Category Archives: Kansas

Government, Kansas

KS Announces Latest Round of Community Service Program Tax Credits

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Commerce Reopens Tax Credit Opportunities for Nonprofits, Healthcare Entities

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the latest round of the Community Service Program (CSP) Tax Credits, making $4.14 million in state tax credits available for donors to qualified projects.

CSP Tax Credits provide an opportunity for private, non-profit organizations and public healthcare entities to incentivize private donations for one-time, transformational projects that expand access to essential services and result in lasting benefits for their respective communities.

“Making Kansas the best place for all to call home takes strategic collaboration and innovative thinking,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “CSP Tax Credits are a powerful tool our Kansas-based nonprofits and healthcare organizations can leverage to create or improve critical community assets — especially in our rural communities.”

Under the program, the state authorizes nonprofit organizations to offer tax credits to donors that make contributions toward approved projects. Organizations are chosen through a competitive selection process.

Approved projects include capital campaigns, major renovations, significant equipment purchases or capacity-building initiatives. Projects must fall within one or more eligible categories:

  • Community services (including childcare)
  • Non-governmental crime prevention
  • Youth job and technical training
  • Healthcare services

Applications will be open March 1 through April 30, 2026. Those applying may request up to $200,000 in tax credits. Applicants in rural communities with populations less than 15,000 are eligible for a 70% credit. Applicants not located in rural areas are eligible for a 50% credit. Awards will be announced by June 1 and the tax credits will activate July 1.

If your organization is interested in applying for CSP, the Kansas Department of Commerce will host an introductory webinar at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, February 26. To register for the webinar, visit here.

For more information regarding CSP, including program guidelines and application materials, click here. Interested parties may also contact Program Manager Kerri Falletti at [email protected].

About the Quality Places Division:

Established in 2024, the Quality Places Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce exists to improve quality of life in communities across the state through various programs and services. The Kansas Department of Commerce understands the immense role played by strong communities in economic development and prioritizes investments in people and communities as major contributors to the overall strength of the Kansas economy. To learn more, click here.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

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

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Government, Kansas

Ks Works to Develop Technology Systems for Agricultural Use

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Governor Kelly Announces $3M to Develop
Unmanned Aerial Systems Technology for Agricultural Research

~Grant Builds on Kansas’ Strengths in Agriculture and Aviation Research~ 

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly and The Kansas Department of Agriculture today announced that Kelly Hills Unmanned Systems has been awarded $3 million to develop Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) technology for agricultural use. This technology can be used by farmers, ranchers, and agriculture business retailers to improve yields, cut input costs, manage livestock, and expand opportunities for precision agriculture development in the state of Kansas.

“Through investments into cutting-edge precision agriculture technology, we are giving Kansas farmers and ranchers a leg up,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Kansas’ vast cropland and grassland acreage, as well as our diversified agriculture industry, make us the ideal location for these developments.”

The funding was approved by the Kansas Legislature and Governor Kelly during the 2025 legislative session to accelerate the development of agricultural and aviation technology in Kansas given the state’s workforce, strong manufacturing base, and role as a leader in precision agriculture and aviation technology.

“Kelly Hills is building on a storied history of agriculture and aviation innovation in the state of Kansas,” said Kansas Department of Agriculture Secretary Mike Beam. “This investment will ensure that Kansas farmers and ranchers remain at the forefront of the industry.”

“In applying for this funding, Kelly Hills worked with all our major aviation research institutions in Kansas, including Wichita State,” said Representative Avery Anderson, Chair of the House Committee on Transportation and Public Safety Budget. “This grant shows that there is no better place for businesses interested in innovative aviation and agriculture technology than right here in Kansas.”

“My district is full of some of the best farmers and ranchers in the state,” said Senator Craig Bowser, 1st District. “It only makes sense that companies like Kelly Hills would want to do research here on new and emerging technologies to benefit our farmers and ranchers.”

