Category Archives: Kansas

Government, Kansas

Governor Laura Kelly’s Weekly Newsletter

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Welcome to the first edition of The Kelly Administration’s ‘Kansan to Kansan’ Newsletter, a weekly update from the Office of Governor Laura Kelly. If you are not currently subscribed, you can sign up here.

 

WEEK OF AUGUST 10, 2020

Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Teachers Discuss School Reopenings, Protecting Staff and Students

 

 

Watch the Virtual Discussion here

 

  • Kelly told the teachers that she is committed to funding schools and supporting educators both right now and after the pandemic ends. “So that you can do the jobs that you’re trained and hired to do and we can provide the support systems in there to make it possible for you,” she added.

 

Press

 

KSHB

 

KWCH

 

The Topeka Capital-Journal

 

State Finance Council Approves $60 Million To Expand High-Speed Internet to Underserved Kansas Communities

 

Read the press release here

 

  • “COVID-19 has made it clear how important access to high-speed internet is for Kansans in rural and urban regions alike. Whether it’s telemedicine, teleworking, or online education capabilities, broadband is a singular tool that can change outcomes for communities. My administration will continue to support investments in our state’s infrastructure like high-speed internet to put us on stronger economic footing as we continue our road to recovery,” Governor Laura Kelly said.

 

Press

 

The Topeka Capital-Journal

 

KSNT

 

KRSL

 

Governor Laura Kelly Announces Partnership with Urban Outfitters, Inc., to Create up to 2,000 Jobs and Approximately $350 Million Capital Investment

 

 

Read the press release here

 

  • “I’m excited to announce our new partnership with URBN and to welcome them to Kansas,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This is a transformational project for our state, bringing a new, high-profile corporate partner and as many as 2,000 good-paying jobs. This was a true collaboration to generate an economic development success story that will deliver benefits in Wyandotte County and beyond in our state.”

 

Press

 

The Kansas City Star

 

The Topeka Capital-Journal

 

Kansas Reflector

 

WIBW

 

KCTV

 

Governor Laura Kelly Applauds Kansas State University COVID-19 Response Contribution During Biosecurity Research Institute Tour

 

 

Read the press release here

 

  • “The Kansas State University Biosecurity Research Institute has a long history of excellence and innovation researching disease spread like what we are currently facing with COVID-19,” Governor Kelly said. “My conversations with BRI staff served as a reminder of how many of our best and brightest have answered the call to help end the pandemic. While my administration is doing everything in our power to get Kansans back to work and kids back to school safely – the contributions being made by our health community will be instrumental to protecting the people of this state and our economy.”

 

Press

 

Kansas Reflector

 

WIBW

 

KSN

 

Governor Laura Kelly Announces 225 New Jobs in Salina

 

 

Read the press release here

 

  • “Schwan’s has been a staple here in Salina for many years, and they’ve been making nationally-recognized pizza brands for decades,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “From Day One, my administration has prioritized investing in and rebuilding Kansas’ foundation. This venture is a testament to our commitment to creating good jobs for Kansans, especially at this critical time as we work to recover from the economic challenges brought on by COVID-19.”

 

Press

 

KAKE

 

KWCH

 

WIBW

 

ICYMI:

 

Governor Laura Kelly, The Garden City Telegram

 

Kansas Reflector

 

The Hutchinson News

 

The Kansas City Star

 

The Mercury

 

 

 

 

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Government, Kansas

Survey on K-7 starts Aug. 17

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A close up of a map Description automatically generated

 

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) plans to begin a field survey on Monday, Aug. 17, on K-7 in Bourbon County. The 11.4-mile survey corridor is on the existing highway alignment, starting at the Crawford-Bourbon county line and continuing north and east to end .4 miles southwest of U.S. 69.

 

KDOT expects the survey to be completed by December. Activities include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the corridor. A member of the survey crew will contact property owners or tenants for permission to enter private property.

 

Stan Lloyd and Tuff Hemreck of McClure will manage this survey for KDOT. Persons with questions may contact KDOT Public Affairs Manager Priscilla Petersen, (620) 902-6433.

