Commercial as it is, Valentine’s Day reminds the two of us how many years we’ve loved one another. Despite hype designed to convince my sweetheart to fulfill romantic obligations with cut flowers, chocolates, scented candles, and bubble bath products, he ignored those messages a few years ago and gave me a gift that went crazy wild.

After decades of marriage, I’ve learned flower shops hold no power over my guy. He prefers multi-department businesses where he slowly cruises the sporting good section for most of a store visit. Once he’s checked out every fishing lure and all the hunting supplies, he camps out in the Valentine card section. Over time, he’s learned I’m a sucker for messages he actually reads. No generic I love you from this guy. He looks for a card that perfectly expresses his feelings--sometimes funny and sometimes sweet—just like him. Year after year, the man knocks it out of the park.

Typically, after wrapping up this shopping challenge, he zips past the cut flower case, snagging a bouquet on the go to carry home to his bride, and heads to check-out. If you haven’t figured it out, I most look forward to the envelope encased love note he’ll cleverly hide.

Due to bad weather a few years ago, he didn’t shop til Valentine’s Day. I desperately needed to visit the art supply aisle so he let me tag along, reminding me to keep my nose out of his business. Yeah, like the calendar date and days seeing hearty advertisements hadn’t clued me in.

Because of our late visit to the store, the bedraggled flower case looked bad sad, and so did my favorite guy when he couldn’t find a suitable arrangement. Keeping my nose out of his business, I’d lifted my winter mood earlier, buzzing through the garden area where I’d noticed a store display of 6-inch, gift wrapped pots filled with blooming kalanchoes. When he apologized for his lack of success in the bloom department, I said, “Hey, the garden section has great plants that will bloom longer than any cut flower you could buy.”

In no time, we headed home with a fishing lure or two and a blossoming, warmth-loving succulent covered in a plastic bag to protect it from Kansas elements. It reigned in our living room until garden season arrived, and we could move it outdoors.

After a month or so absorbing unadulterated sunshine, that baby needed a bigger pot to sustain its flourishing greenery and delicate orange/red blossoms. I transplanted it to a much larger container, thinking it would take a while to grow into it. Ha, it overtook its new home in a flash, and has sunbathed this winter in front of our living room window. New shoots and emerging blossoms indicate it intends to serve another year as the best Valentine flower ever.

As we slip up on another Valentine’s Day, guess what? This holiday, I don’t want flowers. I want a huge planter to accompany the card I look forward to every year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158605319.jpeg" alt="Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>Commercial as it is, Valentine’s Day reminds the two of us how many years we’ve loved one another. Despite hype designed to convince my sweetheart to fulfill romantic obligations with cut flowers, chocolates, scented candles, and bubble bath products, he ignored those messages a few years ago and gave me a gift that went crazy wild.After decades of marriage, I’ve learned flower shops hold no power over my guy. He prefers multi-department businesses where he slowly cruises the sporting good section for most of a store visit. Once he’s checked out every fishing lure and all the hunting supplies, he camps out in the Valentine card section. Over time, he’s learned I’m a sucker for messages he actually reads. No generic I love you from this guy. He looks for a card that perfectly expresses his feelings--sometimes funny and sometimes sweet—just like him. Year after year, the man knocks it out of the park.Typically, after wrapping up this shopping challenge, he zips past the cut flower case, snagging a bouquet on the go to carry home to his bride, and heads to check-out. If you haven’t figured it out, I most look forward to the envelope encased love note he’ll cleverly hide.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706310576245.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Due to bad weather a few years ago, he didn’t shop til Valentine’s Day. I desperately needed to visit the art supply aisle so he let me tag along, reminding me to keep my nose out of his business. Yeah, like the calendar date and days seeing hearty advertisements hadn’t clued me in.Because of our late visit to the store, the bedraggled flower case looked bad sad, and so did my favorite guy when he couldn’t find a suitable arrangement. Keeping my nose out of his business, I’d lifted my winter mood earlier, buzzing through the garden area where I’d noticed a store display of 6-inch, gift wrapped pots filled with blooming kalanchoes. When he apologized for his lack of success in the bloom department, I said, “Hey, the garden section has great plants that will bloom longer than any cut flower you could buy.”In no time, we headed home with a fishing lure or two and a blossoming, warmth-loving succulent covered in a plastic bag to protect it from Kansas elements. It reigned in our living room until garden season arrived, and we could move it outdoors.After a month or so absorbing unadulterated sunshine, that baby needed a bigger pot to sustain its flourishing greenery and delicate orange/red blossoms. I transplanted it to a much larger container, thinking it would take a while to grow into it. Ha, it overtook its new home in a flash, and has sunbathed this winter in front of our living room window. New shoots and emerging blossoms indicate it intends to serve another year as the best Valentine flower ever.As we slip up on another Valentine’s Day, guess what? This holiday, I don’t want flowers. I want a huge planter to accompany the card I look forward to every year.

MADORIN: Valentine Gone Wild

Thank you to the people from the 40th Senate District for attending the annual March for Life held on the south steps of the state capitol. Remarks were made celebrating the success of the last session. These remarks included Born Alive Protection Act, Women’s Right to Know Act, Alternatives to Abortion Program and Safe Haven Baby Boxes. This session the Kansas legislature will continue to work on the dignity of life and supporting mothers and babies.

As expected, Governor Kelly vetoed the single rate tax plan that included reduction in property tax, sales tax, and income tax on social security. In Governor Kelly’s veto message, she claimed this would wreck the budget. She claims this tax was an experiment. However, when we check income taxes in other states there are already eleven states with a similar flat rate tax policy, including two of our neighboring states Nebraska, and Colorado. Colorado’s Democratic governor has endorsed a bill in the Colorado legislature that will drop their current flat rate of 4.4% to 4%.

Our budget committee continues to work on subcommittee budgets and has had numerous report outs to the full committee last Wednesday and Friday.

A meeting was held with retired U.S. Senator Pat Roberts regarding the opioid and fentanyl additions in the United States. Senator Roberts reported that 200 Americans die from fentanyl and opioid drugs every day. Kansas currently ranks second in the nation per capita in deaths from these deadly drugs. Senator Roberts' group is looking for funding to provide four beds for fentanyl and opioid detoxification. These beds will be located at the Valley Hope facility located in Atchison, Kansas. We will be working to find additional funding to pay for this important program. Any schools interested in having a program presented to your students can contact the KBI director Tony Mattivi or his staff to set up a presentation informing our students of these deadly drugs.

The legislature continues to encourage and ask Governor Kelly to be proactive in trying to stop the drugs and human trafficking from entering the United States and the state of Kansas illegally.

My office has several dates available for 6th graders through high school to serve as a page. Working as a page in the Kansas Legislature is an excellent way to learn more about the legislative process. If your child is interested in being a page for my office the following dates are available: February 12th, February 19th, and March 11th. You may contact my office: 785-296-7399.

It has been an honor to represent the 40th Senate District of Kansas. I have been asked if I plan to run for reelection. Yes, I do plan to file for reelection for the 40th Senate district. I feel there are many issues I can still work on to make a better Kansas.

Do not hesitate to contact me if you have questions or concerns. My email is: rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or you may call me, my office number is 785-296-7399 or my cell is 785-899-4700. If you are in Topeka, you are welcome to stop by my office, room 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>Thank you to the people from the 40th Senate District for attending the annual March for Life held on the south steps of the state capitol. Remarks were made celebrating the success of the last session. These remarks included Born Alive Protection Act, Women’s Right to Know Act, Alternatives to Abortion Program and Safe Haven Baby Boxes. This session the Kansas legislature will continue to work on the dignity of life and supporting mothers and babies.As expected, Governor Kelly vetoed the single rate tax plan that included reduction in property tax, sales tax, and income tax on social security. In Governor Kelly’s veto message, she claimed this would wreck the budget. She claims this tax was an experiment. However, when we check income taxes in other states there are already eleven states with a similar flat rate tax policy, including two of our neighboring states Nebraska, and Colorado. Colorado’s Democratic governor has endorsed a bill in the Colorado legislature that will drop their current flat rate of 4.4% to 4%.Our budget committee continues to work on subcommittee budgets and has had numerous report outs to the full committee last Wednesday and Friday.A meeting was held with retired U.S. Senator Pat Roberts regarding the opioid and fentanyl additions in the United States. Senator Roberts reported that 200 Americans die from fentanyl and opioid drugs every day. Kansas currently ranks second in the nation per capita in deaths from these deadly drugs. Senator Roberts' group is looking for funding to provide four beds for fentanyl and opioid detoxification. These beds will be located at the Valley Hope facility located in Atchison, Kansas. We will be working to find additional funding to pay for this important program. Any schools interested in having a program presented to your students can contact the KBI director Tony Mattivi or his staff to set up a presentation informing our students of these deadly drugs.The legislature continues to encourage and ask Governor Kelly to be proactive in trying to stop the drugs and human trafficking from entering the United States and the state of Kansas illegally.My office has several dates available for 6th graders through high school to serve as a page. Working as a page in the Kansas Legislature is an excellent way to learn more about the legislative process. If your child is interested in being a page for my office the following dates are available: February 12th, February 19th, and March 11th. You may contact my office: 785-296-7399.It has been an honor to represent the 40th Senate District of Kansas. I have been asked if I plan to run for reelection. Yes, I do plan to file for reelection for the 40th Senate district. I feel there are many issues I can still work on to make a better Kansas.Do not hesitate to contact me if you have questions or concerns. My email is: rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or you may call me, my office number is 785-296-7399 or my cell is 785-899-4700. If you are in Topeka, you are welcome to stop by my office, room 545-S.Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, is senator of the 40th District which includes:

BILLINGER: Senate Update, Jan. 29

2024 Senate Scene Week 3&nbsp; Topeka

This week, the Senate standing committees continued to hold hearings and bring forward legislation. The Ways and Means Committee is starting to work the budget bill with subcommittee meetings to report to the full committee in a few weeks. Hearings on bills in committees are continuing with the Senate returning to General Orders where we will see the first committee bills to have a vote from the entire Senate.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, hundreds of Kansans came out on a cold day for the annual March and Rally for Life at the Statehouse. On January 22, 1974, the first MARCH FOR LIFE was held on the West Steps of the U.S. Capitol. An estimated 20,000 committed prolife Americans rallied this day with attendance numbers rising every year. In addition to the March and Rally, events include workshops, pro-life educational booths, capitol tours, visiting legislators, and attending general legislative sessions and committees.&nbsp;

In off-legislative session during the summer, the Senate Confirmation Committee holds hearings for individuals brought forward by the governor for appointments to agency heads and other positions in state government. On Thursday, the Senate confirmed the following appointments:&nbsp;

Nicholas Jaskolski Brigadier General, Kansas National Guard Col.&nbsp;

Annie Kuether, Kansas Corporation Commission&nbsp;

Dawn McClure, Employment Security Board of Review&nbsp;

Pam Pierce, Employment Security Board of Review&nbsp;

Alan Deines, Kansas Development Finance Authority&nbsp;

Jon Small, Kansas Development Finance Authority&nbsp;

Catherine Moyer, Kansas Lottery Commission&nbsp;

Vicki Ryan, Kansas Lottery Commission&nbsp;

Kenneth (Ed) Trimmer, Kansas Lottery Commission&nbsp;

Mike Fleming, Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission

Larry Turnquist, Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission&nbsp;

Emily Bowersock-Hill, KPERS Board of Trustee&nbsp;

Brad Stratton, KPERS Board of Trustee&nbsp;

Patty Becker, Pooled Money Investment Board&nbsp;

Craig Heideman, Pooled Money Investment Board&nbsp;

Joni Franklin, Public Employee Relations Board&nbsp;

Keely Schneider, Public Employee Relations Board&nbsp;

Justin Nichols, State Banking Board&nbsp;

Michelle Ewert, State Board of Indigents' Defense Services&nbsp;

Romano Delcore, University of Kansas Hospital Authority&nbsp;

Elizabeth Henderson King, University of Kansas Hospital Authority

 Kevin Lockett, University of Kansas Hospital Authority

 Robba Moran, University of Kansas Hospital Authority&nbsp;

Alysia Johnston, Kansas Board of Regents&nbsp;

Neelima Parasker, Kansas Board of Regents&nbsp;

Calvin Reed Secretary, Kansas Department of Transportation&nbsp;

Erik Smith Superintendent, Kansas Highway Patrol&nbsp;

KANSAS DAY and Senate District #36&nbsp;

January 29th of 2024 marked the 163rd anniversary of President James Buchanan signing a bill to make Kansas the 34th state of the United States of America. Kansas is named for the Kansa, the Algonquian word for the Kaw. Kansas is full of rich history, beautiful scenes of nature, and notable landmarks. 

In Kansas Senate District 36, we have remarkable landmarks such as memorial to Pony Express Riders in Marshall County, the Nazareth Motherhouse in Concordia, Rock City outside of Minneapolis, and the “Home on the Range Cabin” in Smith County, birthplace of our state song. “Home on the Range” was adopted by the Kansas State Legislature as the official state song on June 30, 1947. Along with our state song, Kansas has not one, but TWO official state marches, “The Kansas March” and “Here’s Kansas.” 

But while the marches are grand, nothing brings as much pride into the hearts of the residents of the Sunflower State as that of seeing our great flag dancing in the breeze. The flag was designed by Hazel Avery of Lincoln County in 1925. Directly in the center on the field of blue is the Great Seal of the State of Kansas with our motto arching near the top: “Ad Astra Per Aspera” to the stars through difficulties. The flag was modified in 1961 by a bill introduced by Senator Ross Doyen of Concordia to add the word “KANSAS.”&nbsp;

VISIT THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE OF KANSAS - <a href="http://www.kansas.gov/" target="_blank">www.kansas.gov</a>&nbsp;

You can find a wealth of information at this well-designed website which focuses on Kansas with topics of business, education, government, residents, and services with links to agencies and staff to help answer any question you might have. Webfile will take you directly to the Department of Revenue to file your taxes; Form finder will take you to the Secretary of State’s office for all types of forms for businesses; Learning Quest will direct you to the State Treasurer’s Office; the three branches of government; and Plan your Trip to Kansas will open to the Department of Wildlife and Parks.&nbsp;

TOLL-FREE LEGISLATIVE HOTLINE&nbsp;

Kansas residents can access information on legislation, legislative procedure, state government, public policy issues, and more by calling 1-800-432-3924. Calls are answered by experienced reference/research librarians at the State Library of Kansas and kept confidential. Lines are open weekdays 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Callers can also leave brief messages to be delivered to legislators as well as request copies of bills, journals, and other legislative documents. Questions can also be left at <a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a> on weekends and evenings. Kansans can now chat with a librarian in real-time through the library’s Ask A Librarian service found at kslib.info/ask . You will have the option of installing a mobile app connecting users to all the State Library’s services, including chat, texting, and email. Text questions to 785-256-0733. The State Library is located on the 3rd floor, north wing of the Capitol.&nbsp;

Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol Building Room 223-E 300 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 3&nbsp; TopekaSENATE HAPPENINGS&nbsp;This week, the Senate standing committees continued to hold hearings and bring forward legislation. The Ways and Means Committee is starting to work the budget bill with subcommittee meetings to report to the full committee in a few weeks. Hearings on bills in committees are continuing with the Senate returning to General Orders where we will see the first committee bills to have a vote from the entire Senate.&nbsp;MARCH AND RALLY FOR LIFE Earlier this week, hundreds of Kansans came out on a cold day for the annual March and Rally for Life at the Statehouse. On January 22, 1974, the first MARCH FOR LIFE was held on the West Steps of the U.S. Capitol. An estimated 20,000 committed prolife Americans rallied this day with attendance numbers rising every year. In addition to the March and Rally, events include workshops, pro-life educational booths, capitol tours, visiting legislators, and attending general legislative sessions and committees.&nbsp;CONFIRMATIONS BY THE SENATE&nbsp;In off-legislative session during the summer, the Senate Confirmation Committee holds hearings for individuals brought forward by the governor for appointments to agency heads and other positions in state government. On Thursday, the Senate confirmed the following appointments:&nbsp;Appointment Position&nbsp;Nicholas Jaskolski Brigadier General, Kansas National Guard Col.&nbsp;Annie Kuether, Kansas Corporation Commission&nbsp;Dawn McClure, Employment Security Board of Review&nbsp;Pam Pierce, Employment Security Board of Review&nbsp;Alan Deines, Kansas Development Finance Authority&nbsp;Jon Small, Kansas Development Finance Authority&nbsp;Catherine Moyer, Kansas Lottery Commission&nbsp;Vicki Ryan, Kansas Lottery Commission&nbsp;Kenneth (Ed) Trimmer, Kansas Lottery Commission&nbsp;Mike Fleming, Kansas Racing and Gaming CommissionLarry Turnquist, Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission&nbsp;Emily Bowersock-Hill, KPERS Board of Trustee&nbsp;Brad Stratton, KPERS Board of Trustee&nbsp;Patty Becker, Pooled Money Investment Board&nbsp;Craig Heideman, Pooled Money Investment Board&nbsp;Joni Franklin, Public Employee Relations Board&nbsp;Keely Schneider, Public Employee Relations Board&nbsp;Justin Nichols, State Banking Board&nbsp;Michelle Ewert, State Board of Indigents' Defense Services&nbsp;Romano Delcore, University of Kansas Hospital Authority&nbsp;Elizabeth Henderson King, University of Kansas Hospital Authority Kevin Lockett, University of Kansas Hospital Authority Robba Moran, University of Kansas Hospital Authority&nbsp;Alysia Johnston, Kansas Board of Regents&nbsp;Neelima Parasker, Kansas Board of Regents&nbsp;Calvin Reed Secretary, Kansas Department of Transportation&nbsp;Erik Smith Superintendent, Kansas Highway Patrol&nbsp;KANSAS DAY and Senate District #36&nbsp;January 29th of 2024 marked the 163rd anniversary of President James Buchanan signing a bill to make Kansas the 34th state of the United States of America. Kansas is named for the Kansa, the Algonquian word for the Kaw. Kansas is full of rich history, beautiful scenes of nature, and notable landmarks. In Kansas Senate District 36, we have remarkable landmarks such as memorial to Pony Express Riders in Marshall County, the Nazareth Motherhouse in Concordia, Rock City outside of Minneapolis, and the “Home on the Range Cabin” in Smith County, birthplace of our state song. “Home on the Range” was adopted by the Kansas State Legislature as the official state song on June 30, 1947. Along with our state song, Kansas has not one, but TWO official state marches, “The Kansas March” and “Here’s Kansas.” But while the marches are grand, nothing brings as much pride into the hearts of the residents of the Sunflower State as that of seeing our great flag dancing in the breeze. The flag was designed by Hazel Avery of Lincoln County in 1925. Directly in the center on the field of blue is the Great Seal of the State of Kansas with our motto arching near the top: “Ad Astra Per Aspera” to the stars through difficulties. The flag was modified in 1961 by a bill introduced by Senator Ross Doyen of Concordia to add the word “KANSAS.”&nbsp;VISIT THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE OF KANSAS - <a href="http://www.kansas.gov/" target="_blank">www.kansas.gov</a>&nbsp;You can find a wealth of information at this well-designed website which focuses on Kansas with topics of business, education, government, residents, and services with links to agencies and staff to help answer any question you might have. Webfile will take you directly to the Department of Revenue to file your taxes; Form finder will take you to the Secretary of State’s office for all types of forms for businesses; Learning Quest will direct you to the State Treasurer’s Office; the three branches of government; and Plan your Trip to Kansas will open to the Department of Wildlife and Parks.&nbsp;TOLL-FREE LEGISLATIVE HOTLINE&nbsp;Kansas residents can access information on legislation, legislative procedure, state government, public policy issues, and more by calling 1-800-432-3924. Calls are answered by experienced reference/research librarians at the State Library of Kansas and kept confidential. Lines are open weekdays 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Callers can also leave brief messages to be delivered to legislators as well as request copies of bills, journals, and other legislative documents. Questions can also be left at <a href="mailto:infodesk@ks.gov" target="_blank">infodesk@ks.gov</a> on weekends and evenings. Kansans can now chat with a librarian in real-time through the library’s Ask A Librarian service found at kslib.info/ask . You will have the option of installing a mobile app connecting users to all the State Library’s services, including chat, texting, and email. Text questions to 785-256-0733. The State Library is located on the 3rd floor, north wing of the Capitol.&nbsp;Thank you for the honor of serving you!Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol Building Room 223-E 300 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 3 