“This proposal draws from partnerships from around the state, including in Johnson County, to provide the next generation of technology for two of our states’ largest industries: aviation and agriculture,” said Representative Jo Ella Hoye, Ranking Minority Member on the House Committee on Transportation and Public Safety Budget. “This research will help create opportunities for small businesses to bring new products to market that benefit the entire state’s economy. My family has three generations of ag pilots, so I am looking forward to the potential for safety improvements while simultaneously preserving the bountiful contributions from aerial applicators.”

Kelly Hills Unmanned Systems was established in 2024 by Heinen Brothers Agra Services to bring advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and autonomous ground vehicles into the agricultural sector. Kelly Hills’ mission is to enhance farming operations by integrating cutting-edge technology that improves precision, efficiency, and safety.

“This investment in Beyond Visual Line of Sight radar technology is a critical step toward establishing Kansas as a national leader in unmanned aviation. The support from Governor Kelly, Representative Anderson, Senator Bowser, and other key legislators sends a clear signal that Kansas intends to lead in both advanced aviation and precision agriculture,” said Lukas Koch, CEO of Kelly Hills Unmanned Systems. “Kelly Hills is focused on commercializing UAS technology and strengthening an internationally recognized testing environment that attracts federal partnerships, private investment, and next generation jobs.”

Kelly Hills works closely with leading UAV manufacturers and collaborates with the FAA, the Kansas Department of Transportation, and the University of Alaska at Fairbanks to ensure operations meet the highest safety and regulatory standards. In 2024, Kelly Hills earned an FAA license to operate a 49,000 sq mile UAV test range. The BVLOS technology will support and enhance the capabilities of the Kelly Hills range.

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Bourbon County, Government, Kansas

K-3 bridge in Bourbon County to be replaced

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Post Date:02/09/2026 9:00 AM

Work will begin the week of Feb. 16 to replace the Little Osage River bridge on K-3 about two miles south of the Linn County line, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.

The 36-mile official detour (see map) will be in place later that week, conditions permitting. KDOT uses state highways for official detour routes for safety, weight and maintenance concerns.

Southbound K-3 traffic should follow the signed detour west on K-31 to U.S. 59, south on U.S. 59 to U.S. 54 and east on U.S. 54. Northbound traffic should follow the detour route in the opposite direction.

The project is expected to be completed by December, conditions permitting.

The new bridge will be 313 feet long and 32 feet wide with 12-foot driving lanes and 4-foot shoulders.

KDOT awarded the $4.19 million construction contract to Bridges Inc., of Newton. The project is funded through KDOT’s 10-year, nearly $10 billion Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE), which is focusing on preserving, modernizing and expanding Kansas’ transportation system.

Check KDOT’s www.kandrive.gov for updated highway conditions and construction details. Persons with questions may contact KDOT Public Information Officer Ray Nolting at (620) 902-6433.

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Government, Kansas

KS Victim Notification Service Directory Is Being Developed

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AG Kris Kobach: New Kansas VINE features assist victims of crime

TOPEKA – (February 19, 2026) – The Office of Attorney General is excited to announce that Kansas VINE now includes a searchable “Service Provider Directory” and an “I Need Guidance” feature.

VINE is the automated victim notification service for custody status on adult offenders held in county jail facilities in Kansas. VINE is a safety resource often used by crime victims needing immediate notification when an offender is released from jail or changes custody status.

The new “Service Provider Directory” and the “I Need Guidance” features provide access to resources from a central place, making it easier for a person to locate assistance. VINE users can search for state-approved local and national service providers by organization name, services they offer, and/or the type of crime. The providers in the directory can help with needs such as crisis services, counseling, housing, and financial resources, and victim advocacy.

