November 12, 2021

2021 Off-Session

Usually, there is not much to write about when the legislature is not in session.  That is not the case this year.  For the first time in Kansas history, 2/3 of the legislators signed a petition to force the Governor to call a special session.  There have been 24 special sessions called in the past, but they were all called by the Governor without a petition from legislators.  The special session beginning November 22, 2021 is a result of 29 (27 was required) senators and 84 representatives requesting the Governor call a special session.  All Kansas Republican legislators petitioned the Governor for a special session.  The first special session was called in 1874.

Any topic can be discussed during a special session.  However, all indication is the session will deal with the federal government’s overreach on COVID-19 vaccine mandates.  A Special Committee on Government Overreach and the Impact of COVID-19 Mandates is working to put together legislation for the special session.  The Committee had informational hearings on two bill drafts.  One bill draft would make it clear that a person who loses their job because they refuse to comply with the Biden Administration’s unconstitutional mandates may receive unemployment.  The other bill draft would strengthen the language in Kansas law regarding religious and medical exemptions so that these exemptions would be granted to Kansans who seek them.

Contact Tracing

Last year KDHE put rules and regulations (regs) in place for contact tracing.  The contact tracing rules and regs sunset on May 1, 2021.  However, KDHE wants to continue to invade your privacy and a majority of legislators allowed it by extending KDHE’s contact tracing program to June 30, 2022 in a budget bill (CCR 159 – I voted no).  It may not seem like a big deal, but when you look at all of the government overreach from the federal government, it could be a big deal that the current Administration is collecting medical information, individual movement, and other data.  The data is being stored online at Saleforce.com.  It is your option to deny providing the information, but you may not be told it is optional if it is a not a KDHE person calling.  Contact tracing is collecting data on a person who may have been in contact with an infected person.  KDHE said that they had 20 contact tracers and increased the number of tracers to 140 and are now at 129 tracers.  Wow, 129 people (some out-state contractors) tracing Kansans movement.  Keep in mind, KDHE is the department that was tracking Kansans by their cell phone movement last year.  I requested that this language be repealed in the legislation that will be considered during the special session.

Unemployment Oversight Council

The legislature formed an Oversight Council comprised of legislators and people from the industry who could be considered experts on unemployment.  The Council has made recommendations for a company to audit the unemployment system and the millions of dollars that were stolen using fraudulent unemployment claims.  This report should be complete in 2022.  After the Council studied the companies that applied to implement a new unemployment system, the Council recommended to the Legislative Coordinating Council (LCC) that the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) re-open the Request For Proposal (RFP) process.  The original RFP was so poorly written that only 4 companies responded to the RFP.  Two of the four companies that responded did such poor jobs implementing new systems in other states, the states would not hire them back.  It doesn’t instill confidence moving forward with a new unemployment system which the state needs.

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

Caryn

Governor Laura Kelly Announces Special Session of the Kansas Legislature

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced she will use her constitutional power under Article 1, Section 5 of the Kansas Constitution to reconvene the Kansas Legislature for a special session on November 22, 2021.

“Today, the legislature delivered a successful petition to my office; I take my constitutional obligations as Governor seriously, and am announcing a special session accordingly,” said Governor Laura Kelly.

This action follows the Legislature filing a legislative petition consisting of signatures of 86 members of the Kansas House of Representatives and 29 members of the Kansas Senate – surpassing the two-thirds majority needed for a legislative petition. The special session will take place beginning at 10:00 AM CT on November 22, 2021.

A copy of the proclamation can be viewed here.

Governor Laura Kelly Announces $3.5 Million in New Funding for Kansas Tourism Initiatives

~Kansas Tourism to use funds to revitalize and enhance the tourism industry~

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced Kansas has received $3.5 million in grant funding from the United States Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) to distribute to local partners across the state. These funds will accelerate travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation in the state.

“Kansas’ tourism industry is an economic driver for our state, which is why my administration relocated the State’s Tourism Division to the Department of Commerce last year,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “This $3.5 million will accelerate our efforts to boost travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation across Kansas – improving quality of life for Kansans and growing our economy along the way.”

Kansas will use these funds to inject immediate momentum into the Kansas tourism industry. The $3.5 million will be invested in four strategic areas:

• $1.5 million for sub-grants to local communities or businesses in the development of new tourism attractions or to enhance existing attractions in the state;
• $1.25 million for a strong statewide marketing campaign to increase out-of-state visitation;
• $500,000 for regional video and photography-asset gathering to support state and local marketing efforts;
• $250,000 for Kansas State Parks to develop glamping – “glamourous camping” – sites at various State Park locations.

