Everyone dreams, wishes, hopes, or long for something. Some are blessed to build happy families, find satisfying jobs, and establish cozy homes. A dear friend recently achieved the specific dream of sharing her family story—a history specific to a small town in western Kansas. Since I’ve known Angela Bates, she’s researched and documented lives of her Kentucky ancestors, once enslaved people belonging to Vice-President Richard M. Johnson. Her story is the result of what happens when dream meets hard work and persistence.

Several years following Emancipation and the Homestead Act, recruiters traveled east to entice families to move West to homestead. Angela’s ancestors answered this call, founding Nicodemus and the surrounding township in Graham County.

Like many rural communities, Nicodemus experienced boom and bust, forcing many residents to seek jobs in urban regions. Swimming against that current, Angela changed career paths and left the city, returning to her ancestral home to document and share her family’s unique American history. Plan in mind, she collaborated with Kansas Senators Dole and Roberts, the National Park Service, and the Nicodemus community and descendants to establish Nicodemus as a National Historic Site in 1996.

For some this designation would suffice, but not Angela. For decades stories and scripts recounting an American tale specific to Angela’s family origins that led to the only remaining all Black town west of the Mississippi River waited to be shared. As she compiled family histories, ancestors’ lives scrolled through her mind like a movie on a screen.

Once technology made it possible to transition text to visuals, Angela persuaded donors, descendants of original settlers, Nicodemus Historical Society, friends, landowners, and regional filmmaker Nick Abt to turn the script simmering in her brain for decades into the documentary Ellis Trail to Nicodemus.

It first premiered February 17 at Frontier Stage in Hill City. Cast, crew, and land owners of film locations reunited to celebrate the long-awaited documentary. Hugs and laughter established the sense of a long-awaited family reunion as friends and loved ones reconnected. Two showings accommodated appreciative audiences.

Building the excitement, Angela announced an extended version of the documentary comes out later this year. A poignant script, sweeping photography, gritty visuals of actual descendants slogging over open prairie in a land unlike anything their pioneer ancestors had ever seen evoked audience gasps, sighs, laughs, and tears. Nick’s drone photography invited viewers to travel alongside those following forebearers’ footsteps through sere grasses, over eroded limestone hills, and across rivers.

Descendent interviews at the end of the documentary enriched it, adding depth to the stories of these African American pioneer settlers who sought and experienced freedom as first- time landowners and homesteaders in the West. To watch the actress playing Zerina Johnson channel her character’s emotion when she first sighted Nicodemus moved some viewers to the edge of their seats. Hearing descendants explain what Nicodemus means—a home they can always return to--and their sense of belonging to those pioneer families forced a communal scramble for tissues. Spectators responded to the power of family stories involving strong people who prayed and sacrificed their way to better lives for themselves and future generations.

While some families have dreamers who see possibility and make it happen, others don’t. The doers research and record the stories. They encourage others to share in translating that story to film to make it every human’s story-- the appeal of this documentary. While it’s unique in its representation of formerly enslaved men and women seeking freedom and landownership, its love story and willingness to risk everything for a better life is a universal dream come true.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708725159287.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINEveryone dreams, wishes, hopes, or long for something. Some are blessed to build happy families, find satisfying jobs, and establish cozy homes. A dear friend recently achieved the specific dream of sharing her family story—a history specific to a small town in western Kansas. Since I’ve known Angela Bates, she’s researched and documented lives of her Kentucky ancestors, once enslaved people belonging to Vice-President Richard M. Johnson. Her story is the result of what happens when dream meets hard work and persistence.Several years following Emancipation and the Homestead Act, recruiters traveled east to entice families to move West to homestead. Angela’s ancestors answered this call, founding Nicodemus and the surrounding township in Graham County.Like many rural communities, Nicodemus experienced boom and bust, forcing many residents to seek jobs in urban regions. Swimming against that current, Angela changed career paths and left the city, returning to her ancestral home to document and share her family’s unique American history. Plan in mind, she collaborated with Kansas Senators Dole and Roberts, the National Park Service, and the Nicodemus community and descendants to establish Nicodemus as a National Historic Site in 1996.For some this designation would suffice, but not Angela. For decades stories and scripts recounting an American tale specific to Angela’s family origins that led to the only remaining all Black town west of the Mississippi River waited to be shared. As she compiled family histories, ancestors’ lives scrolled through her mind like a movie on a screen.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708725175440.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Once technology made it possible to transition text to visuals, Angela persuaded donors, descendants of original settlers, Nicodemus Historical Society, friends, landowners, and regional filmmaker Nick Abt to turn the script simmering in her brain for decades into the documentary Ellis Trail to Nicodemus.It first premiered February 17 at Frontier Stage in Hill City. Cast, crew, and land owners of film locations reunited to celebrate the long-awaited documentary. Hugs and laughter established the sense of a long-awaited family reunion as friends and loved ones reconnected. Two showings accommodated appreciative audiences.Building the excitement, Angela announced an extended version of the documentary comes out later this year. A poignant script, sweeping photography, gritty visuals of actual descendants slogging over open prairie in a land unlike anything their pioneer ancestors had ever seen evoked audience gasps, sighs, laughs, and tears. Nick’s drone photography invited viewers to travel alongside those following forebearers’ footsteps through sere grasses, over eroded limestone hills, and across rivers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708725189585.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Descendent interviews at the end of the documentary enriched it, adding depth to the stories of these African American pioneer settlers who sought and experienced freedom as first- time landowners and homesteaders in the West. To watch the actress playing Zerina Johnson channel her character’s emotion when she first sighted Nicodemus moved some viewers to the edge of their seats. Hearing descendants explain what Nicodemus means—a home they can always return to--and their sense of belonging to those pioneer families forced a communal scramble for tissues. Spectators responded to the power of family stories involving strong people who prayed and sacrificed their way to better lives for themselves and future generations.While some families have dreamers who see possibility and make it happen, others don’t. The doers research and record the stories. They encourage others to share in translating that story to film to make it every human’s story-- the appeal of this documentary. While it’s unique in its representation of formerly enslaved men and women seeking freedom and landownership, its love story and willingness to risk everything for a better life is a universal dream come true.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662752587394.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

MADORIN: A Dream Come True — Nicodemus documentary

By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension District

In today’s world, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are like “black holes.” Bobbie Bensaid, an extension educator from Mississippi State Extension, describes these platforms as “virtual portals that suck us in!” Social media is not bad, but at some point, it can consume more of our time than we would like. We often look to these unfulfilling brain boosts, and we can forget what we enjoy doing for fun! However, when we release dopamine due to meaningful activities, we are mentally satiated and tend to be more productive and fulfilled.

Bobbie explains, “Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is released in the brain when we do activities that are pleasurable or that we enjoy. When we are stimulated and release large amounts of dopamine, we teach our brains to return to these activities. For example, when we do activities we enjoy, dopamine is released, and it tells our brain, “We love this! Good job! Let’s keep going!” This is why junk food, sugar, and the internet are so addictive. These things trigger the release of large amounts of dopamine into our brains and make us want to repeat these experiences.”

Motivation, alertness, and focus often accompany healthy dopamine levels. However, we may feel tired, burnt out, and unhappy if our dopamine levels are low or unbalanced. We may also experience memory loss, mood swings, sleeplessness, and concentration issues. Having unhealthy amounts of dopamine, whether those levels are too high or too low, can take a toll on mental health.

Bobbie suggests making a ‘Dopamine Menu’ to remind ourselves what it is that brings us true satisfaction and to be intentional about engaging in those activities.

Using the template of an actual menu, she describes different sources of dopamine production that lead to happiness:

“First let’s think of Starters or appetizers. These are quick boosts of joy that can be done in under 10 minutes. What are those things you like to do that don’t take much time?”