“Our division’s experience talking to people across the state confirms that it can be overwhelming for victims of crime to locate and connect with services and support immediately after a crime occurred; and even months later when longer-term impacts emerge,” says Arica Roland, Associate Division Chief, Victim Services Division. “We are currently working with service providers across the state to build the directory to best serve victims of crime. During the beginning stages of building the directory, search requests will return with limited results. As more service providers are added to the directory, search requests will display additional resources available.”

Kansas Service Providers: We Need Your Help

The Office of the Attorney General and Kansas VINE are asking for Service Providers’ assistance. Please consider submitting your agency’s information to join the Kansas VINE Service Provider Directory. To join the Kansas VINE Service Provider Directory, go to the National Service Provider website, select Kansas, review the State Guidelines, select “Join” directory, and complete the survey. https://vine.equifax.com/service-provider-directory

Kansas VINE is free, confidential, and is accessible through the internet, telephone, and mobile App. VINE’s automated notifications are delivered via telephone, email, text message, and in-app. TTY (hearing impaired) service is also available. VINE information is available in English and Spanish. Kansas VINE is available-24/7/365 and can be reached by calling toll-free 1-866-574-8463, visiting www.vinelink.com, or via the VINELink mobile app.

https://www.ag.ks.gov/divisions/victim-services/kansas-vine

 

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

Governor Kelly Celebrates Completion of 69Express Project in Overland Park

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Submitted photo. Governor Laura Kelly is second from right. The scene behind is a Hwy 69 Project poster.

Governor Kelly Celebrates Completion of 69Express Project in Overland Park


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly was joined by Representative Sharice Davids (KS-03), the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), local leaders, and state and local officials today in Overland Park to cut a ceremonial ribbon marking the opening of Kansas’ first express lanes on the U.S. 69 Express corridor. The project was among the first selected for funding under the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE), a 10-year bipartisan initiative to modernize and expand Kansas’ transportation infrastructure.

KDOT’s $572 million design-build project, known as 69Express, included reconstruction of U.S. 69 in Overland Park, widening the highway with added express lanes – one northbound and one southbound between 103rd and 151st Streets – and interchange improvements at U.S. 69/167th Street.

The express lanes are scheduled to open to traffic on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, at 8:00 a.m.

“The launch of Kansas’ first express lanes is a huge win for infrastructure in our state,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This project represents a forward-thinking approach to reducing congestion immediately while building a foundation for Johnson County’s future economic growth.’’

More than 80,000 vehicles use the 69Express corridor each day, with traffic volume expecting to increase by more than 30% by 2050. The express lanes will allow KDOT to manage congestion using tolls that vary based on traffic levels and time of day to keep express lane trips congestion-free. When drivers choose to pay the toll and move into the express lanes, traffic is then reduced in the non-tolled general-purpose lanes as well.

“This is a big day for our community,” said Representative Sharice Davids (KS-03). “Anyone who lives, works, or drives through Johnson County knows the frustration of sitting in traffic on U.S. 69. Too many families have also felt the pain of crashes on the highway. These new lanes will ease congestion, make travel safer, and give thousands of Kansans a more predictable, reliable commute every day. I’m proud of this team effort.”

Drivers will be able to enter and exit the express lanes at three points along U.S. 69: 103rd Street, Blue Valley Pkwy, and 151st Street. Dynamic messaging signs at these entry points will show the current toll rate to the driver’s destination. The rates shown on the sign are for drivers with two-axle vehicles and a KTAG or compatible transponder. These drivers will pay the lowest toll rate on 69Express – 50% lower than vehicles without a KTAG.

“69Express is the result of successful collaboration between our federal, state, and local partners,” said Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed. “Together, we’re implementing express lanes as a sustainable congestion-management solution to provide drivers with reliable travel times today and as traffic grows in the future.”

The Kansas Turnpike Authority is KDOT’s tolling partner for 69Express. Drivers are encouraged to visit DriveKS.com, Kansas’ toll payment system, to set up their accounts and order a free KTAG for use on 69Express and all other Kansas toll facilities, as well as on compatible systems in Colorado, Oklahoma, Texas, and Florida.

