialist program which is one of our key conservation partnerships with Pheasants Forever,” said Wes Sowards, assistant director of the wildlife division at KDWP. “Habitat specialists work across the state to manage wildlife habitat on both private and public land with a special emphasis on conservation objectives in the State Wildlife Action Plan.”

“These habitat specialists are the true heroes in our eyes,” said Bob Hix, a regional representative from Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. “The Kansas Pheasants Forever habitat team and the local chapters are committed to doing even more habitat work for all wildlife in Kansas.”

Other projects supported by the Commissioner permit proceeds have included wetland improvement at Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area and special youth hunt programs.

“Ducks Unlimited is honored to receive these Commission permits which have been part of an ongoing and hugely successful partnership between DU and KDWP,” said Matt Hough, Kansas conservation programs manager for Ducks Unlimited. “Proceeds from these permits will be put to great use for priority projects of both organizations for the conservation of wetlands and waterfowl habitat that also provide public benefits to the people of Kansas.”

Based on applicant preference, seven deer permits were awarded to the following conservation groups for 2025:

Ducks Unlimited Wyandotte Chapter
Mike Bulk
785-294-1280
mikeb@fairviewmills.com

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers Kansas Chapter
Marshal Loftus
816-489-1023
marshal.loftus@gmail.com

Kansas Bowhunters Association
Jamie Howarter
jhowarter@yahoo.com

Ducks Unlimited Kansas University Chapter
Mike Bulk
785-294-1280
mikeb@fairviewmills.com

Pheasants Forever Stanton County Chapter
Bob Hix
303-588-1542
bhix@pheasantsforever.org

Pheasants Forever Osborne Chapter
Bob Hix
303-588-1542
bhix@pheasantsforever.org

National Wild Turkey Foundation Salty Spurs Chapter
Nate Watson
505-401-6474
nwatson@nwtf.com

Members of the public are encouraged to contact the representatives listed to learn when and where each of these permits will be auctioned or raffled in the future.

Complete rules for the Commission Big Game Permits can be found at ksoutdoors.com/KDWP-Info/Commission.

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The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) is dedicated to the conservation and enhancement of Kansas’s natural resources for the benefit of both current and future generations. KDWP manages 29 state parks, 177 lakes and wildlife areas, more than 300 public waterbodies, and 5 nature centers, Other services include management of threatened, endangered, and at-risk species, law enforcement, and wildlife habitat programs. For more information about KDWP, visit ksoutdoors.com.

The seven-member, non-partisan Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission serves in an advisory capacity in formulating policies and plans for KDWP. The commission facilitates public hearings on rules and regulations proposed by the Secretary of KDWP, ultimately voting to approve, modify, or reject those proposed rules and regulations. The Commission Big Game Permits are authorized by K.S.A. 32-970.

 

Public Hearing on Evergy’s Request to Recover Costs

KCC schedules public hearing and comment period on Evergy’s
request to recover costs for new gas plants and solar facility

TOPEKA – The Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) has scheduled a virtual public hearing beginning at 6 p.m. on March 5th to provide Evergy Kansas customers across the state with information about three proposed new generation investments (two combined cycle gas-fired generating turbine plants and one solar facility). One gas plant would be located near Evergy’s Viola Substation in Sumner County and the second near Hutchinson in Reno County. The Kansas Sky solar facility would be located in Douglas County. The Commission will also provide an opportunity for public comments during the hearing.

Evergy filed an application with the KCC requesting a predetermination of the prudency of the investments and whether the company would be entitled to recover the costs of the investments and under what terms. Evergy has asked to recover the cost of construction work in progress (CWIP) and in a future rate proceeding will ask for recovery of the investments after they are in service, which is expected at the end of 2026 for the solar facility and 2029 and 2030 for the gas plants.

To participate in the virtual hearing via Zoom and make a public comment, advance registration is required by noon on March 4. For persons wishing to watch, but not comment during the public hearing, a live video stream will be available on the KCC YouTube channel. The hearing will also be recorded for later viewing.

