FORD COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and USD 443 officials are investigating a juvenile in connection with an alleged threat at a Kansas High School.

Just after 7a.m. Wednesday, Ford County Communications received a 911 call from a person reporting they needed help and there was a man at the high school with a gun, according to Dodge City Police.

Officers immediately responded to Dodge City High School, 2021 Ross Blvd in Dodge City.&nbsp; Authorities put the school in a brief lockdown. 

Officers were able to trace the call to an address in Dodge City where they located an 8-year-old boy who admitted to making the call from his mother's phone because he thought it would be funny. 

Police took the boy into  custody and he will be evaluated as a child in need of care. No criminal charges will be filed due to the boy's age, according to police.

FORD COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and USD 443 officials are investigating a juvenile in connection with an alleged threat at a Kansas High School.Just after 7a.m. Wednesday, Ford County Communications received a 911 call from a person reporting they needed help and there was a man at the high school with a gun, according to Dodge City Police.Officers immediately responded to Dodge City High School, 2021 Ross Blvd in Dodge City.&nbsp; Authorities put the school in a brief lockdown. Officers were able to trace the call to an address in Dodge City where they located an 8-year-old boy who admitted to making the call from his mother's phone because he thought it would be funny. Police took the boy into custody and he will be evaluated as a child in need of care. No criminal charges will be filed due to the boy's age, according to police.

Police: 8-year-old makes false report of gun at Kan. high school 

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Doctors accused of not providing enough care to infants delivered alive during certain kinds of abortion procedures in Kansas could face lawsuits and criminal charges under a bill that won final approval Tuesday in the state's Republican-controlled Legislature.

The legislation faces an uncertain fate in a legal and political climate that's made Kansas an outlier on abortion policy among states with GOP-led legislatures. The bill applies not only to “botched” or “unsuccessful” abortions but also when doctors induce labor to deliver a fetus that is expected to die within minutes or even seconds outside the womb, which often occurs because of a severe medical issue.

The Kansas House&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/vote_view/je_20230404113519_012438/">voted 86-36</a>&nbsp;to approve&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/born-alive-abortion-bill-kansas-legislature-89b7276e071fda4808c96d9d3e8cce4e">a proposed “born-alive infants protection” law</a>&nbsp;similar to a proposed law that Montana voters&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-business-montana-a99111675c40301d1940addca098d599">rejected in November.</a>&nbsp;The Senate approved the measure last week and it goes next to Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, who vetoed such a bill in 2019.

The Senate voted&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/vote_view/je_20230329125930_969124/">31-9</a>&nbsp;for the bill last week, meaning it passed both chambers with more than the two-thirds majorities necessary to override a potential veto from Kelly.

“We can have differing views on abortion and still agree on the need for this legislation as a humanitarian issue,” the Kansas House's three top Republicans said in a joint statement.

Even if abortion opponents succeed in overriding any veto, the measure could still be challenged in court and not enforced. Lawsuits have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-restrictions-lawsuits-kansas-3eb09cbcdfb18e06aee024e557f9814c">prevented Kansas from enforcing</a>&nbsp;a 2015 ban on a common second-trimester abortion procedure and a 2011 law imposing extra health and safety rules for abortion providers.

Kansas abortion opponents haven’t pushed to ban abortion outright despite the U.S. Supreme Court’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">decision in June 2022</a>&nbsp;that the U.S. Constitution allows it. The Kansas Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/3f479b218a6140719e1694fcfcdb8036">ruled in 2019</a>&nbsp;that access to abortion is a “fundamental” right under the state constitution, and in August 2022,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-primary-elections-kansas-abortion-b6d62a852c2ce4617f2c03589fbb523e">voters decisively rejected</a>&nbsp;a proposed change to strip away protections for abortion rights.

The “born alive” measure is premised on a claim that abortion providers leave newborns to die if they're delivered alive during an abortion procedure. Critics of the bill said the state would be intervening in difficult medical and ethical decisions between doctors and parents. They also said parents could be forced to accept futile and expensive care.

“If the infant is born alive and only has minutes to live, the mother, the father, the family, have the right to ask for palliative care and embrace the infant until it is no longer breathing,” said state Rep. Susan Ruiz, a Kansas City-area Democrat.

The Kansas measure is similar to laws in 18 other states requiring infants delivered alive during labor and delivery abortions to go to a hospital and imposing criminal penalties for doctors who don’t provide the same care "a reasonably diligent and conscientious” provider would with other live births.