69Express was funded by federal, state, and local sources and completed as part of Kansas’ IKE Program. Additional project information is available on the 69Express project website, www.69express.org.

Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by Ks State Senator Caryn Tyson

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Caryn Tyson
February 13, 2026
School Funding has been a long-standing important issue, and with the current formula set to expire, it will remain a key topic for this session and next.  One issue that would be addressed by SB 387 is requiring income verification for the at-risk program that uses free or reduced lunch counts to calculate funding amounts.  It addresses concerns raised in a nonpartisan Legislative Post Audit, which found that the free or reduced lunch count is overstating the poverty counts and funding.  SB 387 would require income verification, with districts being reimbursed for accurate verification of costs.  Parents not willing to answer income verification may not be eligible for reduced costs.  Families already verified through programs like SNAP would be eligible without additional verification.  The Legislative Post Audit (https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/committees/ctte_s_government_efficiency_1/documents/testimony/20260128_01.pdf)  confirms that the free lunch count no longer accurately reflects poverty levels in Kansas schools and recommends that the Legislature reconsider how at-risk funding is allocated.  SB 387 addresses some of the concerns.  It passed the Senate 22-18 and was sent to the House.  I voted yes.
Victim Protection from convicted felons who committed serious crimes would increase if SB 358 is passed into law.  SB 358 would require those felons be held in jail without bond until they are sentenced.  The bill passed the Senate unanimously and was sent to the House.
K‑TRACS is Kansas’s prescription‑monitoring database.  Under current law, only a narrowly defined group of users may access it, helping protect your prescription information.  The Kansas Board of Pharmacy, however, is granted authority to broaden that access through the rules and regulations process.  SB 322, introduced at the request of the Joint Committee on Rules and Regulations after hearing proposed expansion by the board, would strip the Board of that authority, keeping K‑TRACS limited to its present user class.  The bill sailed through the Senate unanimously and awaits consideration in the House.
Golf Carts could be allowed on city sidewalks if SB 367 would become law and if local governments approve.  There was debate about requiring carts only to go to and from a golf course, but it just makes sense to let the locals decide.  They may want to allow people to drive a golf cart on a sidewalk to go to the store, church, or elsewhere in town.  Current state law prohibits golf carts from being driven on sidewalks.  It passed unanimously and was sent to the House.
Director of the Office of Early Childhood, lives in Missouri and has indicated she does not plan to relocate to Kansas while serving in the role.  She was confirmed by a narrow vote, 21 to 19.  Elected officials are required to reside in the district they represent, but apparently this appointment does not have to live in Kansas.  It raises several concerns.  This Director will shape policies that impact Kansans, so what happens when a personal, business, or financial conflict arises?  Where will her primary allegiance be to Kansas or to her home state of Missouri?  To top it off, some senators – who have expressed frustration over the lack of appointments from their regions – nonetheless defended this nomination and voted to confirm a Missouri resident.  I voted no.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Caryn
Government, Kansas

Masterson: Senate Will Stand for Truth

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Topeka, KS – Senate President Ty Masterson issued the following statement in response to Governor Laura Kelly’s veto of SB 244, the bill strengthening and clarifying the Women’s Bill of Rights.

“I never thought I’d see the day when our state’s own governor would turn her back on women by forcing them to use bathrooms in public buildings with biological men. Sadly, our governor has decided she will side with they/them over simple, scientific truth,” Masterson said. “Kansans need not worry – the Kansas Senate will restore sanity, and override her veto.”

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Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson | 300 SW 10th St. 332-E | Topeka, KS 66612 US
Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly Vetoes Poorly Drafted Legislation

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TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly on Friday vetoed House Substitute for Senate Bill 244.

The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of House Substitute for Senate Bill 244:

“This poorly drafted bill will have numerous and significant consequences far beyond the intent to limit the right for trans people to use the appropriate bathroom.

