RUSSELL COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 9:30a.m. Tuesday in Russell County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Michael Maurice&nbsp;Dreiling, 76, Russell, was westbound on Interstate 70 one mile east of Russell.

Due to an unknown medical condition, the van crossed the median into the eastbound lane of travel, entered the south ditch and came to rest submerged in a creek.

EMS transported&nbsp;Dreiling to the Russell Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708600573628.png" alt="Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELL COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 9:30a.m. Tuesday in Russell County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Michael Maurice&nbsp;Dreiling, 76, Russell, was westbound on Interstate 70 one mile east of Russell.Due to an unknown medical condition, the van crossed the median into the eastbound lane of travel, entered the south ditch and came to rest submerged in a creek.EMS transported&nbsp;Dreiling to the Russell Regional Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after van travels into a creek

Submitted by Kansas Justice Institute

Steve Howard, the owner of the iconic burger joint, The Cozy Inn,&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTWVmLiTQcdKeCuRdHGrhObFtpAmqNqXzpRRwxU4Zb2-2BoEyY03VwQVkWBe6RECH38iYVm0KzdGhLXN0bDZZvwls-3D-MCN_7wBycvMPybCLu9GEHh-2FcwqfbnXzgwmf7GRZSag-2BFX4lUpRt6aeWBQhflJsGWNYaQ8qxX7ipByHIK4v-2FxkDTNjzJ3funygAXOW8VTBoXX1SdPiWInznp49Uq13sycpaAMzqgtbobwD7gTiYtCJZVqF-2Fk9Z0PqkuOgn0ah2l9ofTcwMK5gqFzm7PFE9e2rUiqz1888kcw-2BIMziWPu503DZBedxTC-2FWPU5lVTIlKkx4fKz2zpNjbEVyWS7diBaj6MIiuQz-2FNAambyU5ffDHq3lusQjc6OxiFNHhKTLgeC5avT4SwWXn6nYsH6NKMY2uH-2FPkKSHd6rLKjEounYBz8DSVEk9QJ59001oKM3dc7Gy2E04-3D" target="_blank">filed a federal lawsuit</a>&nbsp;against the City of Salina, Kansas, on Monday, after city officials told Mr. Howard he had to stop painting a mural on the side of The Cozy. The Cozy is a Salina landmark that has been serving hamburgers for more than 100 years.

“Salina is my hometown, I love it here,” says Mr. Howard, “I want to finish my mural.”&nbsp;

Salina is a vibrant and unique community, with beautiful murals adorning the walls of countless buildings. Steve wanted The Cozy to be a part of the artistic culture of Salina and hired local artist Colin Benson to paint a whimsical mural depicting burger-esque flying saucers piloted by aliens attacking The Cozy with blasts of ketchup and mustard. But city officials ordered Steve to halt work on the half-finished mural.

According to city officials, because Steve sells hamburgers, and the flying saucers in his mural look like hamburgers, the City of Salina considers his mural to be a regulated sign—instead of unregulated artwork—and therefore, a violation of the city code.

But the First Amendment does not allow the City of Salina to restrict speech, such as murals and other artwork, based on the message it conveys or the identity of the mural’s owner.&nbsp;

Mr. Howard and The Cozy teamed up with Kansas Justice Institute (KJI) to file the lawsuit. The lawsuit does not seek money from the City of Salina. Instead, the lawsuit argues that the City of Salina’s restrictions on murals violate the freedom of speech guaranteed by the First Amendment.&nbsp;

“Downtown Salina is vibrant, unique, and beautiful. The Cozy’s artistic mural is too. The First Amendment protects the right to finish the mural,” says Sam MacRoberts, KJI litigation director. “Salina is a great city with a set of really bad, unconstitutional laws and policies.”&nbsp;

“Over 90% of our customers are travelers,” says Steve, “I want them to feel the fun and excitement when they get here. My customers traveled hundreds or thousands of miles, and they are excited but now they are finally here, and it is fun when they see the aliens who traveled light-years to get here.”

This case is part of KJI’s litigation campaign challenging laws that interfere with the right to free speech. It’s also part of KJI’s litigation efforts to fight back against city hall.&nbsp;

In 2019, KJI successfully sued the State of Kansas over its&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTWVmLiTQcdKeCuRdHGrhOa1v2buYG7xR-2B86a-2Fbmjn1rDn00tGZuloWDfDByqrCsgA-3D-3DdfXu_7wBycvMPybCLu9GEHh-2FcwqfbnXzgwmf7GRZSag-2BFX4lUpRt6aeWBQhflJsGWNYaQ8qxX7ipByHIK4v-2FxkDTNjzJ3funygAXOW8VTBoXX1SdPiWInznp49Uq13sycpaAMzqgtbobwD7gTiYtCJZVqF-2Fk9Z0PqkuOgn0ah2l9ofTcwMK5gqFzm7PFE9e2rUiqz1888kcw-2BIMziWPu503DZBRXi9nQI64CyjCa9KeCc41xW83PhgCbk5QYkSJEJo9Nk6yqdjNBo8NI9xk8vWxSfL4EdCpj-2FiKGrpuG8gjU4qb8tlJnZ5O1aHNmRhdv-2BBjWY4fQNHNUy1HnvVJ-2BHsz1DrtrKUHV0R3yLOjH5GsPEPJ4-3D" target="_blank">raw milk advertising prohibition</a>, and just last year, KJI sued the City of Ottawa, Kansas, over its home-based business prohibitions involving&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTWVmLiTQcdKeCuRdHGrhObFtpAmqNqXzpRRwxU4Zb2-2B8MP26JtP6-2FPF9ZhnIskee-2B1zxaZlL-2F6QDNvPNB6TwrlgXTchLYzbuS4xOSD2f-2FVI_Fs2_7wBycvMPybCLu9GEHh-2FcwqfbnXzgwmf7GRZSag-2BFX4lUpRt6aeWBQhflJsGWNYaQ8qxX7ipByHIK4v-2FxkDTNjzJ3funygAXOW8VTBoXX1SdPiWInznp49Uq13sycpaAMzqgtbobwD7gTiYtCJZVqF-2Fk9Z0PqkuOgn0ah2l9ofTcwMK5gqFzm7PFE9e2rUiqz1888kcw-2BIMziWPu503DZBXzChPkKYFxrc6C-2FBVF4yVbSGI3XOvOZXbml2akyMhaq6c6ZPC13HpxKBdJkIGgCxDSCA1Vm37JEo6w1sEdIc8UZLWDN6Hh9MqCPsIyanwrhlMHsNgp177Z2sClZ-2BD7CbQKsY4PH2cRY4-2BrT6KMS5WU-3D" target="_blank">beekeeping and gardening</a>.&nbsp;