In addition to the hearing, the Commission will accept written comments through 5 p.m. on April 7. Comments may be submitted online, by mail or by calling the KCC at 785-271-3140 or 800-662-0027.

To register for the virtual hearing, make a public comment online or find additional information on the application, go to the Commission’s website (www.kcc.ks.gov) and click on the “Your Opinion Matters” tab.

The Commission will issue an order on the application on or before July 7, 2025.

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Kansas Department of Commerce’s Community Service Tax Credit Program (CSP) Starts March 1

Lt. Governor Toland Announces More Than $4 Million Available in Community Service
Tax Credit Program

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced $4.13 million in tax credits will be made available under the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Community Service Tax Credit Program (CSP).

“Revitalizing our communities and state requires targeted investments that make people want to live and work in Kansas,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “CSP supports communities by substantially reducing the cost for donors to make contributions to charitable organizations that help fund important local projects.”

The Community Service Tax Credit Program provides an opportunity for private, non-profit organizations and public healthcare entities to improve their ability to undertake major capital campaigns involving community service, non-governmental crime prevention, youth apprenticeship and technical training, and healthcare services.

Under the program, the state authorizes nonprofit organizations to offer tax credits to donors that make contributions towards approved projects. Organizations are chosen through a competitive selection process in which applications are thoroughly analyzed to determine award sizes and final awardees.

Proposed projects must be unique or one-time in nature while creating lasting value for charitable organizations. Projects could include a capital campaign, major equipment purchase, major renovation, capacity building and more.

Applications will be open March 1 through April 30. Those applying may request up to $200,000 in tax credits. Applicants in rural communities of less than 15,000 population are eligible for a 70% credit. Those applicants not located in rural areas are eligible for a 50% credit.

If your organization is interested in applying for CSP, the Department of Commerce will host an introductory webinar at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, February 27. For more information and to register for the webinar, click here.

For questions regarding CSP, contact Quality Places Specialist Miranda Carpenter by email or call (785) 940-0626.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

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KDHE Launches New Cancer Data Dashboard

TOPEKA – In celebration of World Cancer Day, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has launched its new Cancer Data Dashboard, which is now available on the KDHE website. Released by the Bureau of Epidemiology and Public Health Informatics (BEPHI) and the State Cancer Program, this comprehensive, interactive tool offers stakeholders, researchers, policymakers and the general public access to the most up-to-date cancer data for Kansas, providing an essential resource for improving cancer care, prevention and policymaking.

Launched on Oct. 22, 2024, the Kansas Cancer Data Dashboard integrates data from the Kansas Cancer Registry, Vital Statistics and the Kansas Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). This tool enables users to access data on cancer incidence, mortality, survivorship, screening and cancer risk factors with a simple, interactive interface. Users can explore cancer data by sociodemographic factors such as age, sex, race, ethnicity and population density, and they can view data mapped across Kansas counties and regions.

”The new Cancer Data Dashboard is a valuable resource for cancer prevention and control efforts in Kansas,” Jana Farmer, Cancer Section Director at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, said. ”By making this data accessible to a wide range of stakeholders, we can enhance decision-making and drive evidence-based strategies that improve cancer prevention, treatment and survivorship outcomes for Kansans.”

Key features of the Cancer Data Dashboard include:

  • A snapshot of the top 10 cancer diagnoses and cancer deaths by sex and age group, including specific data for children under 20 and 15 years old, along with age-specific incidence and mortality rates for all cancers.
  • Age-adjusted cancer incidence rates for 24 cancer types, segmented by sociodemographic factors, and includes data on both overall and late-stage cancer diagnoses, as well as the most recent 10 years of incidence data.
  • Cancer death data for 24 cancer types, segmented by sociodemographic characteristics such as age, sex, race and ethnicity.
  • Cancer screening prevalence rates for lung, colorectal, cervical, and female breast cancer based on U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines, along with data on cancer risk factors such as tobacco use, binge drinking, obesity, and physical inactivity, as well as information on family history collection and genetic counseling.