This week is the third week of the 2024 legislative session and many more bills were introduced in the Kansas House of Representatives. Here is a look at some of those bills:

House Bill 2564 would establish a farm-to-food bank program that would expand Kansas agricultural food products to be used for the Kansas’ emergency food system. This bill would expand the availability of nutritious, locally grown, raised, or produced foods to be spread throughout the state of Kansas by requiring the program to use 75% of appropriated funds to acquire and distribute Kansas agriculture food products to every county of the state.

House Bill 2562 would protect vulnerable adults from being financially exploited by requiring reporting of any suspected exploitations and providing civil and administrative immunity to individuals who report that reasonably suspect financial exploitation has occurred, been attempted, or is being attempted.

House Bill 2168 would allow the use of fiber, grain, and seeds of industrial hemp for feeding livestock, poultry and pets. The bill would also relax current regulations on industrialized hemp, reduce license and registration fees while extending the license and registration period, and exempt certain providers from fingerprinting and background check requirements.

House Bill 2567 establishes the Kansas National Guard Educational Master’s for Enhanced Readiness and Global Excellence, also referred to as “EMERGE,” program and the program’s repayment fund. This is a bill that I have co-sponsored.

House Bill 2548 is also referred to as the “No Patient Left Alone Act" and requires hospitals, adult care homes, and hospice facilities to allow in-person visitations and authorizes these types of facilities to adopt visitation policies and procedures.

These are a handful of bills introduced and we will need to see if they will have a scheduled hearing in their committee.

The House Appropriations Committee began its work on the Kansas state budget this week. We began the process of having budgets reported from the budget committees to the Appropriations Committee. Recommendations were heard regarding eleven agency budgets for the state budget.

The committee also had an informational hearing presented by Secretary Calvin Reed with the Kansas Department of Transportation. He updated us on the IKE Transportation Plan and the Build Kansas Program that was created during last session. We also conducted four bill hearings throughout the week.

House Bill 2468 – Disaster Recovery Bill

On Wednesday, January 24, the House Appropriations Committee conducted a hearing on the bill that I introduced last session on how the state plans and recovers from a natural weather-related disaster. This bill derives from the lax response from the state of Kansas after the devastating Four-County fire on December 15, 2021. After the events of this wildfire, the governor placed me on the Governor’s Wildfire Taskforce.

While serving on the Wildfire Taskforce and listening to the members of the taskforce in Crisis City, Kansas, I began crafting House Bill 2468. House Bill 2468 establishes a structured disaster response, for all disasters, not only wildfires, and has a single-point of contact with the Adjutant General and Kansas Department of Emergency Management. House Bill 2468 would create a systematic process of contacting other state agencies that may be utilized before, during, and after the disaster event. This bill also creates a Disaster Contingency Fund that local communities, affected by a natural disaster, can utilize to match federal dollars. Here is a link to an article that was posted this week: <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c02073f7-0058-4f2e-bd04-4e14bb16d3ed">Rep. Waymaster: State needs structured response to wildfire, other natural disasters</a> (hayspost.com)

Anytime that you would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, you can tune in by video or audio at <a href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>.

As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me 785-296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov.

It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.

Rep. Troy Waymaster is the House Appropriations Committee chairman and representative of the Kansas House 109th District which includes Ellsworth, Lincoln, Osborne, Russell, and Smith counties.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621346439026.jpeg" alt="Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>January 26, 2024 Topeka<h2>Bills Introduced</h2>This week is the third week of the 2024 legislative session and many more bills were introduced in the Kansas House of Representatives. Here is a look at some of those bills:House Bill 2564 would establish a farm-to-food bank program that would expand Kansas agricultural food products to be used for the Kansas’ emergency food system. This bill would expand the availability of nutritious, locally grown, raised, or produced foods to be spread throughout the state of Kansas by requiring the program to use 75% of appropriated funds to acquire and distribute Kansas agriculture food products to every county of the state.House Bill 2562 would protect vulnerable adults from being financially exploited by requiring reporting of any suspected exploitations and providing civil and administrative immunity to individuals who report that reasonably suspect financial exploitation has occurred, been attempted, or is being attempted.House Bill 2168 would allow the use of fiber, grain, and seeds of industrial hemp for feeding livestock, poultry and pets. The bill would also relax current regulations on industrialized hemp, reduce license and registration fees while extending the license and registration period, and exempt certain providers from fingerprinting and background check requirements.House Bill 2567 establishes the Kansas National Guard Educational Master’s for Enhanced Readiness and Global Excellence, also referred to as “EMERGE,” program and the program’s repayment fund. This is a bill that I have co-sponsored.House Bill 2548 is also referred to as the “No Patient Left Alone Act" and requires hospitals, adult care homes, and hospice facilities to allow in-person visitations and authorizes these types of facilities to adopt visitation policies and procedures.These are a handful of bills introduced and we will need to see if they will have a scheduled hearing in their committee.<h2>Appropriations Committee</h2>The House Appropriations Committee began its work on the Kansas state budget this week. We began the process of having budgets reported from the budget committees to the Appropriations Committee. Recommendations were heard regarding eleven agency budgets for the state budget.The committee also had an informational hearing presented by Secretary Calvin Reed with the Kansas Department of Transportation. He updated us on the IKE Transportation Plan and the Build Kansas Program that was created during last session. We also conducted four bill hearings throughout the week.<h2>House Bill 2468 – Disaster Recovery Bill</h2>On Wednesday, January 24, the House Appropriations Committee conducted a hearing on the bill that I introduced last session on how the state plans and recovers from a natural weather-related disaster. This bill derives from the lax response from the state of Kansas after the devastating Four-County fire on December 15, 2021. After the events of this wildfire, the governor placed me on the Governor’s Wildfire Taskforce.While serving on the Wildfire Taskforce and listening to the members of the taskforce in Crisis City, Kansas, I began crafting House Bill 2468. House Bill 2468 establishes a structured disaster response, for all disasters, not only wildfires, and has a single-point of contact with the Adjutant General and Kansas Department of Emergency Management. House Bill 2468 would create a systematic process of contacting other state agencies that may be utilized before, during, and after the disaster event. This bill also creates a Disaster Contingency Fund that local communities, affected by a natural disaster, can utilize to match federal dollars. Here is a link to an article that was posted this week: <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c02073f7-0058-4f2e-bd04-4e14bb16d3ed">Rep. Waymaster: State needs structured response to wildfire, other natural disasters</a> (hayspost.com)<h2>Contact Information</h2>Anytime that you would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, you can tune in by video or audio at <a href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>.As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me 785-296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov.It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.Rep. Troy Waymaster is the House Appropriations Committee chairman and representative of the Kansas House 109th District which includes Ellsworth, Lincoln, Osborne, Russell, and Smith counties.&nbsp;

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, Jan. 26

This past Monday, I attended my first USD 489 school board meeting. First, let me say, I have incredible respect and admiration for the USD 489 teachers. They are tasked with educating the youngest of our community and their influence has the potential to last a lifetime.

Prior to the Jan. 22 board meeting, I sent a respectful letter to each school board member, explaining my genuine concerns and ensuring they would not be blindsided by my public statements and inquiry.

Last July, the school board approved the new district calendar for the 2023-24 school year, which replaced traditional, half-day teacher in-services with nine, “full-day” in-services. These newly designed in-service periods occur on the first or second Monday of the month for every month of the school year. Such “full-day” in-service periods, consequently, result in “days off” for the students in the community. The previous, “half-day” in-services allowed students to attend class until roughly 1 p.m. Those who had no after-school care options could remain at school for a minimal cost. This structure allowed their parents to continue working on those in-service days. This year, the administration and school board decided it would be better to give students entire days off for their newly-crafted in-services. My concern is for the young families who do not have afterschool care options.

