USDA Opens 2022 Signup for Dairy Margin Coverage, Expands Program for Supplemental Production
Program Enhancements Improve Feed Cost Calculations
WASHINGTON, Dec. 8, 2021 – As part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s ongoing efforts to support dairy farmers and rural communities, today the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) opened signup for the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program and expanded the program to allow dairy producers to better protect their operations by enrolling supplemental production. This signup period – which runs from Dec. 13, 2021 to Feb. 18, 2022 – enables producers to get coverage through this important safety-net program for another year as well as get additional assistance through the new Supplemental DMC.
Supplemental DMC will provide $580 million to better help small- and mid-sized dairy operations that have increased production over the years but were not able to enroll the additional production. Now, they will be able to retroactively receive payments for that supplemental production. Additionally, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) updated how feed costs are calculated, which will make the program more reflective of actual dairy producer expenses.
“Dairy Margin Coverage is a critical safety-net for producers, and catastrophic coverage is free. These DMC updates build on other efforts of the Biden-Harris Administration to improve DMC and other key USDA dairy programs,” Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Robert Bonnie said. “We encourage dairy producers to make use of the support provided by enrolling in supplemental coverage and enroll in DMC for the 2022 program year.”
Supplemental DMC Enrollment
Eligible dairy operations with less than 5 million pounds of established production history may enroll supplemental pounds based upon a formula using 2019 actual milk marketings, which will result in additional payments. Producers will be required to provide FSA with their 2019 Milk Marketing Statement.
Supplemental DMC coverage is applicable to calendar years 2021, 2022 and 2023. Participating dairy operations with supplemental production may receive retroactive supplemental payments for 2021 in addition to payments based on their established production history.
Supplemental DMC will require a revision to a producer’s 2021 DMC contract and must occur before enrollment in DMC for the 2022 program year. Producers will be able to revise 2021 DMC contracts and then apply for 2022 DMC by contacting their local USDA Service Center.
DMC 2022 Enrollment
After making any revisions to 2021 DMC contracts for Supplemental DMC, producers can sign up for 2022 coverage. DMC provides eligible dairy producers with risk management coverage that pays producers when the difference between the price of milk and the cost of feed falls below a certain level. So far in 2021, DMC payments have triggered for January through October for more than $1.0 billion.
For DMC enrollment, producers must certify with FSA that the operation is commercially marketing milk, sign all required forms and pay the $100 administrative fee. The fee is waived for farmers who are considered limited resource, beginning, socially disadvantaged, or a military veteran. To determine the appropriate level of DMC coverage for a specific dairy operation, producers can use the online dairy decision tool.
Updates to Feed Costs
USDA is also changing the DMC feed cost formula to better reflect the actual cost dairy farmers pay for high-quality alfalfa hay. FSA will calculate payments using 100% premium alfalfa hay rather than 50%. The amended feed cost formula will make DMC payments more reflective of actual dairy producer expenses.
Additional Dairy Assistance
Today’s announcement is part of a broader package to help the dairy industry respond to the pandemic and other challenges. USDA is also amending Dairy Indemnity Payment Program (DIPP) regulations to add provisions for the indemnification of cows that are likely to be not marketable for longer durations, as a result, for example, of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. FSA also worked closely with USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service to target assistance through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program ) and other conservation programs to help producers safely dispose of and address resource concerns created by affected cows. Other recent dairy announcements include $350 million through the Pandemic Market Volatility Assistance Program and $400 million for the Dairy Donation Program.
Additional details on these changes to DMC and DIPP can be found in a rule that will be published soon in the Federal Register. This rule also included information on the new Oriental Fruit Fly Program as well as changes to FSA conservation programs. A copy of the rule is available here.
More Information
To learn more or to participate in DMC or DIPP, producers should contact their local USDA Service Center. Service Center staff continue to work with agricultural producers via phone, email and other digital tools. Because of the pandemic, some are open to limited visitors. Producers should contact their Service Center to set up an in-person or phone appointment. Additionally, more information related to USDA’s response and relief for producers can be found atfarmers.gov/coronavirus.
USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. In the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.
Kelley Zellner, currently the Fredonia City Manager, signed a contract on Dec. 3, 2021, to become the Fort Scott City Manager starting Jan. 4, 2022. He replaces interim City Manager Mark McCoy.
