TOPEKA – An order issued by the Kansas Corporation Commission Thursday morning requires utilities under its jurisdiction to offer 12-month payment plans and waive late fees through the end of the year to help residential and small business customers avoid disconnection, according to a media release from the commission.

The Commission’s earlier order suspending disconnections is set to expire on May 31. Today’s order will help customers, struggling with the economic effects of COVID-19, pay off past due balances gradually while avoiding disconnection of service. Customers are also encouraged to apply for available utility assistance programs. Information is posted on <a href="https://kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/utility-assistance-programs">the KCC website&nbsp;</a>

KCC staff filed a report with the Commission on May 6 recommending baseline customer protections prior to the end of the disconnect suspension order. Utilities had the opportunity to respond to the recommendations prior to today’s order. Several utilities have advised they plan to offer protections in excess of the minimums required.

The order states utilities may defer any extraordinary bad debt expense and lost fee revenue that arises from the required customer protections into a regulatory asset for accounting purposes only. Any recovery requests will be considered in a utility’s next rate case or rate recovery filing.

The Commission may extend the consumer protections outlined in Thursday order if the COVID-19 pandemic stretches into 2021.&nbsp; Click here to<a href="https://estar.kcc.ks.gov/estar/ViewFile.aspx/20200521111445.pdf?Id=932794de-f0cc-4397-b1bf-948512be107e"> view the order</a>

TOPEKA – An order issued by the Kansas Corporation Commission Thursday morning requires utilities under its jurisdiction to offer 12-month payment plans and waive late fees through the end of the year to help residential and small business customers avoid disconnection, according to a media release from the commission.The Commission’s earlier order suspending disconnections is set to expire on May 31. Today’s order will help customers, struggling with the economic effects of COVID-19, pay off past due balances gradually while avoiding disconnection of service. Customers are also encouraged to apply for available utility assistance programs. Information is posted on <a href="https://kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/utility-assistance-programs">the KCC website&nbsp;</a>KCC staff filed a report with the Commission on May 6 recommending baseline customer protections prior to the end of the disconnect suspension order. Utilities had the opportunity to respond to the recommendations prior to today’s order. Several utilities have advised they plan to offer protections in excess of the minimums required.The order states utilities may defer any extraordinary bad debt expense and lost fee revenue that arises from the required customer protections into a regulatory asset for accounting purposes only. Any recovery requests will be considered in a utility’s next rate case or rate recovery filing.The Commission may extend the consumer protections outlined in Thursday order if the COVID-19 pandemic stretches into 2021.&nbsp; Click here to<a href="https://estar.kcc.ks.gov/estar/ViewFile.aspx/20200521111445.pdf?Id=932794de-f0cc-4397-b1bf-948512be107e"> view the order</a>

Utilities ordered to offer payment plans, waive late fees through 2020

SEDGWICK COUNTY —One person died in an accident&nbsp; &nbsp;Wednesday in Sedgwick County.

Just after 8p.m., deputies were dispatched to the area of Pawnee and Woodlawn and located a 1974 GMC pickup that had rolled, according to Lt Tim Myers. It appeared both occupants of the pickup were ejected during the rollover.

First responders located 55-year-old Joseph Cenicola near the vehicle.&nbsp; He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Deputies found 57-year-old James Cenicola approximately 100 feet from the vehicle. He was transported by ambulance to Wesley Hospital with severe injuries, according to Myers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Speed and alcohol were possible factors in the accident, according to Myers.&nbsp; The accident remains under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590075500325.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the fatal crash -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the fatal crash -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —One person died in an accident&nbsp; &nbsp;Wednesday in Sedgwick County.Just after 8p.m., deputies were dispatched to the area of Pawnee and Woodlawn and located a 1974 GMC pickup that had rolled, according to Lt Tim Myers. It appeared both occupants of the pickup were ejected during the rollover.First responders located 55-year-old Joseph Cenicola near the vehicle.&nbsp; He was pronounced deceased at the scene.Deputies found 57-year-old James Cenicola approximately 100 feet from the vehicle. He was transported by ambulance to Wesley Hospital with severe injuries, according to Myers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Speed and alcohol were possible factors in the accident, according to Myers.&nbsp; The accident remains under investigation.

Sheriff: Speed, alcohol a factor in fatal Kansas crash

RENO COUNTY —Jail employees in Reno County are in self-quarantine after an inmate tested positive for coronavirus.

Last weekend an arrestee was booked into the Reno County Correctional facility for felony drug distribution charges, according to Reno County Sheriff Darrian Campbell.

Initial screening of the inmate indicated siblings in the household were positive. Upon further investigation by arresting Deputies the 911 Dispatch Center in the jurisdiction he/she resided in was contacted, early morning hours the Health Department was not open. The inmate’s address or siblings’ names were not confirmed as being positive or being tracked by that agency at the time.

Mid-morning Tuesday, May 18, after court, bond was not lowered, and the inmate indicated she resides with two family members who are positive for COVID-19.

 The inmate was moved to quarantine immediately and the other inmates she was housed with were locked down in individual cells. 

Through the Reno County Health Department, we were able to confirm there were two siblings positive for COVID-19 at the inmate’s address. The inmate was tested and the sample was sent to the lab. Late afternoon of the 20th the results came back positive for COVID-19.

Currently there are seven inmates identified which have been isolated and will be tested Thursday. The samples will be sent to the lab. There are nine employees which have been identified as having direct contact with the inmate and are in self quarantine. They were to be tested Thursday morning, according to Campbell.

At this time, the sheriff's department believes all persons which have had direct contact with this individual have been identified and put on notice for isolation and testing.

RENO COUNTY —Jail employees in Reno County are in self-quarantine after an inmate tested positive for coronavirus.Last weekend an arrestee was booked into the Reno County Correctional facility for felony drug distribution charges, according to Reno County Sheriff Darrian Campbell.Initial screening of the inmate indicated siblings in the household were positive. Upon further investigation by arresting Deputies the 911 Dispatch Center in the jurisdiction he/she resided in was contacted, early morning hours the Health Department was not open. The inmate’s address or siblings’ names were not confirmed as being positive or being tracked by that agency at the time.Mid-morning Tuesday, May 18, after court, bond was not lowered, and the inmate indicated she resides with two family members who are positive for COVID-19. The inmate was moved to quarantine immediately and the other inmates she was housed with were locked down in individual cells. Through the Reno County Health Department, we were able to confirm there were two siblings positive for COVID-19 at the inmate’s address. The inmate was tested and the sample was sent to the lab. Late afternoon of the 20th the results came back positive for COVID-19.Currently there are seven inmates identified which have been isolated and will be tested Thursday. The samples will be sent to the lab. There are nine employees which have been identified as having direct contact with the inmate and are in self quarantine. They were to be tested Thursday morning, according to Campbell.At this time, the sheriff's department believes all persons which have had direct contact with this individual have been identified and put on notice for isolation and testing.

Staff in self-quarantine after Kan. inmate tests positive for virus

The pandemic is a difficult 
experience for all of us. The longer it goes on, the harder it gets to 
stay disciplined. The good news is that we are making progress in 
limiting the impact of the virus and communities are starting to relax 
restrictions in phases. This does not mean that we have reached the 
finish line. The medical experts warn that we are a long way from 
defeating this disease. The most important thing now is to maintain our 
discipline. This is tough as we are all tired of living in a world where
 we can"t have the social interaction we desire.

It is our 
individual discipline that has gotten us to where we are today. If we 
lose self-regulation, we risk going backward and winding up in a more 
restrictive situation. Just what we don't want. I have often seen this 
in my 40-year military career, where given life or death situations, or 
with mission accomplishment on the line, some did not have the 
discipline or willpower to continue doing what had kept them and their 
colleagues safe. When discipline broke down in these situations, the 
outcome was predictable and dire.

Our ultimate success is also a 
measure of our own compassion. Noted columnist and author David Brooks 
stated on "PBS NewsHour" on April 17 the way to overcome this pandemic 
is to exhibit social solidarity and surrender to the common good. This 
is not easy in America, where our individualism is prized. But when we 
are all challenged by a complex virus, we have to come together in ways 
that we have not had to do for most of our lives. We have to follow 
state and community guidelines. Yes, it is tough, but it is the&nbsp;only 
rational choice.

