Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson
January 31, 2025
Thoughts and Prayers As we come to grips with the heart-wrenching drowning of two youth in Linn County, the D.C. and Philadelphia plane crashes last week, and the devasting fires in California, we are reminded how fragile life is. It is also a reminder of the hundreds of emergency responders who swiftly and often put themselves in harm’s way. Prayers are with all who have been touched by these emergencies and the unimaginable sorrow.
Week three of the 2025 session proved to be productive for the Senate.
Illegal immigration was debated on the Senate floor January 29th instead of on the 28th. Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR) 1602 requests that the Governor fully cooperate with federal enforcement of immigration laws. It passed overwhelming 31 to 9 and was sent to the House for consideration. The Senate sent a strong message to the Governor that we want federal immigration laws to be upheld. I voted Yes.
Property Tax legislation overwhelmingly passed the Senate. Senate Bill (SB) 35 would repeal the 1.5 mill property tax the state collects for maintenance on regent’s buildings and some state buildings. State General Funds (mainly income and sales taxes) will be used to make up the difference if SB 35 becomes law. The bill passed the Senate 38 to 2. I voted Yes to lower your property taxes.
SB 10 was requested by the Kansas County Appraiser Association (KCAA) and would exempt several personal property items, such as ATVs, electric wheelchairs, golf carts, watercraft and electric bicycles. We heard testimony that for many of these items it costs more to collect the taxes than what is paid. I had the opportunity to visit with several of the county appraisers while they were in Topeka. They gave several examples of why this legislation is needed. Some are arguing this bill helps the rich. The appraisers reassured us that it is best these items come off the tax rolls. It passed 37 to 3.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Caryn