The contract is for $95,000
Zellner’s main duties are working with the Fort Scott City Commission and city staff, according to Brad Matkin, the human resource director for the city.
Brad Matkin. Submitted photo.
Zellner received a mini-masters of public administration, a Certified Public Administrator, from Wichita State University in Feb. 2020.
In the fall of 2021, he became a certified city clerk through the League of Municipalities.
Previously he earned a master’s of art in counseling from Friends University, Wichita, in 2001. In 1998 he received a bachelor of science degree in human resource management from Friends University.
Zellner has been the Fredonia City Administrator since 2018, the Valley Center Public Works Director from 2017-2018, and was the Conway Falls Chief of Police from 2013 to 2017.
His hometown is Howard, Kansas.
Fort Scott City Hall.
The following is the revised job description for the Fort Scott City Manager provided by Matkin:
“City of Fort Scott City Manager Job Description
SUMMARY
The City Manager oversees all administrative tasks necessary for city operations while implementing and overseeing policies set by a city’s mayor and commission. Hired by the City Commission, he/she supervises city departments, maintains the city budget, and represents the municipality in a variety of settings.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
Serves as Chief Administrator and Executive Officer of the City by directing the operations of all City departments through various department heads to achieve overall success in meeting the objectives and policies of the City Commission.
Appoints department heads and staff as necessary for the efficient and effective operation of the City.
Oversees the annual budget and submits estimates to authorized elected officials for approval.
Implements the policies and ordinances of the City Commission.
Research issues of importance to the city and advises the mayor and the commission on the best course of action.
External relations – responsible for hearing the concerns and requests of the community and bringing them to the commission. Must anticipate municipality needs and create programs to address them.
Represents the City at conferences and coordinates City activities with civic, business, and public organizations and keeps such organizations informed of City business and activities.
Develops, implements, and maintains long-range plans, goals, objectives, and policies for the City subject to approval by the City Commission.
Performs additional duties and tasks as needed or directed by the City Commission.
Advises the City Commission of financial conditions and current and future City needs
Continual contact with the governing body, the general public, and city employees is expected
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
Manages directors who supervise the employees of the City. Is responsible for the overall direction, coordination, and evaluation of these units. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Overall responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
QUALIFICATIONS
Must live within Bourbon County limits or be able to relocate within 6 months. Must be skilled in the following areas: Diplomacy, Ability to Delegate, Project Management, and People Skills.
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
Bachelor’s Degree (B.A.) in Public Administration, Political Science, Business Administration or Management; or four to ten years related management experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Master’s degree in public administration or Business Administration preferred.
LANGUAGE SKILLS
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business and government reports, financial reports, and legal documents. Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community. Ability to write speeches and articles for publication that conform to prescribed style and format. Ability to effectively present information to top management, public groups, and/or boards of directors.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
REASONING ABILITY
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
Must have a valid driver’s license that meets City driving history requirements.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment is an office environment with the exception of visiting employees in the field or citizens out in the community.
The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.”
USDA to Make Up to $800 Million Available to Provide Economic Relief to Biofuel Producers and Restore Renewable Fuel Markets Hit by the Pandemic
Up to $800 Million Will Help Biofuel Producers and the People of Rural America Build Back Better
WASHINGTON, D.C., Dec. 7, 2021 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that USDA will make up to $700 million available to provide economic relief to biofuel producers and restore renewable fuel markets affected by the pandemic. The Department will make the funds available through the new Biofuel Producer Program authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). Additionally, in the coming months, the Department will make $100 million available to increase significantly the sales and use of higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel by expanding the infrastructure for renewable fuels derived from U.S. agricultural products. The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to further growth of the biofuels industry, and the House-passed Build Back Better Act commits additional funding that will provide better market access for farmers and more affordable and cleaner fuels for consumers.
“Under the leadership of President Biden and Vice President Harris, USDA is providing direct relief to the people of rural America who are still reeling from the economic impacts of the pandemic,” Vilsack said. “As we continue to rebuild the nation’s economy, USDA is targeting resources and investments to improve the strength and resiliency of America’s sustainable fuel markets. The relief we’re announcing today will pave the way to economic recovery for America’s biofuel producers, stimulate a critical market for U.S. farmers and ranchers and move the country closer to President Biden’s goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.”
Background on the Biofuel Producer Program
Through the Biofuel Producer Program, USDA will make up to $700 million in direct payments available for biofuel producers who faced unexpected market losses due to the pandemic.