Kansas State University has an important mission.
 It is critical to individual success and the economic health of our 
nation. We want to return to in-person classes as soon as possible. 
Please be a part of the solution by staying mentally tough and 
disciplined. We are only as strong as our weakest link — none of us want
 to be the weak link that pushes us back to greater restrictions.

We
 started early in the pandemic urging our students, faculty and staff to
 be "K-State Strong." Their resiliency has been amazing.&nbsp;Now is the time
 for all of us to stay disciplined&nbsp;and strong for the sake of each 
other.

Richard B. Myers is the president of Kansas State University.&nbsp;From
 2001-2005, he served as the 15th chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff 
and was the principal military adviser to the U.S. president, secretary 
of defense and the National Security Council.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590064827869.jpeg" alt="Kansas State University President Richard B. Myers. Photo courtesy Kansas State University" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State University President Richard B. Myers. Photo courtesy Kansas State University</figcaption>
 </figure>By RICHARD B. MYERSThe pandemic is a difficult 
experience for all of us. The longer it goes on, the harder it gets to 
stay disciplined. The good news is that we are making progress in 
limiting the impact of the virus and communities are starting to relax 
restrictions in phases. This does not mean that we have reached the 
finish line. The medical experts warn that we are a long way from 
defeating this disease. The most important thing now is to maintain our 
discipline. This is tough as we are all tired of living in a world where
 we can"t have the social interaction we desire.It is our 
individual discipline that has gotten us to where we are today. If we 
lose self-regulation, we risk going backward and winding up in a more 
restrictive situation. Just what we don't want. I have often seen this 
in my 40-year military career, where given life or death situations, or 
with mission accomplishment on the line, some did not have the 
discipline or willpower to continue doing what had kept them and their 
colleagues safe. When discipline broke down in these situations, the 
outcome was predictable and dire.Our ultimate success is also a 
measure of our own compassion. Noted columnist and author David Brooks 
stated on "PBS NewsHour" on April 17 the way to overcome this pandemic 
is to exhibit social solidarity and surrender to the common good. This 
is not easy in America, where our individualism is prized. But when we 
are all challenged by a complex virus, we have to come together in ways 
that we have not had to do for most of our lives. We have to follow 
state and community guidelines. Yes, it is tough, but it is the&nbsp;only 
rational choice.Kansas State University has an important mission.
 It is critical to individual success and the economic health of our 
nation. We want to return to in-person classes as soon as possible. 
Please be a part of the solution by staying mentally tough and 
disciplined. We are only as strong as our weakest link — none of us want
 to be the weak link that pushes us back to greater restrictions.We
 started early in the pandemic urging our students, faculty and staff to
 be "K-State Strong." Their resiliency has been amazing.&nbsp;Now is the time
 for all of us to stay disciplined&nbsp;and strong for the sake of each 
other.. . .Richard B. Myers is the president of Kansas State University.&nbsp;From
 2001-2005, he served as the 15th chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff 
and was the principal military adviser to the U.S. president, secretary 
of defense and the National Security Council.

OPINION: Discipline and strength required to vanquish pandemic foe

Jesse Moses Monreal/Photo courtesy of the Livingston Co. Sheriff's Dept.

A man wanted for murder in Kansas has been apprehended in northwest Missouri.

Livingston County Sheriff Steve Cox says Jesse Moses Monreal was arrested after a manhunt in southern Livingston County.

Monreal has been charged with first degree murder and attempted robbery in Johnson County, Kansas for an incident in early May.

The manhunt began after a vehicle was stolen in Lafayette County and the suspects fled into Livingston County. Deputies arrested Monreal, but two men with him escaped. Authorities suspect they stole a truck from a rock quarry in Blue Mound. Kansas law enforcement do not believe the two were involved in the Johnson County homicide.

The Livingston and Lafayette County sheriff’s departments continue to work with the U.S. Marshall Office on the two stolen vehicle cases.

Cox says Monreal remains incarcerated in the Daviess Dekalb Regional Jail and once he clears extradition process, will be released to Kansas authorities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590074381554.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jesse Moses Monreal/Photo courtesy of the Livingston Co. Sheriff's Dept.By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA man wanted for murder in Kansas has been apprehended in northwest Missouri.Livingston County Sheriff Steve Cox says Jesse Moses Monreal was arrested after a manhunt in southern Livingston County.Monreal has been charged with first degree murder and attempted robbery in Johnson County, Kansas for an incident in early May.The manhunt began after a vehicle was stolen in Lafayette County and the suspects fled into Livingston County. Deputies arrested Monreal, but two men with him escaped. Authorities suspect they stole a truck from a rock quarry in Blue Mound. Kansas law enforcement do not believe the two were involved in the Johnson County homicide.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590075890509.png" alt="Monreal photo Daviess-DeKalb County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Monreal photo Daviess-DeKalb County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>The Livingston and Lafayette County sheriff’s departments continue to work with the U.S. Marshall Office on the two stolen vehicle cases.Cox says Monreal remains incarcerated in the Daviess Dekalb Regional Jail and once he clears extradition process, will be released to Kansas authorities.

Man wanted for Kansas murder arrested in Missouri

MISSION, Kan. (AP) — A teacher who instructed preschoolers inside a Kansas nursing home before the coronavirus pandemic has been named the nation's top educator. 

Tabatha Rosproy was chosen as the <a href="https://ntoy.ccsso.org/tabatha-rosproy/">2020 National Teacher of the Year</a> for bridging the worlds of her community’s oldest and youngest.

The year saw the retirement community where she taught in Winfield close to visitors to protect the residents as the state also shuttered its schools. Her selection from among 55 award-winning teachers around the country was announced Thursday by the Council of Chief State School Officers. 

Rosproy says her students were “well connected and well loved” and the retirement residents engaged.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590071015048.png" alt="Tabatha Rosproy courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Tabatha Rosproy courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>MISSION, Kan. (AP) — A teacher who instructed preschoolers inside a Kansas nursing home before the coronavirus pandemic has been named the nation's top educator. Tabatha Rosproy was chosen as the <a href="https://ntoy.ccsso.org/tabatha-rosproy/">2020 National Teacher of the Year</a> for bridging the worlds of her community’s oldest and youngest. The year saw the retirement community where she taught in Winfield close to visitors to protect the residents as the state also shuttered its schools. Her selection from among 55 award-winning teachers around the country was announced Thursday by the Council of Chief State School Officers. Rosproy says her students were “well connected and well loved” and the retirement residents engaged.

National teacher of the year is Kan. preschool teacher 

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republican lawmakers in Kansas pushed Wednesday to greatly limit Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s power to keep businesses closed during the coronavirus pandemic and give the GOP-controlled Legislature’s leaders the final say over how federal coronavirus relief funds are spent.

GOP members of the Senate Judiciary Committee included the measures in a bill that the full Senate expects to consider Thursday, when the Legislature is scheduled for one, final day in session this year. Republicans tied their proposals to two must-have measures for Kelly — a formal ratification of Kelly’s previous coronavirus orders and an extension of state of emergency that she declared so that she could legally exercise broad powers.

A dispute between the Democratic governor and Republican legislative leaders&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5e209a4b50d4e80632e9613458d31b7c">has grown increasingly bitter</a>&nbsp;over who controls the reopening of the state’s economy and the spending of coronavirus aid. Many GOP lawmakers contend Kelly is moving too slowly to reopen on the economy and dislike that her plan for lifting restrictions in phases between now and late June treats different kinds of businesses differently.

Republicans’ proposal would allow Kelly to close businesses only for a total of 15 days during the pandemic. After those 15 days, the health officers in each of the state’s 105 counties would decide whether businesses remained closed, subject to the approval of local county commissions. Because many Kansas businesses already have been shuttered longer than 15 days, it wasn’t immediately clear whether county officials could step immediately if the measure becomes law.

“One size doesn’t fit all,” said state Sen. Eric Rucker, a conservative Topeka Republican who drafted the language on business closings. “The overarching cry that we hear is the long-lasting — possibly lasting decades into the future — damage that has been caused economically.”