“Under this bill:

“If your grandfather is in a nursing home in a shared room, as a granddaughter, you would not be able to visit him.

“If your wife is in a shared hospital room, as a husband, you would not be able to visit her.

“If your sister is living in a dorm at K-State, as a brother, you would not be able to visit her in her room.

“If you feel you have to accompany your nine-year-old daughter to the restroom at a sporting event, as a father, you would have to either enter the women’s restroom with her or let her use the restroom alone.

“I believe the Legislature should stay out of the business of telling Kansans how to go to the bathroom and instead stay focused on how to make life more affordable for Kansans.

“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto House Substitute for Senate Bill 244.”

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Government, Kansas

Kansas Launches Community Empowerment Program

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Commerce Launches Two New Kansas Community Empowerment Grants

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the launch of two new grant opportunities through the Kansas Community Empowerment (KCE) program. KCE, which is housed within the Quality Places Division at the Department of Commerce, supports locally driven projects that strengthen quality of place, volunteer engagement and long-term community vibrancy across Kansas.

Applications for the KCE Kickstart Grant and Impact Grant are now being accepted. For the first round of funding, the Kickstart Grant will have $40,000 available and the Impact Grant will have $30,000.

“While we bring opportunities and prosperity to all parts of our state, these new grants will specifically target rural and smaller communities across Kansas,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Whether it’s helping a small volunteer-led initiative or funding a transformational placemaking project — these grants are designed to meet the needs of the communities while building their pride, momentum and lasting impact.”

The Kickstart Grant is designed to provide funding for smaller, community-driven projects that build capacity, engagement and momentum. The highlights of the Kickstart Grant include:

  • Awards ranging from $500 to $5,000
  • Ideal for short-term, highly visible projects such as community cleanups, engagement events or early-stage vibrancy initiatives
  • Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis through December 4, or until funds are depleted

The Impact Grant is designed to support larger, long-term investments that create permanent improvements to community assets. Highlights of the Impact Grant include:

  • Awards ranging from $5,000 to $15,000
  • Eligible projects include public art installations, downtown improvements, park and recreation upgrades, community gardens, signage and other placemaking efforts
  • Applications will be accepted through March 31

Both grant opportunities require a 1:1 match, which may include in-kind contributions such as volunteer hours.

“Our community leaders and volunteers are the visionaries, voices and trailblazers of our state — they have the ideas, and they have the passion,” Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. “Because of these two new grant opportunities, awarded organizations will be able to bring what was once a vision to something tangible — and really embrace community vibrancy.”

The grants are administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce and funded in part by the Patterson Family Foundation, the Kansas Health Foundation, the Sunflower Foundation and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas.

An informational webinar will be held at 12:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 18. To register, sign up here.

Applications must be submitted through the Kansas Community Empowerment online application system, which can be found here.

For application details, eligibility requirements and webinar information, visit the Kansas Community Empowerment webpage here or contact Sara Bloom at [email protected] or (785) 506-9278.

About the Quality Places Division:

Established in 2024, the Quality Places Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce exists to improve quality of life in communities across the state through various programs and services. The Kansas Department of Commerce understands the immense role played by strong communities in economic development and prioritizes investments in people and communities as major contributors to the overall strength of the Kansas economy. To learn more, click here.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

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

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Business, Government, Kansas

Startups and Entrepreneurs Accelerate Kansas Innovations: March 10 Event

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Gamechangers & Champions Event to Feature Startup Pitch Competition, Networking

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce, in partnership with NXTUS, Inc. and KU Innovation Park, announced today it will host Gamechangers & Champions 2026: Bracket Bash for Innovators and Angels in March. The high-energy event will bring together startups and angel investors, along with corporate and innovation leaders from across the Midwest.

“In Kansas, startups and entrepreneurs fuel innovation and spur next-generation businesses that create the jobs and wealth of the future,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Events like Gamechangers & Champions are a great opportunity for them to connect with one another — and with investors — to discover resources that can help advance their ideas and companies.”