Some examples are making a grocery list for the week, playing a game with your child, spending a few minutes in prayer or meditation, going for a walk, or writing a note and sticking it in the mail.

“Next, we have Mains. These are the big passions we have that take up a considerable amount of time.”

Mains or entrees might include playing a sport, volunteering, cooking dinner for a loved one, gardening, sewing, learning a new language, or reading a book.

“Our next section on our Dopamine Menu is Sides, and these are activities you can do while doing something else. These are activities we can do that make unpleasant things a bit more pleasant.”

Sides can include listening to music while exercising, talking on the phone, singing during a long car ride, or drinking your favorite coffee in a meeting.

“Desserts are next on the menu. These are things that are tasty in moderation but make us feel yucky if we have them too much. Examples of dopamine desserts are scrolling through social media, eating actual dessert, playing video games, or binging tv shows.”

“Finally, we have Specials. These are like specials at a restaurant. They are not always available, and typically they cost a bit more than others. So, these are the activities we love but we cannot have or do all the time.”

For example, vacations, attending a concert, or going on a shopping spree are specials.

Using your personalized Dopamine Menu can be a useful tool to help you find true happiness and a sense of purpose. I challenge you to make a conscious effort to do things that bring authentic fulfillment rather than binging on “brain desserts” that tend to give a false sense of satisfaction.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension DistrictIn today’s world, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are like “black holes.” Bobbie Bensaid, an extension educator from Mississippi State Extension, describes these platforms as “virtual portals that suck us in!” Social media is not bad, but at some point, it can consume more of our time than we would like. We often look to these unfulfilling brain boosts, and we can forget what we enjoy doing for fun! However, when we release dopamine due to meaningful activities, we are mentally satiated and tend to be more productive and fulfilled.What is dopamine?Bobbie explains, “Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is released in the brain when we do activities that are pleasurable or that we enjoy. When we are stimulated and release large amounts of dopamine, we teach our brains to return to these activities. For example, when we do activities we enjoy, dopamine is released, and it tells our brain, “We love this! Good job! Let’s keep going!” This is why junk food, sugar, and the internet are so addictive. These things trigger the release of large amounts of dopamine into our brains and make us want to repeat these experiences.”Why is dopamine important?Motivation, alertness, and focus often accompany healthy dopamine levels. However, we may feel tired, burnt out, and unhappy if our dopamine levels are low or unbalanced. We may also experience memory loss, mood swings, sleeplessness, and concentration issues. Having unhealthy amounts of dopamine, whether those levels are too high or too low, can take a toll on mental health.What can we do?Bobbie suggests making a ‘Dopamine Menu’ to remind ourselves what it is that brings us true satisfaction and to be intentional about engaging in those activities.Using the template of an actual menu, she describes different sources of dopamine production that lead to happiness:“First let’s think of Starters or appetizers. These are quick boosts of joy that can be done in under 10 minutes. What are those things you like to do that don’t take much time?”Some examples are making a grocery list for the week, playing a game with your child, spending a few minutes in prayer or meditation, going for a walk, or writing a note and sticking it in the mail.“Next, we have Mains. These are the big passions we have that take up a considerable amount of time.”Mains or entrees might include playing a sport, volunteering, cooking dinner for a loved one, gardening, sewing, learning a new language, or reading a book.“Our next section on our Dopamine Menu is Sides, and these are activities you can do while doing something else. These are activities we can do that make unpleasant things a bit more pleasant.”Sides can include listening to music while exercising, talking on the phone, singing during a long car ride, or drinking your favorite coffee in a meeting.“Desserts are next on the menu. These are things that are tasty in moderation but make us feel yucky if we have them too much. Examples of dopamine desserts are scrolling through social media, eating actual dessert, playing video games, or binging tv shows.”“Finally, we have Specials. These are like specials at a restaurant. They are not always available, and typically they cost a bit more than others. So, these are the activities we love but we cannot have or do all the time.”For example, vacations, attending a concert, or going on a shopping spree are specials.Using your personalized Dopamine Menu can be a useful tool to help you find true happiness and a sense of purpose. I challenge you to make a conscious effort to do things that bring authentic fulfillment rather than binging on “brain desserts” that tend to give a false sense of satisfaction.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.

WINKEL: Finding true fulfillment, healthy dopamine levels

This week in the House of Representatives we debated nearly seventy bills before we adjourned for the midpoint of the session, commonly referred to as Turnaround. This is the time during session where we pass many bills out of the House and forward those bills to the Senate.

Here is a list of some of the bills that we debated this week in the House:

House Bill 2523 changes the allowance for a farm permit holder from fourteen to fifteen and allows them to drive to and from religious activities that is held by a religious organization. I contend that this bill is anti-agriculture by changing the age and I voted “no.”

House Bill 2661 requires that if there are vacancies in county commissioner districts due to increasing the number of commissioner districts be filled at the next general election and provides for staggering terms for the newly elected county commissioners.

House Bill 2604 increases the dollar amount for a small claim to $10,000.

House Bill 2484 enacts the Social Work Licensure Compact. This will provided interstate practice privileges for social workers.

House Bill 2637 expands the eligibility for Rural Emergency Hospital licenses to facilities that meet criteria at any point after 2015.

House Bill 2567 establishes the Kansas National Guard Educational Master’s for Enhanced Readiness and Global Excellence (EMERGE) program. This is a bill that I co-sponsored.

House Bill 2678 extends the period for how long a groundwater right can be deposited in a water bank and requiring a water bank to authorize a withdrawal of water on or before December 1 of the calendar year, in which the withdrawn water is to be used.

I voted “yes” on these remaining bills. We will return from Turnaround on Feb. 28, 2024.

The House Appropriations Committee only met on Monday and Tuesday due to the approaching mid-session deadline referred to as “Turnaround.” Although we only met for two days, we did analyze many budgets.

Here is a list of some of the budgets that we heard: Kansas State Fair, State Institutions for Intellectual Disabilities, Kansas Public Employee Retirement System, Office of the State Treasurer, and Kansas Human Rights Commission. We also discussed the budgets for the

following departments: Agriculture, Wildlife and Parks, Commerce, and Health and Environment-Environment. When we return on February 28, the committee will resume the budget discussions and complete the budget by early March.

When we return from Turnaround on Feb. 28, the House Appropriations Committee will be finishing our budget reports. We will have the budgets of the Department of Children and Families, Corrections, Department of Transportation, and the Department of Health and Environment-Health, just to name a few. We will wrap up the budget reports the following week and then work diligently on the budget for the state of Kansas.

While I am spending at home during Turnaround, I have many legislative towhalls and community events that I plan on attending. Here is the schedule for the legislative townhalls for the next week:

Febr. 27 - Smith Center – The legislative coffee will be held at the Second Cup, 210 West 1st Street at 10:30 a.m.

Feb. 27 – Osborne – This legislative coffee is scheduled at 2 p.m. and is located at the Hideout Coffeehouse, 130 West Main Street.

March 2 – Russell – This legislative coffee will take place at the Russell Historical Museum, 825 North Kansas Street at 11 a.m.

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 www.kslegislature.org.

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.