The bill cleared the Judiciary Committee on an 8-2 party-line vote, with only Republicans voting yes.

Kansas Republicans acted on the same day Kelly and GOP Gov. Asa Hutchinson of Arkansas met with President Donald Trump, who said both had “done a fantastic job.”

Kelly joins Democratic governors in other states, most notably Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, in facing a backlash from Republican legislators over their actions to control the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Sen. David Haley, a Kansas City Democrat, said he’s concerned about limiting the governor’s to impose statewide restrictions because someone could travel between counties and “become a carrier.”

“This virus does not respect geo-political boundaries,” Haley said.

Kelly’s existing state of emergency will remain in place only through Monday, Memorial Day. Kelly has acknowledged that she may be forced to accept limits on her power to get lawmakers to extend the state of emergency — or watch her 30 coronavirus-related orders expire. Her top lawyer and legislators concede it’s an open question whether Kelly has the authority to keep issuing new declarations for the same emergency.

The bill also would give the Legislature’s top seven leaders, five of them Republicans, the final say over how $1.25 billion in coronavirus relief funds are spent after a review by a joint House-Senate budget committee.

Kelly appointed a 20-member task force to oversee the distribution of the money and help her manage the reopening of the state’s economy, and five legislators are members, including three Republicans. She and other Democrats argue that the task force will provide adequate oversight.

And Republican Sen. Randall Hardy of Salina worried that an extra layer of oversight could unnecessarily delay much-needed funds to cities and counties to cover their coronavirus costs.

But many GOP lawmakers argue that the Legislature has the duty to oversee how the aid is spent, just as it approves an annual state budget.

Without legislative oversight, the governor could decide how the funds are spent “on her sole authority,” said Senate Majority Leader Jim Denning, a Kansas City-area Republican who is serving on Kelly’s task force.

“It’s just really a safety check,” Denning said of legislative oversight.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590058732968.png" alt="Members of the Kansas Senate worked late Wednesday in advance of Thursday's final day of the legislative session -photo courtesy Senate President Susan Wagle" />
 <figcaption>Members of the Kansas Senate worked late Wednesday in advance of Thursday's final day of the legislative session -photo courtesy Senate President Susan Wagle</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republican lawmakers in Kansas pushed Wednesday to greatly limit Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s power to keep businesses closed during the coronavirus pandemic and give the GOP-controlled Legislature’s leaders the final say over how federal coronavirus relief funds are spent.GOP members of the Senate Judiciary Committee included the measures in a bill that the full Senate expects to consider Thursday, when the Legislature is scheduled for one, final day in session this year. Republicans tied their proposals to two must-have measures for Kelly — a formal ratification of Kelly’s previous coronavirus orders and an extension of state of emergency that she declared so that she could legally exercise broad powers.A dispute between the Democratic governor and Republican legislative leaders&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/5e209a4b50d4e80632e9613458d31b7c">has grown increasingly bitter</a>&nbsp;over who controls the reopening of the state’s economy and the spending of coronavirus aid. Many GOP lawmakers contend Kelly is moving too slowly to reopen on the economy and dislike that her plan for lifting restrictions in phases between now and late June treats different kinds of businesses differently.Republicans’ proposal would allow Kelly to close businesses only for a total of 15 days during the pandemic. After those 15 days, the health officers in each of the state’s 105 counties would decide whether businesses remained closed, subject to the approval of local county commissions. Because many Kansas businesses already have been shuttered longer than 15 days, it wasn’t immediately clear whether county officials could step immediately if the measure becomes law.“One size doesn’t fit all,” said state Sen. Eric Rucker, a conservative Topeka Republican who drafted the language on business closings. “The overarching cry that we hear is the long-lasting — possibly lasting decades into the future — damage that has been caused economically.”The bill cleared the Judiciary Committee on an 8-2 party-line vote, with only Republicans voting yes.Kansas Republicans acted on the same day Kelly and GOP Gov. Asa Hutchinson of Arkansas met with President Donald Trump, who said both had “done a fantastic job.”Kelly joins Democratic governors in other states, most notably Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, in facing a backlash from Republican legislators over their actions to control the spread of the novel coronavirus.Sen. David Haley, a Kansas City Democrat, said he’s concerned about limiting the governor’s to impose statewide restrictions because someone could travel between counties and “become a carrier.”“This virus does not respect geo-political boundaries,” Haley said.Kelly’s existing state of emergency will remain in place only through Monday, Memorial Day. Kelly has acknowledged that she may be forced to accept limits on her power to get lawmakers to extend the state of emergency — or watch her 30 coronavirus-related orders expire. Her top lawyer and legislators concede it’s an open question whether Kelly has the authority to keep issuing new declarations for the same emergency.The bill also would give the Legislature’s top seven leaders, five of them Republicans, the final say over how $1.25 billion in coronavirus relief funds are spent after a review by a joint House-Senate budget committee.Kelly appointed a 20-member task force to oversee the distribution of the money and help her manage the reopening of the state’s economy, and five legislators are members, including three Republicans. She and other Democrats argue that the task force will provide adequate oversight.And Republican Sen. Randall Hardy of Salina worried that an extra layer of oversight could unnecessarily delay much-needed funds to cities and counties to cover their coronavirus costs.But many GOP lawmakers argue that the Legislature has the duty to oversee how the aid is spent, just as it approves an annual state budget.Without legislative oversight, the governor could decide how the funds are spent “on her sole authority,” said Senate Majority Leader Jim Denning, a Kansas City-area Republican who is serving on Kelly’s task force.“It’s just really a safety check,” Denning said of legislative oversight.___

GOP plan would keep Kansas governor from closing businesses

MIAMI COUNTY — A 3-year-old died in an accident just before 11a.m. Wednesday in Miami County, Kansas.

A 2019 GMC delivery box truck occupied by an adult male driver was backing out of a driveway in the 39000 Block of West 28th Street in rural Paola, according to Miami County Sheriff's Captain Matthew Kelly.

The truck hit the girl. She was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Kelly.

Authorities with the Miami County Sheriff's Department, the Johnson County Sheriff's Department and the KHP are investigation the accident.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details.

MIAMI COUNTY — A 3-year-old died in an accident just before 11a.m. Wednesday in Miami County, Kansas.A 2019 GMC delivery box truck occupied by an adult male driver was backing out of a driveway in the 39000 Block of West 28th Street in rural Paola, according to Miami County Sheriff's Captain Matthew Kelly.The truck hit the girl. She was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Kelly.Authorities with the Miami County Sheriff's Department, the Johnson County Sheriff's Department and the KHP are investigation the accident.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details.

Sheriff: 3-year-old Kansas girl killed in driveway

TOPEKA – Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt issued a formal legal opinion Wednesday addressing whether a state law that authorizes criminal prosecution of Kansans who violate emergency orders issued by the governor is constitutional and enforceable. 

The opinion is a consolidated response to separate requests for the attorney general’s legal opinion on closely related subjects from Reno County District Attorney Keith Schroeder, State Senator Richard Hilderbrand, and State Representatives Tory Marie Arnberger, Renee Erickson, Susan Humphries, Brenda Landwehr, Barbara Wasinger and Kristey Williams, according to the Attorney General's office.

The Opinion notes that the Kansas Emergency Management Act (KEMA) places on the governor responsibility to respond to disasters and grants broad authority to do so. Because of the nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of emergency powers has been unprecedented since the KEMA was enacted in 1975, with 31 emergency orders issued by the governor in the past 10 weeks. The Opinion does not address federal, state or local emergency authority outside the KEMA.

Notable conclusions in the 31-page opinion include:

Noting “the unique facts facing prosecutors in Kansas,” District Attorney Schroeder in particular requested an analysis regarding criminal prosecution of violations of emergency orders to assist local authorities “to avoid any unlawful arrests or convictions stemming from the disputed nature and authority of the Governor’s Executive Orders.”