COVID-19, Government, Kansas

Second Round of CARES Funding Opens August 19

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Second Round of CARES Act Funding Applications to Open August 19 at 12:00 p.m.

 

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly has announced businesses will soon be able to apply for a total of more than $130 million in grants to serve those most affected by the pandemic and for companies that can expand broadband access in the state.

 

Information on SPARK economic development and connectivity grant programs can now be found online at kansascommerce.gov/covidrelief. Grant applications will be accepted beginning at 12:00 p.m. Wed., Aug. 19, 2020.

 

“These funds will both provide necessary immediate relief to businesses and contribute to a more strategic, competitive Kansas economy in the future,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “I want to thank the SPARK Taskforce for recommending these strategic investments and the State Finance Council for approving the use of these funds.”

 

In addition to providing financial relief, grants will be available to businesses whose products and services will be needed in greater volume to help combat the virus and its effects. Funding is also being made available to expand broadband access both through infrastructure improvements and by partnerships with internet service providers to serve low-income households. These grants are funded through the Coronavirus Relief Fund of the federal CARES Act.

 

This pandemic has affected each sector differently, with industries having very different needs from one another. With this in mind, applications for grants are being made available in the following categories:

 

  • Small Business Working Capital Grants

Kansas businesses with fewer than 500 employees are eligible to apply for Small Business Working Capital grants. Funds can be used to pay working capital expenses such as payroll, rent, mortgage insurance, utilities, inventory, and more. Grants will be awarded on a rolling basis until funds are depleted.

 

  • Securing Local Food Systems Grants

The Securing Local Food Systems grant program was created to support Kansas meat processing facilities, food processors, grocers, and food banks to address food for human consumption supply chain disruptions as a result of the COVID-19 public health emergency.

 

  • PPE Procurement Grants

The PPE Procurement grant program will award businesses funds for the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE), implementation of workplace redesigns, additional signage, new technology solutions for distance working, and other items to comply with COVID-19 public health guidelines on safely returning employees to work.

 

  • PPE Manufacturing Grants

PPE Manufacturing grants will provide funding to manufacturers to reimburse certain costs to manufacture critically needed PPE. The grant funding will assist entities with creating new businesses while contributing to the fight against the current COVID-19 public health emergency.

 

  • COVID-19 Bioscience Product Development Acceleration Grants

Kansas has a strong pipeline of bioscience-related companies developing SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic, therapeutic, and medical countermeasures. This grant program will accelerate commercialization and go-to-market strategies, allowing these Kansas companies to quickly deploy novel technology by optimizing value and reducing risk through informed decision making.

 

  • Connectivity Emergency Response Grants

The Connectivity Emergency Response Grant (CERG) was created to address the increased need for connectivity in Kansas in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Proposed projects should improve connectivity to unserved and underserved areas of Kansas to address the needs of telework, telehealth, distance learning, and other remote business services.

 

  • Broadband Partnership Adoption Grants

The Broadband Partnership Adoption Grant will provide support for low-income households by partnering with ISPs to leverage their existing adoption infrastructure and assure connectivity to as many Kansans as possible.

 

  • IT, Cybersecurity & IT Project Management Certification Training Grants

To mitigate the job losses in Kansas as a result of COVID-19, the Kansas Department of Commerce is seeking a rapid response training program that will provide training, certificate testing, and job placement assistance in the areas of IT, cybersecurity, and IT project management.

 

  • Kansas Tech College Advanced Manufacturing Grants

This program will support the needs of the advanced manufacturing industry in Kansas. The program will focus on reskilling/upskilling individuals affected by COVID-19 to meet economic sector needs in high-demand, high-wage occupations.

 

Details on each category, including award amounts, proposal requirements, eligibility and more can be found at kansascommerce.gov/covidrelief.

 

COVID-19, Government, Kansas

KDHE amends travel quarantine list

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Florida removed; mass gatherings greater than 500 added

 

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has amended its travel quarantine list, removing the state of Florida and adding attendance at mass gatherings greater than 500 people. Additionally, those countries with a CDC Level 3 Travel Health Notice with restrictions remain.