<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>February 23TurnaroundThis week in the House of Representatives we debated nearly seventy bills before we adjourned for the midpoint of the session, commonly referred to as Turnaround. This is the time during session where we pass many bills out of the House and forward those bills to the Senate.Here is a list of some of the bills that we debated this week in the House:House Bill 2523 changes the allowance for a farm permit holder from fourteen to fifteen and allows them to drive to and from religious activities that is held by a religious organization. I contend that this bill is anti-agriculture by changing the age and I voted “no.”House Bill 2661 requires that if there are vacancies in county commissioner districts due to increasing the number of commissioner districts be filled at the next general election and provides for staggering terms for the newly elected county commissioners.House Bill 2604 increases the dollar amount for a small claim to $10,000.House Bill 2484 enacts the Social Work Licensure Compact. This will provided interstate practice privileges for social workers.House Bill 2637 expands the eligibility for Rural Emergency Hospital licenses to facilities that meet criteria at any point after 2015.House Bill 2567 establishes the Kansas National Guard Educational Master’s for Enhanced Readiness and Global Excellence (EMERGE) program. This is a bill that I co-sponsored.House Bill 2678 extends the period for how long a groundwater right can be deposited in a water bank and requiring a water bank to authorize a withdrawal of water on or before December 1 of the calendar year, in which the withdrawn water is to be used.I voted “yes” on these remaining bills. We will return from Turnaround on Feb. 28, 2024.Appropriations CommitteeThe House Appropriations Committee only met on Monday and Tuesday due to the approaching mid-session deadline referred to as “Turnaround.” Although we only met for two days, we did analyze many budgets.Here is a list of some of the budgets that we heard: Kansas State Fair, State Institutions for Intellectual Disabilities, Kansas Public Employee Retirement System, Office of the State Treasurer, and Kansas Human Rights Commission. We also discussed the budgets for thefollowing departments: Agriculture, Wildlife and Parks, Commerce, and Health and Environment-Environment. When we return on February 28, the committee will resume the budget discussions and complete the budget by early March.Return and Legislative CoffeesWhen we return from Turnaround on Feb. 28, the House Appropriations Committee will be finishing our budget reports. We will have the budgets of the Department of Children and Families, Corrections, Department of Transportation, and the Department of Health and Environment-Health, just to name a few. We will wrap up the budget reports the following week and then work diligently on the budget for the state of Kansas.While I am spending at home during Turnaround, I have many legislative towhalls and community events that I plan on attending. Here is the schedule for the legislative townhalls for the next week:Febr. 27 - Smith Center – The legislative coffee will be held at the Second Cup, 210 West 1st Street at 10:30 a.m.Feb. 27 – Osborne – This legislative coffee is scheduled at 2 p.m. and is located at the Hideout Coffeehouse, 130 West Main Street.March 2 – Russell – This legislative coffee will take place at the Russell Historical Museum, 825 North Kansas Street at 11 a.m.Contact InformationAnytime 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 www.kslegislature.org.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.

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home: Feb. 23, Turnaround

Thursday marked a critical deadline known as “turnaround,” marking the official halfway point for the 2024 Legislative session. It was a busy week for the Senate, as we spent two full days debating and voting on and passing out over 40 bills ahead of the Turnaround deadline. After being on the floor all day Wednesday and Thursday, the Legislature will break until February 28th to give clerical staff time to process the significant amount of paperwork resulting from this week. By “turnaround,” a bill, with few exceptions, must have passed its Chamber of origin in order to be considered by the other Chamber before session is over for the year. When the Senate returns on Wednesday, the legislature is scheduled to meet for another month before our April recess. We will then return for a brief period to consider any vetoes prior to final adjournment. The focus for the next month will be to consider bills passed by the House Chamber and bills exempt from the Turnaround deadline. Under legislative rules, most bills must be adopted by one chamber in order to be considered by the other chamber. The major item we must complete prior to adjournment is passing the budget.

SENATE FLOOR ACTION SB 430 would amend workers compensation law to, amongst other things, increase lifetime benefit maximums, provide coverage for members of the Kansas National Guard, and modernize elements of the administrative process. I voted yes. The compromise bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 458 would reform the Kansas Standard Asset Seizure and Forfeiture Act. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 36-2.

SB 391 Enacting the constitutional right to health freedom act to regulate the activities of the secretary of health and environment related to public health functions; repealing statutes relating to the secretary's authority to quarantine individuals and impose associated penalties. I voted yes. SB 391 passed the Senate 23-17.

SB 420 would eliminate the element of concealment from the crime of breach of privacy related to installing or using a device to photograph or record a person under or through their clothing, or a person who is nude or in a state of undress. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 455 would authorize electric public utilities to retain certain electric generating facilities in the utility's rate base, prohibiting the state corporation commission from authorizing the retirement of fossil fuel-fired electric generating facilities unless certain requirements are met. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 29-8.

HB 2392 would make updates to the Kansas Code of Military Justice (KCMJ). The bill would consolidate language from various provisions of Chapter 48 of the Kansas Statutes Annotated into new sections of law and repeal those sections that have been consolidated or otherwise removed. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 292 would create law to authorize the appointment of a State Judge Advocate by the Adjutant General; create and amend law related to death and disability benefits provided to Kansas Air and Army National Guard members. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 384 would authorize the Emergency Medical Services Board to grant a permanent variance from a rule and regulation adopted to implement, enforce, or otherwise regulate provisions regarding minimal staffing on each vehicle providing emergency service. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 39-0.

SB 333 would extend the sunset date for the State Use Law Committee, which is organized within the Department of Administration, to July 1, 2029. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 38-2.

SB 352 would establish the John D. Springer patient's bill of rights to require hospitals to allow in-person visitation, adopt visitation policies and procedures and creating a civil cause of action for violation of such rights. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 26-13.

SB 387 would provide for the continued enrollment of students who attend a school district of non-residence pursuant to the school district open enrollment law and authorizing an appeals process for denial of an open enrollment application. It would also specify that no school district shall be required to provide transportation to non-residents. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 37-3.

SB 431 would require the Capitol Preservation Committee to approve plans to place a permanent memorial honoring the life of Emil Joseph Kapaun. Father Emil Joseph Kapaun was born in Pilsen, Kansas, and served as a U.S. Army Chaplain in World War II and the Korean War, where he became a prisoner of war (POW). He was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously in 2013. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 381 would amend law concerning the appointment of district coroners to allow a county in a multiple county judicial district to appoint, at the county’s expense, a district coroner, regardless of the county’s population. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 359 would authorize issuance of five license plates on and after January 1, 2025 - Kansas City Chiefs, Sporting Kansas City, Sedgwick County Zoo, Kansas City Royals, and the Kansas City Current. I voted yes. The bill passed 36-2.

SB 162 would create the Riley County Unincorporated Area Nuisance Abatement Act and the Crawford County Unincorporated Area Nuisance Abatement Act. The acts would not apply to land, structures, or equipment used for agricultural activity or oil and gas exploration and development activity. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 34-5.

SB 190 would amend the Kansas Code of Criminal Procedure to require a magistrate to order, as a condition of release for any person charged with a felony that the person execute a waiver of extradition. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 31-6.

SB 272 would increase transfers from the State Highway Fund to the Public Use General Aviation Airport Development Fund from $5.0 million to $15.0 million annually, starting July 1, 2024. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 36-4.

SB 318 would amend law in the Kansas Code of Procedure for Municipal Courts governing fingerprinting for municipal convictions and the prosecution of cases by the city attorney in municipal court. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 338 would amend provisions pertaining to certain financial reporting requirements on group-funded liability and group-funded workers compensation pools. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 339 would amend the effective date specified in the Insurance Code for the risk-based capital instructions promulgated by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners for property and casualty companies and for life insurance companies. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 340 would remove automobile club from the definition of person for purposes of enforcing penalties for violations of insurance law. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 345 would create the Commercial Financing Disclosure Act pertaining to certain commercial financing transactions between a provider and a business. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 38-2.

SB 356 would amend provisions governing examination fees and compensation for examiners in the Insurance Code to establish a tiered-fee structure for financial examinations of insurance companies and societies based on the gross premiums received by such entities. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 362 would remove the expiration date of July 1, 2024, on the Sedgwick County Urban Area Nuisance Abatement Act. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 34-5.