This new calendar change has caused parents to miss work, and, consequently, miss income. Those parents who do choose to work run the risk of leaving their children unsupervised at home, not to mention, students in the greatest need miss their free/reduced-cost breakfast and lunch on those days. Do I dare pose the question: “What are the high school students who are out of school doing during such days with limited-to-no supervision?” Would the district administrators and teachers themselves allow for such limited supervision in their own classrooms/buildings for more than a single minute? I doubt that is a risk they would be willing to take. ...

After my brief three minutes speaking to the school board, no response was given or explanation for the change from half days to full days. Those who live in Hays know that affordable day care, and most communities across the country, is almost nonexistent. Any time a young family has a child out of the traditional school hours, it is very disruptive to the parents who are working.

So, let’s add up the time in the school calendar year that the children are not in school:

· USD 489 calendar for 2023-24 has 196 available school days (i.e., 8/16/23 - 5/16/24).

· During that period, there are 23 full days and two half days off for various holidays (i.e., fall/spring/winter breaks, MLK day, Labor Day, etc.)

· This year there are an additional nine Mondays off for teacher in-service days for “collaborative planning.”

· This sums to roughly 33 total days that our children are not being educated in the classroom during this calendar school year. To state another way, that equates to 17 percent of the available school days students are not in the classroom.

Are all these breaks essential for learning? What metrics did the administration and the school board use to decide on this additional time out of the classroom? Do they have similar metrics to show the benefits of this schedule? Since the students are missing so much time on those Mondays, are the in-service agenda(s) available to the public?

Was there no other way this in-service time could be done and still allow students to remain in school?

It is no secret that since COVID, students across the country have began to lag behind and underperform compared to previous years. So why did the administration and school board approve nine additional days of no school for our children, while, simultaneously, causing additional disruptions in the workplace? I believe they were working on the 2024-25 calendar. … Does this calendar follow the same Mondays off? Has the administration and school board considered the hardship this is causing those parents who have no afterschool care? Has the school considered the economic impact local businesses feel with a shortage of work staff on such in-service days on Mondays?

It is my hope that the school board will put this on the agenda for the next meeting, Feb. 5, 2023. I plan on attending. Feel free to join me as a concerned parent. I hope they will publicly answer some of these questions.&nbsp;

This past Monday, I attended my first USD 489 school board meeting. First, let me say, I have incredible respect and admiration for the USD 489 teachers. They are tasked with educating the youngest of our community and their influence has the potential to last a lifetime.Prior to the Jan. 22 board meeting, I sent a respectful letter to each school board member, explaining my genuine concerns and ensuring they would not be blindsided by my public statements and inquiry.Last July, the school board approved the new district calendar for the 2023-24 school year, which replaced traditional, half-day teacher in-services with nine, “full-day” in-services. These newly designed in-service periods occur on the first or second Monday of the month for every month of the school year. Such “full-day” in-service periods, consequently, result in “days off” for the students in the community. The previous, “half-day” in-services allowed students to attend class until roughly 1 p.m. Those who had no after-school care options could remain at school for a minimal cost. This structure allowed their parents to continue working on those in-service days. This year, the administration and school board decided it would be better to give students entire days off for their newly-crafted in-services. My concern is for the young families who do not have afterschool care options.This new calendar change has caused parents to miss work, and, consequently, miss income. Those parents who do choose to work run the risk of leaving their children unsupervised at home, not to mention, students in the greatest need miss their free/reduced-cost breakfast and lunch on those days. Do I dare pose the question: “What are the high school students who are out of school doing during such days with limited-to-no supervision?” Would the district administrators and teachers themselves allow for such limited supervision in their own classrooms/buildings for more than a single minute? I doubt that is a risk they would be willing to take. ...After my brief three minutes speaking to the school board, no response was given or explanation for the change from half days to full days. Those who live in Hays know that affordable day care, and most communities across the country, is almost nonexistent. Any time a young family has a child out of the traditional school hours, it is very disruptive to the parents who are working.So, let’s add up the time in the school calendar year that the children are not in school:· USD 489 calendar for 2023-24 has 196 available school days (i.e., 8/16/23 - 5/16/24).· During that period, there are 23 full days and two half days off for various holidays (i.e., fall/spring/winter breaks, MLK day, Labor Day, etc.)· This year there are an additional nine Mondays off for teacher in-service days for “collaborative planning.”· This sums to roughly 33 total days that our children are not being educated in the classroom during this calendar school year. To state another way, that equates to 17 percent of the available school days students are not in the classroom.Are all these breaks essential for learning? What metrics did the administration and the school board use to decide on this additional time out of the classroom? Do they have similar metrics to show the benefits of this schedule? Since the students are missing so much time on those Mondays, are the in-service agenda(s) available to the public?Was there no other way this in-service time could be done and still allow students to remain in school?It is no secret that since COVID, students across the country have began to lag behind and underperform compared to previous years. So why did the administration and school board approve nine additional days of no school for our children, while, simultaneously, causing additional disruptions in the workplace? I believe they were working on the 2024-25 calendar. … Does this calendar follow the same Mondays off? Has the administration and school board considered the hardship this is causing those parents who have no afterschool care? Has the school considered the economic impact local businesses feel with a shortage of work staff on such in-service days on Mondays?It is my hope that the school board will put this on the agenda for the next meeting, Feb. 5, 2023. I plan on attending. Feel free to join me as a concerned parent. I hope they will publicly answer some of these questions.&nbsp;Don Tillman

LETTER: Writer questions benefits of Hays USD 489 in-service days

By Brianne Heidbreder Insight Kansas

Governor Kelly recently rolled out her proposed budget for the 2025 fiscal year. Her priorities include an array of strategic initiatives including cuts to property and sales taxes, expansion of Medicaid, and increased investments in education and Kansas water systems.

Kelly’s budget also includes a plan to provide pay raises to state workers, implementing a 5% pay raise and increasing the minimum wage to $15 per hour for state employees.

In announcing her balanced budget, Kelly emphasized that she is a fiscal conservative. However, she believes that raising state worker wages is critical if the public sector wants to compete for talent with private sector counterparts.

While Kelly wants to increase the minimum wage for state workers, there is no plan to raise it for all Kansas workers. Kansas will continue to follow the federal minimum wage standard of $7.25 per hour. This rate hasn’t changed in Kansas since 2010.

Kansas is not exactly an outlier as more than a dozen states do not exceed the federal standard. However, this is changing over time. As of January 1, more than half of the U.S. states have adopted a minimum wage higher than the federal minimum wage, including every state which borders Kansas except Oklahoma. This may put pressure on employers to raise wages in border cities, such as those in the Kansas City metro area.

Raising the minimum wage is not an easy political task. It has inspired extensive debates across the states.

Supporters, including the Fight for 15 movement that started in 2012, emphasize that raising the minimum wage is an important step in addressing income inequality. They note that wages have not kept up with the cost of living, nor have they kept up with worker productivity. They argue that a meaningful raise can improve the financial well-being of low-wage workers. Further, as wages improve, fewer people would rely on social welfare programs, saving taxpayer dollars.

Wage increases could also stimulate economic growth. Workers with higher incomes tend to spend more, contributing to local and state economies. Finally, advocates suggest that higher wages can enhance productivity and job satisfaction among employees. This benefits employers by reducing turnover and increasing employee loyalty.

On the other hand, critics express concerns about potential drawbacks. Small businesses may face challenges adjusting to the higher labor costs. Critics worry that if these businesses struggle to cover the additional costs, they may cut jobs or even close.

Additionally, opponents argue that a significant minimum wage hike could trigger inflation, affecting overall economic stability. This could occur if employers pass along the costs associated with these raises to consumers in the form of increased prices for goods and services. This could counteract some of the intended positive effects on workers’ real income.

Finding a balanced approach that addresses the needs of workers and the potential impact on businesses and broader economy is essential when considering such a policy shift. Kansas is sure to feel pressure to raise wages for all in the future.

Brianne Heidbreder, PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678375743023.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Brianne Heidbreder Insight KansasGovernor Kelly recently rolled out her proposed budget for the 2025 fiscal year. Her priorities include an array of strategic initiatives including cuts to property and sales taxes, expansion of Medicaid, and increased investments in education and Kansas water systems.Kelly’s budget also includes a plan to provide pay raises to state workers, implementing a 5% pay raise and increasing the minimum wage to $15 per hour for state employees.In announcing her balanced budget, Kelly emphasized that she is a fiscal conservative. However, she believes that raising state worker wages is critical if the public sector wants to compete for talent with private sector counterparts.While Kelly wants to increase the minimum wage for state workers, there is no plan to raise it for all Kansas workers. Kansas will continue to follow the federal minimum wage standard of $7.25 per hour. This rate hasn’t changed in Kansas since 2010.Kansas is not exactly an outlier as more than a dozen states do not exceed the federal standard. However, this is changing over time. As of January 1, more than half of the U.S. states have adopted a minimum wage higher than the federal minimum wage, including every state which borders Kansas except Oklahoma. This may put pressure on employers to raise wages in border cities, such as those in the Kansas City metro area.Raising the minimum wage is not an easy political task. It has inspired extensive debates across the states.Supporters, including the Fight for 15 movement that started in 2012, emphasize that raising the minimum wage is an important step in addressing income inequality. They note that wages have not kept up with the cost of living, nor have they kept up with worker productivity. They argue that a meaningful raise can improve the financial well-being of low-wage workers. Further, as wages improve, fewer people would rely on social welfare programs, saving taxpayer dollars.Wage increases could also stimulate economic growth. Workers with higher incomes tend to spend more, contributing to local and state economies. Finally, advocates suggest that higher wages can enhance productivity and job satisfaction among employees. This benefits employers by reducing turnover and increasing employee loyalty.On the other hand, critics express concerns about potential drawbacks. Small businesses may face challenges adjusting to the higher labor costs. Critics worry that if these businesses struggle to cover the additional costs, they may cut jobs or even close.Additionally, opponents argue that a significant minimum wage hike could trigger inflation, affecting overall economic stability. This could occur if employers pass along the costs associated with these raises to consumers in the form of increased prices for goods and services. This could counteract some of the intended positive effects on workers’ real income.Finding a balanced approach that addresses the needs of workers and the potential impact on businesses and broader economy is essential when considering such a policy shift. Kansas is sure to feel pressure to raise wages for all in the future.Brianne Heidbreder, PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Time for a Raise?