By making payments to biofuels producers, the program will help agricultural producers maintain and create more viable markets for products that supply biofuel production, such as corn, soybeans, or biomass. Payments will be based on the producer’s market loss volume in 2020, which is calculated by the amount of fuel produced in 2020 in comparison to 2019.
USDA intends to make up to $100 million available in new funds for grants for biofuels infrastructure, such as blender pumps which ensure biofuels have greater availability in the retail market. The funding will provide grants to refueling and distribution facilities for cost of installation, retrofitting or otherwise upgrading of infrastructure required at a location to ensure the environmentally safe availability of fuel containing ethanol blends of E-15 and greater or fuel containing biodiesel blends B-20 and greater. USDA will announce the official application window for grants within the next few months.
This announcement comes on the heels of an announcement the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) made today. EPA is proposing a package of actions setting biofuels volumes for years 2022, 2021, and 2020, and introducing regulatory changes intended to enhance the program’s objectives. In addition, EPA is asking for public comment on a proposed decision to deny petitions to exempt small refineries from RFS program requirements. Read the full announcement at https://www.epa.gov/newsroom.
Under the Biden-Harris Administration, Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov. If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.
USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. Under the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate-smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.
Scott Lee Ehnes, of Stover, Missouri passed away Sunday morning, December 5, 2021, at the home of his aunt Jane Lacy, in Lathrop, Missouri. He was born July 8, 1960, in Cheyenne, Wyoming the son of Steven and Shirley Allene (Steely) Ehnes.
Scott served in the U.S. Army from 1977 until 1979. He worked as an industrial welder.
In addition to his aunt Jane, Scott is survived by his three sons, Scott, Jeremy, and Andrew; two sisters, Sharon Ann Wingert of Golden City, Missouri, and Susan Lucy Wilske, of Olathe, Kansas, and two brothers, Steven Lawrence Ehnes, and Stanley “Nick” Ehnes, both of Lebanon, Missouri. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his step-father, Dennis Wright.
Rev. Ken Ansell will conduct graveside services at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 8, 2021, at the Fort Scott National Cemetery under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. Military Honors will be presented by the US Army Funeral Honors Detail, Fort Riley, Kansas. Condolences may be submitted to the online guestbook at konantz-cheney.com.
This is part of a series featuring employees who have been nominated to be featured by their employers. To nominate someone, send an email to [email protected].
Jessica Mowen, 46, is the Fort Scott Police Department’s Animal Control Officer.
Her duties are varied.
“I take care of the Fort Scott Animal Shelter, clean, feed, care for dogs in the kennel, adopt out dogs, reunite dogs with owners, I take in abandoned dogs in which I adopt out,” she said. “I’m dispatched to all animal control calls, whether it be dogs, raccoons, opossum, groundhogs, or armadillo. I take calls for animal neglect and abuse and do investigations for these calls, I’m dispatched to aggressive/dangerous dog calls. I check for city tags and vaccinations. I write citations for ordinances that are not upheld. I remove deceased animals from the roadway. I educate people on how to properly care for their animals.”
The shelter is located at 601 N. Barbee and has hours of operation of
Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday from 8 a.m. to noon. To call the shelter, phone 620-223-1700 and leave a phone number with dispatch.
The Fort Scott Animal Shelter is located at 601 N. Barbee. Submitted photos.
On Saturday and Sundays, Mowen cleans and feeds the dogs housed at the kennels, she said.
She has had a passion and great love for animals since very young and pursued a career as a veterinarian technician in 2006.
“I worked with a few amazing veterinarians throughout the years who have taught me so much,” she said.
She has been the animal control officer for Fort Scott for almost six months and the best part of her job is reuniting lost dogs with their owners and adopting out dogs to new homes, she said.
Some of the challenges are trying to teach people and encourage them to care for their pets in the correct and lawful way, Mowen said.
Other challenges are adopting out the dogs she has in the kennel and “sometimes actually catching the dogs at large,” she said.
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Kansas and the Nation Mourn the Loss of Senator Bob Dole
My Statement on the Passing of Senator Bob Dole
Senator Bob Dole will be remembered as a true American hero and an exemplary statesman – a man who chose what was right over what was convenient. Whether it was on the battlefield, in the halls of Congress, or in his everyday life, Senator Dole’s passion and dedication to his fellow Kansan and to his country was a steady reminder that a single person can make a difference and change the world.
