March 20, 2026
In the last week of regular session, the Senate debated too many bills to cover here. All the bills can be found at www.KSLegislature.gov. Here are some of the bills that may impact you:
Banks and other financial institutions would be allowed to establish a trusted contact that could be contacted if there is suspected fraud. HB 2591 would also allow suspicious transactions to be delayed for up to 10 business days when the institution has reported the suspected fraud to law enforcement or to the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF). There was a series fraud case in Linn County that involved cryptocurrency and we need this protection. It passed unanimously.
Cryptocurrency Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) would be required to warn users before a transaction occurs. The warning must be in bold letters, “WARNING: CONSUMER FRAUD OFTEN STARTS WITH CONTACT FROM A STRANGER…” Virtual currency kiosks, crypto ATMs, would also be limited on the transaction amount should HB 2515 became law. It passed unanimously.
Invasion of Privacy laws are strengthened in HB 2518 by making it clear that violations can involve any kind of image, video, or digital recording, including altered or AI-generated content. It significantly increases penalties when young victims are involved. It passed unanimously.
Property tax appeals at the Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA) would require county appraisers to use a single-property appraisal that evaluates the specific characteristics of an individual property, rather than relying on mass appraisals that assess groups of properties. It passed 38 to 2. I voted yes.
Kansas Law Enforcement and federal immigration authorities’ cooperation would be strengthened by Senate Substitute for HB 2372. Sheriffs would be able to detain individuals based on valid ICE detainer requests or warrants. It establishes procedures for detention and release and would help detain criminals who entered the country illegally. The bill passed the Senate on a partisan vote 31 to 9. I voted yes.
The Crush Transnational Repression in Kansas Act, created by SB 454, would protect individuals from foreign intimidation and coercion within the state. It targets transnational repression and extortion, where foreign governments attempt to threaten, surveil, or control people living in Kansas. The bill increases criminal penalties for offenses like harassment, stalking, or threats when tied to these efforts and requires training to help law enforcement better recognize and respond to such cases. It passed unanimously.
Alcoholic Beverages would be authorized for sale 23 hours a day, seven days a week, if a county opts in and SB 393 becomes law for the duration of the FIFA 2026 World Cup – another bill just for the World Cup. I voted no, but the bill passed on a vote of 21 to 19.
Property Tax Relief Efforts are ongoing as the House and Senate advanced different constitutional amendments. The House proposal would average property values starting in 2028, while the Senate supports a 3% annual assessment value cap beginning in 2027. Lawmakers will now negotiate a compromise, aiming to provide relief and predictability for taxpayers. It’s much needed reform, like in 1975 when Kansans passed a Constitutional Amendment to protect farmers and ranchers from rising taxes. Polls show strong support for a 3% cap. In fact, 75% of those polled want the cap.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Caryn