My mother’s family of four children grew up as teacher’s kids in Southwest Kansas during the hard years of The Great Depression. In those days, educators received salaries only during the months they taught, and that small paycheck didn’t cover summer bills. To supplement their budget, Grandma boarded teachers, providing rooms and meals. During off-months, Grandpa worked for area farmers for a dollar a day. Because she wanted her kids to play the piano, Grandma labored extra hours doing teachers’ and community members’ laundry and ironing to fund music lessons.

While Mom’s skills impressed me, her sisters played hymns in church on Sunday throughout their lives. During family visits to Grandma’s, I’d run fingers across those keys my mom and her siblings learned on and wish I too could produce more than a racket. However, our family moved OFTEN and couldn’t lug a piano along. In addition, my dad often worked midnight tower, which meant him sleeping days. Me practicing a noisy, new skill didn’t fit our family dynamic.

My longing to make music inspired the grown up me to squeeze a 1950s console into our dining room and sign up for lessons from a patient teacher. To my distress, I did not produce pretty music. Trying to fit in practice while teaching and coaching, taking college classes for a Master’s Degree, wrangling toddlers, feeding family, and keeping house led to frustration. After two years of moaning and groaning, I gave up that dream. Despite my disappointment, those lessons instilled greater appreciation for those who play well.

Apparently, few people my age became accomplished musicians regardless of whether they moved frequently or stayed in one place. When other activities competed with developing competent skills, music took the back seat. Nowadays, I see the results in area churches.

Decades ago, Sunday services included a pianist and organist with substitutes who filled in when regulars couldn’t play. Presently, some congregations don’t have a pianist or organist, so they rely on technology to provide contemporary praise music. Traditional lyrics and tunes folks learned sitting in the laps of parents and grandparents fall by the wayside.

Fortunate congregations still have at least one pianist who plays traditional hymns as well as praise songs. Some celebrate enough talent they can assemble a keyboardist, guitarist, and drummer. If they’re really lucky, their instrumentalists play both newer and traditional tunes. Interestingly, when congregations sing traditional hymns, it seems participants sing louder. I’d guess hymns linking singers to memories of loved ones invigorate their voices.

Two sisters around my age who grew up playing piano bless a local congregation with music each Sunday. The pair switches easily from traditional hymns to praise songs, occasionally tossing in a riff that demonstrates serious mastery of ivory and ebony. Their loving banter offers a peek at the joy music provided them as they grew up. Their repartee reminds me of listening to my mother and her sisters discuss music.

As a music lover, I value families producing the next generation of instrumentalists willing to play publicly, a cultural glue that unites family and community. Grandma would say it was worth every bit of extra laundry she scrubbed to make sure her kids played piano. I agree.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705709507317.jpeg" alt="Courtesy Photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By Karin MadorinMy mother’s family of four children grew up as teacher’s kids in Southwest Kansas during the hard years of The Great Depression. In those days, educators received salaries only during the months they taught, and that small paycheck didn’t cover summer bills. To supplement their budget, Grandma boarded teachers, providing rooms and meals. During off-months, Grandpa worked for area farmers for a dollar a day. Because she wanted her kids to play the piano, Grandma labored extra hours doing teachers’ and community members’ laundry and ironing to fund music lessons.While Mom’s skills impressed me, her sisters played hymns in church on Sunday throughout their lives. During family visits to Grandma’s, I’d run fingers across those keys my mom and her siblings learned on and wish I too could produce more than a racket. However, our family moved OFTEN and couldn’t lug a piano along. In addition, my dad often worked midnight tower, which meant him sleeping days. Me practicing a noisy, new skill didn’t fit our family dynamic.My longing to make music inspired the grown up me to squeeze a 1950s console into our dining room and sign up for lessons from a patient teacher. To my distress, I did not produce pretty music. Trying to fit in practice while teaching and coaching, taking college classes for a Master’s Degree, wrangling toddlers, feeding family, and keeping house led to frustration. After two years of moaning and groaning, I gave up that dream. Despite my disappointment, those lessons instilled greater appreciation for those who play well.Apparently, few people my age became accomplished musicians regardless of whether they moved frequently or stayed in one place. When other activities competed with developing competent skills, music took the back seat. Nowadays, I see the results in area churches.Decades ago, Sunday services included a pianist and organist with substitutes who filled in when regulars couldn’t play. Presently, some congregations don’t have a pianist or organist, so they rely on technology to provide contemporary praise music. Traditional lyrics and tunes folks learned sitting in the laps of parents and grandparents fall by the wayside.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705709581550.jpeg" alt="Courtesy Photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Fortunate congregations still have at least one pianist who plays traditional hymns as well as praise songs. Some celebrate enough talent they can assemble a keyboardist, guitarist, and drummer. If they’re really lucky, their instrumentalists play both newer and traditional tunes. Interestingly, when congregations sing traditional hymns, it seems participants sing louder. I’d guess hymns linking singers to memories of loved ones invigorate their voices.Two sisters around my age who grew up playing piano bless a local congregation with music each Sunday. The pair switches easily from traditional hymns to praise songs, occasionally tossing in a riff that demonstrates serious mastery of ivory and ebony. Their loving banter offers a peek at the joy music provided them as they grew up. Their repartee reminds me of listening to my mother and her sisters discuss music.As a music lover, I value families producing the next generation of instrumentalists willing to play publicly, a cultural glue that unites family and community. Grandma would say it was worth every bit of extra laundry she scrubbed to make sure her kids played piano. I agree.

MADORIN: A Gift that Keeps on Giving

By&nbsp;Monique Koerner Cottonwood Extension District

In my last article on budgeting, I referenced saving money and an emergency fund. I wanted to spend a little more time on this topic since its an important one.

Growing your savings requires a plan. It starts with a budget. There are many ways to save money the key is finding which one works best for you. The easiest way is to set up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. Most banks and credit unions allow you to automatically transfer funds into various accounts on a regular basis. Emergency savings should ideally be placed in an easily accessible account at a bank or credit union that will not charge you taxes, maintenance, or early withdrawal fees. Ideally, you would be able to earn interest on the money in your savings account.

If you don’t have money in savings then starting small is a good plan. Perhaps saving 5-10% of your paycheck or even $10 a week. The goal is to get to $500-$1,000 as soon as you can. That amount will usually cover repairs on appliances or vehicles, etc. Another way to save money is to create a savings plan. You figure out how much money you’ll need to save as a goal. Then divide the amount of money you want to save by the number of weeks you have to save it. That is your weekly savings target. You can try to increase savings by cutting out wants such as eating out or canceling cable or subscriptions for a while.

Tax time is a good time to save if you are getting a refund. Consider using all or part of a refund for savings. You can have your refund automatically placed in your savings account and then you don’t even have to think about it. So easy! Other one-time opportunities to save would be gifts of money for birthdays or holidays.

Once you have your emergency fund you will want to make sure you only use it for emergencies. An emergency fund is a cash reserve used only for unplanned expenses or financial emergencies. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau defines emergency fund as savings that can be used for large or small unplanned bills or payments that are not part of your routine monthly expenses and spending. Some examples include car repairs, home repairs, medical bills, or loss of income. A vacation is not an emergency. Neither is the cute outfit or shoes that are on sale.

Having an emergency fund allows you to have a buffer when life happens. This allows someone the freedom of not having to use credit cards or loans, which can lead to debt that is harder to pay off. Having savings is particularly helpful for those with an irregular income.

Once you have a minimum amount in an emergency fund you may want to think about having more in the emergency fund for bigger emergencies such as an unexpected job loss. Having a few months of expenses in savings can be a buffer when the unexpected happens.

Learning to save money is a lifelong skill. Just like budgeting it can take some practice, so don’t give up. You will be pleased with the results. Happy saving!