Salina Post is following this story and will post updates as new information becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708443329052.jpeg" alt="1Cozy Inn Hamburgers' new mural was put on pause by the City of Salina because restaurant owner, Steve Howard, did not follow procedures set in place by the Salina City Design and Review Board.&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier/Salina Post" />
 <figcaption>1Cozy Inn Hamburgers' new mural was put on pause by the City of Salina because restaurant owner, Steve Howard, did not follow procedures set in place by the Salina City Design and Review Board.&nbsp;Photo by Olivia Bergmeier/Salina Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted by Kansas Justice InstituteSteve Howard, the owner of the iconic burger joint, The Cozy Inn,&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTWVmLiTQcdKeCuRdHGrhObFtpAmqNqXzpRRwxU4Zb2-2BoEyY03VwQVkWBe6RECH38iYVm0KzdGhLXN0bDZZvwls-3D-MCN_7wBycvMPybCLu9GEHh-2FcwqfbnXzgwmf7GRZSag-2BFX4lUpRt6aeWBQhflJsGWNYaQ8qxX7ipByHIK4v-2FxkDTNjzJ3funygAXOW8VTBoXX1SdPiWInznp49Uq13sycpaAMzqgtbobwD7gTiYtCJZVqF-2Fk9Z0PqkuOgn0ah2l9ofTcwMK5gqFzm7PFE9e2rUiqz1888kcw-2BIMziWPu503DZBedxTC-2FWPU5lVTIlKkx4fKz2zpNjbEVyWS7diBaj6MIiuQz-2FNAambyU5ffDHq3lusQjc6OxiFNHhKTLgeC5avT4SwWXn6nYsH6NKMY2uH-2FPkKSHd6rLKjEounYBz8DSVEk9QJ59001oKM3dc7Gy2E04-3D" target="_blank">filed a federal lawsuit</a>&nbsp;against the City of Salina, Kansas, on Monday, after city officials told Mr. Howard he had to stop painting a mural on the side of The Cozy. The Cozy is a Salina landmark that has been serving hamburgers for more than 100 years.“Salina is my hometown, I love it here,” says Mr. Howard, “I want to finish my mural.”&nbsp;Salina is a vibrant and unique community, with beautiful murals adorning the walls of countless buildings. Steve wanted The Cozy to be a part of the artistic culture of Salina and hired local artist Colin Benson to paint a whimsical mural depicting burger-esque flying saucers piloted by aliens attacking The Cozy with blasts of ketchup and mustard. But city officials ordered Steve to halt work on the half-finished mural.According to city officials, because Steve sells hamburgers, and the flying saucers in his mural look like hamburgers, the City of Salina considers his mural to be a regulated sign—instead of unregulated artwork—and therefore, a violation of the city code.But the First Amendment does not allow the City of Salina to restrict speech, such as murals and other artwork, based on the message it conveys or the identity of the mural’s owner.&nbsp;Mr. Howard and The Cozy teamed up with Kansas Justice Institute (KJI) to file the lawsuit. The lawsuit does not seek money from the City of Salina. Instead, the lawsuit argues that the City of Salina’s restrictions on murals violate the freedom of speech guaranteed by the First Amendment.&nbsp;“Downtown Salina is vibrant, unique, and beautiful. The Cozy’s artistic mural is too. The First Amendment protects the right to finish the mural,” says Sam MacRoberts, KJI litigation director. “Salina is a great city with a set of really bad, unconstitutional laws and policies.”&nbsp;“Over 90% of our customers are travelers,” says Steve, “I want them to feel the fun and excitement when they get here. My customers traveled hundreds or thousands of miles, and they are excited but now they are finally here, and it is fun when they see the aliens who traveled light-years to get here.”This case is part of KJI’s litigation campaign challenging laws that interfere with the right to free speech. It’s also part of KJI’s litigation efforts to fight back against city hall.&nbsp;In 2019, KJI successfully sued the State of Kansas over its&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTWVmLiTQcdKeCuRdHGrhOa1v2buYG7xR-2B86a-2Fbmjn1rDn00tGZuloWDfDByqrCsgA-3D-3DdfXu_7wBycvMPybCLu9GEHh-2FcwqfbnXzgwmf7GRZSag-2BFX4lUpRt6aeWBQhflJsGWNYaQ8qxX7ipByHIK4v-2FxkDTNjzJ3funygAXOW8VTBoXX1SdPiWInznp49Uq13sycpaAMzqgtbobwD7gTiYtCJZVqF-2Fk9Z0PqkuOgn0ah2l9ofTcwMK5gqFzm7PFE9e2rUiqz1888kcw-2BIMziWPu503DZBRXi9nQI64CyjCa9KeCc41xW83PhgCbk5QYkSJEJo9Nk6yqdjNBo8NI9xk8vWxSfL4EdCpj-2FiKGrpuG8gjU4qb8tlJnZ5O1aHNmRhdv-2BBjWY4fQNHNUy1HnvVJ-2BHsz1DrtrKUHV0R3yLOjH5GsPEPJ4-3D" target="_blank">raw milk advertising prohibition</a>, and just last year, KJI sued the City of Ottawa, Kansas, over its home-based business prohibitions involving&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUTWVmLiTQcdKeCuRdHGrhObFtpAmqNqXzpRRwxU4Zb2-2B8MP26JtP6-2FPF9ZhnIskee-2B1zxaZlL-2F6QDNvPNB6TwrlgXTchLYzbuS4xOSD2f-2FVI_Fs2_7wBycvMPybCLu9GEHh-2FcwqfbnXzgwmf7GRZSag-2BFX4lUpRt6aeWBQhflJsGWNYaQ8qxX7ipByHIK4v-2FxkDTNjzJ3funygAXOW8VTBoXX1SdPiWInznp49Uq13sycpaAMzqgtbobwD7gTiYtCJZVqF-2Fk9Z0PqkuOgn0ah2l9ofTcwMK5gqFzm7PFE9e2rUiqz1888kcw-2BIMziWPu503DZBXzChPkKYFxrc6C-2FBVF4yVbSGI3XOvOZXbml2akyMhaq6c6ZPC13HpxKBdJkIGgCxDSCA1Vm37JEo6w1sEdIc8UZLWDN6Hh9MqCPsIyanwrhlMHsNgp177Z2sClZ-2BD7CbQKsY4PH2cRY4-2BrT6KMS5WU-3D" target="_blank">beekeeping and gardening</a>.&nbsp;Salina Post is following this story and will post updates as new information becomes available.

Iconic restaurant, The Cozy Inn, sues Salina over right to paint a one-of-a-kind mural

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/caseyquinlan/">CASEY QUINLAN</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

Inflation is slowing and job growth has surged, but many Americans still feel the burden of expensive housing — fueled in part by high demand, low inventory and mortgage rates.

Home prices across the U.S. rose 5.5% over the past year in December 2023 and they are projected to increase 2.8% year over year by December 2024,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.corelogic.com/intelligence/us-home-price-insights-february-2024/">according to</a>&nbsp;CoreLogic, a consumer and business information company. None of the states in CoreLogic’s data showed home price declines.

Rents shot up 23.9% between the beginning of 2020 and the start of 2023 and home prices rose 37.5%,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.jchs.harvard.edu/sites/default/files/reports/files/Harvard_JCHS_The_State_of_the_Nations_Housing_2023.pdf">according to</a>&nbsp;Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies’ 2023 state of the nation’s housing report. The median sales price of a home sold in the U.S. is&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/MSPUS">$417,700</a>, according to the St. Louis Fed.

Given the state of housing affordability in the U.S., here’s what to know about ongoing construction shortages, high interest rates, where housing prices are climbing, and what policymakers could do about it.

Much of the current predicament renters and homebuyers face is linked to high housing demand, low housing inventory and the Fed’s cycle of hiking interest rates.

Very low mortgage rates – January 2021 saw the lowest recorded mortgage rate at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://themortgagereports.com/61853/30-year-mortgage-rates-chart">2.65%</a>&nbsp;– fueled demand but drove up prices, exacerbated by low housing inventory, Matthew Walsh, economist at Moody’s Analytics explained. The Federal Reserve then raised interest rates in 2022 to combat inflation, which in turn influenced mortgage rates.

Those rates reached near 8% in October, and higher rates put constraints on housing supply, with more homeowners staying put. It’s now&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.freddiemac.com/pmms">6.77%</a>&nbsp;for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage.

A lack of housing stock, both in for sale and overall inventory, is a key long-run problem for housing affordability, said Robert Dietz, chief economist for the National Association of Home Builders. A lack of accessible rental inventory that provides both single family and multi-family rental housing is a problem, he said.

“We simply don’t have enough developed land to build on, particularly in the places where it’s needed the most, which tends to be highly dense, more regulated markets in the largest metros where there’s a lot of population growth,” he said.

He added that a lack of construction labor as well as expensive building materials – partly affected by supply chain problems – have exacerbated the problem.

A 2023 Home Builders Institute&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://hbi.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Spring-2023-construction-labor-market-report_final-PDF.pdf">report</a>&nbsp;found that construction would need to add hundreds of thousands of workers to meet residential construction demand. An HBI survey done in 2021 found that around 90% of home builders for single-family homes said there was a shortage of carpenters and that more than 80% of remodelers said there was a shortage in most of the construction trades they needed subcontractors for.

What is the Federal Reserve doing with interest rates?

The Fed is&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://newjerseymonitor.com/2024/02/01/fed-keeps-interest-rates-same-as-expected-with-changes-likely-months-away/">expected</a>&nbsp;to cut rates this year, which should have some impact on housing prices. The Fed may not cut rates until May or later, but economists have forecast multiple rate cuts this year.

Many homebuyers and renters are hoping that a cut in interest rates could provide lower home and rental prices, since a lack of homebuying can drive up rental costs.

But economists say there won’t be meaningful relief anytime soon.

“It should push mortgage rates down into the low 6% range and perhaps in 2025 moving into the high 5s,” Dietz said. “That’s not the 2 to 3% rate that we saw earlier, but it will help price in some demand by lowering the monthly payment on a hypothetical mortgage. It is going to have a disproportionate impact on first-time buyers who tend to be particularly sensitive to changes in rates because they don’t have any home equity as first-time buyers.”

Selma Hepp, chief economist at CoreLogic, said home prices will remain pricy for quite some time, even when mortgage rates come down.

“Because home prices have gone up 40%, no matter how much you adjust mortgage rates — and we’re not expecting them to come down to 2% any time soon if ever again — you’d really have to get them to 2% to get that affordability back,” she said.

What are home price trends in different parts of the U.S.?

New Jersey, Connecticut and Rhode Island saw the highest home price increases in December, according to CoreLogic’s data, but no states saw home prices go down.

Hepp said that is significant because until this report, a couple of states continued to show year-over-year declines: Utah and Idaho as well as the District of Columbia. She said that change may have been fueled by people moving from parts of California and from Seattle who drove up home prices in their new states.

A Moody’s Investor Service report released in October showed Florida, Montana, Nevada and Idaho had the largest decline in affordability, due in part to growth in new residents.