 

This list is effective for all persons returning to or entering Kansas on the effective dates. The state will review/update this list every two weeks. A comprehensive list of those individuals needing to quarantine for 14 days includes visitors and Kansans who have:

 

  • Attended/traveled to mass gathering events of 500 people or greater on or after August 11.
  • Traveled to/from Florida between June 29 – August 11. 
  • Been on a cruise ship or river cruise on or after March 15.
  • International travel on or after July 14 to countries with a CDC Level 3 Travel Health Notice, including China, Iran, European Schengen area, United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland and Brazil. International travelers must follow CDC guidance and protocols.

 

Others needing to continue quarantining:

  • Anyone subject to a travel-related quarantine for a state or country previously on the travel-related quarantine list must complete their 14-day quarantine period.
  • Received notification from public health officials (state or local) that you are a close contact of a laboratory-confirmed case of COVID-19.

 

Travel quarantines do not prohibit travel through Kansas. People from these locations may still travel through Kansas. If this is done, KDHE recommends limited stops, wearing a mask at rest stops or when getting gas and being 6’ from others when doing so. If the destination is Kansas, they would be required to quarantine upon arrival to their destination.

 

Critical infrastructure sector employees who have travelled to these destinations should contact their local health department regarding instructions for application of these quarantine orders while working. Critical infrastructure employees, such as public health, law enforcement, food supply, etc., need to have the staffing resources to continue serving Kansans so the local health department may allow a modified quarantine. Please note the only exemption for these quarantine mandates for critical infrastructure sector employees is work – they are not to go any other locations outside of work.

 

For more information on COVID-19, please visit the KDHE website at www.kdhe.ks.gov/coronavirus.

COVID-19, Government, Kansas

State Approves Coronavirus Relief and Expanding Broadband

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State Finance Council Approves $60 Million Broadband Expansion, State Agency Reimbursements and Consulting Services for Accounting and Compliance

 

TOPEKA – Today, the State Finance Council (SFC) approved $60 million to expand broadband access, $3.9 million in reimbursements to state agencies for COVID-19 related operational expenses and up to $5 million for consulting services for meeting the accounting and compliance requirements of the Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF).  The SPARK taskforce recommended these proposals to SFC for approval; all will be funded through the CRF.

 

“COVID-19 has made it clear how important access to high speed internet is for Kansans in rural and urban regions alike. Whether it’s telemedicine, teleworking, or online education capabilities, broadband is a singular tool that can change outcomes for communities. My administration will continue to support investments in our state’s infrastructure like high speed internet to put us on stronger economic footing as we continue our road to recovery,” Governor Laura Kelly said.

 

The connectivity proposal featured $50 million for improving broadband infrastructure and $10 million for partnerships with internet service providers to serve low-income populations.

 

“The SPARK taskforce identified expanding broadband access as a top priority and I appreciate the SFC’s recognition that not only was important to approve these funds today but also to consider increasing our investment in round 3,” said SPARK Executive Committee Chair Lyle Butler.

 

On July 29, SFC approved $254 million funding for public health, education, and economic development. That allocation combined with today’s approvals for connectivity, remaining FY 20 state agency reimbursements and the consulting contract for the Recovery Office, will complete the round 2 funding of the CRF. There will be approximately $290 million of CRF funding remaining for round 3. Previously, $400 million was allocated to Kansas counties in round 1.

 

“The expediated timeline we’re operating under creates an even greater need for accountability and transparency to taxpayers and I appreciate the State Finance Council for providing the Recovery Office the necessary support to ensure we’re delivering the quality investments Kansans deserve,” said Recovery Office Executive Director Julie Lorenz.