Robba and I mourn his passing, but we also celebrate his incredible life. Senator Dole was raised in Russell, Kan., before serving in World War II where he earned two Purple Hearts. He then spent a remarkable 36 years on Capitol Hill, rising to become Senate Majority Leader and leading significant legislative achievements, including the American with Disabilities Act and the Dole-McGovern Food for Education program. Known for working toward commonsense solutions over partisan ones, he became the first Kansan since Dwight D. Eisenhower to be the Republican nominee for president.
Even after retiring from Congress, he rarely missed an opportunity to greet Kansans during their Honor Flights that took them to the World War II Memorial he helped make a reality in Washington, D.C. He personally thanked each of them for their service, making these veterans’ experience all the more memorable. He also continued to be a leader on ending global hunger and was awarded the 2008 World Food Prize. Throughout his life, he exemplified the ideals, sacrifice and tenacity of the Greatest Generation.
On the floor of the United States Senate, I use Senator Dole’s desk, and I am regularly reminded of his tireless commitment to Kansas values while being, first and foremost, a statesman who treated others with respect and kindness. I am honored to have known him, to have learned from him and to have considered him a good friend and mentor. Robba and I are praying for Senator Elizabeth Dole and the entire Dole family and team.
Joining Fox News to Discuss the Life and Legacy of Senator Dole
I joined Fox News on Sunday to discuss the passing of former Senator Bob Dole.
Senator Dole is a role model for all of us, Republicans and Democrats, that serve in the United States Senate. While I admire Senator Dole’s legislative efforts, his career in Congress, his attempts to be the President of United States and his love of country, I always go back to his military service in World War II and then his long road to recovery. You cannot know what Bob Dole went through to return to the living after his experiences in the battlefields of Italy and the way Kansans rallied around him.
He never gave up that indomitable spirit to make sure that good things happen for Kansans and Americans. Click here or below to listen to my remarks.
Honoring Senator Dole in the Coming Days
For information on ways to honor Senator Dole throughout the week follow my Facebook and Twitter accounts. To share a memory of Senator Dole, visit the University Of Kansas Robert J. Dole Institute Of Politics webpage here.
My Legislation to Expand Education Benefits for Surviving Family Members Signed into Law
This week, the Colonel John M. McHugh Tuition Fairness for Survivors Act, was signed into law. Military service is family service, and I introduced this legislation to provide more certainty to families who lose a loved one due to their military service.
Named in memory of U.S. Army Colonel John McHugh, who was killed in Kabul, Afghanistan, in 2010, this law will expand in-state tuition eligibility for the families of fallen servicemembers. Colonel McHugh and his family were stationed at Fort Leavenworth at the time of his death, and his daughter Kelly was a student at K-State. Kelly was able to join Sen. Tester and I at the bill signing ceremony in honor of her father whose sacrifice will continue to be honored through this legislation.
The Colonel John M. McHugh Tuition Fairness for Survivors Act will require public colleges and universities that receive GI Bill benefits to provide in-state tuition rates for students using the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Education Assistance (DEA) program. This requirement will lower out-of-pocket costs for these students to pursue an education and receive the benefits their loved ones earned for them through their service.
Kelly McHugh, daughter of Colonel John M. McHugh: “We can’t thank Senators Moran and Tester enough for their work in getting this bill passed. Education was important to our father, so having his name attached to a bill that will assist other Gold Star families as they pursue their college educations is a huge honor.”
Protecting the Right to Life
Speaking on the Senate Floor Ahead of Oral Arguments on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization
I spoke on the Senate floor ahead of the U.S. Supreme Court hearing oral arguments on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization on Wednesday. This case is the most significant abortion case of the last 30 years, as the Supreme Court has the opportunity to relinquish the legislative power it has assumed and return it to the people and their representatives. The court will be better for it, and so will our politics. Most importantly of all, millions of future voices will get to have their say in the process, too. Listen to my remarks here or below.
Kansas State University Announces Dr. Richard Linton as its Next President
Congratulations to Dr. Richard Linton on being selected to lead Kansas State University. The president of K-State is one of the most consequential positions in the state that impacts all 105 counties, and it is vital to the state of Kansas we have a strong leader and ally at the helm of this land-grant university.