“We are using every tool at our disposal to drive new economic growth in Kansas, and tourism is a key part of our approach,” Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland said. “These dollars will go a long way in showcasing all of the amazing features Kansas has to offer, while also supporting our businesses and tourism industry partners statewide.”

All 59 states and territories were invited to apply for these grants to support marketing, infrastructure, workforce and other projects to rejuvenate safe leisure, business, and international travel. Additional state grants are expected to be awarded in coming weeks and months.

“Of the many revelations we’ve realized as a result of this pandemic, none may be more clear to us than the very real value of Kansas’ state parks,” said Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Secretary Brad Loveless. “This $250,000 investment comes at a perfect time to improve facilities, increase capacity, and to welcome the many who have yet to camp out-of-doors and need a comfortable introduction.”

“Kansas is ripe with opportunity to grow our tourism industry as we emerge from this pandemic,” Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “Infusing these additional dollars into our statewide marketing and development strategies will bring economic benefits for many years in the future.”

The funds are part of EDA’s $750 million American Rescue Plan Travel, Tourism & Outdoor Recreation program, which provides $510 million in State Tourism grants and $240 million in Competitive Tourism grants that will be awarded to advance the economic recovery and resiliency of communities where the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation industries were hardest hit by the coronavirus pandemic.

The $510 million State Tourism grants – along with today’s reopening of international travel to the United States – are critical steps in the recovery of the travel and tourism sector from the coronavirus pandemic.

For more about EDA’s Travel, Tourism & Outdoor Recreation and other American Rescue Plan programs, please visit: https://www.eda.gov/arpa/.

Governor Laura Kelly Announces “Axe the Food Tax” Plan to Eliminate State Sales Tax on Food

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that she will be introducing a bill in the Kansas Legislature to “Axe the Food Tax,” and eliminate the state sales tax on food in Kansas.

“I’m pleased to introduce a plan that will ‘Axe the Food Tax’ and end the state sales tax on food,” Governor Kelly said. “For too long, Kansans have been paying more for groceries than people in almost every other state. This legislation will save the average Kansas family $500 dollars or more a year on their grocery bill; and thanks to the fiscally responsible decisions we made before and during the pandemic, we can cut the food sales tax and keep Kansas’ budget intact.

“This tax cut will put money back in Kansans’ pockets and create real savings for those who need it most.”

Kansas is one of seven states in the nation that fully taxes groceries. Kansas’ food sales tax rate is 6.5%, the second-highest rate in the country. Under Governor Kelly’s proposed bill, a Kansas family of 4 will save an average of $500 or more on their grocery bill every year.

The bill is possible thanks to the Kelly administration’s commitment to fiscally responsible budget practices over the past three years, causing Kansas’ revenues to come in ahead of estimates, every month, for over a year.

“This bill will not only support our families, but also our many hardworking businesses by keeping Kansans from going across the border to buy their groceries,” Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland said. “Under Governor Kelly’s leadership, Kansas is riding a record-breaking upward trajectory in economic development. This announcement will continue that momentum, building a stronger economy for Kansans now and into the future.”

“With record investment and an ever-strengthening economy, our state is in a prime position to create more opportunity for a better future for Kansas families,” Senate Democratic Leader Dinah Sykes said. “Without exception, this opportunity is hindered by the alarmingly high tax on food sales. Eliminating this regressive tax will reduce food insecurity and improve health outcomes for children, all while providing families further financial flexibility to save for a home, education, and emergencies. We have the means to provide direct relief to all Kansans in every corner of the state, and Senate Democrats are prepared to fight alongside Governor Kelly to get this done, once and for all.”

“Taxing a family’s grocery bill is one of the most widespread and unfair things a state can ask of its residents – a fact that’s been recognized since the tax on food was first put in place in the 1930s. And yet it’s a tax that is paid by every person in Kansas,” House Democratic Leader Tom Sawyer said. “Over the years, the tax on food has been increased 10 times – from an initial 2 percent to 6.5 percent today. Throughout that time, there has been much talk about the unfairness of this tax, but until now, it’s been all talk. Thanks to Governor Kelly’s fiscal responsibility, the Kansas economy is booming, and Kansans will finally get the tax relief they deserve.”

The Governor’s bill will be introduced during the 2022 Legislative session. During Monday’s announcement, Governor Kelly called on lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to get a clean bill through the legislature and onto her desk as quickly as possible.