Gamechangers & Champions 2026 will take place Tuesday, March 10, at the University of Kansas Conference Center connected to the David Booth Memorial Football Stadium in Lawrence. The event is a one-day experience designed to catalyze new angel investments, support early-stage companies, and accelerate Kansas’ innovation momentum. It will feature educational sessions, networking opportunities, speaker presentations and the popular competitive pitch event.

The bracket-style pitch competition is open to Kansas-based, high-growth startups in the pre-seed or seed stage. Winning startups will be chosen at the event with the grand prize being $25,000, sponsored by the University of Kansas Business School. Those interested in participating can find applications here.

Key competition dates include:

  • February 15: Applications due by midnight
  • February 25: Round of 32 winners announced
  • March 4: Sweet 16 winners announced
  • March 10: Elite Eight live pitch and selection of Final Four takes place

Registration is open for Kansas entrepreneurs, angel investors, potential investors, innovation leaders, corporate partners and community members. Following the event, NXTUS, Accelerate Venture Partners and the OREAD Angel Group will coordinate follow-on investment opportunities.

To purchase tickets for the event, visit here.

“Last year, our first Gamechangers & Champions event was an incredible success — and brought many innovative Kansans together to collaborate and discover available startup resources,” Commerce Chief Innovation and Strategy Officer Romaine Redman said. “Regardless of the phase your startup may be in, I encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to speak to investors and innovation leaders and hear other ideas from like-minded innovators.”

 About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

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

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Government, Kansas

KS House Bill 2347 Explained

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Governor Kelly Signs Bipartisan Bill to
Combat Crime, Bolster Public Safety


TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has signed House Bill 2347 to strengthen public safety by amending and creating laws related specifically to crimes of theft, buying sexual relations, criminal use of a financial card, and unlawful use of a laser pointer.

“This bipartisan bill takes reasonable steps to ensure that Kansans are safe and that crime is being addressed in our communities,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Enhancing public safety is essential to building a Kansas where businesses and families want to put down roots.”

Under House Bill 2347, criminal penalties will increase for buying sexual relations, which includes increasing the minimum fine from $1,200 to $2,000 and implementing more stringent educational and treatment programs for offenders.

“House Bill 2347 ensures that Kansas law enforcement possess the tools necessary to protect our most vulnerable citizens,” said Senator Kenny Titus, District 18. “Enhanced penalties and enforcement tools contained in the bill will reduce the demand for human trafficking and allow for easier prosecution of scamsters using gift cards to take advantage of vulnerable Kansans.”

The bill also amends criminal use of a financial card to include gift cards when used to commit fraud or to inappropriately obtain money, goods, property, or services. Additionally, House Bill 2347 would make theft of a motor vehicle that is valued between $500 and $1,500 a severity level 10 nonperson felony.

“From addressing theft to cracking down on fraud, House Bill 2347 makes wide-ranging changes to combat crime in Kansas,” said Representative Dan Osman, District 48. “I’m proud to support this bipartisan, commonsense legislation that will make Kansas communities safer.”

House Bill 2347 also creates the crime of unlawful use of a laser pointer when knowingly directing light at an on-duty law enforcement officer or an aircraft in flight. Anyone who commits the crime may be subject to assault or battery charges.

In addition to House Bill 2347, Governor Kelly also signed House Bill 2183, which codifies existing practice related to judicial deference to state agencies’ interpretation of rules and regulations.

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Jobs, Kansas

KS New Program To Help Inmates Re-enter Society

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SENT, Inc., the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and the Kansas Department of Corrections Launch Community Health Worker Workforce Development Program

TOPEKA, Kansas. – SENT, Inc., in partnership with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) – specifically, Topeka Correctional Facility (TCF), and Kansas Correctional Industries (KCI), and Health Legacy and Restorative Pathways, is proud to announce the launch of a new Community Health Worker (CHW) Workforce Development Program.   This innovative initiative is designed to strengthen community health while creating meaningful employment pathways for individuals preparing to reenter society.