Addressing that concern, the Opinion concludes:

Regarding criminal enforcement, the Opinion sets out a “Recommended framework for evaluating ‘lawfulness’ of an emergency order” for use by prosecutors. Because of issues unique to emergency orders, the Opinion recommends five questions prosecutors should analyze case-by-case before any criminal enforcement action: (1) Was a state of disaster emergency in effect at the time of the conduct alleged to violate an emergency order, (2) was the emergency order properly published as required by statute and by principles of due process, (3) does the plain text of [the emergency-powers statute] grant authority for the particular emergency order at issue, (4) is the emergency order unconstitutionally vague in violation of due process, and (5) does the emergency order impermissibly burden constitutional or statutory rights?

In its criminal-enforcement section, the Opinion also includes these passages:

The opinion has been posted on the attorney general’s website and<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/ag-opinions/2020/2020-006.pdf?sfvrsn=1997ac1a_8"> is available here.</a>

TOPEKA – Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt issued a formal legal opinion Wednesday addressing whether a state law that authorizes criminal prosecution of Kansans who violate emergency orders issued by the governor is constitutional and enforceable. The opinion is a consolidated response to separate requests for the attorney general’s legal opinion on closely related subjects from Reno County District Attorney Keith Schroeder, State Senator Richard Hilderbrand, and State Representatives Tory Marie Arnberger, Renee Erickson, Susan Humphries, Brenda Landwehr, Barbara Wasinger and Kristey Williams, according to the Attorney General's office.The Opinion notes that the Kansas Emergency Management Act (KEMA) places on the governor responsibility to respond to disasters and grants broad authority to do so. Because of the nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of emergency powers has been unprecedented since the KEMA was enacted in 1975, with 31 emergency orders issued by the governor in the past 10 weeks. The Opinion does not address federal, state or local emergency authority outside the KEMA.Notable conclusions in the 31-page opinion include:<ol>
 <li>“[T]he validity of the Second Disaster Proclamation [on April 30, 2020] is doubtful … To minimize the risk of legal challenges to executive orders issued or other emergency actions after May 1, 2020, authorized under the Second Disaster Proclamation, we recommend that the legislature by statute expressly approve the state of disaster emergency.” [p. 13]</li><li>“Three specific portions in the language of [the emergency-powers statute] are constitutionally suspect on their face. The legislature should examine them carefully to determine whether they accurately reflect the legislature’s intent. If one or more is invalid, it would become necessary to determine whether the invalid portion is severable from the remainder of the statute.” [p. 13]</li>
 </ol>Noting “the unique facts facing prosecutors in Kansas,” District Attorney Schroeder in particular requested an analysis regarding criminal prosecution of violations of emergency orders to assist local authorities “to avoid any unlawful arrests or convictions stemming from the disputed nature and authority of the Governor’s Executive Orders.”Addressing that concern, the Opinion concludes:<ol>
 <li>“Because emergency orders are not subject before issuance to the ordinary processes of deliberative governance, the lawfulness of the order cannot as readily be presupposed but is reasonably subject to question. In light of the rare [statutory] requirement that only … violations of … 'lawful' emergency orders be punished criminally,&nbsp;prosecutors considering bringing charges under authority of [the emergency-powers statute] should specifically analyze the lawfulness of any individual order before bringing charges.” [p. 20]</li>
 </ol>Regarding criminal enforcement, the Opinion sets out a “Recommended framework for evaluating ‘lawfulness’ of an emergency order” for use by prosecutors. Because of issues unique to emergency orders, the Opinion recommends five questions prosecutors should analyze case-by-case before any criminal enforcement action: (1) Was a state of disaster emergency in effect at the time of the conduct alleged to violate an emergency order, (2) was the emergency order properly published as required by statute and by principles of due process, (3) does the plain text of [the emergency-powers statute] grant authority for the particular emergency order at issue, (4) is the emergency order unconstitutionally vague in violation of due process, and (5) does the emergency order impermissibly burden constitutional or statutory rights?In its criminal-enforcement section, the Opinion also includes these passages:<ol>
 <li>“Never before have&nbsp;all&nbsp;Kansans been subject for an extended time to such intrusive restrictions ordered by their government. Under various emergency orders, it became a crime for Kansans to leave home without government approval, to gather more than 10 people at a time except for government-approved purposes, or to operate businesses or organizations without government approval. Quite obviously, these sorts of restrictions burdened fundamental rights — such as religion, assembly, and movement — that are constitutionally protected.” [pp. 29-30]</li><li>“We specifically recommend no criminal charges be filed until a prosecutor has exercised due diligence in addressing the questions presented in this opinion … and is satisfied that the particular order at issue is lawful and may be lawfully applied to the defendant.” [p. 31]</li>
 </ol>The opinion has been posted on the attorney general’s website and<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/ag-opinions/2020/2020-006.pdf?sfvrsn=1997ac1a_8"> is available here.</a>

AG issues legal opinion on criminal enforcement of emergency orders

SHAWNEE COUNTY&nbsp; – Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Wednesday morning shooting in Topeka and have made an arrest.

Just after 2:00 am, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a call of a possible shooting in the 100 block of NE Coachlight Drive, according to Lt. Matt Danielson.

Officers arrived on scene and located a victim later identified as&nbsp;47-year-old Royal T. St. Clair of Topeka&nbsp; in a home that had been shot. Medical personnel arrived and transported him to a local hospital with life threatening injuries.

On Wednesday afternoon, police took a person of interest in the shooting investigation&nbsp; into custody in the 400 block of SE Rice Road.

After questioning, police arrested&nbsp; 24 year-old Austin J. Dickey on requested charges of&nbsp; aggravated battery and criminal possession of a firearm by a felon. St. Clair remains in critical but stable condition at an area hospital, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Koenen.

SHAWNEE COUNTY&nbsp; – Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Wednesday morning shooting in Topeka.

Officers arrived on scene and located a victim in a home that had been shot. Medical personnel arrived and transported that victim to a local hospital with life threatening injuries.

Police released no additional details including the victim's name.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590057291594.png" alt="Dickey photo Shawnee County. He has previous convictions for theft, burglary and criminal threat, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Dickey photo Shawnee County. He has previous convictions for theft, burglary and criminal threat, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY&nbsp; – Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Wednesday morning shooting in Topeka and have made an arrest.Just after 2:00 am, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a call of a possible shooting in the 100 block of NE Coachlight Drive, according to Lt. Matt Danielson.Officers arrived on scene and located a victim later identified as&nbsp;47-year-old Royal T. St. Clair of Topeka&nbsp; in a home that had been shot. Medical personnel arrived and transported him to a local hospital with life threatening injuries.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589971183355.png" alt="Police on the scene of the shooting investigation early Wednesday photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the shooting investigation early Wednesday photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>On Wednesday afternoon, police took a person of interest in the shooting investigation&nbsp; into custody in the 400 block of SE Rice Road.After questioning, police arrested&nbsp; 24 year-old Austin J. Dickey on requested charges of&nbsp; aggravated battery and criminal possession of a firearm by a felon. St. Clair remains in critical but stable condition at an area hospital, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Koenen.------SHAWNEE COUNTY&nbsp; – Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Wednesday morning shooting in Topeka.Just after 2:00 am, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a call of a possible shooting in the 100 block of NE Coachlight Drive, according to Lt. Matt Danielson.Officers arrived on scene and located a victim in a home that had been shot. Medical personnel arrived and transported that victim to a local hospital with life threatening injuries.Police released no additional details including the victim's name.

Police: Kan. felon jailed for shooting that left man in critical condition

MISSION, Kan. (AP) — Kansas lawmakers appear divided on the importance of wearing masks as they prepare to convene for the final day of the session on Thursday, generating concerns that the gathering could fuel a coronavirus outbreak in the Legislature and further complicate efforts to reopen.

Gov. Laura Kelly meanwhile announced Tuesday that Kansas is ready to move on to the next phase of reopening Friday, instead of June 1. The maximum size of mass gatherings will increase from 10 to 15 people, and state-owned casinos can reopen, along with theaters, museums, bowling alleys and other indoor leisure places. Sports tournaments and practices also can resume, with some exceptions. But bars, nightclubs and swimming pools must stay closed for now, and individual communities can approve stricter rules.

The final day of the legislative session is scheduled for Thursday, and that is a cause of disquiet for some. Republican Rep. Don Hineman, a farmer from Dighton, said some lawmakers have attended open-up rallies at which social distancing and other safety protocols to prevent the spread of the coronavirus weren’t followed, and that they could be carriers who aren’t yet showing symptoms. He said those lawmakers could also be the ones least likely to wear masks in the Legislature Thursday, because in some circles doing so has “become a political issue.”