A unique feature of the Cancer Data Dashboard is its inclusion of data related to cancer survivorship, which is sourced from the Kansas BRFSS cancer survivorship modules. This section addresses key issues such as receiving survivorship care plans and treatment summaries, financial hardships caused by cancer and the management of cancer-related pain. Additionally, the dashboard allows users to compare cancer survivors with individuals without a cancer diagnosis on topics like healthcare access, health status, cancer risk factors and cancer screening rates. Serving as a centralized, all-in-one platform, the dashboard is a vital resource for Kansas’ cancer prevention and control stakeholders, public health researchers, and community advocates. By offering interactive maps and detailed, accessible data, it empowers users to make informed decisions and allocate resources effectively where they are most needed.

The new dashboard is now available to the public and can be accessed here.

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Applications Open for Kansas Arts Commission Funding Opportunitie

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced applications are being accepted for four Kansas Arts Commission (KAC) grant programs that support a wide range of arts and cultural activities across the state.

The grant programs, which are designed to foster community pride, economic growth and cultural heritage, include:

  • General Operating Support Grant: Provides funding for day-to-day operations of established arts organizations
  • Arts Everywhere Grant: Supports specific projects and initiatives and is open to both arts and non-arts organizations
  • Public Art & Murals Grant: Funds permanent and semi-permanent public art installations
  • Visiting Artists Grant: Helps bring professional artists from across the nation to Kansas communities

“Providing targeted financial support for the arts is vital in revitalizing and supporting our communities and organizations of all sizes,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Groups are using these grants to help make important, impactful and meaningful work happen, boosting local economies and connecting residents to the creative talent found throughout the Sunflower State.”

The KAC grants are available to support arts and cultural activities that are taking place starting on July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. Supported activities include arts education projects, music, dance, visual arts, professional and community theater, media arts, creative writing, murals, poetry, the operations of museums and other creative disciplines.

Eligible applicants include Kansas-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, units of local government (e.g., schools, universities, libraries, art agencies, etc.) and federally recognized tribal communities. All applicants must have at least one fiscal year of completed arts programming.

“Our funding opportunities are open to any and all Kansas organizations, and the application can be completed without specializing in grant writing,” Kansas Arts Commission Director Curtis Young said. “We encourage all interested applicants to take advantage of the resources we have available to help navigate the process.”

To access relevant KAC application webinars, click here.

The deadline for all four KAC grant applications is 5:00 p.m. February 28. For more details, guidelines and eligibility, click here.

Visiting Touring Roster Artists grants also are available to bring artists on the Kansas Touring Roster to communities across the state. The program accepts applications on a rolling basis but must be made at least 60 days in advance of the proposed activity. More details can be found 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 Arts Commission (KAC):

The Kansas Arts Commission stewards the state’s investment in the arts by empowering creativity, fostering innovation, and strengthening the economy to enhance the vitality of every Kansas community. The Kansas Arts Commission is a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce. To learn more about KAC, click here or contact Ben Stanton at benjamin.stanton@ks.gov or (785) 213-5959.

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KS Tax Collections $942.8 Million In January

Governor Kelly Announces January
Total Tax Collections Surpass Estimate by
Nearly $16M


TOPEKA
– The State of Kansas ends January 2025 with total tax collections at $942.8 million. That is $15.9 million, or 1.7%, above the estimate. Total tax collections are up 1.5% from January 2024.

“While current revenues are in line with the estimates, it is important that we continue to focus on fiscal responsibility to ensure long term financial health in Kansas,” Governor Laura Kelly said.

Individual income tax collections were $500.1 million, $25.1 million or 5.3% above the estimate, and up 5.1% from January 2024. Corporate income tax collections were $73.0 million, $20.0 million or 21.5% below the estimate, and down 18.7% from January 2024.

“But for a tax system deployment on Friday, January 31, which delayed that day’s individual income tax refunds to today, total taxes collected would have been extremely close to the forecasted amount for the month of January,” said Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $348.8 million, $11.8 million or 3.5% above the estimate, and up $4.5 million or 1.3% from January 2024.

Click here to view the January 2025 revenue numbers.

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