In Kansas, failing to provide reasonable care for such a newborn would be a felony, punishable by a year’s probation for a first-time offender. Also, the newborn's parents and the parents or guardians of minors seeking abortions could sue providers.

Like most states, Kansas doesn’t collect data on births during induced abortion procedures, or other abortion procedures. The bill would require annual reports to the state.

Anti-abortion groups argue that there are likely hundreds of infants delivered alive during abortion procedures each year in the U.S. The argument is based on extrapolating data from the handful of states requiring reports of such live births, as well as from data from most Canadian provinces.

“One important aspect of the bill is that it would require that reporting on abortion survivors,” said Kelsey Pritchard, spokesperson for the national anti-abortion group Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America.

Abortion rights supporters argue that the Kansas measure and laws in other states are designed to paint a misleading picture of abortion care.

In Kansas, no abortions after the 21st week have been reported since at least 2016, and, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, less than 1% of the more than 600,000 abortions a year occur after the 21st week of pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says almost no fetuses are viable before the 23rd week of pregnancy.

Critics of the measure also argue that existing laws against homicide are sufficient to deal with what they see as a rare issue. They also argue that passing the measure defies the statewide vote in August affirming abortion rights.

“This bill is absolutely unecessary,” Democratic state Sen. Pat Pettey, of Kansas City, said during a debate last week. “This bill will traumatize mothers who desperately want to be mothers, who already are dealing with the heart-breaking moments of loss imaginable.”

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Doctors accused of not providing enough care to infants delivered alive during certain kinds of abortion procedures in Kansas could face lawsuits and criminal charges under a bill that won final approval Tuesday in the state's Republican-controlled Legislature.The legislation faces an uncertain fate in a legal and political climate that's made Kansas an outlier on abortion policy among states with GOP-led legislatures. The bill applies not only to “botched” or “unsuccessful” abortions but also when doctors induce labor to deliver a fetus that is expected to die within minutes or even seconds outside the womb, which often occurs because of a severe medical issue.The Kansas House&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/vote_view/je_20230404113519_012438/">voted 86-36</a>&nbsp;to approve&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/born-alive-abortion-bill-kansas-legislature-89b7276e071fda4808c96d9d3e8cce4e">a proposed “born-alive infants protection” law</a>&nbsp;similar to a proposed law that Montana voters&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-business-montana-a99111675c40301d1940addca098d599">rejected in November.</a>&nbsp;The Senate approved the measure last week and it goes next to Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, who vetoed such a bill in 2019.The Senate voted&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/vote_view/je_20230329125930_969124/">31-9</a>&nbsp;for the bill last week, meaning it passed both chambers with more than the two-thirds majorities necessary to override a potential veto from Kelly.“We can have differing views on abortion and still agree on the need for this legislation as a humanitarian issue,” the Kansas House's three top Republicans said in a joint statement.Even if abortion opponents succeed in overriding any veto, the measure could still be challenged in court and not enforced. Lawsuits have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-restrictions-lawsuits-kansas-3eb09cbcdfb18e06aee024e557f9814c">prevented Kansas from enforcing</a>&nbsp;a 2015 ban on a common second-trimester abortion procedure and a 2011 law imposing extra health and safety rules for abortion providers.Kansas abortion opponents haven’t pushed to ban abortion outright despite the U.S. Supreme Court’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">decision in June 2022</a>&nbsp;that the U.S. Constitution allows it. The Kansas Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/3f479b218a6140719e1694fcfcdb8036">ruled in 2019</a>&nbsp;that access to abortion is a “fundamental” right under the state constitution, and in August 2022,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-primary-elections-kansas-abortion-b6d62a852c2ce4617f2c03589fbb523e">voters decisively rejected</a>&nbsp;a proposed change to strip away protections for abortion rights.The “born alive” measure is premised on a claim that abortion providers leave newborns to die if they're delivered alive during an abortion procedure. Critics of the bill said the state would be intervening in difficult medical and ethical decisions between doctors and parents. They also said parents could be forced to accept futile and expensive care.“If the infant is born alive and only has minutes to live, the mother, the father, the family, have the right to ask for palliative care and embrace the infant until it is no longer breathing,” said state Rep. Susan Ruiz, a Kansas City-area Democrat.The Kansas measure is similar to laws in 18 other states requiring infants delivered alive during labor and delivery abortions to go to a hospital and imposing criminal penalties for doctors who don’t provide the same care "a reasonably diligent and conscientious” provider would with other live births.In Kansas, failing to provide reasonable care for such a newborn would be a felony, punishable by a year’s probation for a first-time offender. Also, the newborn's parents and the parents or guardians of minors seeking abortions could sue providers.Like most states, Kansas doesn’t collect data on births during induced abortion procedures, or other abortion procedures. The bill would require annual reports to the state.Anti-abortion groups argue that there are likely hundreds of infants delivered alive during abortion procedures each year in the U.S. The argument is based on extrapolating data from the handful of states requiring reports of such live births, as well as from data from most Canadian provinces.“One important aspect of the bill is that it would require that reporting on abortion survivors,” said Kelsey Pritchard, spokesperson for the national anti-abortion group Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America.Abortion rights supporters argue that the Kansas measure and laws in other states are designed to paint a misleading picture of abortion care.In Kansas, no abortions after the 21st week have been reported since at least 2016, and, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, less than 1% of the more than 600,000 abortions a year occur after the 21st week of pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says almost no fetuses are viable before the 23rd week of pregnancy.Critics of the measure also argue that existing laws against homicide are sufficient to deal with what they see as a rare issue. They also argue that passing the measure defies the statewide vote in August affirming abortion rights.“This bill is absolutely unecessary,” Democratic state Sen. Pat Pettey, of Kansas City, said during a debate last week. “This bill will traumatize mothers who desperately want to be mothers, who already are dealing with the heart-breaking moments of loss imaginable.”