SB 398 would authorize the Commissioner of Insurance to set the amount of fees and fines for applications, licenses, license renewals, certificates of authority, and other required filings by certain insurance entities and public adjusters under the jurisdiction of the Commissioner. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 405 would amend the Kansas Uniform Securities Act to address violations of the Act by a control person and subject the control person, in certain circumstances, to administrative and civil enforcement action. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 29-10.

SB 406 would repeal and replace the Kansas Money Transmitter Act with the Kansas Money Transmission Act. The bill would require the State Bank Commissioner to provide oversight of the electronic transmission of money. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 391 this act would remove the authority of the Secretary of Health and Environment to designate infectious or contagious diseases by rules and regulations. As in past years, it also removes the Department of Agriculture’s ability to monitor or take action to prevent highly infectious zoonotic disease such as avian bird blue and hoof and mouth disease if they spread to humans or from humans back to livestock which in our large rural districts would be problematic. I voted no. The bill passed the Senate 23-17.

SB 423 would grant the Commissioner of Insurance the ability to decrease the number of appointed board members on certain boards that fall under the Commissioner’s appointing authority. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 39-1.

SB 433 would clarify the practice privileges of institutional license holders who are employed by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) or the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), or by a third party contracted by the institution. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 39-1.

SB 417 would remove the secretary of wildlife and park's authority to exercise the right of eminent domain. An amendment on the Senate floor removed the Ag committee’s work on the bill – it will need to be reviewed on the House side to find a compromised approach to the current agency’s duties. I voted no. The bill passed the Senate 25-14.

SB 434 would exempt the practice of hair removal by sugaring from the definition of cosmetology. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 38-1.

SB 462 would authorize the Director of Vehicles to waive the knowledge and skills test for driving a commercial motor vehicle for an applicant who qualifies for a waiver under the military Even Exchange Program. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 467 would expand and make changes to membership on the Council on Travel and Tourism as well as make changes to the Department of Commerce’s matching grant program for the promotion of tourism. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 39-1.

SB 473 Authorizing a notice to appear that meets certain requirements to serve as a lawful complaint under the Kansas code of criminal procedure. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 39-1.

HB 2105 would create the Kansas Earned Wage Access Services Act and authorize the Office of the State Bank Commissioner to regulate earned wage access services providers. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 34-6.

S Sub for HB 2247 would remove and relocate mortgage-related provisions from the Kansas Uniform Consumer Credit Code (UCCC) to the Kansas Mortgage Business Act (KMBA), add law supplemental to the KMBA and to the UCCC, amend contract rate law, and make several amendments to the UCCC. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 33-6.

SB 491 would create and amend law to standardize language pertaining to criminal history and record check fingerprinting requirements for all requesting entities and identify what criminal history records may be released to various agencies for the purpose of verifying a person’s identity, criminal history, qualifications, and fitness for employment. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 481 would rename the Kansas State University Polytechnic Campus to Kansas State University Salina. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 39-1.

HB 2545 would make changes to the Self-Service Storage Act, specifically concerning sales of property after a notice of termination or non-renewal; non-delivery of rental agreements; and electronic signatures and delivery of rental agreements. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 438 would eliminate the requirement to subtract other aid from the state payment in the Accelerating Opportunity: Kansas (AO-K) Program. The bill would also limit the payment provided for each student to no more than $500 over the lifetime of the student. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

SB 363 would amend law regulating the practice of barbering and would create a new senior status license and add a written examination on the applicant’s knowledge of state laws and regulations pertaining to the practice of barbering to the requirements for licensure. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.

A full description of each bill can be found at www.kslegislature.org as well as the Final Action vote on each measure.

PAGES FOR THE SENATE – February 8, 15, and 22

On February 8th, Hadlee Brown and Journey Windscheffel from Russell; on February 15th, Norman Jurgensen and Kaylee Songer from Marysville; and on February 22nd, Madex Swisher, Bennington, and Colyer Rensink, Minneapolis, served as pages for the Kansas Senate. The pages spent their day with us at the Capitol running errands, working in my office, attending committee meetings, and taking a historical tour of the Capitol as well as the dome tour.

Several legislative townhalls have been scheduled throughout the 36th Kansas Senate District with more scheduled in the upcoming few weeks. On Tuesday, February 27th, Representative Lisa Moser and I will be starting the day with a townhall in Mankato at 8:00 am at Possibilities. Next, Representative Troy Waymaster and I will be in Smith Center at 10:30 am at 2 Cup Café; and, then we will go to Osborne at 2:00 pm at The Hideout. On March 2nd, Representative Waymaster and I will be in Russell for a townhall at 9:30 am at the Russell Historical Museum. On March 9th, Representative Susan Concannon and I will be in Bennington at 9:30 am at Westside Ventures. On March 16th, Representative Moser and I will be in Marysville at 8:30 at Landoll Lanes. Next, we will be in Washington at 11:00 am at the Sale Barn Café. Then, we will go to Belleville at 1:30 pm at the Belleville Public Library.

Thank you for all of your calls, emails, and letters regarding your thoughts and concerns about happenings in Kansas. I always encourage you to stay informed of the issues under consideration by the Kansas Legislature. Committee schedules, bills, and other helpful information can be easily accessed through the legislature’s website at www.kslegislature.org . For those who want to pursue a more in-depth analysis of bills, go to and pull up “Bills &amp; Laws,” then “Senate Bills,” before scrolling to the desired number and hitting “SN” (Supplemental Notes) for a general explanation which is written by the Legislative research &amp; reviser staff. You are also able to ‘listen in live’ or watch session at this website as well as reviewing past committee meetings and sessions.

Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. An email is the best at this point in the session.