Lawmakers will mostly watch the session from their offices, only leaving to cast votes in groups and speak. Although masks will be provided and lawmakers are strongly encouraged to wear them, they will not be required, according to an email from House Speaker Ron Ryckman, explaining the protocols for the one-day meeting.

Sen. Dennis Pyle, a conservative Hiawatha Republican, didn’t wear a mask Tuesday for a committee meeting at the Statehouse. He said he doesn’t criticize colleagues for wearing them — most did, some wore gloves — but he questioned how effective they are in blocking the coronavirus.

“I wash may hands and I take care of myself,” he said. “Putting up a chain link fence won’t stop a mosquito.”

But Hineman said the risk then is that people could become infected during the session and take the virus home to their districts.

“That,” he said, “would be a terrible outcome.”″

Hineman said he is 72 and that his wife has heart issues, putting them at increased risk if they catch the virus. About two-thirds of the legislative body is considered vulnerable.

“If I feel it is not safe, I might not stay,” he said. “I think the worst thing is to drop our guard while in Topeka.”

The Legislature began its annual spring break on March 20, about two weeks early, because of the pandemic. The wrap-up session will focus on a variety of issues, including the governor’s power.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589916495659.png" alt="Kansas Senate Commerce Committee working last week. Some wore masks and others did not-photo courtesy Senator Susan Wagle" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Senate Commerce Committee working last week. Some wore masks and others did not-photo courtesy Senator Susan Wagle</figcaption>
 </figure>MISSION, Kan. (AP) — Kansas lawmakers appear divided on the importance of wearing masks as they prepare to convene for the final day of the session on Thursday, generating concerns that the gathering could fuel a coronavirus outbreak in the Legislature and further complicate efforts to reopen.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589915437003.png" alt="Governor Laura Kelly wore a mask as she arrived at her Tuesday&nbsp; press conference" />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura Kelly wore a mask as she arrived at her Tuesday&nbsp; press conference</figcaption>
 </figure>Gov. Laura Kelly meanwhile announced Tuesday that Kansas is ready to move on to the next phase of reopening Friday, instead of June 1. The maximum size of mass gatherings will increase from 10 to 15 people, and state-owned casinos can reopen, along with theaters, museums, bowling alleys and other indoor leisure places. Sports tournaments and practices also can resume, with some exceptions. But bars, nightclubs and swimming pools must stay closed for now, and individual communities can approve stricter rules.The final day of the legislative session is scheduled for Thursday, and that is a cause of disquiet for some. Republican Rep. Don Hineman, a farmer from Dighton, said some lawmakers have attended open-up rallies at which social distancing and other safety protocols to prevent the spread of the coronavirus weren’t followed, and that they could be carriers who aren’t yet showing symptoms. He said those lawmakers could also be the ones least likely to wear masks in the Legislature Thursday, because in some circles doing so has “become a political issue.”Lawmakers will mostly watch the session from their offices, only leaving to cast votes in groups and speak. Although masks will be provided and lawmakers are strongly encouraged to wear them, they will not be required, according to an email from House Speaker Ron Ryckman, explaining the protocols for the one-day meeting.Sen. Dennis Pyle, a conservative Hiawatha Republican, didn’t wear a mask Tuesday for a committee meeting at the Statehouse. He said he doesn’t criticize colleagues for wearing them — most did, some wore gloves — but he questioned how effective they are in blocking the coronavirus.“I wash may hands and I take care of myself,” he said. “Putting up a chain link fence won’t stop a mosquito.”But Hineman said the risk then is that people could become infected during the session and take the virus home to their districts.“That,” he said, “would be a terrible outcome.”″Hineman said he is 72 and that his wife has heart issues, putting them at increased risk if they catch the virus. About two-thirds of the legislative body is considered vulnerable.“If I feel it is not safe, I might not stay,” he said. “I think the worst thing is to drop our guard while in Topeka.”The Legislature began its annual spring break on March 20, about two weeks early, because of the pandemic. The wrap-up session will focus on a variety of issues, including the governor’s power.___

Mask use divides Kan. lawmakers as they prepare to convene

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Authorities are investigating a shooting Wednesday that injured three people in the Westport bar and entertainment district in Kansas City.

None of the injuries are considered to be life-threatening.

Police dispatch said the call came in after 3 p.m. Officers responded to multiple crime scenes in connection to the shooting in the Westport area.

No further details were immediately available.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Authorities are investigating a shooting Wednesday that injured three people in the Westport bar and entertainment district in Kansas City.None of the injuries are considered to be life-threatening.Police dispatch said the call came in after 3 p.m. Officers responded to multiple crime scenes in connection to the shooting in the Westport area.No further details were immediately available.

3 injured in Kansas City entertainment district shooting

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A teenager has been charged with second-degree murder after a fatal shooting outside a convenience store in Jackson County.

Camryn Wilkins, 17, Independence, Mo., turned himself into Jackson County authorities Tuesday after he was charged in the death of Jason Juszczyk at a Truman Mart gas station in suburban Kansas City.

Witnesses told Jackson County Sheriff’s investigators Juszczyk and Williams argued outside the store early Sunday.

During the argument, Juszczyk put his hands around Wilkins’s neck and pushed him against a wall, according to a court document.

Witnesses and surveillance video show Wilkins pulled a gun and shot Juszczyk several times, KSHB&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/man-charged-with-murder-in-fatal-convenience-store-shooting?_ga=2.18470841.1035289127.1589840750-236049791.1579025675">reported.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589990813653.png" alt="Wilkins photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Wilkins photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A teenager has been charged with second-degree murder after a fatal shooting outside a convenience store in Jackson County.Camryn Wilkins, 17, Independence, Mo., turned himself into Jackson County authorities Tuesday after he was charged in the death of Jason Juszczyk at a Truman Mart gas station in suburban Kansas City.Witnesses told Jackson County Sheriff’s investigators Juszczyk and Williams argued outside the store early Sunday.During the argument, Juszczyk put his hands around Wilkins’s neck and pushed him against a wall, according to a court document.Witnesses and surveillance video show Wilkins pulled a gun and shot Juszczyk several times, KSHB&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/man-charged-with-murder-in-fatal-convenience-store-shooting?_ga=2.18470841.1035289127.1589840750-236049791.1579025675">reported.</a>

KC teen charged in fatal shooting at convenience store

WASHINGTON —Kansas Governor Laura Kelly met with President Trump Wednesday afternoon to discus the state’s phased reopening, statewide virus testing strategy and much more.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?472315-1/president-trump-meeting-governors-arkansas-kansas">Click here to watch</a> a portion of Governor Kelly's visit with the President.

Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson and&nbsp; Response Coordinator for the White House Coronavirus Task Force Dr.&nbsp; Debra Birx also attended the meeting.

Trump said both governors have done "a fantastic job.”&nbsp;

"I know Laura will speak her mind and so will some of the others and if she was unhappy she'd be letting you know it," the President said.

"We've done a really great job. We've gotten along great with the democrat governors."