 

More information on today’s meeting can be found here: https://covid.ks.gov/spark-meetings/

 

COVID-19, Government, Kansas

COVID-19 Update for Southeast Kansas

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SEK Multi-County Health Departments

Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, and Woodson Counties

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

August 10, 2020

Allen County

Current Positive Cases 8
Positive Out of State-Staying in Allen County 2
Total Hospitalizations 2-1 remaining in hospital
Current Recovered Cases 13
Total Positives Since Testing 20
Deaths 0

Anderson County

Current Positive Cases 2
Total Hospitalizations 0
Current Recovered Cases 29
Total Positives Since Testing 31
Deaths 0

Bourbon County

Current Positive Cases 11
Presumptive Cases 13-1 listed on KDHE website, tested negative
Positive Out of State/County-staying in Bourbon 11
Total Hospitalizations 8-0 remaining in hospital
Current Recovered Cases 79-includes presumptive cases
Total Positives Since Testing 79
Deaths 2

Woodson County

Current Positive Cases 1
Total Hospitalizations 1-0 remaining in hospital
Current Recovered Cases 11
Total Positives Since Testing 12
Deaths 0
Bourbon County, Business, Kansas

American Wind Week

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Kansas Launches American Wind Week,
Hosts Virtual Panel with State, Business and Industry Leaders
The week’s activities will highlight Kansas’ position as a leader in wind energy development, opportunities for the state’s workforce, and the many ways wind is building the future.
Topeka, KS – This week marks American Wind Week, an annual celebration of wind energy’s leading role in powering our country and the many ways wind is helping build the future. This year, Boost Kansas and its supporters have plenty to celebrate as wind is now America’s number one source of renewable energy.
According to the American Wind Energy Association, wind power has created good-paying jobs for over 120,000 Americans across all 50 states, including more than 26,000 jobs at more than 530 U.S. factories that build wind turbine parts. Wind energy is a drought and flood proof “cash crop” for America’s family farmers and ranchers, paying over $1.6 billion dollars a year in lease payments and revenue for state and local governments, while avoiding carbon pollution equivalent to 42 million cars. The nation has a vast resource to harvest through both onshore and offshore wind energy development, with a power potential that is nearly double the nation’s electricity use.
Right here in Kansas, Governor Kelly issued a proclamation announcing this week as American Wind Week, along with 4 cities and counties. In Kansas, wind now supports 6,000 jobs, $36 million in annual land lease payments, and provides $29 million in revenue for state and local governments, leading to new community facilities such as schools and courthouses, improving roads and bridges, and upgrading emergency services. More than $11.4 billion in capital financing has been invested in the state, providing unparalleled opportunities for workforce expansion and economic growth as a result of wind energy.
Throughout the week, Boost Kansas will be sharing the stories of communities that are benefiting from wind energy. These stories are now available including two notable examples from Ford and Pratt Counties.
On Monday, August 10 at 10:30-11:00 AM CT, Apex Clean Energy will host a virtual tour of a wind farm and wind turbine climb to highlight the wind energy workers on the frontlines helping keep the lights on every day and ensuring that Americans have access to cheap, clean electricity. Join us at the following link to watch live!
Boost Kansas is also excited to announce that we’ll be holding a virtual event that will give Kansans an opportunity to hear more about the successes of wind energy in their own state:
WHAT
A virtual panel discussion with state, business, and industry leaders highlighting Kansas’ position as a leader in wind energy development, the economic and workforce opportunities wind brings to the state, and the many ways the energy source is building the future.
WHO
  • State Senator Elaine Bowers
  • Randi Tveitaraas Jack, Manager of International Development, Department of Commerce
  • Joann Knight, Executive Director, Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation
  • APEX Clean Energy
  • Enel Group
Moderator: Riley Scott, Boost Kansas
WHEN
Thursday, August 13, 2020
3:00 PM CT
RSVP
To set up an interview with a panelist during American Wind Week, please contact Jesse Dougherty at [email protected] or (608) 807-8619.
Boost Kansas will be sharing highlights and other content onFacebook and Twitter. Follow along and join in the conversation by using #AmericanWindWeek and #WindBuildsTheFuture.
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About Boost Kansas
Boost Kansas, an initiative of the American Wind Energy Association, is a statewide coalition of civic and business leaders supporting innovative policies that expand renewable and wind energy investment in the state. With commonsense federal and state policies, Kansas can continue to be a national leader in harnessing the power of wind and renewable energy development. Learn more at BoostKansas.com.
About the American Wind Energy Association
AWEA is the national trade association for the U.S. wind industry, the largest source of renewable energy in the country. We represent 1,000 member companies, 120,000 jobs in the U.S. economy, and a nationwide workforce located across all 50 states. AWEA serves as a powerful voice for how wind works for America. Members include global leaders in wind power and energy development, turbine manufacturing, and component and service suppliers. They gather each year at the Western Hemisphere’s most efficient and targeted event for utility-scale renewable companies, the AWEA CLEANPOWER Conference & Exhibition, next in Indianapolis, June 7-10, 2021. An outgrowth of the AWEA WINDPOWER Conference & Exhibition, CLEANPOWER is the first trade show focused exclusively on the utility-scale renewable power sector, bringing together all the major developers, utilities, OEMs, suppliers, and buyers under one roof. Visit AWEA’s website to learn more about the enormous economic benefits wind power brings to America and be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Government, Kansas