Topeka, KS 66612 elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov

785 296-7389 https://elainebowers.com/ www.kslegislature.org

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580853658061.jpeg" alt="Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist. File photo" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, 36th Dist. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SENATE HIGHLIGHTSThursday marked a critical deadline known as “turnaround,” marking the official halfway point for the 2024 Legislative session. It was a busy week for the Senate, as we spent two full days debating and voting on and passing out over 40 bills ahead of the Turnaround deadline. After being on the floor all day Wednesday and Thursday, the Legislature will break until February 28th to give clerical staff time to process the significant amount of paperwork resulting from this week. By “turnaround,” a bill, with few exceptions, must have passed its Chamber of origin in order to be considered by the other Chamber before session is over for the year. When the Senate returns on Wednesday, the legislature is scheduled to meet for another month before our April recess. We will then return for a brief period to consider any vetoes prior to final adjournment. The focus for the next month will be to consider bills passed by the House Chamber and bills exempt from the Turnaround deadline. Under legislative rules, most bills must be adopted by one chamber in order to be considered by the other chamber. The major item we must complete prior to adjournment is passing the budget.SENATE FLOOR ACTION SB 430 would amend workers compensation law to, amongst other things, increase lifetime benefit maximums, provide coverage for members of the Kansas National Guard, and modernize elements of the administrative process. I voted yes. The compromise bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 458 would reform the Kansas Standard Asset Seizure and Forfeiture Act. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 36-2.SB 391 Enacting the constitutional right to health freedom act to regulate the activities of the secretary of health and environment related to public health functions; repealing statutes relating to the secretary's authority to quarantine individuals and impose associated penalties. I voted yes. SB 391 passed the Senate 23-17.SB 420 would eliminate the element of concealment from the crime of breach of privacy related to installing or using a device to photograph or record a person under or through their clothing, or a person who is nude or in a state of undress. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 455 would authorize electric public utilities to retain certain electric generating facilities in the utility's rate base, prohibiting the state corporation commission from authorizing the retirement of fossil fuel-fired electric generating facilities unless certain requirements are met. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 29-8.HB 2392 would make updates to the Kansas Code of Military Justice (KCMJ). The bill would consolidate language from various provisions of Chapter 48 of the Kansas Statutes Annotated into new sections of law and repeal those sections that have been consolidated or otherwise removed. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 292 would create law to authorize the appointment of a State Judge Advocate by the Adjutant General; create and amend law related to death and disability benefits provided to Kansas Air and Army National Guard members. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 384 would authorize the Emergency Medical Services Board to grant a permanent variance from a rule and regulation adopted to implement, enforce, or otherwise regulate provisions regarding minimal staffing on each vehicle providing emergency service. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 39-0.SB 333 would extend the sunset date for the State Use Law Committee, which is organized within the Department of Administration, to July 1, 2029. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 38-2.SB 352 would establish the John D. Springer patient's bill of rights to require hospitals to allow in-person visitation, adopt visitation policies and procedures and creating a civil cause of action for violation of such rights. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 26-13.SB 387 would provide for the continued enrollment of students who attend a school district of non-residence pursuant to the school district open enrollment law and authorizing an appeals process for denial of an open enrollment application. It would also specify that no school district shall be required to provide transportation to non-residents. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 37-3.SB 431 would require the Capitol Preservation Committee to approve plans to place a permanent memorial honoring the life of Emil Joseph Kapaun. Father Emil Joseph Kapaun was born in Pilsen, Kansas, and served as a U.S. Army Chaplain in World War II and the Korean War, where he became a prisoner of war (POW). He was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously in 2013. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 381 would amend law concerning the appointment of district coroners to allow a county in a multiple county judicial district to appoint, at the county’s expense, a district coroner, regardless of the county’s population. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 359 would authorize issuance of five license plates on and after January 1, 2025 - Kansas City Chiefs, Sporting Kansas City, Sedgwick County Zoo, Kansas City Royals, and the Kansas City Current. I voted yes. The bill passed 36-2.SB 162 would create the Riley County Unincorporated Area Nuisance Abatement Act and the Crawford County Unincorporated Area Nuisance Abatement Act. The acts would not apply to land, structures, or equipment used for agricultural activity or oil and gas exploration and development activity. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 34-5.SB 190 would amend the Kansas Code of Criminal Procedure to require a magistrate to order, as a condition of release for any person charged with a felony that the person execute a waiver of extradition. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 31-6.SB 272 would increase transfers from the State Highway Fund to the Public Use General Aviation Airport Development Fund from $5.0 million to $15.0 million annually, starting July 1, 2024. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 36-4.SB 318 would amend law in the Kansas Code of Procedure for Municipal Courts governing fingerprinting for municipal convictions and the prosecution of cases by the city attorney in municipal court. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 338 would amend provisions pertaining to certain financial reporting requirements on group-funded liability and group-funded workers compensation pools. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 339 would amend the effective date specified in the Insurance Code for the risk-based capital instructions promulgated by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners for property and casualty companies and for life insurance companies. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 340 would remove automobile club from the definition of person for purposes of enforcing penalties for violations of insurance law. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 345 would create the Commercial Financing Disclosure Act pertaining to certain commercial financing transactions between a provider and a business. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 38-2.SB 356 would amend provisions governing examination fees and compensation for examiners in the Insurance Code to establish a tiered-fee structure for financial examinations of insurance companies and societies based on the gross premiums received by such entities. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 362 would remove the expiration date of July 1, 2024, on the Sedgwick County Urban Area Nuisance Abatement Act. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 34-5.SB 398 would authorize the Commissioner of Insurance to set the amount of fees and fines for applications, licenses, license renewals, certificates of authority, and other required filings by certain insurance entities and public adjusters under the jurisdiction of the Commissioner. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 405 would amend the Kansas Uniform Securities Act to address violations of the Act by a control person and subject the control person, in certain circumstances, to administrative and civil enforcement action. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 29-10.SB 406 would repeal and replace the Kansas Money Transmitter Act with the Kansas Money Transmission Act. The bill would require the State Bank Commissioner to provide oversight of the electronic transmission of money. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 391 this act would remove the authority of the Secretary of Health and Environment to designate infectious or contagious diseases by rules and regulations. As in past years, it also removes the Department of Agriculture’s ability to monitor or take action to prevent highly infectious zoonotic disease such as avian bird blue and hoof and mouth disease if they spread to humans or from humans back to livestock which in our large rural districts would be problematic. I voted no. The bill passed the Senate 23-17.SB 423 would grant the Commissioner of Insurance the ability to decrease the number of appointed board members on certain boards that fall under the Commissioner’s appointing authority. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 39-1.SB 433 would clarify the practice privileges of institutional license holders who are employed by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) or the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), or by a third party contracted by the institution. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 39-1.SB 417 would remove the secretary of wildlife and park's authority to exercise the right of eminent domain. An amendment on the Senate floor removed the Ag committee’s work on the bill – it will need to be reviewed on the House side to find a compromised approach to the current agency’s duties. I voted no. The bill passed the Senate 25-14.SB 434 would exempt the practice of hair removal by sugaring from the definition of cosmetology. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 38-1.SB 462 would authorize the Director of Vehicles to waive the knowledge and skills test for driving a commercial motor vehicle for an applicant who qualifies for a waiver under the military Even Exchange Program. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 467 would expand and make changes to membership on the Council on Travel and Tourism as well as make changes to the Department of Commerce’s matching grant program for the promotion of tourism. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 39-1.SB 473 Authorizing a notice to appear that meets certain requirements to serve as a lawful complaint under the Kansas code of criminal procedure. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 39-1.HB 2105 would create the Kansas Earned Wage Access Services Act and authorize the Office of the State Bank Commissioner to regulate earned wage access services providers. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 34-6.S Sub for HB 2247 would remove and relocate mortgage-related provisions from the Kansas Uniform Consumer Credit Code (UCCC) to the Kansas Mortgage Business Act (KMBA), add law supplemental to the KMBA and to the UCCC, amend contract rate law, and make several amendments to the UCCC. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 33-6.SB 491 would create and amend law to standardize language pertaining to criminal history and record check fingerprinting requirements for all requesting entities and identify what criminal history records may be released to various agencies for the purpose of verifying a person’s identity, criminal history, qualifications, and fitness for employment. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 481 would rename the Kansas State University Polytechnic Campus to Kansas State University Salina. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 39-1.HB 2545 would make changes to the Self-Service Storage Act, specifically concerning sales of property after a notice of termination or non-renewal; non-delivery of rental agreements; and electronic signatures and delivery of rental agreements. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 438 would eliminate the requirement to subtract other aid from the state payment in the Accelerating Opportunity: Kansas (AO-K) Program. The bill would also limit the payment provided for each student to no more than $500 over the lifetime of the student. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.SB 363 would amend law regulating the practice of barbering and would create a new senior status license and add a written examination on the applicant’s knowledge of state laws and regulations pertaining to the practice of barbering to the requirements for licensure. I voted yes. The bill passed the Senate 40-0.A full description of each bill can be found at www.kslegislature.org as well as the Final Action vote on each measure.PAGES FOR THE SENATE – February 8, 15, and 22On February 8th, Hadlee Brown and Journey Windscheffel from Russell; on February 15th, Norman Jurgensen and Kaylee Songer from Marysville; and on February 22nd, Madex Swisher, Bennington, and Colyer Rensink, Minneapolis, served as pages for the Kansas Senate. The pages spent their day with us at the Capitol running errands, working in my office, attending committee meetings, and taking a historical tour of the Capitol as well as the dome tour.LEGISLATIVE TOWNHALLSSeveral legislative townhalls have been scheduled throughout the 36th Kansas Senate District with more scheduled in the upcoming few weeks. On Tuesday, February 27th, Representative Lisa Moser and I will be starting the day with a townhall in Mankato at 8:00 am at Possibilities. Next, Representative Troy Waymaster and I will be in Smith Center at 10:30 am at 2 Cup Café; and, then we will go to Osborne at 2:00 pm at The Hideout. On March 2nd, Representative Waymaster and I will be in Russell for a townhall at 9:30 am at the Russell Historical Museum. On March 9th, Representative Susan Concannon and I will be in Bennington at 9:30 am at Westside Ventures. On March 16th, Representative Moser and I will be in Marysville at 8:30 at Landoll Lanes. Next, we will be in Washington at 11:00 am at the Sale Barn Café. Then, we will go to Belleville at 1:30 pm at the Belleville Public Library.THANK YOU FOR ENGAGINGThank you for all of your calls, emails, and letters regarding your thoughts and concerns about happenings in Kansas. I always encourage you to stay informed of the issues under consideration by the Kansas Legislature. Committee schedules, bills, and other helpful information can be easily accessed through the legislature’s website at www.kslegislature.org . For those who want to pursue a more in-depth analysis of bills, go to and pull up “Bills &amp; Laws,” then “Senate Bills,” before scrolling to the desired number and hitting “SN” (Supplemental Notes) for a general explanation which is written by the Legislative research &amp; reviser staff. You are also able to ‘listen in live’ or watch session at this website as well as reviewing past committee meetings and sessions.Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. An email is the best at this point in the session.Thank you for the honor of serving you!Senator Elaine BowersKansas State Capitol BuildingRoom 223-E300 SW 10th St.Topeka, KS 66612 elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov785 296-7389 https://elainebowers.com/ www.kslegislature.org