Before leaving Topeka, Kelly said the President understands that state and local governments need assistance well beyond stimulus three, the Cares Act, that will allow states to pay the bills for COVID-19 but will not allow states to cover any of the revenue losses that both the state government and local entities are experiencing.&nbsp;

Kelly is expected to share more about her visit with the President during her Thursday afternoon press conference.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590011287498.png" alt="Governor Laura Kelly and President Trump during Wednesday afternoon's meeting in the White House Cabinet Room -image scourtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura Kelly and President Trump during Wednesday afternoon's meeting in the White House Cabinet Room -image scourtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —Kansas Governor Laura Kelly met with President Trump Wednesday afternoon to discus the state’s phased reopening, statewide virus testing strategy and much more.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?472315-1/president-trump-meeting-governors-arkansas-kansas">Click here to watch</a> a portion of Governor Kelly's visit with the President.Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson and&nbsp; Response Coordinator for the White House Coronavirus Task Force Dr.&nbsp; Debra Birx also attended the meeting.Trump said both governors have done "a fantastic job.”&nbsp;"I know Laura will speak her mind and so will some of the others and if she was unhappy she'd be letting you know it," the President said."We've done a really great job. We've gotten along great with the democrat governors."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590012624852.png" alt="President Trump with a message board to show Governor Kelly what the Feds have done for Kansas during the pandemic providing 108, 332,082 surgical and exam gloves, 341,262 eye and face shields, 6,975,130 N95 masks and 1,714, 626 isolation and surgical gowns." />
 <figcaption>President Trump with a message board to show Governor Kelly what the Feds have done for Kansas during the pandemic providing 108, 332,082 surgical and exam gloves, 341,262 eye and face shields, 6,975,130 N95 masks and 1,714, 626 isolation and surgical gowns.</figcaption>
 </figure>Before leaving Topeka, Kelly said the President understands that state and local governments need assistance well beyond stimulus three, the Cares Act, that will allow states to pay the bills for COVID-19 but will not allow states to cover any of the revenue losses that both the state government and local entities are experiencing.&nbsp;Kelly is expected to share more about her visit with the President during her Thursday afternoon press conference.

🎥 Governor Kelly meets with President at the White House

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a home invasion burglary and have two suspects in custody.

Just after 2p.m. Monday deputies responded to an aggravated burglary that had just occurred to a residence in the 10000 block of SE Paulen Road, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson.

While at home, the homeowner heard noises in the house and discovered two suspects inside the residence. One of the suspects shot at the victim as they were fleeing the scene. The victim was unharmed. During the burglary, the suspects stole a cell phone and a rifle from the residence.

Both suspects fled the scene in a dark gray or black midsized SUV.&nbsp;

Detectives were able to develop two suspects.&nbsp; The suspect vehicle and suspects were located at a business in the 3800 block of S. Topeka boulevard, according to Sgt. Todd Stallbaumer.

Nathaniel D. Armstrong, 44, and Michal A. Lewis, 25, both of Topeka, were arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on the following requested charges: Attempted 2nd&nbsp;degree murder,&nbsp;Criminal possession of a firearm by a felon, Aggravated burglary, Felony criminal damage, Theft and Possession of stolen property

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a home invasion burglary.

Both suspects fled the scene in a dark gray or black midsized SUV. One is described as a white male, approximately 6-foot-1, 170 pounds with dirty blond buzzed hair and possible facial hair. He was wearing a navy shirt and jeans. The victim was not able to provide a description on the other suspect.

This burglary could potentially be linked to two residential burglaries that occurred in Osage County earlier Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589902431628.png" alt="Lewis photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Lewis photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a home invasion burglary and have two suspects in custody.Just after 2p.m. Monday deputies responded to an aggravated burglary that had just occurred to a residence in the 10000 block of SE Paulen Road, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson.While at home, the homeowner heard noises in the house and discovered two suspects inside the residence. One of the suspects shot at the victim as they were fleeing the scene. The victim was unharmed. During the burglary, the suspects stole a cell phone and a rifle from the residence.Both suspects fled the scene in a dark gray or black midsized SUV.&nbsp;Detectives were able to develop two suspects.&nbsp; The suspect vehicle and suspects were located at a business in the 3800 block of S. Topeka boulevard, according to Sgt. Todd Stallbaumer.Nathaniel D. Armstrong, 44, and Michal A. Lewis, 25, both of Topeka, were arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on the following requested charges: Attempted 2nd&nbsp;degree murder,&nbsp;Criminal possession of a firearm by a felon, Aggravated burglary, Felony criminal damage, Theft and Possession of stolen property----------SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a home invasion burglary.Just after 2p.m. Monday deputies responded to an aggravated burglary that had just occurred to a residence in the 10000 block of SE Paulen Road, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson.While at home, the homeowner heard noises in the house and discovered two suspects inside the residence. One of the suspects shot at the victim as they were fleeing the scene. The victim was unharmed. During the burglary, the suspects stole a cell phone and a rifle from the residence.Both suspects fled the scene in a dark gray or black midsized SUV. One is described as a white male, approximately 6-foot-1, 170 pounds with dirty blond buzzed hair and possible facial hair. He was wearing a navy shirt and jeans. The victim was not able to provide a description on the other suspect.This burglary could potentially be linked to two residential burglaries that occurred in Osage County earlier Monday.

Police: Kansas burglary suspects shot at homeowner 

TOPEKA, Kan., (AP) — Two men are charged with first-degree murder in the shooting death of a Topeka high school senior earlier this month. 

Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay said Tuesday that Tyron Michael and Daravian Ryce are charged in the May 12 death of 18-year-old Jo'Heem Meredith. 

Police say Meredith was shot at a Topeka apartment complex. He went to a hospital but died from his injuries. Besides the murder charge, the suspects each face four other charges. 

 The suspects also face several other charges, including aggravated robbery and assault. Michael was charged with gun and drug counts related to his arrest on May 13.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589992806055.png" alt="Michael photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Michael photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan., (AP) — Two men are charged with first-degree murder in the shooting death of a Topeka high school senior earlier this month. Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay said Tuesday that Tyron Michael and Daravian Ryce are charged in the May 12 death of 18-year-old Jo'Heem Meredith. Police say Meredith was shot at a Topeka apartment complex. He went to a hospital but died from his injuries. Besides the murder charge, the suspects each face four other charges. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589992713339.png" alt="Ryce from an earlier arrest in Butler Co." />
 <figcaption>Ryce from an earlier arrest in Butler Co.</figcaption>
 </figure> The suspects also face several other charges, including aggravated robbery and assault. Michael was charged with gun and drug counts related to his arrest on May 13.

2 charged in fatal shooting of Kan. high school senior 

TOPEKA – Three men are charged in federal court on Fort Riley with illegally hunting whitetail deer in off-limit areas located on Fort Riley where explosives are discharged during training exercises, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.

The misdemeanor charges allege the men violated the federal Lacey Act while hunting white-tail deer on the grounds of the Army base over the past few years. An investigator’s affidavit alleges the hunters disregarded the posted “off-limits” area, entering before daylight and leaving after dark.

Gregory J. Frikken, 55, Wamego, Kan., one count of criminal trespass, two counts of conspiracy to commit criminal trespass, four counts of Lacey Act violations, one count of conspiracy to commit Lacey Act violations.

James C. Nunley,&nbsp;32, Wamego, Kan., five counts of Lacey Act violations, one count of criminal trespass and one count of conspiracy to commit criminal trespass.

Michael J. Smith, 55, Watertown, N.Y., one count of criminal trespass, one count of conspiracy to commit criminal trespass, three counts of Lacey Act violations, one count of conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act.

Investigators recovered evidence including deer mounts, antlers, phone data and equipment allegedly used to harvest eight whitetail deer, three of which are considered trophy class.

If convicted, the defendants could face up to one year in jail, maximum $10,000 fine and a mandatory $25 special assessment fee for each Lacey Act Violation which also could include, civil forfeiture and a loss of their federal hunting privileges.

TOPEKA – Three men are charged in federal court on Fort Riley with illegally hunting whitetail deer in off-limit areas located on Fort Riley where explosives are discharged during training exercises, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.The misdemeanor charges allege the men violated the federal Lacey Act while hunting white-tail deer on the grounds of the Army base over the past few years. An investigator’s affidavit alleges the hunters disregarded the posted “off-limits” area, entering before daylight and leaving after dark.Charged in the case are:Gregory J. Frikken, 55, Wamego, Kan., one count of criminal trespass, two counts of conspiracy to commit criminal trespass, four counts of Lacey Act violations, one count of conspiracy to commit Lacey Act violations.James C. Nunley,&nbsp;32, Wamego, Kan., five counts of Lacey Act violations, one count of criminal trespass and one count of conspiracy to commit criminal trespass.Michael J. Smith, 55, Watertown, N.Y., one count of criminal trespass, one count of conspiracy to commit criminal trespass, three counts of Lacey Act violations, one count of conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act.Investigators recovered evidence including deer mounts, antlers, phone data and equipment allegedly used to harvest eight whitetail deer, three of which are considered trophy class.If convicted, the defendants could face up to one year in jail, maximum $10,000 fine and a mandatory $25 special assessment fee for each Lacey Act Violation which also could include, civil forfeiture and a loss of their federal hunting privileges.