President Linton has demonstrated he has a vast agricultural knowledge, which will be imperative as the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility nears completion. We visited by phone Saturday morning, and I look forward to working with President Linton to finish this state-of-the-art facility and bring additional research, educational and economic opportunities to the state of Kansas and advance K-State’s institutional goals.
Prohibiting Federal Trade Commission’s Ghost Votes
Your last day in office is the last day your vote should count – whether you serve on the school board or the FTC. This week, I led my colleagues in introducing legislation that would stop votes cast by Federal Trade Commissioners (FTC) from being counted after the commissioners have left their post.
Politico reported earlier this month that former Commissioner Rohit Chopra cast 20 votes via email on his final day on the commission on pending motions before the FTC. According to the FTC’s interpretation of a rule, any of the five commissioners can introduce a motion for a vote. If no one responds, the motion fails after 30 days. However, if another commissioner seconds it, the motion can live on for another 30 days. This allows the votes of commissioners who have left the commission to remain active up to 60 days after their departure. Therefore, this rule allows Chopra’s votes to be live for up to 60 days from his last day on October 8 despite him no longer being a commissioner.
It’s absurd that votes cast by commissioners on outstanding issues can be counted up to 60 days past their departure. This needs to stop to protect the integrity of the commission and because it’s just plain common sense. Read more about my bill here from Politico.
Working to Connect Rural Kansans to Better Broadband Access
On Wednesday, as a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, I participated in a hearing for nominees to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). Gigi Sohn, nominee to be a commissioner on the FCC, and I have starkly different views on the role of the FCC. I am concerned about her ideas on how to appropriately regulate industries the commission oversees, including her past support of eliminating licenses for broadcasters with different opinions than her own.
Congress has allocated billions of dollars to NTIA for broadband deployment, and, if confirmed, Mr. Alan Davidson will lead the distribution of these funds, which are critical to connect unserved areas of our state. In addition to these new programs, NTIA plays an important role for the advancement of the internet and telecommunications in the U.S., including by identifying spectrum for commercial use and developing internet-related policy recommendations. As the lead Republican on the Appropriations subcommittee that funds NTIA, I will work closely with Mr. Davidson if he is confirmed to ensure that these funds are spent wisely to connect as many Kansans as possible to quality broadband service and to ensure that NTIA’s other critical functions are not impacted by these newly allocated funds.
Questioning VA Secretary McDonough at Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Hearing
Last week, the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs heard testimony from Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough on the state of VA over the past year. During the hearing, we discussed the importance of VA’s community care program, which is designed to give veterans a choice of where they receive health care: from a VA facility or from a health care provider in their community. We also discussed the importance of convenient and innovate ways for VA to deliver mental health services. I pressed the Secretary on the status of the VA and American Legion ATLAS telehealth pod program, and the timing of the ATLAS pod delivery for Emporia, Kansas. My staff and I have been working closely with The American Legion to obtain this telehealth pod so that veterans can have access to quality health care closer to their homes. I was disappointed the secretary did not have an answer on when the Emporia site will be operational, but I will continue to press the department on this issue so that Kansas veterans have greater access to the primary and mental health care they deserve.
Treasury Secretary Yellen and Federal Reserve Chairman Powell Testify at Banking Hearing
Treasury Secretary Yellen and Federal Reserve Chairman Powell spoke at Tuesday’s Senate Banking hearing on the country’s economic outlook. Kansans are feeling inflationary pressures every day, from filling up their vehicles at the gas pump to buying groceries for their families. Chairman Powell agreed that inflation should no longer be considered “transitory,” but the Biden administration’s spending spree continues to increase prices for families and businesses by failing to rein in out-of-control consumer prices.
More government spending is going to equal more inflation. When then-Fed Chair Yellen spoke on the 2008 economic downturn, she admitted that Congressional spending had restrained economic recovery, saying “discretionary fiscal policy this time has actually acted to restrain the recovery. The tax increases…that would have occurred, absent action by the Congress and the president, likely would have been a headwind strong enough to blow the United States back into recession.” And in 2010, Yellen said that increasing levels of the government debt will end up “restraining capital formation, productivity, and economic growth.”