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;Monique Koerner Cottonwood Extension DistrictIn my last article on budgeting, I referenced saving money and an emergency fund. I wanted to spend a little more time on this topic since its an important one.Growing your savings requires a plan. It starts with a budget. There are many ways to save money the key is finding which one works best for you. The easiest way is to set up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. Most banks and credit unions allow you to automatically transfer funds into various accounts on a regular basis. Emergency savings should ideally be placed in an easily accessible account at a bank or credit union that will not charge you taxes, maintenance, or early withdrawal fees. Ideally, you would be able to earn interest on the money in your savings account.If you don’t have money in savings then starting small is a good plan. Perhaps saving 5-10% of your paycheck or even $10 a week. The goal is to get to $500-$1,000 as soon as you can. That amount will usually cover repairs on appliances or vehicles, etc. Another way to save money is to create a savings plan. You figure out how much money you’ll need to save as a goal. Then divide the amount of money you want to save by the number of weeks you have to save it. That is your weekly savings target. You can try to increase savings by cutting out wants such as eating out or canceling cable or subscriptions for a while.Tax time is a good time to save if you are getting a refund. Consider using all or part of a refund for savings. You can have your refund automatically placed in your savings account and then you don’t even have to think about it. So easy! Other one-time opportunities to save would be gifts of money for birthdays or holidays.Once you have your emergency fund you will want to make sure you only use it for emergencies. An emergency fund is a cash reserve used only for unplanned expenses or financial emergencies. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau defines emergency fund as savings that can be used for large or small unplanned bills or payments that are not part of your routine monthly expenses and spending. Some examples include car repairs, home repairs, medical bills, or loss of income. A vacation is not an emergency. Neither is the cute outfit or shoes that are on sale.Having an emergency fund allows you to have a buffer when life happens. This allows someone the freedom of not having to use credit cards or loans, which can lead to debt that is harder to pay off. Having savings is particularly helpful for those with an irregular income.Once you have a minimum amount in an emergency fund you may want to think about having more in the emergency fund for bigger emergencies such as an unexpected job loss. Having a few months of expenses in savings can be a buffer when the unexpected happens.Learning to save money is a lifelong skill. Just like budgeting it can take some practice, so don’t give up. You will be pleased with the results. Happy saving!Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu

KOERNER: Saving money and the emergency fund

How do you choose a credit card? Do you care about keeping your personal financial information secure and so you choose a company that you trust? Do you choose your card based on your spending habits and where you can maximize the rewards points or cash back earned? Most people choose their credit card based on both factors – I know I do!

As a community banker and a consumer, I want to use a credit card knowing that the company processing every transaction has invested in keeping my personal financial information safe every time I use it. AND I choose a credit card based on the value I receive back on every purchase made. Unfortunately, there is a bill being promoted in Congress that could put these important factors at risk.

The Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA) which is being supported by U.S. Kansas Senator Roger Marshall and U.S. Illinois Senator Dick Durbin, would impose a restrictive government mandate on credit card transactions by allowing merchants to choose more than one network for the processing of credit card transactions. Most likely, that merchant will choose the company that is the cheapest for them – and the cheapest may not be the best. It could potentially expose your personal financial information to a less secure network and eliminate the popular cash back and rewards programs enjoyed by credit card users.

If you like your cash back and rewards points and want your card processed on the network you choose for its safety and security, please join me in pushing back on this harmful mandate by clicking on the link below which will take you to a website called Free Market Kansans. It will send a message to Senator Marshall to stand down and allow the free market to work in the credit card space as it has done for many years!

<a href="http://www.freemarketkansans.org">www.freemarketkansans.org</a>

Mark Schifferdecker is the president and CEO of GNBank in Girard and serves as the Chairman of the Kansas Bankers Association’s Board of Directors.

How do you choose a credit card? Do you care about keeping your personal financial information secure and so you choose a company that you trust? Do you choose your card based on your spending habits and where you can maximize the rewards points or cash back earned? Most people choose their credit card based on both factors – I know I do!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As a community banker and a consumer, I want to use a credit card knowing that the company processing every transaction has invested in keeping my personal financial information safe every time I use it. AND I choose a credit card based on the value I receive back on every purchase made. Unfortunately, there is a bill being promoted in Congress that could put these important factors at risk.The Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA) which is being supported by U.S. Kansas Senator Roger Marshall and U.S. Illinois Senator Dick Durbin, would impose a restrictive government mandate on credit card transactions by allowing merchants to choose more than one network for the processing of credit card transactions. Most likely, that merchant will choose the company that is the cheapest for them – and the cheapest may not be the best. It could potentially expose your personal financial information to a less secure network and eliminate the popular cash back and rewards programs enjoyed by credit card users.If you like your cash back and rewards points and want your card processed on the network you choose for its safety and security, please join me in pushing back on this harmful mandate by clicking on the link below which will take you to a website called Free Market Kansans. It will send a message to Senator Marshall to stand down and allow the free market to work in the credit card space as it has done for many years!<a href="http://www.freemarketkansans.org">www.freemarketkansans.org</a>Mark Schifferdecker is the president and CEO of GNBank in Girard and serves as the Chairman of the Kansas Bankers Association’s Board of Directors.

LETTER: Why consumers should care about credit card routing mandates

If you are familiar with these five places on Earth, you may know the secrets of the longest-lived people on the planet. Although these populations tend to live well into their 100s, the amazing part of their aging process is not the number of years they live but the quality of life they maintain. In fact, most of these people are still active well into their 90s. So, what is their secret?

The Power 9 Rule, coined by Dan Buettner, describes the common traits of Blue Zone practices that empower people of these regions to live long, healthy lives.

Move naturally. Contradictory to modern exercise and diet culture, people within the Blue Zones don’t go to the gym, run marathons, or do CrossFit. Their everyday lifestyles avoid mechanical conveniences that nudge them into moving naturally throughout the day. Walking is the basis of their active lifestyles. Walking to the store, a friend’s house, or work is the norm. People garden and do physical labor on a daily basis.

The key here is that regular, low- moderate intensity activity is achieved daily. This keeps their cardiovascular systems strong while strengthening muscles without overusing joints, tendons, and ligaments.

Know your purpose. People in Blue Zones have a purpose for their lives. Every task completed throughout the day is done mindfully and with intention. Okinawans call this sense of purpose “ikigai” and Nicoyans name it “plan de Vida.” Both translate to “why I wake up in the morning.” Knowing your sense of purpose is worth up to seven years of life expectancy.

Downshift. Stress is a major contributor to disease. It is directly linked to chronic inflammation that is associated with every major age-related disease. People of the Blue Zones have stress relief practices naturally built into their day. Adventists pray, Sardinians do a happy hour, and Greeks take an afternoon nap.

The 80% Rule. This Power 9 practice is directly related to healthy weight management. “Hara hachi bu” is the mantra said before meals to remind Okinawans to stop eating when they are 80% full. The science behind this indicates that it takes about 20 minutes for the brain to realize that the stomach is full. This small gap could be the difference between gaining or losing weight.

Plant Slant. Most of us know that the food we consume is the foundation of well-being. This is one reason why people of the Blue Zones maintain health so effortlessly. What they consume is plant-based, unprocessed, and grown naturally. Common foods include an array of vegetables and omega-3-rich nuts. Beans are their main protein source along with moderate amounts of fatty fish. On the other hand, meat is a celebratory food that is eaten about five times per month.

Wine at Five. You may be surprised that a ritual happy hour is part of Power 9. As a regular part of their day, Sardinians drink red Cannanou wine which is exceptionally high in polyphenols while visiting with loved ones. It is important to note the health benefits of this particular drink and the socialization aspect of this practice. This may be more influential to well-being than the alcohol itself.

Belong. In all of the Blue Zones, people identify with some sort of faith-based community. While denomination doesn’t seem to matter, research shows that attending faith-based services once per week will add 4-14 years of life expectancy.

Loved Ones First. Being around family and close friends is incredibly important. Not only because of the socialization aspect, but because these close connections build relationships that foster trust, support, and stability.

Right Tribe. As the saying goes, “You become who you surround yourself with” is proven to be true. Studies show that smoking, obesity, happiness, and even loneliness are contagious. In Japan, the Okinawans have “moais” – groups of five friends who are committed to each other for life. People of the Blue Zones have favorable social networks that support healthy behaviors, and this creates an environment of healthy living.

So, there you have it; the most influential practices from the world's healthiest people. 

If you’re anything like me, you are fascinated by the research, but you are also puzzled by the reality of practicing the Power 9 in the U.S. 