But no part of the country is being spared by the effects of rising housing prices. Walsh said some of the fastest price appreciation he’s seen is in parts of the northeast and midwest because some of those markets are more affordable compared to parts of the country that saw an influx of residents earlier in the pandemic, such as metro areas in Mountain states including Colorado and Arizona.

“The places where we’ve seen the most moderation in home prices have been in the places that lost that affordability edge…,” he said. “… Some of the fastest growing places in the northeast, like upstate New York, a place that really hasn’t seen quick increases in home prices in a long time, have been showing signs of life over the past year.”

Some states and cities are&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://tennesseelookout.com/2023/12/26/states-biden-administration-push-efforts-to-aid-renters-keep-people-housed/">stepping up</a>&nbsp;to the challenge of improving its affordable housing stock.

A program in Maine is funding more affordable rental housing, which includes the improvement of existing housing. Minnesota’s Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program is expanding rental assistance.

Voters in Phoenix and Albuquerque, N.M., last year&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nlihc.org/resource/support-housing-and-homelessness-ballot-measures-transcends-geographic-and-partisan">supported</a>&nbsp;bond measures that will spend millions on affordable housing. In 2022, voters&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/12/19/voters-embraced-affordable-housing-initiatives-advocates-say-congress-should-do-the-same/">approved</a>&nbsp;housing bonds to fund more affordable housing for Buncombe County, N.C.; Columbus, Ohio, and Kansas City, Mo. Localities in Colorado and Montana voted to use tax revenues on affordable housing development and projects in 2023 as well.

On the federal level, the Biden administration&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/07/27/biden-harris-administration-announces-actions-to-lower-housing-costs-and-boost-supply/">announced</a>&nbsp;in July it would address low housing supply by incentivizing projects with greater density and creating a program to fund projects that focus on zoning reforms. In October, the administration also introduced&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/10/16/white-house-announces-new-actions-on-homeownership/">new housing initiatives</a>&nbsp;to increase homeownership, such as loans to boost affordable housing on tribal lands and letting homeowners use prospective rental income from “dwelling units” at their home as part of their income when they want to qualify for FHA-insured mortgages. Some economists say that zoning is far too restrictive to increase housing supply and make it more affordable.

Government policies to address housing affordability should include “thinking about ways to incentivize state and local governments to reduce regulatory burdens and enact zoning reform to promote density where the market demands it,” Dietz said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708379646015.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/caseyquinlan/">CASEY QUINLAN</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>Inflation is slowing and job growth has surged, but many Americans still feel the burden of expensive housing — fueled in part by high demand, low inventory and mortgage rates.Home prices across the U.S. rose 5.5% over the past year in December 2023 and they are projected to increase 2.8% year over year by December 2024,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.corelogic.com/intelligence/us-home-price-insights-february-2024/">according to</a>&nbsp;CoreLogic, a consumer and business information company. None of the states in CoreLogic’s data showed home price declines.Rents shot up 23.9% between the beginning of 2020 and the start of 2023 and home prices rose 37.5%,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.jchs.harvard.edu/sites/default/files/reports/files/Harvard_JCHS_The_State_of_the_Nations_Housing_2023.pdf">according to</a>&nbsp;Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies’ 2023 state of the nation’s housing report. The median sales price of a home sold in the U.S. is&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/MSPUS">$417,700</a>, according to the St. Louis Fed.Given the state of housing affordability in the U.S., here’s what to know about ongoing construction shortages, high interest rates, where housing prices are climbing, and what policymakers could do about it.<h2>How did the housing market get this way?</h2>Much of the current predicament renters and homebuyers face is linked to high housing demand, low housing inventory and the Fed’s cycle of hiking interest rates.Very low mortgage rates – January 2021 saw the lowest recorded mortgage rate at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://themortgagereports.com/61853/30-year-mortgage-rates-chart">2.65%</a>&nbsp;– fueled demand but drove up prices, exacerbated by low housing inventory, Matthew Walsh, economist at Moody’s Analytics explained. The Federal Reserve then raised interest rates in 2022 to combat inflation, which in turn influenced mortgage rates.Those rates reached near 8% in October, and higher rates put constraints on housing supply, with more homeowners staying put. It’s now&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.freddiemac.com/pmms">6.77%</a>&nbsp;for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage.A lack of housing stock, both in for sale and overall inventory, is a key long-run problem for housing affordability, said Robert Dietz, chief economist for the National Association of Home Builders. A lack of accessible rental inventory that provides both single family and multi-family rental housing is a problem, he said.“We simply don’t have enough developed land to build on, particularly in the places where it’s needed the most, which tends to be highly dense, more regulated markets in the largest metros where there’s a lot of population growth,” he said.He added that a lack of construction labor as well as expensive building materials – partly affected by supply chain problems – have exacerbated the problem.A 2023 Home Builders Institute&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://hbi.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Spring-2023-construction-labor-market-report_final-PDF.pdf">report</a>&nbsp;found that construction would need to add hundreds of thousands of workers to meet residential construction demand. An HBI survey done in 2021 found that around 90% of home builders for single-family homes said there was a shortage of carpenters and that more than 80% of remodelers said there was a shortage in most of the construction trades they needed subcontractors for.<h2>What is the Federal Reserve doing with interest rates?</h2>The Fed is&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://newjerseymonitor.com/2024/02/01/fed-keeps-interest-rates-same-as-expected-with-changes-likely-months-away/">expected</a>&nbsp;to cut rates this year, which should have some impact on housing prices. The Fed may not cut rates until May or later, but economists have forecast multiple rate cuts this year.Many homebuyers and renters are hoping that a cut in interest rates could provide lower home and rental prices, since a lack of homebuying can drive up rental costs.But economists say there won’t be meaningful relief anytime soon.“It should push mortgage rates down into the low 6% range and perhaps in 2025 moving into the high 5s,” Dietz said. “That’s not the 2 to 3% rate that we saw earlier, but it will help price in some demand by lowering the monthly payment on a hypothetical mortgage. It is going to have a disproportionate impact on first-time buyers who tend to be particularly sensitive to changes in rates because they don’t have any home equity as first-time buyers.”Selma Hepp, chief economist at CoreLogic, said home prices will remain pricy for quite some time, even when mortgage rates come down.“Because home prices have gone up 40%, no matter how much you adjust mortgage rates — and we’re not expecting them to come down to 2% any time soon if ever again — you’d really have to get them to 2% to get that affordability back,” she said.<h2>What are home price trends in different parts of the U.S.?</h2>New Jersey, Connecticut and Rhode Island saw the highest home price increases in December, according to CoreLogic’s data, but no states saw home prices go down.Hepp said that is significant because until this report, a couple of states continued to show year-over-year declines: Utah and Idaho as well as the District of Columbia. She said that change may have been fueled by people moving from parts of California and from Seattle who drove up home prices in their new states.A Moody’s Investor Service report released in October showed Florida, Montana, Nevada and Idaho had the largest decline in affordability, due in part to growth in new residents.But no part of the country is being spared by the effects of rising housing prices. Walsh said some of the fastest price appreciation he’s seen is in parts of the northeast and midwest because some of those markets are more affordable compared to parts of the country that saw an influx of residents earlier in the pandemic, such as metro areas in Mountain states including Colorado and Arizona.“The places where we’ve seen the most moderation in home prices have been in the places that lost that affordability edge…,” he said. “… Some of the fastest growing places in the northeast, like upstate New York, a place that really hasn’t seen quick increases in home prices in a long time, have been showing signs of life over the past year.”<h2>How are policymakers helping?</h2>Some states and cities are&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://tennesseelookout.com/2023/12/26/states-biden-administration-push-efforts-to-aid-renters-keep-people-housed/">stepping up</a>&nbsp;to the challenge of improving its affordable housing stock.A program in Maine is funding more affordable rental housing, which includes the improvement of existing housing. Minnesota’s Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program is expanding rental assistance.Voters in Phoenix and Albuquerque, N.M., last year&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nlihc.org/resource/support-housing-and-homelessness-ballot-measures-transcends-geographic-and-partisan">supported</a>&nbsp;bond measures that will spend millions on affordable housing. In 2022, voters&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/12/19/voters-embraced-affordable-housing-initiatives-advocates-say-congress-should-do-the-same/">approved</a>&nbsp;housing bonds to fund more affordable housing for Buncombe County, N.C.; Columbus, Ohio, and Kansas City, Mo. Localities in Colorado and Montana voted to use tax revenues on affordable housing development and projects in 2023 as well.On the federal level, the Biden administration&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/07/27/biden-harris-administration-announces-actions-to-lower-housing-costs-and-boost-supply/">announced</a>&nbsp;in July it would address low housing supply by incentivizing projects with greater density and creating a program to fund projects that focus on zoning reforms. In October, the administration also introduced&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/10/16/white-house-announces-new-actions-on-homeownership/">new housing initiatives</a>&nbsp;to increase homeownership, such as loans to boost affordable housing on tribal lands and letting homeowners use prospective rental income from “dwelling units” at their home as part of their income when they want to qualify for FHA-insured mortgages. Some economists say that zoning is far too restrictive to increase housing supply and make it more affordable.Government policies to address housing affordability should include “thinking about ways to incentivize state and local governments to reduce regulatory burdens and enact zoning reform to promote density where the market demands it,” Dietz said.