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced a new grant program that will move quickly to help revitalize underutilized, vacant and dilapidated downtown buildings in rural Kansas communities.

The Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grant program is designed to bring downtown buildings back into productive use as spaces for new or expanding businesses; housing; arts and culture; civic engagement; childcare; or entrepreneurship. The matching grants will help address emergency needs for neglected buildings and assist building owners with eligible expenses for the revitalization of historic properties. Projects submitted must show potential as economic drivers in the community.

“We have a shortage of ready to occupy buildings across the state, but also an abundance of historic buildings with good bones that make them great candidates for rehabilitation,” Lieutenant Governor/Secretary Toland said. “The HEAL program provides an immediate opportunity to close financial gaps in restoring these properties and making downtown districts throughout our state more economically vibrant, while also creating new jobs and services for Kansans.”

There are two funding categories under the HEAL program. Emergency HEAL grants provide immediate relief for buildings at risk of collapse. Emergency HEAL applications will be accepted from November 8-19 with awards announced November 23. All non-Emergency HEAL applications will be accepted until December 20 with awards announced January 10, 2022. Eligible properties must have historical or architectural significance and be in a downtown business district in cities of less than 50,000 population.

The Department will be conducting expedited reviews of Emergency HEAL applications in recognition of the likelihood of collapse of some structures across the state, and the impending winter weather. Applicants selected for Emergency HEAL funding will receive notification prior to Thanksgiving.

Applications must be submitted by building owners in coordination with a local nominating organization. Eligible nominating organizations include: cities, counties, non-profit organizations, designated Kansas Main Street or affiliate cities, chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, Small Business Development Centers or local community foundations.

A virtual workshop on the specifics of the program is scheduled for 11:00 a.m., November 8^th via Zoom. Registration is required and the Zoom link will be provided after registration.  Information about the HEAL grant program and the online application can be viewed at https://www.kansascommerce.gov/healprogram.

HEAL is possible through a collaboration of the Community Development Division, Kansas Main Street, and the Governor’s Office of Rural Prosperity at the Kansas Department of Commerce.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas in 2021 was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award and was named Site Selection Magazine’s Best Business Climate in the West North Central region of the United States. Find the Department’s strategic plan for economic growth here: Kansas Framework for Growth.

STUDENTS INVITED TO ENTER

KANSAS PHOTO CONTEST

TOPEKA –Each year Kansas students are invited to enter photographs that celebrate Kansas and be eligible for special prizes. This year’s theme is Your Favorite Place in Kansas. First place winners in each grade from first to 12th will receive iPads; second place awards in each grade are Kindles.

Last year, first grader Lily Steadman of Derby photographed a school competition to highlight the runners on the Kansas prairies. She received first place in her category in the Happy Birthday, Kansas! Student Photo Contest and won an iPad for her work, among the 24 student award recipients. Lily’s was one of 400 contest entries.

The student photographs contribute to the pictorial history of Kansas, like L. W. Halbe, an early 20th century teenage photographer from Dorrance in Russell County. Halbe’s photos offer a valuable window into life in his community. These photos will be preserved by the Kansas Historical Society.

The contest deadline, for first through 12th grade students, is 5 p.m. Wednesday, December 15, 2021. Winners will be announced as part of the state’s 161st birthday commemoration at the Kansas State Capitol on Friday, January 28, 2022. Find more information and a complete list of contest rules at happybirthdayks.org.

The contest is sponsored by the Kansas legislative spouses in conjunction with the Kansas Historical Society.

Find photographs from last year’s Happy Birthday, Kansas! Student Photo Contest:

https://www.kshs.org/p/student-photo-contest-2020/20482

Find photographs from the Halbe collection online in Kansas Memory:

https://www.kansasmemory.org/locate.php?categories=4652

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KDHE Releases Updated Risk-Based Standards for Kansas Manual 

Governor Laura Kelly Announces Kansas’ October Total Tax Receipts

~ October total tax receipts exceed the estimate by $104.2 million ~

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that October continued the trend of Kansas’ total tax collections being more than the estimate as total tax collections were $662.7 million for the month. That is 18.7%, or $104.2 million, more than the estimate. That is also $66.1 million, or 11.1%, more than the same month of last year.

“As I’ve said before, though our state’s revenue numbers continue to out-pace estimates, we must keep practicing fiscal responsibility,” Governor Kelly said. “That’s how we’ll continue to grow our economy and protect our fiscal health.”