Section of K-7 in Linn County to close for pipe replacement project

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A close up of a map Description automatically generated

Closure shown in red

 

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) will close a section of K-7 in Linn County on Tuesday, Aug. 18, to replace a crossroad pipe.

 

K-7 will be closed between county roads 1700 and 1800 the entire day, reopening in the evening. Traffic should use alternate routes.

 

Persons with questions may contact KDOT Superintendent Shawn Denny, (785) 433-6112, or Public Affairs Manager Priscilla Petersen, (620) 902-6433.

 

 

Government, Kansas

Public Health Advisories for Kansas Lakes Due to Blue-Green Algae

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT), has revised its list of public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae. Since Thursday’s update, Milford Lake Zone A has moved to a warning, while Milford Lake Zones B and C have been downgraded to a watch. Additionally, Agra Lake in Phillips County has been added to the watch list.

 

Warning

Milford Lake Zone A, Geary County (upgraded)

Gathering Pond, Geary County

Lovewell Reservoir, Jewell County

 

Watch

Brown State Fishing Lake, Brown County

Mission Lake, Brown County

Ford State Fishing Lake, Ford County

Milford Lake Zone B, C, Geary County (downgraded)

South Lake, Johnson County

Unit G Marais des Cygnes Wildlife Area, Linn County

Marion County Lake, Marion County

Marion Reservoir, Marion County

Overbrook City Lake, Osage County

Agra Lake, Phillips County (new)

Cheney Reservoir, Reno/Kingman/Sedgwick Counties

Plainville Township Lake, Rooks County

Webster Reservoir, Rooks County

 

Warning Protocols

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

  • Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.
  • Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.
  • Water contact should be avoided.
  • Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.
  • Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.
  • If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.
  • Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.

 

Watch Protocols

A watch means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water. During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

  • Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.
  • Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.
  • Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.
  • Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.
  • Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.

 

KDHE investigates publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.

 

Kansans should be aware that blooms are unpredictable. They can develop rapidly and may float around the lake, requiring visitors to exercise their best judgment. If there is scum, a paint-like surface or the water is bright green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

 

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm. KDHE updates the listings of advisories every Thursday but may update more frequently if needed.

 

Business, Government, Kansas

KCC Reviews Evergy’s New Plan

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The Kansas Corporation Commission will review details of Evergy’s new Sustainability Transformation Plan to protect ratepayer interests


TOPEKA – With the announcement that Evergy’s Board of Directors voted in favor of a standalone plan (Sustainability Transformation Plan) to increase shareholder value, KCC staff will soon begin its review of the details and how the Sustainability Transformation Plan might affect electric ratepayers.

In June, the KCC opened a general investigation into an agreement between Evergy, a regulated utility, and Elliot International. The agreement required the utility to develop a standalone plan to cut costs or pursue a merger transaction to increase shareholder profits. KCC staff were concerned that either path had the potential to have a negative impact on consumers.

Evergy is required to file a report addressing questions posed by KCC staff about the new Sustainability Transformation Plan within two weeks of today’s announcement. After receipt, the KCC as well as other stakeholders participating in the investigation, have 45 days to respond to the information provided.