BOWERS: Senate Scene, Week 7; Turnaround

By RUSSELL FOX Insight Kansas

What does the law actually say when it comes to a young person’s right to privately decide what gender they identify with, and to their parents’ right to engage in or even direct the decisions they make? As usual, the law is a lot more ambiguous and contentious than many might wish.

Recently Dion Lefler--arguably the best-known journalist in Wichita, Kansas’s largest city--&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/dion-lefler/article285283457.html">picked a fight</a>&nbsp;with Kansas’s Attorney General Kris Kobach--arguably the best-known politician in the whole state--over essentially this issue, and Kobach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/opinion/guest-commentary/article285546377.html">picked back</a>. Let’s focus on the heart of their argument, and see what we can clarify.

Last December Kobach sent&nbsp;<a href="https://cdn.fbsbx.com/v/t59.2708-21/426996237_1373611433299120_8275965584595727633_n.pdf/letters-to-schools-and-kasb.pdf?_nc_cat=104&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=2b0e22&amp;_nc_ohc=xrVs78-ryEoAX9NYUap&amp;_nc_ht=cdn.fbsbx.com&amp;oh=03_AdSQqmYjEBOX6sFDCfW8JVMCQVBKkFVaJmp7MiME4YuTxg&amp;oe=65D3CE38&amp;dl=1">a letter</a>&nbsp;to six Kansas school districts regarding policies which allegedly require teachers of students who identify as trans or non-binary to avoid revealing information about the students’ self-identification to their parents unless the students give consent. In his letter, Kobach cited multiple Supreme Court cases defending “parents' right to direct the care, upbringing, and education of their children,” and implied that he would treat these policies as a violation of those constitutional rights.

With the news of this letter became public, Lefler called Kobach a “bully,” and said that seeking to intimidate school districts into abandoning these policies was “endanger[ing] transgender kids without legal grounds.” His claim about the absence of any specific legal ground is correct: while a bill was proposed in the Kansas legislature last year that would have extended parental rights in this exact context, it died in committee, and so these policies do not violate any current state law.

But Kobach responded that his job was to “protect the constitutional rights of Kansans in court, regardless of whether the Kansas Legislature has passed any statute on the subject,” and this is also correct: Kansas officials swear to uphold the U.S. Constitution as well as our state one, after all. So the real question is: what is the merit to Kobach’s conviction that the U.S. Constitution, as presumably reflected in the multiple Supreme Court cases which he cites, is on his side?

It is true that federal cases&nbsp;<a href="https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/262/390/">stretching back a century</a>&nbsp;establish that parents have a fundamental right to make decisions about the education of their children. However, none of them are directly applicable to the present debate over names, pronouns, and privacy. Moreover,&nbsp;<a href="https://casetext.com/case/parker-v-hurley-2">other cases insist</a>&nbsp;that parents have to demonstrate a harm which “strike[s] at the heart of parental decision-making” before public schools, which are required by federal law to consider the needs of all students equally, can be forced to change policies which had been legally decided upon.

In his response to Lefler, Kobach did mention one Kansas case that was directly on point—<a href="https://casetext.com/case/ricard-v-usd-475-geary-cnty">a 2022 federal district court decision</a>&nbsp;which forbade Geary County’s USD 475 from enforcing a policy to not share private information regarding a student’s gender identification because it violated how the student’s teacher understood her religious faith. Why didn’t he mention that case in his original letter? Likely because he knows there are other federal district court decisions (like Massachusetts’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bloomberglaw.com/public/desktop/document/FooteetalvLudlowSchoolCommitteeetalDocketNo322cv30041DMassApr1220?doc_id=X3T38OEAVQ98HVAGVI971HP48HS">Foote v. Town of Ludlow</a>) which have taken up nearly identical cases and found for the school district instead. In the end, the Supreme Court will have to decide.

In short, what is being fought about is unsettled law. I think there’s a good chance the Supreme Court will end up agreeing with Kobach’s particular application of these constitutional precedents—but for now, his letter reflects cultural assumptions rather than controlling principles. Round one, therefore, goes to Lefler.

Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics in Wichita, KS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690389122282.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RUSSELL FOX Insight KansasWhat does the law actually say when it comes to a young person’s right to privately decide what gender they identify with, and to their parents’ right to engage in or even direct the decisions they make? As usual, the law is a lot more ambiguous and contentious than many might wish.Recently Dion Lefler--arguably the best-known journalist in Wichita, Kansas’s largest city--&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/dion-lefler/article285283457.html">picked a fight</a>&nbsp;with Kansas’s Attorney General Kris Kobach--arguably the best-known politician in the whole state--over essentially this issue, and Kobach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/opinion/guest-commentary/article285546377.html">picked back</a>. Let’s focus on the heart of their argument, and see what we can clarify.Last December Kobach sent&nbsp;<a href="https://cdn.fbsbx.com/v/t59.2708-21/426996237_1373611433299120_8275965584595727633_n.pdf/letters-to-schools-and-kasb.pdf?_nc_cat=104&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=2b0e22&amp;_nc_ohc=xrVs78-ryEoAX9NYUap&amp;_nc_ht=cdn.fbsbx.com&amp;oh=03_AdSQqmYjEBOX6sFDCfW8JVMCQVBKkFVaJmp7MiME4YuTxg&amp;oe=65D3CE38&amp;dl=1">a letter</a>&nbsp;to six Kansas school districts regarding policies which allegedly require teachers of students who identify as trans or non-binary to avoid revealing information about the students’ self-identification to their parents unless the students give consent. In his letter, Kobach cited multiple Supreme Court cases defending “parents' right to direct the care, upbringing, and education of their children,” and implied that he would treat these policies as a violation of those constitutional rights.With the news of this letter became public, Lefler called Kobach a “bully,” and said that seeking to intimidate school districts into abandoning these policies was “endanger[ing] transgender kids without legal grounds.” His claim about the absence of any specific legal ground is correct: while a bill was proposed in the Kansas legislature last year that would have extended parental rights in this exact context, it died in committee, and so these policies do not violate any current state law.But Kobach responded that his job was to “protect the constitutional rights of Kansans in court, regardless of whether the Kansas Legislature has passed any statute on the subject,” and this is also correct: Kansas officials swear to uphold the U.S. Constitution as well as our state one, after all. So the real question is: what is the merit to Kobach’s conviction that the U.S. Constitution, as presumably reflected in the multiple Supreme Court cases which he cites, is on his side?It is true that federal cases&nbsp;<a href="https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/262/390/">stretching back a century</a>&nbsp;establish that parents have a fundamental right to make decisions about the education of their children. However, none of them are directly applicable to the present debate over names, pronouns, and privacy. Moreover,&nbsp;<a href="https://casetext.com/case/parker-v-hurley-2">other cases insist</a>&nbsp;that parents have to demonstrate a harm which “strike[s] at the heart of parental decision-making” before public schools, which are required by federal law to consider the needs of all students equally, can be forced to change policies which had been legally decided upon.In his response to Lefler, Kobach did mention one Kansas case that was directly on point—<a href="https://casetext.com/case/ricard-v-usd-475-geary-cnty">a 2022 federal district court decision</a>&nbsp;which forbade Geary County’s USD 475 from enforcing a policy to not share private information regarding a student’s gender identification because it violated how the student’s teacher understood her religious faith. Why didn’t he mention that case in his original letter? Likely because he knows there are other federal district court decisions (like Massachusetts’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bloomberglaw.com/public/desktop/document/FooteetalvLudlowSchoolCommitteeetalDocketNo322cv30041DMassApr1220?doc_id=X3T38OEAVQ98HVAGVI971HP48HS">Foote v. Town of Ludlow</a>) which have taken up nearly identical cases and found for the school district instead. In the end, the Supreme Court will have to decide.In short, what is being fought about is unsettled law. I think there’s a good chance the Supreme Court will end up agreeing with Kobach’s particular application of these constitutional precedents—but for now, his letter reflects cultural assumptions rather than controlling principles. Round one, therefore, goes to Lefler.Dr. Russell Arben Fox teaches politics in Wichita, KS