3 men charged with federal hunting violations at Fort Riley

JOPLIN, Mo. (AP)&nbsp; — Missouri Southern State University in Joplin has chosen its new president. The university's board selected Dean Van Galen Monday to become the school's sixth president, beginning July 1.

Van Galen most recently served as chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. He also taught and was an administrator at Truman State University in Kirksville and the University of West Florida. Van Galen earned a doctorate at Kansas State University.

His base salary will be $270,000, with other allowances. He succeeds Alan Marble, who is retiring

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589993667145.png" alt="Dr. Dean Van Galen photo courtesy MSSU" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Dean Van Galen photo courtesy MSSU</figcaption>
 </figure>JOPLIN, Mo. (AP)&nbsp; — Missouri Southern State University in Joplin has chosen its new president. The university's board selected Dean Van Galen Monday to become the school's sixth president, beginning July 1.Van Galen most recently served as chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. He also taught and was an administrator at Truman State University in Kirksville and the University of West Florida. Van Galen earned a doctorate at Kansas State University.His base salary will be $270,000, with other allowances. He succeeds Alan Marble, who is retiring

K-State alum named Missouri Southern State president 

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas softened its quarantine guidelines for meatpacking plants after industry executives repeatedly pushed state officials to allow employees who were potentially exposed to the coronavirus to keep working, text messages and emails show.

The Kansas City Star&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article242852011.html" target="_blank">reported that they obtained</a>&nbsp;messages through an open records request showing that executives at Tyson and National Beef pushed Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam to advocate more-lenient federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance.

Beam told The Associated Press on Wednesday that his role was to “emphasize internally” in Gov. Laura Kelly’s administration that there would be major problems with the nation’s food supply if the plants shut down. Beam worked for the Kansas Livestock Association for 38 years before becoming agriculture secretary in 2019.

“It was a balancing act, and I basically was feeding that into the mix,” he said.

The Star reported that in an April 20 text to Beam, National Beef Chief Operating Officer Terry Wilkerson noted that two meatpacking plants elsewhere in the U.S. were shutting down.

“The sooner we get the CDC new guidance in place the better,” he wrote.

Ruth Bradley, manager of state and local government relations at Tyson, texted Beam on April 15 saying that because of a higher rate of absenteeism among workers, Tyson wanted to follow CDC guidelines allowing workers without symptoms to still work if they wear a mask.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment updated its guidelines on May 2 to allow meatpacking employees who have come into close contact with positive cases to stay on the job as long as they showed no symptoms and took precautions. It previously advised contacts to quarantine for two weeks.

Kansas, which processes more than a quarter of the nation’s beef, has had nearly 2,000 people infected with COVID-19 from outbreaks linked to the state’s meatpacking plants and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1125/Historical---May-18?bidId=" target="_blank">six people have died</a>. With the exception of a Johnsonville plant in Holton, large processors have stayed open in Kansas throughout the pandemic, although operating at a reduced capacity.

During a news conference Tuesday, Kelly pointed “proudly” to plants continuing to operate.

Beam wrote in an April 21 email to Will Lawrence, Kelly’s chief of staff, that it appeared Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Lee Norman, who has been leading the state’s pandemic health response, was “not wanting to defer” to the less restrictive federal guidance.

Beam said he wanted Lawrence to know the issue was “brewing,” adding, “I sense National Beef, and others, would like to have a response fairly soon.”

Two days later, Beam texted meatpacking contacts that he would be calling “regarding a POSSIBLE path for letting close contacts return to work.”

Beam told the AP that his relationship with Norman remained “cordial” and that the health department changed its guidance after a CDC team physically reviewed Kansas plants. Beam said the final decision was the health department’s.

Health department spokeswoman Ashley Jones-Wisner said in a statement that before the new guidance was issued, conversations among her agency, the Department of Agriculture and the companies occurred regularly as the state tracked “how each plant was doing.”

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on April 28 directing meatpacking plants to stay open.

“Our concern was, and remains, public health protections within the parameters outlined by the federal government,” Jones-Wisner said.

National Beef Chief Financial Officer Simon McGee requested in an email to Beam that Kelly’s office speak to the union representing workers at the company’s Dodge City plant about the “special responsibility” of meatpacking employees.

Company spokesman Keith Welty said in a statement that the company’s focus throughout the pandemic has been protecting “the health, wellness and safety of our employees.”

Tyson spokeswoman Liz Croston said Tuesday that the company “will not ask anyone to work in our plants unless we are confident that it is safe.” She said correspondence with state officials “reflects our interest in the consistent application of federal safety guidance.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589997636847.png" alt="Photo courtesy Tyson Foods" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Tyson Foods</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas softened its quarantine guidelines for meatpacking plants after industry executives repeatedly pushed state officials to allow employees who were potentially exposed to the coronavirus to keep working, text messages and emails show.The Kansas City Star&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article242852011.html" target="_blank">reported that they obtained</a>&nbsp;messages through an open records request showing that executives at Tyson and National Beef pushed Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Mike Beam to advocate more-lenient federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance.Beam told The Associated Press on Wednesday that his role was to “emphasize internally” in Gov. Laura Kelly’s administration that there would be major problems with the nation’s food supply if the plants shut down. Beam worked for the Kansas Livestock Association for 38 years before becoming agriculture secretary in 2019.“It was a balancing act, and I basically was feeding that into the mix,” he said.The Star reported that in an April 20 text to Beam, National Beef Chief Operating Officer Terry Wilkerson noted that two meatpacking plants elsewhere in the U.S. were shutting down.“The sooner we get the CDC new guidance in place the better,” he wrote.Ruth Bradley, manager of state and local government relations at Tyson, texted Beam on April 15 saying that because of a higher rate of absenteeism among workers, Tyson wanted to follow CDC guidelines allowing workers without symptoms to still work if they wear a mask.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589997771819.png" alt="Photo courtesy Tyson Foods" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Tyson Foods</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment updated its guidelines on May 2 to allow meatpacking employees who have come into close contact with positive cases to stay on the job as long as they showed no symptoms and took precautions. It previously advised contacts to quarantine for two weeks.Kansas, which processes more than a quarter of the nation’s beef, has had nearly 2,000 people infected with COVID-19 from outbreaks linked to the state’s meatpacking plants and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1125/Historical---May-18?bidId=" target="_blank">six people have died</a>. With the exception of a Johnsonville plant in Holton, large processors have stayed open in Kansas throughout the pandemic, although operating at a reduced capacity.During a news conference Tuesday, Kelly pointed “proudly” to plants continuing to operate.Beam wrote in an April 21 email to Will Lawrence, Kelly’s chief of staff, that it appeared Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Lee Norman, who has been leading the state’s pandemic health response, was “not wanting to defer” to the less restrictive federal guidance.Beam said he wanted Lawrence to know the issue was “brewing,” adding, “I sense National Beef, and others, would like to have a response fairly soon.”Two days later, Beam texted meatpacking contacts that he would be calling “regarding a POSSIBLE path for letting close contacts return to work.”Beam told the AP that his relationship with Norman remained “cordial” and that the health department changed its guidance after a CDC team physically reviewed Kansas plants. Beam said the final decision was the health department’s.Health department spokeswoman Ashley Jones-Wisner said in a statement that before the new guidance was issued, conversations among her agency, the Department of Agriculture and the companies occurred regularly as the state tracked “how each plant was doing.”President Donald Trump signed an executive order on April 28 directing meatpacking plants to stay open.“Our concern was, and remains, public health protections within the parameters outlined by the federal government,” Jones-Wisner said.National Beef Chief Financial Officer Simon McGee requested in an email to Beam that Kelly’s office speak to the union representing workers at the company’s Dodge City plant about the “special responsibility” of meatpacking employees.Company spokesman Keith Welty said in a statement that the company’s focus throughout the pandemic has been protecting “the health, wellness and safety of our employees.”Tyson spokeswoman Liz Croston said Tuesday that the company “will not ask anyone to work in our plants unless we are confident that it is safe.” She said correspondence with state officials “reflects our interest in the consistent application of federal safety guidance.”