Dan Buettner explains, “The secret to longevity, as I see it, has less to do with diet, or even exercise, and more to do with the environment in which a person lives: social and physical. What do I mean by this? They live rewardingly inconvenient lives.” I encourage you to read the Blue Zones Solution book or watch the new Netflix series Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones to learn more.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at&nbsp; 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="Karissa Winkel&nbsp; Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel&nbsp; Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Have you heard of the Blue Zones? If you are familiar with these five places on Earth, you may know the secrets of the longest-lived people on the planet. Although these populations tend to live well into their 100s, the amazing part of their aging process is not the number of years they live but the quality of life they maintain. In fact, most of these people are still active well into their 90s. So, what is their secret?The Power 9 Rule, coined by Dan Buettner, describes the common traits of Blue Zone practices that empower people of these regions to live long, healthy lives.Move naturally. Contradictory to modern exercise and diet culture, people within the Blue Zones don’t go to the gym, run marathons, or do CrossFit. Their everyday lifestyles avoid mechanical conveniences that nudge them into moving naturally throughout the day. Walking is the basis of their active lifestyles. Walking to the store, a friend’s house, or work is the norm. People garden and do physical labor on a daily basis.The key here is that regular, low- moderate intensity activity is achieved daily. This keeps their cardiovascular systems strong while strengthening muscles without overusing joints, tendons, and ligaments.Know your purpose. People in Blue Zones have a purpose for their lives. Every task completed throughout the day is done mindfully and with intention. Okinawans call this sense of purpose “ikigai” and Nicoyans name it “plan de Vida.” Both translate to “why I wake up in the morning.” Knowing your sense of purpose is worth up to seven years of life expectancy.Downshift. Stress is a major contributor to disease. It is directly linked to chronic inflammation that is associated with every major age-related disease. People of the Blue Zones have stress relief practices naturally built into their day. Adventists pray, Sardinians do a happy hour, and Greeks take an afternoon nap.The 80% Rule. This Power 9 practice is directly related to healthy weight management. “Hara hachi bu” is the mantra said before meals to remind Okinawans to stop eating when they are 80% full. The science behind this indicates that it takes about 20 minutes for the brain to realize that the stomach is full. This small gap could be the difference between gaining or losing weight.Plant Slant. Most of us know that the food we consume is the foundation of well-being. This is one reason why people of the Blue Zones maintain health so effortlessly. What they consume is plant-based, unprocessed, and grown naturally. Common foods include an array of vegetables and omega-3-rich nuts. Beans are their main protein source along with moderate amounts of fatty fish. On the other hand, meat is a celebratory food that is eaten about five times per month.Wine at Five. You may be surprised that a ritual happy hour is part of Power 9. As a regular part of their day, Sardinians drink red Cannanou wine which is exceptionally high in polyphenols while visiting with loved ones. It is important to note the health benefits of this particular drink and the socialization aspect of this practice. This may be more influential to well-being than the alcohol itself.Belong. In all of the Blue Zones, people identify with some sort of faith-based community. While denomination doesn’t seem to matter, research shows that attending faith-based services once per week will add 4-14 years of life expectancy.Loved Ones First. Being around family and close friends is incredibly important. Not only because of the socialization aspect, but because these close connections build relationships that foster trust, support, and stability.Right Tribe. As the saying goes, “You become who you surround yourself with” is proven to be true. Studies show that smoking, obesity, happiness, and even loneliness are contagious. In Japan, the Okinawans have “moais” – groups of five friends who are committed to each other for life. People of the Blue Zones have favorable social networks that support healthy behaviors, and this creates an environment of healthy living.So, there you have it; the most influential practices from the world's healthiest people. If you’re anything like me, you are fascinated by the research, but you are also puzzled by the reality of practicing the Power 9 in the U.S. Dan Buettner explains, “The secret to longevity, as I see it, has less to do with diet, or even exercise, and more to do with the environment in which a person lives: social and physical. What do I mean by this? They live rewardingly inconvenient lives.” I encourage you to read the Blue Zones Solution book or watch the new Netflix series Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones to learn more.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at&nbsp; 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

WINKEL: Blue Zones Power 9

The 2024 legislative session began on Monday, January 8. The first week of session is usually ceremonial in nature with the State of the State and State of the Judiciary addresses before joint sessions of the legislature.

This year was slightly different as the Senate took up an important resolution that dealt with the horrific terrorist attacks that occurred in October. It was crucial for the Senate to speak clearly and without equivocation on such an important issue that impacts every single one of us. The resolution, SR 1729, makes it clear that the Kansas Senate unequivocally supports Israel’s right to exist, defend itself, and protect its citizens from terrorism and harm. We condemn the unprovoked attacks on the State of Israel, demand the unconditional safe return of hostages, and reject all forms of antisemitism, including threats against Jewish people and institutions, some of which have occurred in Kansas. This resolution passed the Senate 34-6 condemning the October 7, 2023, attacks on the State of Israel and reaffirming Kansas’ support and cooperation with the State of Israel.

Chief Justice Marla Luckett delivered the State of the Judiciary speech on Wednesday before a joint session of the legislature. Chief Justice Luckett discussed how a Russian-based ransomware group infiltrated the computer systems of the Kansas Judicial Branch on October 12, 2023. While she indicated the scope and source of the attack was not immediately apparent, they later learned that critical servers housed in the Kansas Judicial Center were inaccessible. The attack ultimately forced the shutdown of the e-filing system used by attorneys to file documents in cases. The attack also impacted case management systems that the district and appellate courts use to process cases.

On Wednesday evening, Governor Laura Kelly delivered her annual State of the State address. The governor devoted a large portion of her speech to promises about tax relief to the people of Kansas, when her veto is the very reason that taxpayers aren’t enjoying that relief today. Because of the veto, Kansas taxpayers are not receiving a reduction on their income tax, the state sales tax on food would have been eliminated and retirees would no longer be paying income tax on their Social Security benefits. These ideas are not new; we have been trying to pass these for years.

The Kansas House and Senate have both overwhelmingly passed bipartisan tax relief HB2284 and are now sending it to Governor Kelly’s desk for her to sign. 

Here is a brief explanation of the tax relief bill:

* It is a tax break for all Kansans, especially those who have been struggling to make ends meet. * Over 300,000 lower income Kansans will see their income tax eliminated. * Seniors receiving social security will see their income tax eliminated on their social security income. * All state sales tax on groceries will be eliminated. * Homeowners with homes under $100,000 will have their property tax eliminated from the states 20 mill levy. * All Kansas residential property will see an increased exemption from about $43,000 to $100,000, providing additional property&nbsp;tax relief. * This bill will also increase the personal exemption that hasn’t been changed in nearly thirty years.

My office has several dates available for 6th graders through high school to serve as a page. Working as a page in the Kansas Legislature is an excellent way to learn more about the legislative process. If your child is interested in being a page for my office the following dates are available: February 12, February 19, or March 11.

I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th Senate District in Kansas. 

Please do not hesitate to contact me by email at 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.

Cheyenne, Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Rawlins,&nbsp;Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego and Wallace counties Phillips County: Cities: Logan, Long Island, Prairie View, Speed;&nbsp;Townships: Beaver, Belmont, Dayton, Granite, Logan, Long Island, Mound, Plainview, Prairie View,&nbsp;Solomon (part) and Towanda

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644852447177.jpeg" alt="Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. Hays Post/Becky Kiser" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, 40th Dist. Hays Post/Becky Kiser</figcaption>
 </figure>January 23, 2024The 2024 legislative session began on Monday, January 8. The first week of session is usually ceremonial in nature with the State of the State and State of the Judiciary addresses before joint sessions of the legislature.This year was slightly different as the Senate took up an important resolution that dealt with the horrific terrorist attacks that occurred in October. It was crucial for the Senate to speak clearly and without equivocation on such an important issue that impacts every single one of us. The resolution, SR 1729, makes it clear that the Kansas Senate unequivocally supports Israel’s right to exist, defend itself, and protect its citizens from terrorism and harm. We condemn the unprovoked attacks on the State of Israel, demand the unconditional safe return of hostages, and reject all forms of antisemitism, including threats against Jewish people and institutions, some of which have occurred in Kansas. This resolution passed the Senate 34-6 condemning the October 7, 2023, attacks on the State of Israel and reaffirming Kansas’ support and cooperation with the State of Israel.Chief Justice Marla Luckett delivered the State of the Judiciary speech on Wednesday before a joint session of the legislature. Chief Justice Luckett discussed how a Russian-based ransomware group infiltrated the computer systems of the Kansas Judicial Branch on October 12, 2023. While she indicated the scope and source of the attack was not immediately apparent, they later learned that critical servers housed in the Kansas Judicial Center were inaccessible. The attack ultimately forced the shutdown of the e-filing system used by attorneys to file documents in cases. The attack also impacted case management systems that the district and appellate courts use to process cases.On Wednesday evening, Governor Laura Kelly delivered her annual State of the State address. The governor devoted a large portion of her speech to promises about tax relief to the people of Kansas, when her veto is the very reason that taxpayers aren’t enjoying that relief today. Because of the veto, Kansas taxpayers are not receiving a reduction on their income tax, the state sales tax on food would have been eliminated and retirees would no longer be paying income tax on their Social Security benefits. These ideas are not new; we have been trying to pass these for years.The Kansas House and Senate have both overwhelmingly passed bipartisan tax relief HB2284 and are now sending it to Governor Kelly’s desk for her to sign. Here is a brief explanation of the tax relief bill:* It is a tax break for all Kansans, especially those who have been struggling to make ends meet. * Over 300,000 lower income Kansans will see their income tax eliminated. * Seniors receiving social security will see their income tax eliminated on their social security income. * All state sales tax on groceries will be eliminated. * Homeowners with homes under $100,000 will have their property tax eliminated from the states 20 mill levy. * All Kansas residential property will see an increased exemption from about $43,000 to $100,000, providing additional property&nbsp;tax relief. * This bill will also increase the personal exemption that hasn’t been changed in nearly thirty years.My office has several dates available for 6th graders through high school to serve as a page. Working as a page in the Kansas Legislature is an excellent way to learn more about the legislative process. If your child is interested in being a page for my office the following dates are available: February 12, February 19, or March 11.I am honored and grateful to represent the 40th Senate District in Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email at 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:Cheyenne, Decatur, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Logan, Norton, Rawlins,&nbsp;Sheridan, Sherman, Thomas, Trego and Wallace counties Phillips County: Cities: Logan, Long Island, Prairie View, Speed;&nbsp;Townships: Beaver, Belmont, Dayton, Granite, Logan, Long Island, Mound, Plainview, Prairie View,&nbsp;Solomon (part) and Towanda

BILLINGER:  Senate Update, Jan. 23

This week, the House and Senate leaders met and decided on a comprehensive tax proposal. Thursday, we debated the conference committee report in both chambers.

The tax proposal includes the reduction of the tax burden on Kansans for income, property, and sales taxes.

The most controversial item of the tax plan, and the reason why I tend to believe the governor will veto this bill, is the consolidation of the three-bracket system to a “flat tax” at a rate of 5.25%.

Another provision that was actually part of the governor’s proposal, would exempt Social Security income from the state income tax. The elimination of taxing social security income would generate a savings to retired Kansans of $152 million.

The tax plan has a provision regarding the Kansas standard deduction for personal income tax. The standard deduction would stay at $3,500 for individuals and $8,000 for married filing jointly, though, it would account for an inflation growth index.