When will housing affordability improve? Spoiler alert: It will take some time

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board discussed new graduation requirements for students who will be freshmen in the fall.

The new requirements were created by a statewide education task force and will affect all schools in the state.

English requirements will change from four credits to 3.5 English credits and a half credit of communications, including speech, debate, forensics, journalism or public speaking.

The history and fine arts requirements will remain the same with three credits of history, government and social studies and one credit of fine arts.

Hays High requires three credits of science and three credits of math. The new requirements will include three credits of science, three credits of math and one STEM elective. The science, technology, engineering, and math elective must be a non-entry level course.

USD 489 requires one credit of PE/health, one credit of practical arts, one credit of computer technology and six electives.

The new state requirements will include a half credit of physical education, a half credit of health, a half credit of a new financial literacy course and 4.5 elective credits.

The financial literacy course will be a combination of personal finance and economics and will be new across the state.

Hays High is still in the process of developing that course, which will probably be offered for the incoming freshmen in their junior or senior years.

Hays USD 489 will require four additional electives for a total of 8.5 elective credits. The state will require a minimum of 21 credits for graduation. Hays will require 25 credits. However, most students will complete 28 credits in a standard course of study over four years.

Hays allows certain students who are at risk to graduate with 21 credits. 

Some students, with their parents' approval, opt to graduate early with the 21-credit minimum. HHS Principal Shawn Henderson said only a handful of students chose to graduate early.

Students will also be required to have two postsecondary assets.&nbsp;

Some examples of these could be an ACT score of 21 or above, a senior project/exit interview, youth apprenticeship, 40 or more community service hours, or participation in two or more high school sports or activities.

Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum Shanna Dinkel said the average credits for graduation across the state is slightly over 25 credits.

All students will also be encouraged to complete the free federal financial assistance forms for post-secondary education.

The district will have to adjust two of its policies to meet the new state requirements. The board will vote on those changes at its next meeting in March.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708398111243.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board discussed new graduation requirements for students who will be freshmen in the fall.The new requirements were created by a statewide education task force and will affect all schools in the state.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708394904023.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>English requirements will change from four credits to 3.5 English credits and a half credit of communications, including speech, debate, forensics, journalism or public speaking.The history and fine arts requirements will remain the same with three credits of history, government and social studies and one credit of fine arts.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708395095734.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High requires three credits of science and three credits of math. The new requirements will include three credits of science, three credits of math and one STEM elective. The science, technology, engineering, and math elective must be a non-entry level course.USD 489 requires one credit of PE/health, one credit of practical arts, one credit of computer technology and six electives.The new state requirements will include a half credit of physical education, a half credit of health, a half credit of a new financial literacy course and 4.5 elective credits.The financial literacy course will be a combination of personal finance and economics and will be new across the state.Hays High is still in the process of developing that course, which will probably be offered for the incoming freshmen in their junior or senior years.Hays USD 489 will require four additional electives for a total of 8.5 elective credits. The state will require a minimum of 21 credits for graduation. Hays will require 25 credits. However, most students will complete 28 credits in a standard course of study over four years.Hays allows certain students who are at risk to graduate with 21 credits. Some students, with their parents' approval, opt to graduate early with the 21-credit minimum. HHS Principal Shawn Henderson said only a handful of students chose to graduate early.Students will also be required to have two postsecondary assets.&nbsp;See the list below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708395957335.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Some examples of these could be an ACT score of 21 or above, a senior project/exit interview, youth apprenticeship, 40 or more community service hours, or participation in two or more high school sports or activities.Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum Shanna Dinkel said the average credits for graduation across the state is slightly over 25 credits.All students will also be encouraged to complete the free federal financial assistance forms for post-secondary education.The district will have to adjust two of its policies to meet the new state requirements. The board will vote on those changes at its next meeting in March.

Hays USD school board discusses new graduation requirements

Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) Secretary Laura Howard announced today she has appointed David Anderson to serve as commissioner for the agency’s newly formed Aging Services Commission. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Aging Services team, now a separate entity from the Long-Term Services and Supports Commission, reflects the agency's commitment to addressing the needs and challenges of the state's aging population with more focus and energy.

“David Anderson comes to KDADS with more than three decades of experience in behavioral health services, building community partnerships, and leading effective teams,”&nbsp;KDADS Secretary Laura Howard said. “We look to him to work with various community partners to create shared goals and outcomes.”

Anderson is a licensed behavioral health provider who spent the last 36 years at High Plains Mental Health Center in Hays, starting as a service provider and later holding various leadership positions. He has also been an adjunct faculty member at Fort Hays State University's psychology department for many years.

Over the years, Anderson has served on numerous statewide committees and boards. He was appointed by Governor Laura Kelly in 2019 to serve on the Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board, where he currently serves as vice chair.

“I am very excited about this new position and the opportunity to continue to serve people,”&nbsp;KDADS Aging Services Commissioner Anderson said. “I look forward to traveling across the state and engaging with local communities, partners, and stakeholders in meaningful dialogue and planning to create positive movement and lasting change.”

Anderson grew up in Winfield, Kansas, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Southwestern College. He moved to western Kansas in 1985 to attend Fort Hays State University, where he earned a master’s degree in clinical psychology.

SubmittedKansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) Secretary Laura Howard announced today she has appointed David Anderson to serve as commissioner for the agency’s newly formed Aging Services Commission. &nbsp;&nbsp;The Aging Services team, now a separate entity from the Long-Term Services and Supports Commission, reflects the agency's commitment to addressing the needs and challenges of the state's aging population with more focus and energy.“David Anderson comes to KDADS with more than three decades of experience in behavioral health services, building community partnerships, and leading effective teams,”&nbsp;KDADS Secretary Laura Howard said. “We look to him to work with various community partners to create shared goals and outcomes.”Anderson is a licensed behavioral health provider who spent the last 36 years at High Plains Mental Health Center in Hays, starting as a service provider and later holding various leadership positions. He has also been an adjunct faculty member at Fort Hays State University's psychology department for many years.Over the years, Anderson has served on numerous statewide committees and boards. He was appointed by Governor Laura Kelly in 2019 to serve on the Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board, where he currently serves as vice chair.“I am very excited about this new position and the opportunity to continue to serve people,”&nbsp;KDADS Aging Services Commissioner Anderson said. “I look forward to traveling across the state and engaging with local communities, partners, and stakeholders in meaningful dialogue and planning to create positive movement and lasting change.”Anderson grew up in Winfield, Kansas, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Southwestern College. He moved to western Kansas in 1985 to attend Fort Hays State University, where he earned a master’s degree in clinical psychology.

WaKeeney resident named commissioner of Aging Services Commission

2024 SENATE SCENE WEEK 6 February 19, 2024

This week marked the sixth week of session with the first half of the legislative session almost behind us. As we approach “turn-around,” the Senate held floor debate on Tuesday and Thursday and worked bills which were sent out of committees to the full Senate. When we return this week, there are two more days for committees to meet and send out bills for debate on the Senate floor.

The budget committees and subcommittees continued the annual work through the budgetary process. Budget priorities are beginning to take shape as multiple committees look at the priorities for the state as FY 2024 approaches.

FLOOR ACTION – BILLS VOTED ON AND PASSED OUT OF THE SENATE

SB 1737 affirms Texas Governor Greg Abbott's right to defend the state of Texas from unrestrained illegal immigration. It passed by a vote of 26-12, I voted yes. The House passed its own version of a resolution last week.

SB 394 would require the use of age verification software on websites in which 25% or more of the content is pornographic in nature. A core function of government is to protect our children from harm, and that’s exactly what this bill does. SB 394 passed 40-0 and the bill now heads to the House.

SB 360 would allow a taxpayer to elect the taxable year in which a subtraction modification for contributions to a 529 program account, ABLE account, or first-time home buyer savings account would be applied; and authorizing the state treasurer to appoint a 529 program advisory committee. SB 360 passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 414 is a bill requested by law enforcement to help them fight the fentanyl crisis. The bill increases the criminal penalties for unlawful distribution of fentanyl-related controlled substances. SB 414 passed the Senate 39-0.

SB 419 is also a bill supported by law enforcement and our prosecutors to help combat the impact of fentanyl on our children. It would amend law in the Kansas Criminal Code pertaining to the crime of aggravated endangering a child. SB 419 passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 336 would remove the requirement for underground storage tank operating permits to be obtained or renewed annually. The bill would also repeal provisions of the Kansas Storage Tank Act that are no longer in use and make technical amendments. SB 336 passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 349 establishes an intercity passenger rail service program and making transfers annually into the passenger rail service revolving fund. It would require the Secretary to develop and provide funding to connect Kansas by rail to other member states of the Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission and any passenger rail service operations serving Kansas. The bill would require the Secretary to provide funding to cover the costs of projects and operating services for Amtrak or any common rail carrier approved by the Federal Railroad Administration. SB 349 passed the Senate 34-6. I voted yes.