Kansas OKs bill that penalizes doctors for some abortions

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a theft and asking for help to identify suspects.

Just after 8p.m. March 30, suspects took high-end Legos from a retail store in the 12200 block of Blue Valley Parkway, according to Overland Park Police. 

On Tuesday, police released security camera images of the suspects who were last seen leaving in what was described as a red colored Toyota Camry with an unknown Missouri license plate.

Anyone with information regarding this incident, please contact the lead Detective at 913-344-8729 or the TIPS HOTLINE at 816-474-TIPS.Officer J. Lacy #653Police Public Information Officer

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680658524218.png" alt="Security camera photos Overland Park PD" />
 <figcaption>Security camera photos Overland Park PD</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a theft and asking for help to identify suspects.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680658508200.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 8p.m. March 30, suspects took high-end Legos from a retail store in the 12200 block of Blue Valley Parkway, according to Overland Park Police. On Tuesday, police released security camera images of the suspects who were last seen leaving in what was described as a red colored Toyota Camry with an unknown Missouri license plate.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680658563967.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Anyone with information regarding this incident, please contact the lead Detective at 913-344-8729 or the TIPS HOTLINE at 816-474-TIPS.Officer J. Lacy #653Police Public Information Officer

Police: Suspects took high-end Legos from store in Kansas

PALM BEACH (AP) — Flanked by American flags, former President Donald Trump delivered a campaign-style speech to cheering supporters at Mar-a-Lago Tuesday night.

Trump was defiant, referring, among other things, to his two impeachment trials during his presidency and an ongoing probe into alleged attempts to interfere in that state’s 2020 presidential election. He called the New York indictment the latest in an "onslaught of fraudulent investigations.”

“This fake case was brought only to interfere with the upcoming 2024 election and it should be dropped immediately," Trump said.

He also lashed out at the prosecutor and the judge presiding over the New York case — despite being warned hours earlier by the judge to refrain from rhetoric that could cause civil unrest.

Trump waved goodbye as he made his way out of the ballroom thronged by people recording the moment with their smartphones.

The crowd included supporters like failed Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake and longtime ally Roger Stone.

In a social media post from his plane on his flight home from New York, former President Donald Trump said that Tuesday's court hearing "was shocking to many in that they had no ‘surprises,’ and therefore, no case. Virtually every legal pundit has said that there is no case here. There was nothing done illegally!”

Trump's plane has landed in Florida, and his motorcade headed to his Mar-a-Lago resort where hundreds of supporters, many in red MAGA hats, awaited him in a grand ballroom. Trump was expected to speak there in a campaign-like setting.

One man wore a jacket patterned with star-shaped American flags, and another man wore a red tie with the message “No Crime!” Members of a motorcycle club sported black leather vests that read on the back “Born To Ride for 45 Donald Trump.” Trump was the 45th U.S. president.