The plan would also eliminate the sales tax on food on July 1, 2024. Current law has the elimination of state’s portion of the sales tax on January 1, 2025.

The plan also increases the residential exemption on the 20 mills property tax. The exemption would be increased from $43,000 to $100,000 and produces a taxpayer savings of approximately $85 million in fiscal year 2025. This is real property tax relief that the state controls regarding residential property taxes.

Many of the provisions embedded in this tax policy are those that the governor proposed when she released her budget last week.

On Wednesday, January 17, 2024, the House Appropriations Committee met for the first time, aside from the joint meeting that we had with Senate Ways and Means last week when Governor Kelly’s budget was released. Many reports were distributed to the committee, such as the Kansas Department of Corrections Report on the implementation of House Bill 2021; Kansas Housing Resources Corporations Annual Report, and the Public Defender Staffing Report.

Thursday, we had a briefing on the oil and gas industry in the state of Kansas by the Kansas Independent Oil and Gas Association. We also had an update from the Kansas Geological Survey and from the Kansas Corporation Commission with an update to the Abandoned Oil and Gas Well Fund. Next week, we will be starting the budget reporting process as we have three budget committees that will be reporting back to the House Appropriations Committee.

Numerous bills are introduced during the legislative session, especially at the beginning of the session. Here are some of the bills that were introduced this week:

House Bill 2506 would authorize students that are enrolled in virtual schools to participate in activities that are regulated by the Kansas High School Activities Association.

House Bill 2505 would permit vehicle dealers to sell vehicles on consignment contracts.

House Bill 2504 requires that only physical paper ballots be used for the purpose of conducting audits.

House Bill 2509 provides reimbursement payments for the cost of career technical education credential assessments to school districts under the Career Technical Education Credential and Transition Incentive for Employment Success Act.

House Concurrent Resolution 5020 amends the Bill of Rights of the Kansas State Constitution to recognize the right to bear arms as a fundamental right. I co-sponsored this resolution.

Across the dome in the Senate, these bills have been introduced:

Senate Bill 349 relates to the passenger rail service program and establishes intercity passenger rail service program.

Senate Bill 350 is a bill concerning the Kansas Fights Addiction Act and would add a for-profit private entity to the definition of “qualified applicant.”

During the next few months, I will be following these and other bills as they progress through the legislative session.

Anytime that you would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, you can tune in by video or audio at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>.&nbsp;

As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me 785- 296-7672, follow me on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633970422056.jpeg" alt="Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>January 19, 2024 Topeka<h2>Tax Plan Passes the House</h2>This week, the House and Senate leaders met and decided on a comprehensive tax proposal. Thursday, we debated the conference committee report in both chambers.The tax proposal includes the reduction of the tax burden on Kansans for income, property, and sales taxes.The most controversial item of the tax plan, and the reason why I tend to believe the governor will veto this bill, is the consolidation of the three-bracket system to a “flat tax” at a rate of 5.25%.Another provision that was actually part of the governor’s proposal, would exempt Social Security income from the state income tax. The elimination of taxing social security income would generate a savings to retired Kansans of $152 million.The tax plan has a provision regarding the Kansas standard deduction for personal income tax. The standard deduction would stay at $3,500 for individuals and $8,000 for married filing jointly, though, it would account for an inflation growth index.The plan would also eliminate the sales tax on food on July 1, 2024. Current law has the elimination of state’s portion of the sales tax on January 1, 2025.The plan also increases the residential exemption on the 20 mills property tax. The exemption would be increased from $43,000 to $100,000 and produces a taxpayer savings of approximately $85 million in fiscal year 2025. This is real property tax relief that the state controls regarding residential property taxes.Many of the provisions embedded in this tax policy are those that the governor proposed when she released her budget last week.<h2>Appropriations Committee</h2>On Wednesday, January 17, 2024, the House Appropriations Committee met for the first time, aside from the joint meeting that we had with Senate Ways and Means last week when Governor Kelly’s budget was released. Many reports were distributed to the committee, such as the Kansas Department of Corrections Report on the implementation of House Bill 2021; Kansas Housing Resources Corporations Annual Report, and the Public Defender Staffing Report.Thursday, we had a briefing on the oil and gas industry in the state of Kansas by the Kansas Independent Oil and Gas Association. We also had an update from the Kansas Geological Survey and from the Kansas Corporation Commission with an update to the Abandoned Oil and Gas Well Fund. Next week, we will be starting the budget reporting process as we have three budget committees that will be reporting back to the House Appropriations Committee.<h2>Bills Introduced</h2>Numerous bills are introduced during the legislative session, especially at the beginning of the session. Here are some of the bills that were introduced this week:House Bill 2506 would authorize students that are enrolled in virtual schools to participate in activities that are regulated by the Kansas High School Activities Association.House Bill 2505 would permit vehicle dealers to sell vehicles on consignment contracts.House Bill 2504 requires that only physical paper ballots be used for the purpose of conducting audits.House Bill 2509 provides reimbursement payments for the cost of career technical education credential assessments to school districts under the Career Technical Education Credential and Transition Incentive for Employment Success Act.House Concurrent Resolution 5020 amends the Bill of Rights of the Kansas State Constitution to recognize the right to bear arms as a fundamental right. I co-sponsored this resolution.Across the dome in the Senate, these bills have been introduced:Senate Bill 349 relates to the passenger rail service program and establishes intercity passenger rail service program.Senate Bill 350 is a bill concerning the Kansas Fights Addiction Act and would add a for-profit private entity to the definition of “qualified applicant.”During the next few months, I will be following these and other bills as they progress through the legislative session.<h2>Contact Information</h2>Anytime that you would like to participate and listen to the developments of committee hearings or discussion on the House floor, you can tune in by video or audio at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>.&nbsp;As always, if you have any concerns, feel free to contact me 785- 296-7672, follow me on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov.It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.Rep. Troy Waymaster is the House Appropriations Committee chairman and representative of the Kansas House 109th District which includes Ellsworth, Lincoln, Osborne, Russell, and Smith counties.&nbsp;

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, January 19

A budget is a plan for how to spend and save your money. A monthly household budget can help you make sure you have enough money to pay for things you need like rent, groceries, and electricity. They can also help you think about how you spend your money on things you want like cable television or having a pet. Paying for all your household needs before you spend money on things you want is a wise financial habit. Knowing how to make a budget is an important first step toward managing your money.

Understanding the difference between wants and needs is a way to build a budget and make sure basic needs are taken care of such as food, clothing, and shelter before things that are upgrades or nice to have. Learning to save money is also a necessity because having an emergency fund helps to avoid a major crisis. It also allows you to save for specific purchases without having to use credit therefore, saving you money in interest. An emergency fund is usually around $500-$1,000 as a minimum. That is typically enough money to be able to cover an emergency. This can create peace of mind for the individual and also help relationships since there is no need to argue because you have the money to cover an emergency. While there is some stress related to emergencies there is less stress when there is money to cover it.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>A budget is a plan for how to spend and save your money. A monthly household budget can help you make sure you have enough money to pay for things you need like rent, groceries, and electricity. They can also help you think about how you spend your money on things you want like cable television or having a pet. Paying for all your household needs before you spend money on things you want is a wise financial habit. Knowing how to make a budget is an important first step toward managing your money.Understanding the difference between wants and needs is a way to build a budget and make sure basic needs are taken care of such as food, clothing, and shelter before things that are upgrades or nice to have. Learning to save money is also a necessity because having an emergency fund helps to avoid a major crisis. It also allows you to save for specific purchases without having to use credit therefore, saving you money in interest. An emergency fund is usually around $500-$1,000 as a minimum. That is typically enough money to be able to cover an emergency. This can create peace of mind for the individual and also help relationships since there is no need to argue because you have the money to cover an emergency. While there is some stress related to emergencies there is less stress when there is money to cover it.The first step I like to do when creating a budget is to track expenses for a month so you know where your money is going. If you don’t know where your money is going then it is difficult to sit down and put a number in each category. Some categories like rent stay the same but other categories, for example, groceries, can be surprising when we pay attention to what we are spending.Sometimes we can also be taken off guard by how much we really spend on seemingly little things. We can make better choices when we know exactly how much we are spending on something. For example, stopping to get snacks or drinks at a convenience store, can add up quickly. A fountain drink can be around $2.00. If we stop five times a week that adds up to $10.00 a week. If we don’t know what we are spending then we can’t make an educated choice on how to spend our money. Some people might be willing to spend $10.00 a week on drinks and others may not be willing to spend that much. The choice is yours.Having a budget is telling your money what to do. To some people budgeting feels restrictive but knowing where your money is going can also create a sense of freedom. You also need to know how much money is coming in. What are all your income sources? The more informed you are the better decisions you can make around anything and this includes personal finance.Once you create a budget you can use an online system or the envelope system to keep track of your budget. There are a lot of online budgeting tools so you can electronically keep track of your spending. Or you can utilize an envelope system where you put cash in each envelope and each envelope represents a category. Examples of categories include rent, groceries, gas, utilities, savings, etc.The goal is to tell each dollar where to go. If you have money left over after all the basics and bills then you can decide how to use those. Even if they go to savings or a miscellaneous category, tell each dollar where it will be spent. Likewise, if you run out of money before everything is paid, then you will need to find ways you can cut back or increase your income.It takes some time to get used to doing a budget. You aren’t going to be perfect the first month if you’ve never done a budget before. It will take some time and trial and error to get your budget to work well for you. Keep practicing until you figure it out. Be patient and don’t give up!Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu

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