SB 379 would amend provisions in the Kansas Probate Code regarding the publication notice required to be given to creditors with respect to the administration or probate of a will and for publication notice of sales of real and personal property at auction. The bill would also clarify the&nbsp;process by which small estates may be transferred to a successor by affidavit. SB 379 passed the Senate 40-0.

&nbsp;SB 347 would require the appointments to the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission to be subject to Senate confirmation and prohibit an unconfirmed appointee from exercising any power, duty, or function as a member of the Commission. SB 347 passed the Senate 24-15. While changing the makeup of the Commission by appointments of Legislative leadership is positive; the confirmation process should be more closely considered as there are only a handful of commissions out of about 100 which require this step. I voted no and if a hearing in the House is held - the confirmation vote should be weighed.

SB 172 would increase the lump-sum death benefit for a Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS) retiree from $4,000 to $6,000, beginning on July 1, 2024. SB 172 passed the Senate 24-14. I voted yes.

SB 142 would require the driver of a vehicle approaching a stopped vehicle displaying hazard warning signal lamps, road flares, or caution signals to proceed with caution and change lanes away from the stopped vehicle if it is possible and safe to do so. SB 142 passed the Senate 38-2. I voted yes.

SB 410 would designate two portions of highway in honor of distinguished Kansans: The Ken W. Brock Memorial Highway would be the portion of US-69 between Grand Road in Bourbon County and East 650th Avenue in Crawford County; and The Merle Miller Memorial Highway would be US-81 in Republic County. SB 410 passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 23 Eliminating the statutory 15% alternative investment limit for the KPERS fund and requiring the KPERS board to establish an alternative investment percentage limit. An amendment was made to retain the cap but increase it from 15% to 20%. This amendment was adopted. The bill passed the Senate 24-13. I voted yes.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT SB 212 was heard in the Local Government Committee last year and this year SB 384 was introduced by the League of Municipalities. Each bill requires a vehicle providing emergency care to operate with one person that is certified as an emergency medical service provider and a second person that either meets the same requirements or is a person certified in first aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This issue has become prevalent in recent years with fewer volunteers who are trained EMTs; however, many volunteers (fireman for instance) are certified in CPR but with less training as an EMT. It is important to note, the driver of the ambulance does not help with patient care while driving to the hospital – this bill is truly dealing with life-safety issues in rural Kansas. An amendment was added to SB 384 which removed the Emergency Medical Services Board requirement for reapplying for the wavier exemption which the department implemented late last year. This modification was agreed upon by the League and the EMS Board, SB 384 was sent out of committee and is now “under the line” on the Senate side and awaits debate by the full Senate.

KANSAS.GOV – FILE YOUR TAXES FOR FREE

You can file your Kansas Income Tax Return and Homestead Refund Claim with Kansas WebFile, a free state tax return service provided by the Kansas Department of Revenue and <a href="https://portal.kansas.gov/">www.Kansas.gov</a>.

I always encourage you to stay informed of the issues under consideration by the Kansas Legislature. Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. An email is the best at this point in the session.

Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol Building Room 223-E300 SW 10th St. Topeka, KS 66612 elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov 785-296-7389 <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a> <a href="http://www.elainebowers.com/" target="_blank">www.elainebowers.com</a>&nbsp;

Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, is senator of the 36th District in Kansas, which includes:

* Cloud, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne, Ottawa, Republic, Rooks, Russell, Smith and Washington counties * Marshall County: Cities: Blue Rapids, Marysville, Oketo and Waterville; Townships: Blue Rapids, Blue Rapids City, Cottage Hill, Elm Creek, Herkimer, Logan, Marysville, Oketo, Walnut and Waterville * Phillips County: Cities: Agra, Glade, Kirwin and Phillipsburg; Townships: Arcade, Bow Creek, Crystal Deer Creek, Freedom, Glenwood, Greenwood, Kirwin, Phillipsburg, Plum, Rushville, Solomon(part), Sumner, Valley and Walnut

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644853578448.jpeg" alt="Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>2024 SENATE SCENE WEEK 6 February 19, 2024SENATE HIGHLIGHTSThis week marked the sixth week of session with the first half of the legislative session almost behind us. As we approach “turn-around,” the Senate held floor debate on Tuesday and Thursday and worked bills which were sent out of committees to the full Senate. When we return this week, there are two more days for committees to meet and send out bills for debate on the Senate floor.BUDGET PROCESS AND TAXESThe budget committees and subcommittees continued the annual work through the budgetary process. Budget priorities are beginning to take shape as multiple committees look at the priorities for the state as FY 2024 approaches.FLOOR ACTION – BILLS VOTED ON AND PASSED OUT OF THE SENATE SB 1737 affirms Texas Governor Greg Abbott's right to defend the state of Texas from unrestrained illegal immigration. It passed by a vote of 26-12, I voted yes. The House passed its own version of a resolution last week.SB 394 would require the use of age verification software on websites in which 25% or more of the content is pornographic in nature. A core function of government is to protect our children from harm, and that’s exactly what this bill does. SB 394 passed 40-0 and the bill now heads to the House.SB 360 would allow a taxpayer to elect the taxable year in which a subtraction modification for contributions to a 529 program account, ABLE account, or first-time home buyer savings account would be applied; and authorizing the state treasurer to appoint a 529 program advisory committee. SB 360 passed the Senate 40-0.SB 414 is a bill requested by law enforcement to help them fight the fentanyl crisis. The bill increases the criminal penalties for unlawful distribution of fentanyl-related controlled substances. SB 414 passed the Senate 39-0. SB 419 is also a bill supported by law enforcement and our prosecutors to help combat the impact of fentanyl on our children. It would amend law in the Kansas Criminal Code pertaining to the crime of aggravated endangering a child. SB 419 passed the Senate 40-0. SB 336 would remove the requirement for underground storage tank operating permits to be obtained or renewed annually. The bill would also repeal provisions of the Kansas Storage Tank Act that are no longer in use and make technical amendments. SB 336 passed the Senate 40-0. SB 349 establishes an intercity passenger rail service program and making transfers annually into the passenger rail service revolving fund. It would require the Secretary to develop and provide funding to connect Kansas by rail to other member states of the Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission and any passenger rail service operations serving Kansas. The bill would require the Secretary to provide funding to cover the costs of projects and operating services for Amtrak or any common rail carrier approved by the Federal Railroad Administration. SB 349 passed the Senate 34-6. I voted yes. SB 379 would amend provisions in the Kansas Probate Code regarding the publication notice required to be given to creditors with respect to the administration or probate of a will and for publication notice of sales of real and personal property at auction. The bill would also clarify the&nbsp;process by which small estates may be transferred to a successor by affidavit. SB 379 passed the Senate 40-0.&nbsp;SB 347 would require the appointments to the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission to be subject to Senate confirmation and prohibit an unconfirmed appointee from exercising any power, duty, or function as a member of the Commission. SB 347 passed the Senate 24-15. While changing the makeup of the Commission by appointments of Legislative leadership is positive; the confirmation process should be more closely considered as there are only a handful of commissions out of about 100 which require this step. I voted no and if a hearing in the House is held - the confirmation vote should be weighed. SB 172 would increase the lump-sum death benefit for a Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS) retiree from $4,000 to $6,000, beginning on July 1, 2024. SB 172 passed the Senate 24-14. I voted yes. SB 142 would require the driver of a vehicle approaching a stopped vehicle displaying hazard warning signal lamps, road flares, or caution signals to proceed with caution and change lanes away from the stopped vehicle if it is possible and safe to do so. SB 142 passed the Senate 38-2. I voted yes. SB 410 would designate two portions of highway in honor of distinguished Kansans: The Ken W. Brock Memorial Highway would be the portion of US-69 between Grand Road in Bourbon County and East 650th Avenue in Crawford County; and The Merle Miller Memorial Highway would be US-81 in Republic County. SB 410 passed the Senate 40-0. SB 23 Eliminating the statutory 15% alternative investment limit for the KPERS fund and requiring the KPERS board to establish an alternative investment percentage limit. An amendment was made to retain the cap but increase it from 15% to 20%. This amendment was adopted. The bill passed the Senate 24-13. I voted yes.LOCAL GOVERNMENT SB 212 was heard in the Local Government Committee last year and this year SB 384 was introduced by the League of Municipalities. Each bill requires a vehicle providing emergency care to operate with one person that is certified as an emergency medical service provider and a second person that either meets the same requirements or is a person certified in first aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This issue has become prevalent in recent years with fewer volunteers who are trained EMTs; however, many volunteers (fireman for instance) are certified in CPR but with less training as an EMT. It is important to note, the driver of the ambulance does not help with patient care while driving to the hospital – this bill is truly dealing with life-safety issues in rural Kansas. An amendment was added to SB 384 which removed the Emergency Medical Services Board requirement for reapplying for the wavier exemption which the department implemented late last year. This modification was agreed upon by the League and the EMS Board, SB 384 was sent out of committee and is now “under the line” on the Senate side and awaits debate by the full Senate.KANSAS.GOV – FILE YOUR TAXES FOR FREEYou can file your Kansas Income Tax Return and Homestead Refund Claim with Kansas WebFile, a free state tax return service provided by the Kansas Department of Revenue and <a href="https://portal.kansas.gov/">www.Kansas.gov</a>.I always encourage you to stay informed of the issues under consideration by the Kansas Legislature. Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. An email is the best at this point in the session.Thank you for the honor of serving you!Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol Building Room 223-E300 SW 10th St. Topeka, KS 66612 elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov 785-296-7389 <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a> <a href="http://www.elainebowers.com/" target="_blank">www.elainebowers.com</a>&nbsp;Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, is senator of the 36th District in Kansas, which includes:* Cloud, Jewell, Lincoln, Mitchell, Osborne, Ottawa, Republic, Rooks, Russell, Smith and Washington counties * Marshall County: Cities: Blue Rapids, Marysville, Oketo and Waterville; Townships: Blue Rapids, Blue Rapids City, Cottage Hill, Elm Creek, Herkimer, Logan, Marysville, Oketo, Walnut and Waterville * Phillips County: Cities: Agra, Glade, Kirwin and Phillipsburg; Townships: Arcade, Bow Creek, Crystal Deer Creek, Freedom, Glenwood, Greenwood, Kirwin, Phillipsburg, Plum, Rushville, Solomon(part), Sumner, Valley and Walnut