Now, both Secretary Yellen and President Biden are using budget gimmicks to say that their trillions in new government spending would be fully paid for, a claim disputed by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. This new spending will only drive up inflation and restrain our economic recovery, just like Secretary Yellen said a decade ago. Kansans are rightly worried about rising prices, and I will continue to oppose legislation that increases both taxes and spending for families.
Meeting with FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel
This week, I met with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel to discuss her nomination to be the permanent Chairwoman of the FCC, as well as the Universal Service Fund (USF) and broadband deployment. The FCC plays a critical role in regulating and improving telecommunications in the United States, including by increasing broadband deployment to currently unserved areas. Broadband deployment is critical for rural areas of our state to take full advantage of the digital economy, and I have worked with the commission to ensure their deployment programs are working in an efficient and effective manner.
In November, President Biden nominated Acting Chairwoman Rosenworcel to be the permanent Chairwoman of the Commission, after appointing her Acting Chairwoman in January. If confirmed, I will continue to work with Chairwoman Rosenworcel to make certain that the FCC is working as intended for Kansans.
Discussing VA Health Care with David Feinberg
On Wednesday, I visited with Dr. David Feinberg, the new President and CEO of the Cerner Corporation. Cerner develops electronic health records technology and is working with the Department of Veterans Affairs to modernize their electronic health records system. Cerner began in Kansas City and maintains its world headquarters there. David and I spoke of the future of health information systems and our commitment to ensuring veterans are able to receive the care they deserve. We also discussed strategies to develop young STEM talent in Kansas to help Cerner hire more local talent. I thank him for his time this week and look forward to working with him on behalf of veterans across the country.
Meeting with Ambassador Pinzón of Columbia
On Tuesday I welcomed Colombia’s ambassador to the United States, Juan Carlos Pinzón, to my office to discuss our countries’ bilateral relationship and my interest in strengthening it. Colombia is a key democracy in Latin America and a treaty ally. We discussed issues related to drug trafficking and the situation in Venezuela, with Colombia hosting a large number of refugees fleeing the socialist regime, as well as issues relating to the implementation of the 2016 peace deal with rebels that ended a 50-year insurgency. I shared my desire to enhance ties with Colombia and to engage with leaders and issues important to our friends.
Meeting with Chuck Weber of Kansas Catholic Conference
I visited with Chuck Weber, Executive Director of the Kansas Catholic Conference, on Thursday to discuss the conference’s priorities in upcoming legislation. We discussed the need to protect the Hyde Amendment, including faith-based providers for childcare and pre-Kindergarten programs, and also issues relating to immigration and the environment. I briefed him on my office’s success in securing assistance for foreign-born clergy and religious leaders and of ongoing efforts in that regard. I appreciate the work that Chuck and the conference do on behalf of the neediest among us.
Alma Community Visit
I visited Alma this week, and I appreciated those who spoke with me throughout town, from the post office to the library to the courthouse, and as I visited Alma Cheese. The conversations I have with Kansans inform my work in Washington.
In Memory of Norm Karlin
Norm Karlin was, among many other things, a father, a grandfather and a World War II veteran, and I was saddened to learn of his recent passing. I met Norm in my early days at the Kansas State Fair—always with a smile at the ready for strangers as well as friends. Not only was he a member of America’s Greatest Generation (pictured below from an Honor Flight in 2013), he was a dedicated member of the Hutchinson community. As a decades-long volunteer at the state fair, he dedicated his time to passing down Kansas’ special way of life to the next generation of farmers and ranchers. Robba and I had the utmost respect for him – as a veteran, a leader and just a true gentleman – and we extend our sympathies to the Karlin family. Learn more about Norm’s life here.
Honored to Serve You in Washington It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a form of letter, a Facebook comment or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard.
Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email by clicking here. You can also click here to contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C. office.
Very truly yours,
Jerry
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Hays
1200 Main St.,
Suite 402
P.O. Box 249
Hays, KS 67601
Phone: (785) 628-6401
TOPEKA – As automakers move toward electric vehicles (EV), Kansas consumers will now have options to make the switch more affordable.
This afternoon, the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) approved a settlement agreement negotiated between its staff, the Citizens Utility Ratepayer Board (CURB) and Evergy to allow the company to offer rebates on the installation of a 240V outlet or hardwired EV charger.
There are two rebate options. Customers who elect a Time of Use (TOU) rate plan qualify for a $500 rebate. Those not electing the TOU rate will qualify for a $250 rebate. In addition, new Time of Use (TOU) rates will promote off-peak overnight vehicle charging at lower costs per kilowatt hour (kWh).