Alex Gonzalez, a motorcycle club member, said he supports Trump in his 2024 presidential bid.

“If he did something wrong, like anybody else, he should be held liable for it, but at the same time this is a witch hunt. This is not a real case,” said Gonzalez.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680655057816.png" alt="photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>PALM BEACH (AP) — Flanked by American flags, former President Donald Trump delivered a campaign-style speech to cheering supporters at Mar-a-Lago Tuesday night.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Former President Trump: &quot;I never thought anything like this could happen in America...the only crime that I have committed is to fearlessly defend our nation from those who seek to destroy it.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/cgrftoXHH8">pic.twitter.com/cgrftoXHH8</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1643411610701053952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump was defiant, referring, among other things, to his two impeachment trials during his presidency and an ongoing probe into alleged attempts to interfere in that state’s 2020 presidential election. He called the New York indictment the latest in an "onslaught of fraudulent investigations.”“This fake case was brought only to interfere with the upcoming 2024 election and it should be dropped immediately," Trump said.He also lashed out at the prosecutor and the judge presiding over the New York case — despite being warned hours earlier by the judge to refrain from rhetoric that could cause civil unrest.Trump waved goodbye as he made his way out of the ballroom thronged by people recording the moment with their smartphones.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Former President Trump: &quot;There is no case....The criminal is the District Attorney because he illegally leaked massive amounts of grand jury information for which he should be prosecuted.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/6RfYpsNyBb">pic.twitter.com/6RfYpsNyBb</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1643418060659859461?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The crowd included supporters like failed Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake and longtime ally Roger Stone.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680658900981.png" alt="Donald Trump boards his plane for the flight back to Florida following his appearance in a New York courtroom -photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Donald Trump boards his plane for the flight back to Florida following his appearance in a New York courtroom -photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>In a social media post from his plane on his flight home from New York, former President Donald Trump said that Tuesday's court hearing "was shocking to many in that they had no ‘surprises,’ and therefore, no case. Virtually every legal pundit has said that there is no case here. There was nothing done illegally!”Trump's plane has landed in Florida, and his motorcade headed to his Mar-a-Lago resort where hundreds of supporters, many in red MAGA hats, awaited him in a grand ballroom. Trump was expected to speak there in a campaign-like setting.One man wore a jacket patterned with star-shaped American flags, and another man wore a red tie with the message “No Crime!” Members of a motorcycle club sported black leather vests that read on the back “Born To Ride for 45 Donald Trump.” Trump was the 45th U.S. president.Alex Gonzalez, a motorcycle club member, said he supports Trump in his 2024 presidential bid.“If he did something wrong, like anybody else, he should be held liable for it, but at the same time this is a witch hunt. This is not a real case,” said Gonzalez.

🎥 Trump defiant in speech following day in New York courtroom

OSAGE COUNTY–Authorities are investigating the cause of a rural Kansas house fire.

Just before 1p.m. Tuesday, the Osage County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call reporting a house on fire at 15092 S. Shawnee Heights Road, just north of Overbrook, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.

First responders found the house fully engulfed in flames. The residents were not home at the time of the fire. Several dogs and puppies did not make it out.

Additional assistance was provided by the American Red Cross and the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office.&nbsp; The sheriff's office has not released the cause of the fire or a damage estimate.

Osage County Fire Districts #4-Overbrook/Michigan Valley and #1-Carbondale, Osage County Sheriff’s Deputies, and Osage County EMS responded to the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional mutual aid was requested from Osage County Fire District #5-Lyndon/Vassar and Shawnee Heights Fire District.

OSAGE COUNTY–Authorities are investigating the cause of a rural Kansas house fire.Just before 1p.m. Tuesday, the Osage County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call reporting a house on fire at 15092 S. Shawnee Heights Road, just north of Overbrook, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.First responders found the house fully engulfed in flames. The residents were not home at the time of the fire. Several dogs and puppies did not make it out.Additional assistance was provided by the American Red Cross and the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office.&nbsp; The sheriff's office has not released the cause of the fire or a damage estimate.Osage County Fire Districts #4-Overbrook/Michigan Valley and #1-Carbondale, Osage County Sheriff’s Deputies, and Osage County EMS responded to the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional mutual aid was requested from Osage County Fire District #5-Lyndon/Vassar and Shawnee Heights Fire District.