BOWERS: Senate Scene, Week 6; fentanyl bills

Topeka February 19, 2024

I mentioned last week that the Senate would be taking action on internet child viewing pornography. I am glad to report the Senate unanimously approved a new way to make it tougher for anyone in Kansas under 18 years of age to view pornography with a new age-verification requirement.

Two bills passed in the Senate this past week dealing with the fentanyl crisis in Kansas, SB 414 and SB 419. These bills will help law enforcement deal with this epidemic. These bills were asked for by law enforcement and will increase the criminal penalties for unlawful distribution of fentanyl-related controlled substances and increase the penalty for the crime when bodily harm is inflicted upon a child and add “fentanyl-related controlled substance” and “methamphetamine” to the list of terms defined in the crime.

Seven more state governors are preparing to deploy national guardsmen and other personnel to the Texas-Mexico border. I, along with some of my colleagues, continue to encourage the governor to send national guard troops to Texas. Hopefully, in the next week or so I hope to draft another letter to our governor asking her to support Texas by sending troops.

The Senate passed SB 1737 a resolution which affirms Texas Governor Grey Abbott’s right to defend the state of Texas from unrestrained illegal immigration. This resolution makes it clear that Kansas continues to embrace the benefits of legal immigration and applauds the achievements and contributions of those who have become citizens through legal means. The resolution points out mounting concerns for the safety of Kansas citizens. Statistics provided by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation show that there has been a 3,000% increase in positive fentanyl tests. Kansas joins 25 united governors and Governor Abbott, in asserting that as a state governor, he has a right to defend his state and its citizens against the unrestrained illegal immigration policies of President Biden.

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend a meeting in Arizona and listen to the Governor of Arizona and the Yuma County sheriff speak on the border crisis. I do support legal immigration. After listening to their presentation, the numbers that were presented were shocking. The Yuma County sheriff said people from 140 different countries are flying into Mexico and the cartels are arranging transportation to the U.S.-Mexican border. The Yuma County sheriff stated that he has placed game cameras along the border, and from January to the first of December had videoed over 66,000 people crossing the border illegally into Yuma County, Arizona. In his presentation he said the cartel arranges transportation from the border to cities in Arizona, including Phoenix, through social media. He also told us that 300 known terrorists, on the terrorist watch list, have entered the United States. Please encourage our Kansas governor to send troops to the border.

I am looking forward to seeing many of you on February 24. Representative Adam Smith will be joining me, as we have set aside time to have our first town hall meeting of this session.

We will be giving you an update on current legislation that we have been working on during the 2024 legislative Session. We will also have time available to answer your questions and allow you to share your concerns.

Here is the list of towns and the times that we will be in each town:

8:00-9:00 AM (MT) Wallace Co., Sharon Springs The Wallace County Senior Center – 223 N. Main Street

9:30 – 10:30 AM (MT) Sherman Co., Goodland Goodland Public Library – 812 Broadway

12:30 – 1:30 PM Cheyenne Co., St. Francis St. Francis Public Library – 121.N. Scott Street

2:00 – 2:45 PM Rawlins Co., Atwood 5ten Main Youth Center – 510 Main Street

3:15 – 4:00 PM Decatur Co., Oberlin The Golden Age Center – 105 W. Maple

4:45 – 5:30 PM Thomas Co., Colby Colby Community College Student Union, Room 106

I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email: rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785 296-7399 or my cell is 785 899-4700.

If you are in Topeka, stop by my office at 545-S.

Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is senator of the 40th District which includes:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675701343257.jpeg" alt="Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. File photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Topeka February 19, 2024I mentioned last week that the Senate would be taking action on internet child viewing pornography. I am glad to report the Senate unanimously approved a new way to make it tougher for anyone in Kansas under 18 years of age to view pornography with a new age-verification requirement.Two bills passed in the Senate this past week dealing with the fentanyl crisis in Kansas, SB 414 and SB 419. These bills will help law enforcement deal with this epidemic. These bills were asked for by law enforcement and will increase the criminal penalties for unlawful distribution of fentanyl-related controlled substances and increase the penalty for the crime when bodily harm is inflicted upon a child and add “fentanyl-related controlled substance” and “methamphetamine” to the list of terms defined in the crime.Seven more state governors are preparing to deploy national guardsmen and other personnel to the Texas-Mexico border. I, along with some of my colleagues, continue to encourage the governor to send national guard troops to Texas. Hopefully, in the next week or so I hope to draft another letter to our governor asking her to support Texas by sending troops.The Senate passed SB 1737 a resolution which affirms Texas Governor Grey Abbott’s right to defend the state of Texas from unrestrained illegal immigration. This resolution makes it clear that Kansas continues to embrace the benefits of legal immigration and applauds the achievements and contributions of those who have become citizens through legal means. The resolution points out mounting concerns for the safety of Kansas citizens. Statistics provided by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation show that there has been a 3,000% increase in positive fentanyl tests. Kansas joins 25 united governors and Governor Abbott, in asserting that as a state governor, he has a right to defend his state and its citizens against the unrestrained illegal immigration policies of President Biden.Recently, I had the opportunity to attend a meeting in Arizona and listen to the Governor of Arizona and the Yuma County sheriff speak on the border crisis. I do support legal immigration. After listening to their presentation, the numbers that were presented were shocking. The Yuma County sheriff said people from 140 different countries are flying into Mexico and the cartels are arranging transportation to the U.S.-Mexican border. The Yuma County sheriff stated that he has placed game cameras along the border, and from January to the first of December had videoed over 66,000 people crossing the border illegally into Yuma County, Arizona. In his presentation he said the cartel arranges transportation from the border to cities in Arizona, including Phoenix, through social media. He also told us that 300 known terrorists, on the terrorist watch list, have entered the United States. Please encourage our Kansas governor to send troops to the border.I am looking forward to seeing many of you on February 24. Representative Adam Smith will be joining me, as we have set aside time to have our first town hall meeting of this session.We will be giving you an update on current legislation that we have been working on during the 2024 legislative Session. We will also have time available to answer your questions and allow you to share your concerns.Here is the list of towns and the times that we will be in each town:8:00-9:00 AM (MT) Wallace Co., Sharon Springs The Wallace County Senior Center – 223 N. Main Street 9:30 – 10:30 AM (MT) Sherman Co., Goodland Goodland Public Library – 812 Broadway 12:30 – 1:30 PM Cheyenne Co., St. Francis St. Francis Public Library – 121.N. Scott Street 2:00 – 2:45 PM Rawlins Co., Atwood 5ten Main Youth Center – 510 Main Street 3:15 – 4:00 PM Decatur Co., Oberlin The Golden Age Center – 105 W. Maple 4:45 – 5:30 PM Thomas Co., Colby Colby Community College Student Union, Room 106 I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email: rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785 296-7399 or my cell is 785 899-4700.If you are in Topeka, stop by my office at 545-S.Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is senator of the 40th District which includes:

BILLINGER: Senate Update, Feb. 19: Illegal border crossing crisis

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708369479238.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for the city of Gaylord public water supply system located in Smith County.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on Feb. 19 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a line break causing a loss of pressure in the system.&nbsp; Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, contact the water system at 785-697-2697, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information, visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMTkuOTA0NjgxMDEifQ.fq4JSl90KKKSrkJtkEjO1XSZggNl1AxmEMeXBbwwQeQ/s/1305913623/br/237341219643-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>

KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for the city of Gaylord public water supply system located in Smith County.Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:<ul>
 <li>Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.</li><li>Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker.</li><li>If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.</li><li>Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.</li><li>Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.</li>
 </ul>The advisory took effect on Feb. 19 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a line break causing a loss of pressure in the system.&nbsp; Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.For consumer questions, contact the water system at 785-697-2697, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information, visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMTkuOTA0NjgxMDEifQ.fq4JSl90KKKSrkJtkEjO1XSZggNl1AxmEMeXBbwwQeQ/s/1305913623/br/237341219643-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>

Boil water advisory issued for city of Gaylord, Smith County

LANE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Monday in Lane county.