Commercial customers are also eligible to participate.
According to staff and CURB, the settlement should have relatively little impact on rates.
Other than adding two new off-peak rates for electric vehicle charging: the TOU electric vehicle transit service rate; and the business electric vehicle charging service rate, the settlement does not change the level of current rates.
Long-term, electric vehicle charging has the potential to reduce costs for all customers by spreading the utility’s fixed costs among more users.
Evergy will be permitted to submit the costs for rebates, customer education, and administration of the program for Commission review in its next rate case.
Evergy currently owns and operates a shareholder funded Clean Charge Network (CCN) with more than 900 public charging stations.
There are currently 29 CCN stations in the Kansas Central jurisdiction, 267 in Kansas Metro, 393 in Missouri Metro, and 244 in the Missouri West jurisdiction.
Evergy requested preapproval to expand the network and seek recovery of those investments from ratepayers in future rate cases.
The Commission denied the request for preapproval as premature given the availability of federal dollars earmarked for EV charging stations.
Under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Kansas would expect to receive $40 million over five years to support the expansion of an EV charging network in the state.
Kansas will also have the opportunity to apply for the $2.5 billion in grant funding dedicated to EV charging in the bill.
Virginia Ellen Durbin, age 77, a resident of Fulton, Kansas, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 4, 2021, at her home.
She was born on the old Yonker place south of Hume, Missouri, on Easter Sunday, April 9, 1944, the daughter of Hirchel Sullivan and Wilma Ford Sullivan. Virginia graduated from Hume High School with the Class of 1962.
Virginia, the little girl from the sticks, married her best friend, Jesse Lee Durbin on June 2, 1962, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Fulton. Together they had six children.
Virginia spent most of her life doing what she loved, taking care of and nurturing children. Several have mentioned that she was the best babysitter ever. In addition, she and Jesse welcomed numerous foster children into their home.
Virginia was a member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Fort Scott. She also served on the Fulton Community Center Board.
Survivors include her husband, Jesse, of the home in Fulton; a daughter, Elena Durbin of Fulton, Kansas and four sons, Jesse Durbin (Janice), of Hume, Missouri, Doug Durbin of Kansas City, Ray Durbin (Maria) of Panama and Harold Durbin of Boston, Massachusetts; twelve grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Also surviving are a sister, Karen Irwin (Everett) of Hume, Missouri and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a son, Joe Durbin and her parents.
Father Yancey Burgess will conduct Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 A.M. Thursday at the Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Ft. Scott. Burial will follow in the St. Michael’s Cemetery at Fulton.
The family will receive friends from 5:30 to 7:30 P.M. Wednesday at the Cheney Witt Chapel.
The Rosary will be recited at 7:30 P.M. Memorials are suggested to Integrity Hospice and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.
New FSCC student housing is located at 18th and Horton Streets, across from the campus.
The former Garrison Quarters apartments reno is completed after being purchased by Fort Scott Community College last spring.
FSCC purchased the complex for student housing and the building is renamed FSCC Garrison Hall.
“Each unit has two large bedrooms, one bathroom, kitchen, and living space,” Tom Harvon, FSCC Vice President of Student Affairs, said. “Each unit will house four students, for a total of 40 residents.
Tom Havron Submitted photos.
The apartments are a female-only complex, he said.
The reno added amenities.
“We have added on a laundry facility on the south end,” he said. “Also, we have put new flooring, security system, and fire suppression system in the entire complex.”
The cost to students aligns with other student apartment living, Harvon said, which is $2,500 per semester.
“We are working with the city to get crosswalk markings across Horton for students to safely get to and from campus,” Havron said.
The college administration is being proactive for the school year.
“We have a waitlist at the start of every fall semester,” he said. “It is difficult to turn students away, as many will then go somewhere else who can provide them housing and meals. FSCC providing equitable housing options to students continues to be a priority.”
“We currently have students at (former) Mercy (Hospital building),” he said. “We can’t predict the number of students who will be there this spring, at this time. Hopefully, in the coming weeks, we will have a better idea of who will be completing their academics or transferring on to their four-year institution.”
Finals week at FSCC is Dec. 7-10.
The campus will open Jan. 5, 2022, classes start on Jan. 12, with spring graduation on May 14.