Six stakeholder groups, including the Citizens’ Utility Ratepayer Board, Kansas Power Pool, Kansas Electric Power Cooperative Inc., Kansas Industrial Consumers, IBEW, and USD 259 Sedgwick County have intervened to participate in the investigation.

The general investigation docket is available on the KCC’s website at: https://estar.kcc.ks.gov/estar/portal/kscc/PSC/DocketDetails.aspx?DocketId=c1fa81fb-6557-4e0f-bf33-70fb0b5a47ad

Government, Kansas

Tax Collections More Than 2019

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Kansas Total Tax Collections $484.6 Million Ahead of July of Last Fiscal Year

 

TOPEKA—The State of Kansas starts Fiscal Year 2021 by surpassing its total tax-only collections by $484.6 million compared to July of last fiscal year. Total tax collections for the first month of the fiscal year were $980.8 million. That is $4.6 million, or 0.5%, less than the estimate.

 

“While state revenue collections are more than the beginning of last fiscal year, we must continue to make fiscally sound decisions to minimize the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic moving forward,” Governor Laura Kelly said.

 

The State collected $619.6 million in individual income taxes for the month; an increase of $395.3 million, or 176.3%, compared to the July of Fiscal Year 2020. However, these collections were $30.4 million, or 4.7%, less than the estimate for the month. Corporate income tax collections were $69.8 million; $5.2 million, or 6.9%, less than estimated but an increase of $54.6 million compared to July of FY 2020.

 

Retail sales tax and compensating use tax collections performed better than both the monthly estimate and in their comparison to July of last fiscal year. Retail sales tax collections were $218.6 million; $16.6 million, or 8.2%, more than the estimate. That is a $14.0 million, or 6.9%, growth compared to July of FY 2020. Compensating use tax collections were 39.8%, or $14.3 million, more than estimated, with $50.3 million collected. That is an increase of $11.3 million, or 29.1%, compared to the same month of FY 2020.

 

“The state has seen consistent growth in compensating use tax collections as approximately 4,000 out-of-state online retailers have registered with the state under Kansas Department of Revenue Notice 19-04,” Secretary Mark Burghart said. “In addition, changing consumer purchasing patterns, which focus on online purchases during the COVID-19 pandemic, account for some of the increased use tax receipts.”

 

Kansas Department of Revenue Notice 19-04 was published Aug. 1, 2019, which notified retailers of sales tax requirements for doing business in Kansas.

 

Government, Kansas

Kansas Health Champion Nominations Sought

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Nominations Now Being Accepted for Kansas Health Champion Awards

Exceptional efforts to promote health and fitness in Kansas to be recognized

TOPEKA – The Governor’s Council on Fitness is now accepting nominations for its annual Kansas Health Champion Awards. Awards are given to individuals and organizations that make an exceptional effort to model, encourage and promote health and fitness in Kansas. The deadline for nominations is September 30. Award recipients will be recognized at the Community Health Promotion Summit in January 2021.

“The Kansas Department of Health and Environment is excited to partner in this important initiative to recognize those who make healthy living in our state a priority,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “It’s important that we recognize their efforts and the difference they are making in their communities.”

Nominees should demonstrate:

  • Work that goes above and beyond what is expected to model, encourage and promote fitness
  • Work that helps overcome health inequities
  • Sustainable influence or activity
  • Far-reaching health impact

“In addition to promoting effective models for increasing physical activity, nutrition and tobacco-free living for replication by organizations and communities around the state, the awards also allow us the opportunity to honor the outstanding work of one individual and one organization this year,” Candice McField, Governors Council on Fitness Awards Committee Chair, said. “Eligible nominees might include an outstanding volunteer, a school, a local community, a newspaper or individual reporter, a local or State policy maker or an employer, among others.”

To see past winners and get more information, visit getactivekansas.org and to submit a nomination you must complete the online form at www.surveymonkey.com/r/2021KSHealthChamp. All other questions about the nomination process, contact Connie Satzler, 785-410-0410.

The Governor’s Council on Fitness advises the Governor and others on ways to enhance the health of all Kansans through promotion of physical activity, good dietary choices and prevention of tobacco use.