Kansas policy lets exposed meatpacking workers stay on job

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 199 since Monday to a total of 8539, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE

Note: The KDHE Coronavirus in Kansas report is now released Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 199 since Monday to a total of 8539, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 178.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589994474429.png" alt="May 20, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>May 20, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>Note: The KDHE Coronavirus in Kansas report is now released Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

By NICK GOSNELL <a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>


HUTCHINSON —&nbsp;Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall wants to be 
sure China is held accountable for its role in allowing the COVID-19 
pandemic to spread across the globe.

"I don't know whether they 
purposely let this virus go, or they just were trying to cover it up," 
Marshall said. "There's a whole lot of there there. This bill gives the 
President the authority, the power to shine a light on China as well as 
the World Health Organization and expose this cover up for what it is."

The goal is to get the Chinese to be honest with the rest of the world.

"We
 are going to require China to close their wet markets," Marshall said. 
"It's going to help bring the pharmaceutical supply chain home as well 
as put sanctions on China. Things like freezing their assets, travel 
bans, visas, those types of things, as well."

The reason the U.S. still needs China as a part of the economic world is it's too large a market to leave on the table.

"What
 we have to do is hold them accountable for their commitments to the 
trade agreement that we worked so hard with President Trump to get done 
in January," Marshall said. "We are keeping an eye on that. We're trying
 to make sure that we're continuing to ship out milo from across Kansas 
as well as wheat and cattle, all those types of things."

Making 
sure that even in the face of the pandemic, China keeps their economic 
promises is going to be an important part of keeping the global economy 
afloat going forward.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584054346770.jpeg" alt="Marshall" />
 <figcaption>Marshall</figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELL <a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch Post</a>
HUTCHINSON —&nbsp;Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall wants to be 
sure China is held accountable for its role in allowing the COVID-19 
pandemic to spread across the globe."I don't know whether they 
purposely let this virus go, or they just were trying to cover it up," 
Marshall said. "There's a whole lot of there there. This bill gives the 
President the authority, the power to shine a light on China as well as 
the World Health Organization and expose this cover up for what it is."The goal is to get the Chinese to be honest with the rest of the world."We
 are going to require China to close their wet markets," Marshall said. 
"It's going to help bring the pharmaceutical supply chain home as well 
as put sanctions on China. Things like freezing their assets, travel 
bans, visas, those types of things, as well."The reason the U.S. still needs China as a part of the economic world is it's too large a market to leave on the table."What
 we have to do is hold them accountable for their commitments to the 
trade agreement that we worked so hard with President Trump to get done 
in January," Marshall said. "We are keeping an eye on that. We're trying
 to make sure that we're continuing to ship out milo from across Kansas 
as well as wheat and cattle, all those types of things."Making 
sure that even in the face of the pandemic, China keeps their economic 
promises is going to be an important part of keeping the global economy 
afloat going forward.

Marshall: Time to hold China accountable for COVID-19

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A battle in Kansas between the Democratic governor and Republican-controlled Legislature over reopening the economy has grown increasingly bitter, clouded by election year politics present and past.

Gov. Laura Kelly has joined Democratic colleagues in other states including Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin in facing a GOP backlash over actions designed to contain the coronavirus pandemic. In Kansas, many Republican lawmakers expect to pass a measure to curb the governor’s power in emergencies when the Legislature convenes Thursday for a final day in session this year. That would force Kelly to choose between accepting their limits or having the state’s current state of emergency expire.

Republicans are taking cues from aggrieved business owners, but Kelly’s biggest legislative critic also is running for the U.S. Senate and struggling to get traction in a crowded field. Many GOP lawmakers say they have been ignored, and Kelly’s taking charge in the pandemic irks some Republicans who still see her 2018 election win&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d1213da380e246029994c86001179d2b">as a fluke.</a>

Kelly promised a bipartisan approach to governing when she took office in January 2019, but she has clashed at times with top Republicans. Many GOP lawmakers refuse to concede that her election meant a new direction for a state Republicans had nearly complete control over before she crashed their party..

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589923907349.png" alt="Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly answered questions during a Tuesday news conference in Topeka." />
 <figcaption>Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly answered questions during a Tuesday news conference in Topeka.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A battle in Kansas between the Democratic governor and Republican-controlled Legislature over reopening the economy has grown increasingly bitter, clouded by election year politics present and past.Gov. Laura Kelly has joined Democratic colleagues in other states including Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin in facing a GOP backlash over actions designed to contain the coronavirus pandemic. In Kansas, many Republican lawmakers expect to pass a measure to curb the governor’s power in emergencies when the Legislature convenes Thursday for a final day in session this year. That would force Kelly to choose between accepting their limits or having the state’s current state of emergency expire.Republicans are taking cues from aggrieved business owners, but Kelly’s biggest legislative critic also is running for the U.S. Senate and struggling to get traction in a crowded field. Many GOP lawmakers say they have been ignored, and Kelly’s taking charge in the pandemic irks some Republicans who still see her 2018 election win&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d1213da380e246029994c86001179d2b">as a fluke.</a>Kelly promised a bipartisan approach to governing when she took office in January 2019, but she has clashed at times with top Republicans. Many GOP lawmakers refuse to concede that her election meant a new direction for a state Republicans had nearly complete control over before she crashed their party..“A conservative Republican leadership sees a Democratic governor and it wants to hit her like a pinata,” said Rabbi Moti Rieber, executive director of Kansas Interfaith Action, an alliance of Jewish and mainline Christian congregations that has given Kelly good marks for her handling of the pandemic.Ahead of Thursday’s last legislative day, Kansas House and Senate committees have heard testimony questioning Kelly’s handling of the pandemic. Committees expect to approve bills aimed at reining in the broad power state law gives a governor in emergencies, with Republicans arguing in favor of legislative oversight and more local decision-making.The same laws that give Kelly broad powers in emergency required her to ask lawmakers to extend her disaster declaration to keep those powers in force.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/617a7ab4c2482e737df041ac8f4e4368">Republican lawmakers last week&nbsp;</a>extended her current declaration only through Monday, Memorial Day, even though she had asked them to keep it in place until mid-June. Kelly acknowledged Tuesday that she is likely boxed in if GOP lawmakers attach conditions to extending her declaration.But Kelly insisted Tuesday that she’s focused only on public health and economic issues.“I really have put on, sort of, visual and audio blinders,” she said during a Statehouse news conference.Republicans said they’re looking to check the governor’s power so that people’s constitutional rights are not violated and that they’re responding to desperate pleas jobless workers and owners of shuttered businesses.A survey last week from the University of Chicago Divinity School and The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research showed that 71% of Americans favored requiring people to stay in their homes except for essential errands. But GOP lawmakers in Kansas see that as a general sentiment reflecting people’s concerns about getting infected.“If you look at their behavior, they’re packing Wal-Mart. They’re packing Lowe’s. It’s springtime. They want the kids back in sports. They want the kids back in schools,” said Kansas Senate President Susan Wagle, a Wichita Republican. “We need to create a safe environment for Kansans and put them back to work.”Wagle has been a vocal critic of Kelly since Kelly took office, and she’s ramped up her criticism during the pandemic, even suggesting last week that the governor had become a “dictator.” Wagle also is running for an open U.S. Senate seat and is seen as badly trailing the leading contenders.There’s also little doubt that a quicker reopening plays well with President Donald Trump’s political base in a state that Trump carried in 2016 by nearly 21 percentage points.But legislative elections this year also are part of the backdrop. Republicans hope to keep their super-majorities in both chambers, making it easier for them to thwart Kelly’s initiatives ahead of the 2022 governor’s race.And some Republicans, particularly conservatives, still feel a sting from her 2018 victory over hard-right GOP Secretary of State Kris Kobach and independent candidate Greg Orman. Kelly fell short of 50% of the vote and won a relative handful of the state’s 105 counties, though they included the five most populous ones.Conservatives have questioned whether Kelly has a political mandate that justifies orders to close schools and businesses statewide.“She was elected by nine counties with 48% of the vote, so I think there’s a legitimate concern,” said Sen. Dennis Pyle, a conservative Republican from the state’s far northeast corner. “People want a check on the governor’s powers.”___