The Kansas Highway. Patrol reported a 2007 Chevy HHR driven by Harry N. Parker, 81, Dighton, was eastbound on Kansas 96 three miles east of Kansas 23.

&nbsp;The vehicle traveled off the road to the right and struck the northeast railroad crossing sign. EMS transported Parker to the Lane County Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

LANE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 3:30p.m. Monday in Lane county.The Kansas Highway. Patrol reported a 2007 Chevy HHR driven by Harry N. Parker, 81, Dighton, was eastbound on Kansas 96 three miles east of Kansas 23.&nbsp;The vehicle traveled off the road to the right and struck the northeast railroad crossing sign. EMS transported Parker to the Lane County Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kan. man hospitalized after SUV strikes railroad crossing sign

The Hays USD 489 school board will hear a report at 6:30 tonight on changes in graduation requirements for students who will be freshmen next school year.

The school board will also hear a presentation from teachers Kelly Ackerman, Hays High School SPED; Lisa Renz, HHS English; and Heidi Harper-Wamser, Roosevelt kindergarten; on a collaborative project that has had high school students working with kindergarten students at Roosevelt Elementary School.

Superintendent Ron Wilson also will give a bond update.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board will hear a report at 6:30 tonight on changes in graduation requirements for students who will be freshmen next school year.The school board will also hear a presentation from teachers Kelly Ackerman, Hays High School SPED; Lisa Renz, HHS English; and Heidi Harper-Wamser, Roosevelt kindergarten; on a collaborative project that has had high school students working with kindergarten students at Roosevelt Elementary School.Superintendent Ron Wilson also will give a bond update.

Hays USD 489 to hear report on new graduation requirements

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

Did you know that deer hunting was enjoyed by 7.9 million people in 2016?

White-tailed deer are widely distributed in North America and for at least 10,000 years have been important to human beings for food, clothing, and tools.

White-tailed deer are a medium-sized cervid that evolved in North America. The species’ range extends from the Yukon and Northwest Territories in Canada, south through the United States, Mexico, and Central America, into South America as far south as Peru and Bolivia.

Deer hunters and wildlife enthusiast come join us on Wednesday, February 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the Agricultural Research Center – Hays auditorium, 1232 240th Avenue.

Drew Richetts, an Associate Professor and Extension Wildlife Specialist with K-State Research &amp; Extension will give about a ninety-minute program on white-tailed deer biology, space use, cover requirements, nutritional requirements, managing white-tailed deer habitat, supplemental feeding and managing white-tailed deer populations. And there will be time for your questions!

All interested people are invited to attend this free program. No RSVP necessary. If you have any questions contact us at the Cottonwood Extension Office 785-628-9430 or email scampbel@ksu.edu

Come learn how to improve the habitat and increase your chances of success when pursuing the most popular game animal in North America.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictDid you know that deer hunting was enjoyed by 7.9 million people in 2016?White-tailed deer are widely distributed in North America and for at least 10,000 years have been important to human beings for food, clothing, and tools.White-tailed deer are a medium-sized cervid that evolved in North America. The species’ range extends from the Yukon and Northwest Territories in Canada, south through the United States, Mexico, and Central America, into South America as far south as Peru and Bolivia.Deer hunters and wildlife enthusiast come join us on Wednesday, February 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the Agricultural Research Center – Hays auditorium, 1232 240th Avenue.Drew Richetts, an Associate Professor and Extension Wildlife Specialist with K-State Research &amp; Extension will give about a ninety-minute program on white-tailed deer biology, space use, cover requirements, nutritional requirements, managing white-tailed deer habitat, supplemental feeding and managing white-tailed deer populations. And there will be time for your questions!All interested people are invited to attend this free program. No RSVP necessary. If you have any questions contact us at the Cottonwood Extension Office 785-628-9430 or email scampbel@ksu.eduCome learn how to improve the habitat and increase your chances of success when pursuing the most popular game animal in North America.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Cottonwood Extension offers White-tailed deer program

Beginning at 8 a.m. Wednesday, crews will begin work on the Main Street bridge in south Hays. 

The bridge will remain open during construction, and traffic control will be set in areas of work being completed.

The city of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. &nbsp;If there are any questions, call L&amp;M at 620-793-8137 or the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721067731.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning at 8 a.m. Wednesday, crews will begin work on the Main Street bridge in south Hays. The bridge will remain open during construction, and traffic control will be set in areas of work being completed.The city of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. &nbsp;If there are any questions, call L&amp;M at 620-793-8137 or the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350.

Hays Main Street bridge repairs begin Wednesday; bridge to remain open 

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Communications

Lawmakers in the fourth-biggest crude-producing state hope to ban new oil and gas drilling outright within six years, and revoke new drilling permits in the meantime. In response, the oil and gas industry is using the term "extreme force" to describe the planned public pressure campaign against moderates in the General Assembly. 

According to KUSA TV-9 in Denver, draft language is already on the table and a version of the bill is expected soon.

A Midwest refinery has been offline for more than two weeks, driving a big spike in pump prices. National gasoline prices surged 12 cents in one week to $3.27 per gallon. The statewide average in Kansas rose nine cents to $2.83 per gallon. U.S. diesel prices are up 15 cents on the week. The auto club AAA says a continuing power outage in Whiting, Indiana played a significant role in the surge.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes was 621 active rigs, down two oil rigs. The Texas tally was down two rigs, Oklahoma was up one.

Poor field conditions continued to hamper drilling activity in some areas of Kansas, but not in others. Location work has been delayed at dozens of drill sites across western Kansas. But, the Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is higher. It shows 17 active drilling rigs west of Wichita, an increase of five rigs from a week earlier. The tally in eastern Kansas was unchanged at four rigs. The statewide total is down 40% from a month ago and 38% lower than a year ago.

Kansas regulators approved 12 permits for new drilling locations last week. That's 93 permits so far this year, compared to 168 a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 11 new well completions last week, with five in eastern Kansas and six west of Wichita. That's 148 completions so far this year, compared to 310 a year ago.

The number-three crude producing state reports a slight drop in output in December. The North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources says crude production dropped by half a percentage point from the month before to 1,273,071 barrels per day. The December numbers on natural gas production and gas capture show all-time records for both.

U.S. crude production sets another all-time record. The Energy Information Administration says in the week through February 9, output rose by 4,000 barrels per day, to 13,339,000 barrels per day, the best weekly average ever. Current output outpaces last year by more than 1.1 million barrels per day.

Crude oil exports have nearly doubled over the last two years. The government reports U.S. crude exports of more than 4.3 million barrels per day. U.S. crude imports average 6.5 million barrels per day, down by 437,000 barrels per day from the previous week.

Energy Information Administration says crude inventories rose by 12 million barrels, the biggest build in stockpiles since February of 2023. Domestic stockpiles are two percent below the five-year average for this time of year.

Drilling activity will flatten out, but mergers and acquisitions won't. That's according operators responding to the latest survey from the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. The report suggests activity in the oil patch of Texas, southern New Mexico and northern Louisiana held steady in the fourth quarter of last year. Most of the companies responding to the survey expect to keep capital spending flat, or slightly higher, than last year. Coming on the heels of two huge deals involving Exxon and Chevron worth more than $50 BILLION each, three out of four survey respondents said they expect the wave of big deals to continue in the next couple of years.