Through this partnership, individuals currently residing at TCF who have completed KDHE’s CHW certification program are now certified as paid SENT employees while completing onsite, hands-on job training in the CHW role. The program operates as a 7-month work-release internship, providing participants with real-world experience, professional accountability, and workforce readiness during the final phase of incarceration.

“Our top priority at the Kansas Department of Corrections is ensuring that individuals return to their communities with the tools necessary for long-term success,” said Secretary of the Kansas Department of Corrections Jeff Zmuda, “This partnership with SENT, Inc. and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment is a model for effective reentry. By providing residents at the Topeka Correctional Facility with professional certification and real-world experience as Community Health Workers, we are not only strengthening the local healthcare workforce but also creating a proven pathway toward meaningful employment and a stable future.”

Health Legacy and Restorative Pathways has played a critical role in the success of the program by teaching the CHW coursework at TCF and coordinating required service-learning activities. These efforts ensure participants are able to fulfill KDHE certification requirements while gaining practical, community-based experience rooted in restorative and trauma-informed practices.

Participants work alongside SENT’s Community Wellness and Neighbor Advocacy teams, supporting neighbors through health resource navigation, benefits assistance, proactive case management, and connection to critical social and healthcare services. Their work directly strengthens access to care, reduces barriers to essential resources, and supports health equity across Shawnee County.

“By providing certification, on-site training, and connections to housing and healthcare, the program helps participants build careers and furthers equitable access to trusted, community-based care,” said Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment Janet Stanek. “We’re proud to support a model that strengthens neighborhoods and creates opportunities for Kansas communities.”

Beyond job training, participants are connected to services and resources that include housing navigation, case management, employment readiness resources, and access to healthcare and counseling—all critical components for reducing recidivism and supporting long-term stability after release.

The program was launched with two CHWs, with plans to scale as funding and capacity allow. SENT and its partners view this initiative as a replicable model for combining public health workforce development with successful reentry strategies—strengthening both individual outcomes and community well-being.

“This program represents what is possible when workforce development, public health, and reentry efforts align,” said Jill Rice, Operations Director of SENT, Inc. “These Community Health Workers have earned their certification, are doing meaningful work, and are gaining the experience and stability needed to successfully transition into long-term employment. At the same time, our neighbors benefit from increased access to trusted, community-based health support.”

About SENT, Inc.

SENT, Inc. is grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Topeka, Kansas, dedicated to the holistic transformation of neighborhoods in Shawnee County. SENT intentionally walks beside neighbors through loving relationships and strategic development, with a focus on Community Wellness, Education, Housing Development, and Behavioral Health.

About the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) works to protect and improve the health and environment of all Kansans. KDHE’s work impacts the lives of Kansans every day through its three divisions: Public Health, Environment and Health Care Finance (Medicaid). The important tasks the agency performs range from health prevention and promotion, responding to public health emergencies, licensing hospitals and health care facilities to monitoring air and water quality and regulating landfills, as well as overseeing the state’s Medicaid program. For more information about KDHE, visit KDHE’s website.

About Topeka Correctional Facility (TCF) and Kansas Correctional Industries (KCI)

Topeka Correctional Facility (TCF) and Kansas Correctional Industries (KCI) operate under the auspices of the Kansas Department of Corrections to support the Department’s mission of investing in individuals, fostering an environment for change and well-being, and engaging with communities to enhance public safety.

Through KCI’s mission of providing supervised, productive, and meaningful work experiences, TCF and KCI support skill development, accountability, and successful reentry. This approach aligns with the Department’s vision of transforming lives by creating opportunities for personal and professional advancement, reducing recidivism, and easing the long-term demand for public resources.

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