Sheriff: Pets die in rural Kansas house fire

HARVEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating the death of a man found in a home east of Hesston died of an accidental drug overdose, according to Harvey County spokesperson&nbsp;Kyle McCaskey.

On March 30, the Sheriff’s Office and EMS were called to the home&nbsp;in the 8000 block of North West Road after two acquaintances found two men unresponsive in a home.

Emergency responders found one man dead inside the home. An investigation determined Ardell Jones, 48, of Newton, died of a drug overdose.

Emergency responders also found a 55-year-old man in critical condition due to drug use inside the home. Life-saving measures were performed on scene prior to the man being transported to an area hospital. He has since been released from the hospital. He is a resident of the home.

HARVEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating the death of a man found in a home east of Hesston died of an accidental drug overdose, according to Harvey County spokesperson&nbsp;Kyle McCaskey.On March 30, the Sheriff’s Office and EMS were called to the home&nbsp;in the 8000 block of North West Road after two acquaintances found two men unresponsive in a home.Emergency responders found one man dead inside the home. An investigation determined Ardell Jones, 48, of Newton, died of a drug overdose.Emergency responders also found a 55-year-old man in critical condition due to drug use inside the home. Life-saving measures were performed on scene prior to the man being transported to an area hospital. He has since been released from the hospital. He is a resident of the home.

Death at rural home near Hesston was drug overdose

2023 SENATE SCENE WEEK TWELVE&nbsp;

SENATE HIGHLIGHTS - WEEKLY OVERVIEW&nbsp;