U.S. oil and gas employment held steady in January, with the service sector dropping more than 3,000 jobs. That's according to a new report from the Energy Workforce and Technology Council. Texas payrolls in the patch lead the way, with over 314,000 workers, outnumbering the next 11 states combined.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684775008059.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Communications Lawmakers in the fourth-biggest crude-producing state hope to ban new oil and gas drilling outright within six years, and revoke new drilling permits in the meantime. In response, the oil and gas industry is using the term "extreme force" to describe the planned public pressure campaign against moderates in the General Assembly. According to KUSA TV-9 in Denver, draft language is already on the table and a version of the bill is expected soon.A Midwest refinery has been offline for more than two weeks, driving a big spike in pump prices. National gasoline prices surged 12 cents in one week to $3.27 per gallon. The statewide average in Kansas rose nine cents to $2.83 per gallon. U.S. diesel prices are up 15 cents on the week. The auto club AAA says a continuing power outage in Whiting, Indiana played a significant role in the surge.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes was 621 active rigs, down two oil rigs. The Texas tally was down two rigs, Oklahoma was up one.Poor field conditions continued to hamper drilling activity in some areas of Kansas, but not in others. Location work has been delayed at dozens of drill sites across western Kansas. But, the Kansas Rig Count from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service is higher. It shows 17 active drilling rigs west of Wichita, an increase of five rigs from a week earlier. The tally in eastern Kansas was unchanged at four rigs. The statewide total is down 40% from a month ago and 38% lower than a year ago.Kansas regulators approved 12 permits for new drilling locations last week. That's 93 permits so far this year, compared to 168 a year ago. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 11 new well completions last week, with five in eastern Kansas and six west of Wichita. That's 148 completions so far this year, compared to 310 a year ago.The number-three crude producing state reports a slight drop in output in December. The North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources says crude production dropped by half a percentage point from the month before to 1,273,071 barrels per day. The December numbers on natural gas production and gas capture show all-time records for both.U.S. crude production sets another all-time record. The Energy Information Administration says in the week through February 9, output rose by 4,000 barrels per day, to 13,339,000 barrels per day, the best weekly average ever. Current output outpaces last year by more than 1.1 million barrels per day.Crude oil exports have nearly doubled over the last two years. The government reports U.S. crude exports of more than 4.3 million barrels per day. U.S. crude imports average 6.5 million barrels per day, down by 437,000 barrels per day from the previous week.Energy Information Administration says crude inventories rose by 12 million barrels, the biggest build in stockpiles since February of 2023. Domestic stockpiles are two percent below the five-year average for this time of year.Drilling activity will flatten out, but mergers and acquisitions won't. That's according operators responding to the latest survey from the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. The report suggests activity in the oil patch of Texas, southern New Mexico and northern Louisiana held steady in the fourth quarter of last year. Most of the companies responding to the survey expect to keep capital spending flat, or slightly higher, than last year. Coming on the heels of two huge deals involving Exxon and Chevron worth more than $50 BILLION each, three out of four survey respondents said they expect the wave of big deals to continue in the next couple of years.U.S. oil and gas employment held steady in January, with the service sector dropping more than 3,000 jobs. That's according to a new report from the Energy Workforce and Technology Council. Texas payrolls in the patch lead the way, with over 314,000 workers, outnumbering the next 11 states combined.

News From the Oil Patch: Colorado contemplates drilling ban

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The fifth Oxford House in Hays opened Nov. 1, just four years after the first one opened. There are now four men's houses and one women's house in Hays, with 168 Oxford Houses in Kansas.&nbsp;

The self-run, financially self-supported Oxford Houses provide an opportunity for individuals recovering from substance abuse disorder to learn a clean and sober way of living their lives.&nbsp;Oxford House is a publicly supported, non-profit 501(c)3 corporation.&nbsp;

The other four Hays Oxford Houses are in the north part of town.&nbsp;

The new house, 211 E. Sixth, is the first in south Hays and is close to Fort Hays State University.

"We think it's working out great," said&nbsp;Kady Stevens, outreach coordinator for Barton and Ellis counties and an Oxford House alum. She's also a member of the Friends of Recovery Association for Oxford Houses of Kansas.

The new house, which can accommodate seven men, is within walking distance of High Plains Mental Health Center and meetings at Oak Street Alcoholics Anonymous. Many Oxford House members don't have vehicles.

"It's been a big benefit to many of our new guys, being on this side of town," said&nbsp;Dustin Banes, chapter chair of Oxford House Chapter XX. It uses the Roman numerals for 20. 

"And we're not done," Banes said. "There has to be a demonstrated need for a house before a new one can open. One of our chapter goals this year is to open another one. This house filled up quick, so we could easily say there's a need for another house already."

The other homes in Hays can accommodate 10 members.

"We have to make sure the house is big enough," Stevens said, "usually four or five bedrooms ... We have single rooms, and we have shared rooms." 

Two Oxford Houses in Hays have a room large enough to accommodate three shared living spaces.&nbsp;

"Finding a decent house with that amount of room is challenging," she said.

There is a national revolving loan fund available to loan groups of six or more recovering individuals the money to rent a house to start a new Oxford House.&nbsp;

There are Oxford Houses for men, women, women with children, and men with children. The number of members may range from six to 15, depending on the size of the home.&nbsp;

The first Oxford House opened in 1975 in Silver Springs, Md., as a low-cost and effective method of addiction recovery management.

Each Oxford House is autonomous. Members govern themselves, elect officers and have weekly house meetings.

Members work jobs and pay their share of rent and household expenses.&nbsp;

There was plenty of community support in furnishing the newest house in Hays, which is rented. 

Everything was donated, including computer equipment, except the dining table set and a large flat screen TV, which were purchased. "Even the Christmas decorations were donated," Stevens said.&nbsp;

Members may stay as long as they like but will be expelled if they return to using alcohol or drugs or exhibit disruptive behavior.

"There are no bosses. Everything is a group decision. Everyone pays an equal share," Banes said.

The ultimate goal of Oxford House is long-term sobriety.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707944116284.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe fifth Oxford House in Hays opened Nov. 1, just four years after the first one opened. There are now four men's houses and one women's house in Hays, with 168 Oxford Houses in Kansas.&nbsp;The self-run, financially self-supported Oxford Houses provide an opportunity for individuals recovering from substance abuse disorder to learn a clean and sober way of living their lives.&nbsp;Oxford House is a publicly supported, non-profit 501(c)3 corporation.&nbsp;The other four Hays Oxford Houses are in the north part of town.&nbsp;The new house, 211 E. Sixth, is the first in south Hays and is close to Fort Hays State University."We think it's working out great," said&nbsp;Kady Stevens, outreach coordinator for Barton and Ellis counties and an Oxford House alum. She's also a member of the Friends of Recovery Association for Oxford Houses of Kansas.The new house, which can accommodate seven men, is within walking distance of High Plains Mental Health Center and meetings at Oak Street Alcoholics Anonymous. Many Oxford House members don't have vehicles."It's been a big benefit to many of our new guys, being on this side of town," said&nbsp;Dustin Banes, chapter chair of Oxford House Chapter XX. It uses the Roman numerals for 20. "And we're not done," Banes said. "There has to be a demonstrated need for a house before a new one can open. One of our chapter goals this year is to open another one. This house filled up quick, so we could easily say there's a need for another house already."The other homes in Hays can accommodate 10 members."We have to make sure the house is big enough," Stevens said, "usually four or five bedrooms ... We have single rooms, and we have shared rooms." Two Oxford Houses in Hays have a room large enough to accommodate three shared living spaces.&nbsp;"Finding a decent house with that amount of room is challenging," she said.There is a national revolving loan fund available to loan groups of six or more recovering individuals the money to rent a house to start a new Oxford House.&nbsp;There are Oxford Houses for men, women, women with children, and men with children. The number of members may range from six to 15, depending on the size of the home.&nbsp;The first Oxford House opened in 1975 in Silver Springs, Md., as a low-cost and effective method of addiction recovery management.<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nw-RoKEByms" title="Oxford House Chapter XX in Hays" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Each Oxford House is autonomous. Members govern themselves, elect officers and have weekly house meetings.Members work jobs and pay their share of rent and household expenses.&nbsp;There was plenty of community support in furnishing the newest house in Hays, which is rented. Everything was donated, including computer equipment, except the dining table set and a large flat screen TV, which were purchased. "Even the Christmas decorations were donated," Stevens said.&nbsp;Members may stay as long as they like but will be expelled if they return to using alcohol or drugs or exhibit disruptive behavior."There are no bosses. Everything is a group decision. Everyone pays an equal share," Banes said.The ultimate goal of Oxford House is long-term sobriety."One of the greatest benefits of coming into Oxford House is learning responsibility. You learn to hold yourself accountable. You hold other people accountable," he said.The Oxford House's "3 Rs" include recovery, responsibility and&nbsp; replication.&nbsp;"We come in for the recovery. We learn the responsibility while we're here. And then, the replication comes by sticking around and teaching the new members that come in after us," Stevens said.Oxford House Chapter XX has plans to be more involved in the Ellis County community "and just to give back to the community."Members have volunteered for Special Olympics events and helped at the recent Night to Shine in Hays.&nbsp;Stevens wants Oxford House to spearhead collection drives to help with needs at Options Domestic Violence and Sexual Violence Service and Northwest Kansas Community Corrections.&nbsp;"Just giving back to the people who have helped us," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707943429887.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>More information about Oxford House is available online at <a href="https://www.oxfordhouse.org/">oxfordhouse.org</a>, <a href="https://www.oxfordvacancies.com/">oxfordvacancies.com</a>,&nbsp; <a href="https://oxfordhousekansas.org/">oxfordhousekansas.org</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.friendsofrecovery.com/">friendsofrecovery.com</a>.