INSIGHT KANSAS: What the Constitution Says, and What it Doesn’t (Yet)

Have you every wondered where we find all of the judges who provide evaluation during the fairs? Do you have an interest in helping youth to improve their skills in a particular 4-H project area or an interest in evaluating open class exhibits during the fair?

If your answer is YES, or even Maybe – we have an opportunity for you! A Judges’ Training will be held on Saturday, February 24, at the Western Kansas Ag Research Center in Hays. We will have experienced judges who will provide evaluation training in each of the following areas: Style Revue, Photography, Clothing Construction, Fiber Arts, Foods and Nutrition, Rabbits, Horticulture and Crops, Visual Arts, Woodworking, Wildlife, Shooting Sports, and STEM.

In addition to knowledge of age-appropriate parameters for projects, having an ability to provide kind but constructive criticism is so important. We want youth to have positive and corrective feedback so that their spark for learning more about the project, and themselves, is encouraged!

There is a small fee of $10 to cover lunch and materials which lets you select three areas to learn. We do need your registration by the end of February 20 so that we can accurately provide lunch and supplies.

For more information, be sure to check out the flyer on the K-State Research and Extension-Cottonwood Extension District Facebook page or by accessing the Cottonwood Connection February 2024 newsletter on the website at cottonwood.k-state.edu. You can also contact Tamara Robertson at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tarobertson@ksu.edu">tarobertson@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or myself!

Keep learning! Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708119774432.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Have you every wondered where we find all of the judges who provide evaluation during the fairs? Do you have an interest in helping youth to improve their skills in a particular 4-H project area or an interest in evaluating open class exhibits during the fair?If your answer is YES, or even Maybe – we have an opportunity for you! A Judges’ Training will be held on Saturday, February 24, at the Western Kansas Ag Research Center in Hays. We will have experienced judges who will provide evaluation training in each of the following areas: Style Revue, Photography, Clothing Construction, Fiber Arts, Foods and Nutrition, Rabbits, Horticulture and Crops, Visual Arts, Woodworking, Wildlife, Shooting Sports, and STEM.In addition to knowledge of age-appropriate parameters for projects, having an ability to provide kind but constructive criticism is so important. We want youth to have positive and corrective feedback so that their spark for learning more about the project, and themselves, is encouraged!There is a small fee of $10 to cover lunch and materials which lets you select three areas to learn. We do need your registration by the end of February 20 so that we can accurately provide lunch and supplies.For more information, be sure to check out the flyer on the K-State Research and Extension-Cottonwood Extension District Facebook page or by accessing the Cottonwood Connection February 2024 newsletter on the website at cottonwood.k-state.edu. You can also contact Tamara Robertson at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tarobertson@ksu.edu">tarobertson@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or myself!Keep learning! Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: 4-H Judge training set for Saturday

Recently, I had a friend voice her opinion about Valentine’s Day. She challenged the idea of showering loved ones with appreciation on a single day of the year. Instead, she believes that a little TLC should be shown daily. While grand, romantic gestures are not for everyone, I think we can all agree that Valentine’s Day reminds us of the importance of showing loved ones we care about them year-round.

The same can be true for our heart health, and it’s fitting that February is American Heart Month. We take this time to focus on bringing awareness to heart health and preventing cardiovascular disease. Since heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide and more than a third of Kansans have high blood pressure, it is important to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle. Take action by showing your heart some love this February and the remainder of the year by:

Getting enough quality sleep. Lack of sleep increases the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.

· Get into a routine by going to bed and waking at the same time each day

· Talk to your healthcare provider about supplementing with magnesium which has proven to be a natural sleep aid and supports healthy blood pressure

Maintain a healthy weight. A healthy body composition can prevent and control many diseases.

· Reach for healthy snacks like fruit, nuts, or yogurt instead of sugary, packaged foods

· Stay hydrated with water as your drink of choice

· Aim for at least 150 minutes of exercise per week

Stop Smoking. Any amount of smoking or vaping damages your heart and vessels.

· Select a quit date and write yourself a contract that outlines your plan for quitting

· Talk with your healthcare provider about programs and products that can help

· Visit KSquit.org to enroll in free coaching and quit medications

Control Cholesterol. High cholesterol levels can cause buildup of plaque in veins and arteries increasing your risk of heart disease.

· Eat more unsaturated fats such as olive oil, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish. Reduce foods high in saturated fats such as cheese and red meat.

· Try the free Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes Program from the NIH which combines diet, physical activity, and weight management to help lower high blood cholesterol and improve heart health.

Manage Stress. Chronic stress narrows blood vessels and increases blood pressure.

· Schedule time each week to do hobbies you enjoy such as crafting, hiking, or reading