Individual income tax collections were $301.6 million which is $46.6 million, or 18.3%, more than the estimate. That is $17.9 million, or 6.3%, more than October 2020. Corporate income tax collections were $40.0 million for the month. That is $25.0 million, or 166.8%, more than the estimate and $13.9 million, or 53.3%, more than the same month of last year.

Retail sales tax collections were $227.7 million, which is 8.4%, or $17.7 million, more than the estimate. Those collections are $16.7 million, or 7.9%, more than last October. Compensating use tax collections were $67.6 million which is $12.6 million, or 22.9%, more than the estimate. That is a growth of $16.9 million, or 33.3%, over the same month of 2020.

“The difficult steps taken early on in the COVID-19 pandemic have helped the state’s economy not only rebound quicker than expected but has also moved the state towards a sustainable and healthy economic future,” Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart said.

The last time the state had tax collections below the monthly estimate was July 2020.

The Consensus Revenue Estimating Group, comprised of the Department of Revenue, Division of Budget, Legislative Research Department, and economists from the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University, will meet November 10.

View October tax receipts here.

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced Kansas has received a $500,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to spread awareness for the KansasAgStress.org website and destigmatize mental health in Kansas’ agriculture community.

“This $500,000 grant will help us destigmatize mental health and promote the wellbeing of Kansas farmers, ranchers, and our agriculture workforce,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “Kansas farmers and ranchers feed the world – they’re critical to society, and my administration will continue to use every resource available to support them. I want to thank the USDA and the Kansas Department of Agriculture for prioritizing the mental health of Kansas’ agriculture community.”

The Kansas Department of Agriculture will use funding to create a statewide campaign to raise awareness for the KansasAgStress.org website, develop reusable media content, and work to destigmatize the concept of mental health awareness while lowering suicide rates in the agriculture industry in Kansas.

There are several external factors that contribute to stress in the agriculture industry. Creating awareness and equipping workers with support resources will help reduce crisis situations.

“Members of the Kansas agriculture community feel stress that comes from many directions, and it is important that mental health is not overlooked,” said Kansas Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Kelsey Olson. “These Kansans are valued members of their community and work hard to grow the food and fuel that supplies our state, nation and world. We look forward to using this grant to support all the members of our Kansas ag family and to shine a spotlight on the urgency of mental health in agriculture.”

“Mental health is health, and we must continue to fight the stigma through accessible resources like the Kansas Ag Stress network — especially as suicide rates are climbing in rural areas,” said Rep. Sharice Davids (KS-03). “Kansans work hard, and we take care of each other. Programs like this ensure every person in every corner of our state knows that if they are struggling, they are not alone, and there are resources here to help.”

In total, the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) announced an investment of nearly $25 million for 50 grants supporting Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN) State Department of Agriculture (SDA) projects.

Funded projects must initiate, expand, or sustain programs that provide professional agricultural behavioral health counseling and referral for other forms of assistance as necessary through farm telephone helplines and websites; training programs and workshops; support groups; and outreach services and activities.

MANHATTAN, Kansas — A public hearing will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, November 8, 2021, to consider the adoption of proposed regulations to govern commercial industrial hemp production in Kansas. Due to public health concerns posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the hearing proceedings will be conducted virtually via a video conferencing system to provide the opportunity for virtual participation online.

The Kansas Department of Agriculture is proposing amendments to K.A.R. 4-34-24, K.A.R. 4-34-25, and K.A.R. 4-34-29 in order to provide greater flexibility to Kansas hemp producers and make the regulations align with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Final Rule on Commercial Hemp Production. These three amendments were temporarily adopted in August; this public hearing is to finalize the process and make the regulations permanent.

A copy of the proposed regulations, as well as an expanded notice of public hearing, may be accessed on the KDA website at agriculture.ks.gov/PublicComment. Anyone desiring to participate via video conference must pre-register to be provided with a video link. Written comments can be submitted on the public comment web page prior to the hearing or sent to the Kansas Department of Agriculture, 1320 Research Park Drive, Manhattan, KS, 66502.

Any individual with a disability may request accommodation in order to participate in the public hearing and may request a copy of the regulations in an accessible format. Persons who require special accommodations must make their needs known at least two working days prior to the hearing. For more information, including special accommodations or a copy of the regulations, please contact Ronda Hutton at 785-564-6715 or [email protected].

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WHAT:          Public hearing on proposed commercial industrial hemp regulations

WHEN:          10:00 a.m. on Monday, November 8, 2021

WHERE:       Virtual: via video conferencing system

Hearing for Proposed Adoption of Administrative Regulations.pdf