· Take a yoga class to lower stress and improve flexibility and relaxation

· Try prayer or mindfulness meditation to reduce stressful thoughts and emotions

Other ways to care for your heart include controlling blood pressure, managing blood sugar, increasing physical activity, and eating more whole foods. Including all these strategies in your lifestyle may be overwhelming, but I challenge you to try to do one heart-healthy habit each day. Finding support from loved ones can also be encouraging. Family and friends can keep you accountable on your health journey and help you show your heart some love.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension DistrictRecently, I had a friend voice her opinion about Valentine’s Day. She challenged the idea of showering loved ones with appreciation on a single day of the year. Instead, she believes that a little TLC should be shown daily. While grand, romantic gestures are not for everyone, I think we can all agree that Valentine’s Day reminds us of the importance of showing loved ones we care about them year-round.The same can be true for our heart health, and it’s fitting that February is American Heart Month. We take this time to focus on bringing awareness to heart health and preventing cardiovascular disease. Since heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide and more than a third of Kansans have high blood pressure, it is important to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle. Take action by showing your heart some love this February and the remainder of the year by:Getting enough quality sleep. Lack of sleep increases the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.· Aim for 7-9 hours each night· Get into a routine by going to bed and waking at the same time each day· Avoid caffeine after 12 pm· Talk to your healthcare provider about supplementing with magnesium which has proven to be a natural sleep aid and supports healthy blood pressureMaintain a healthy weight. A healthy body composition can prevent and control many diseases.· Reach for healthy snacks like fruit, nuts, or yogurt instead of sugary, packaged foods· Stay hydrated with water as your drink of choice· Aim for at least 150 minutes of exercise per weekStop Smoking. Any amount of smoking or vaping damages your heart and vessels.· Select a quit date and write yourself a contract that outlines your plan for quitting· Talk with your healthcare provider about programs and products that can help· Visit KSquit.org to enroll in free coaching and quit medicationsControl Cholesterol. High cholesterol levels can cause buildup of plaque in veins and arteries increasing your risk of heart disease.· Eat more unsaturated fats such as olive oil, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish. Reduce foods high in saturated fats such as cheese and red meat.· Try the free Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes Program from the NIH which combines diet, physical activity, and weight management to help lower high blood cholesterol and improve heart health.· Limit alcohol consumption.Manage Stress. Chronic stress narrows blood vessels and increases blood pressure.· Schedule time each week to do hobbies you enjoy such as crafting, hiking, or reading· Take a yoga class to lower stress and improve flexibility and relaxation· Try prayer or mindfulness meditation to reduce stressful thoughts and emotionsOther ways to care for your heart include controlling blood pressure, managing blood sugar, increasing physical activity, and eating more whole foods. Including all these strategies in your lifestyle may be overwhelming, but I challenge you to try to do one heart-healthy habit each day. Finding support from loved ones can also be encouraging. Family and friends can keep you accountable on your health journey and help you show your heart some love.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu

WINKEL: Show your heart some love

February 16, 2024 Topeka

As the chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, the one piece of legislation that I focus on the most is that of the budget for the state of Kansas. The state of Kansas is projected to have an ending balance in fiscal year 2024, the current fiscal year, of $2.8 billion. That ending balance figure does not account for the projected $1.6 billion in Budget Stabilization or commonly referred to as the Rainy-Day Fund. This is a unique situation that the state is currently experiencing. Our focus should be on true tax relief for the citizens of Kansas regarding income, sales, and, especially, property and not erroneous spending or items that have not been funded for decades.

The governor has proposed an excess of $1.3 billion in spending, though we have already taken measures in the Appropriations Committee to reduce the amount of spending the Governor has proposed by $1 billion.

An area that the governor said that she was focusing on is paying off debt; however, that is not necessarily the case. When we analyze the strategy the governor is using, which is called “to defease,” it does not pay off debt but rather places funds aside for when those bonds become callable. Instead of this tactic, we are reviewing our entire bond portfolio and analyzing those bonds that could be paid off now as opposed to placing money into escrow until they actually come due.

The state of Kansas also has monies remaining from the pandemic dollars that we received from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Our focus, since we are on a limited time frame with those dollars, is to use them for economic development purposes. We also need to be cognizant that the entire state benefits from these dollars and not one area. For example, the governor placed in her budget $20 million for the World Cup Event in the Kansas City area. I have been advocating that if we disperse $20 million to northeast Kansas for this event, then I want nearly the same amount for an economic development proposal in northwest Kansas, using the ARPA dollars and not the state general fund.

I do not know if we will be able to provide the tax relief that Kansans need that is in House Bill 2284. This tax bill provides for tax relief in income, sales, and property taxes.

The House Appropriations Committee continued discussing the various agency budgets and finished deliberations on the budgets for the State Fire Marshal, Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Office of the State Banking Commissioner, Office of the Governor, Legislature, Judicial Branch, and many more.

The committee heard from the Department of Commerce regarding economic development in Kansas. We also had an update from Chancellor Doug Girod with the University of Kansas about the University of Kansas Cancer Center and President Richard Linton from Kansas State University. In addition, we finally received the budget bill from the governor’s office and the bill was introduced during Tuesday morning’s meeting.

This week is the sixth week of the 2024 legislative session, and we spent most of the time debating bills and resolutions in the chamber of the Kansas House of Representatives. Here is a look at some of those bills:

House Bill 2583 increases the criminal penalty for harming or killing certain dogs or horses used by law enforcement entities. This bill requires restitution for this crime to include veterinary medical treatment, funeral, and burial expenses.

House Bill 2168 relates to agriculture and reduces the license and registration fee for industrial hemp to a maximum of $500.

House Bill 2477 increases the maximum reimbursement from the Kansas Agricultural Remediation Fund from $200,000 to $300,000 for an eligible person and from $400,000 to $600,000 when both a buyer and seller or a lessee and a lessor are responsible for remediation.

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.

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/2021/10/1633970422056.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>February 16, 2024 Topeka <h2>Budget Process</h2>As the chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, the one piece of legislation that I focus on the most is that of the budget for the state of Kansas. The state of Kansas is projected to have an ending balance in fiscal year 2024, the current fiscal year, of $2.8 billion. That ending balance figure does not account for the projected $1.6 billion in Budget Stabilization or commonly referred to as the Rainy-Day Fund. This is a unique situation that the state is currently experiencing. Our focus should be on true tax relief for the citizens of Kansas regarding income, sales, and, especially, property and not erroneous spending or items that have not been funded for decades.The governor has proposed an excess of $1.3 billion in spending, though we have already taken measures in the Appropriations Committee to reduce the amount of spending the Governor has proposed by $1 billion.An area that the governor said that she was focusing on is paying off debt; however, that is not necessarily the case. When we analyze the strategy the governor is using, which is called “to defease,” it does not pay off debt but rather places funds aside for when those bonds become callable. Instead of this tactic, we are reviewing our entire bond portfolio and analyzing those bonds that could be paid off now as opposed to placing money into escrow until they actually come due.The state of Kansas also has monies remaining from the pandemic dollars that we received from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Our focus, since we are on a limited time frame with those dollars, is to use them for economic development purposes. We also need to be cognizant that the entire state benefits from these dollars and not one area. For example, the governor placed in her budget $20 million for the World Cup Event in the Kansas City area. I have been advocating that if we disperse $20 million to northeast Kansas for this event, then I want nearly the same amount for an economic development proposal in northwest Kansas, using the ARPA dollars and not the state general fund.I do not know if we will be able to provide the tax relief that Kansans need that is in House Bill 2284. This tax bill provides for tax relief in income, sales, and property taxes.<h2>Appropriations Committee</h2>The House Appropriations Committee continued discussing the various agency budgets and finished deliberations on the budgets for the State Fire Marshal, Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Office of the State Banking Commissioner, Office of the Governor, Legislature, Judicial Branch, and many more.The committee heard from the Department of Commerce regarding economic development in Kansas. We also had an update from Chancellor Doug Girod with the University of Kansas about the University of Kansas Cancer Center and President Richard Linton from Kansas State University. In addition, we finally received the budget bill from the governor’s office and the bill was introduced during Tuesday morning’s meeting.<h2>Bills Debated On the House Floor</h2>This week is the sixth week of the 2024 legislative session, and we spent most of the time debating bills and resolutions in the chamber of the Kansas House of Representatives. Here is a look at some of those bills:House Bill 2583 increases the criminal penalty for harming or killing certain dogs or horses used by law enforcement entities. This bill requires restitution for this crime to include veterinary medical treatment, funeral, and burial expenses.House Bill 2168 relates to agriculture and reduces the license and registration fee for industrial hemp to a maximum of $500.House Bill 2477 increases the maximum reimbursement from the Kansas Agricultural Remediation Fund from $200,000 to $300,000 for an eligible person and from $400,000 to $600,000 when both a buyer and seller or a lessee and a lessor are responsible for remediation.I voted “yes” on these three bills.<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: Feb. 15, the budget process

2024 SENATE SCENE WEEK 6 February 19, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

KANSAS.GOV – FILE YOUR TAXES FOR FREE

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

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

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

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

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

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

BOWERS: Senate Scene, Week 6; fentanyl bills

Topeka February 19, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Opinion