The Kansas Senate completed a whirlwind three days of floor action debating more than 70 bills ending after 8 p.m. on Wednesday.&nbsp; Monday will start a four-day week to complete the regular part of the 2023 legislative session and head us towards first adjournment on Thursday.&nbsp; There are more than 40 bills in conference committees and next week’s work will primarily consist of voting on these conference committee reports.&nbsp; In this process, the committee chair, vice-chair and ranking member will gather from the House and Senate committees and hammer out the differences in bills. Conference committees will have until Thursday, April 6, to meet.&nbsp; A conference committee is a small, bipartisan, and bicameral committee that works to smooth out the differences between the House and Senate’s version of a similar bill.&nbsp; Once the conference committee reaches a compromise, the negotiated bill is sent to both the House and Senate for a final vote before advancing to the governor’s desk.&nbsp; After the conclusion of the regular session next week, the legislature is scheduled to take a two-week break before returning for the veto session in late April.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb291/" target="_blank">SB 291</a> would create the Kansas Public Investments and Contracts Protection Act and would amend law governing the Kansas Public Employees Retirement Fund investment standards to prohibit state agencies and other political subdivisions from giving preferential treatment to or discriminating against companies based on environmental, social, or governance (ESG).&nbsp; SB 291 passed 29-11. I voted yes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb300/" target="_blank">SB 300</a> would reduce tax rates for the financial institutions privilege tax. SB 300 passed 34-6.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/scr1610/" target="_blank">SCR 1610</a> would if adopted by a two-thirds majority of each chamber of the Kansas Legislature and approved by voters - would amend the Kansas Constitution to generally limit, for property tax purposes, the valuation growth of any real property to 3 percent per year.&nbsp; Exclusions include new construction or improvements that have been made and property transferred, changed, or conveyed to another person.&nbsp; Because it was a constitutional amendment, SCR 1610 needed 27 votes to pass.&nbsp; The vote was 26-14.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb265/" target="_blank">SB 265</a> would amend the crime of violating a protective order to establish penalties for repeat violations of such orders and would create law in the Kansas Code of Criminal Procedure requiring a defendant convicted of an offense causing death or incapacitation of a victim pay restitution in the form of child support to any minor child of such victim.&nbsp; SB 265 passed 40-0. I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2010/" target="_blank">Senate Sub. for HB 2010</a> would amend the definition of criminal discharge of a firearm by amending the definition of criminal discharge of a firearm to include the reckless and unauthorized discharge of any firearm at a motor vehicle in which there is a human being, regardless of whether the offender knows or has reason to know that a human being is present.&nbsp; Senate Sub HB 2010 passed 38-2. I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2127/" target="_blank">Senate Sub. for HB 2127</a> would allow the criminal prosecution for childhood sexual abuse to be commenced at any time and extend the time to file a civil action for recovery of damages resulting from childhood sexual abuse, and provide exceptions in the Kansas Tort Claims Act (KTCA) for claims arising from such abuse. Senate Sub. for HB 2127 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2292/" target="_blank">HB 2292</a> would create the Kansas Apprenticeship Act, which would establish a tax credit and grant incentive programs for apprenticeships.&nbsp; HB 2292 passed 30-7.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2053/" target="_blank">Senate Sub. for HB 2053</a> would amend election law to provide for a presidential preference primary to be held on March 19, 2024, and would establish voter registration and voting procedures for such election.&nbsp; Senate Sub. for HB 2053 passed 28-12.&nbsp; I voted no.&nbsp;&nbsp; The anticipated cost to this presidential primary is estimated at $5 million which I believe these funds can be used in a more efficient way for Kansas citizens.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2263/" target="_blank">HB 2263</a>&nbsp; The bill would add pharmacy technicians, at least 18 years of age and under the direct supervision and control of a pharmacist, to the list of those authorized to administer vaccinations after successfully completing a course of study and training in vaccination storage, protocols, injection technique, emergency procedures, recordkeeping, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The bill would create the Kansas Child Mutilation Prevention Act. The bill also would define childhood gender reassignment service as performing, or causing to be performed, certain acts listed in the bill upon a child under 18 years of age for the purpose of attempting to affirm the child’s perception of the child’s sex or gender if that perception is inconsistent with the child’s sex.&nbsp; HB 2263 passed 26-10.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb252/" target="_blank">SB 252</a> would limit government competition against the private sector by creating property and sales tax exemptions for certain businesses located in cities where a facility owned or operated by a governmental entity competes against the business.&nbsp; SB 252 passed 24-16. I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2138/" target="_blank">Senate Sub. for HB 2138</a> would require each school district board of education to adopt a policy requiring that separate overnight accommodations be provided for students of each biological sex during school district sponsored travel that requires overnight stays, and would address retaliation against a student who reports such violation. The bill would also provide for administrative review by the State Board of Education of resolutions adopted by local school boards to permanently close a school building.&nbsp; Senate Sub. for HB 2138 passed 2911.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2070/" target="_blank">Senate Sub. for HB 2070</a>&nbsp; establishes the office of the child advocate as an independent state agency.&nbsp; The Child Advocate would be established as the independent head of the Office of Child Advocate. The Child Advocate would be appointed by the Governor and subject to confirmation by the Senate.&nbsp; Senate Sub. for HB 2070 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2390/" target="_blank">Senate Sub. for HB 2390</a> would restrict the authority of the secretary of health and environment and local health officers to issue orders and quarantines.&nbsp; Senate Sub for HB 2390 passed 24-16.&nbsp; I voted no.&nbsp; This bill (SB#6) voted on earlier in session stills removes the collaboration between the Secretary of Agriculture and KDHE to monitor Avian influenza (bird flu) and hoof and mouth disease easily transmitted to humans (hand, foot, and mouth).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb314/" target="_blank">SB 314</a> would prohibit the Secretary of Health and Environment from requiring a COVID-19 vaccine for any child cared for in a childcare facility, any student enrolling or enrolled in a school for the first time in Kansas.&nbsp; SB 314 passed 24-16.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb315/" target="_blank">SB 315</a> would create an exemption provision to vaccine requirements for individuals at child care centers and schools for sincerely held religious beliefs, as defined by the bill, and no further inquiry of the sincerity of the belief would be allowed. SB 315 passed 22-18.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2264/" target="_blank">HB 2264</a> would establish the No Patient Left Alone Act.&nbsp; During COVID, Americans were subject to emotionally traumatizing situations where they couldn’t visit a loved one in a hospital, leaving them to suffer alone. This bill would establish who may visit a patient in a patient care facility and would require patient care facilities to provide for in-person visitation.&nbsp; HB 2264 passed 31-9.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb112/" target="_blank">SB 112</a> would permit a registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) to practice as an independent advanced registered nurse to the full extent of the scope of the licensee’s education and qualifications except for the performance of surgery for the purpose of implantation of medication reservoirs for drug delivery devices.&nbsp; SB 112 passed 33-6.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2304/" target="_blank">HB 2304</a> would create law related to firearm safety education programs conducted in public school districts. The bill would allow local school boards to provide firearm safety education programs. The State Board of Education would be directed to establish curriculum guidelines for a standardized firearm safety education program, which would be required to include accident prevention.&nbsp; HB 2304 passed 31-8.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2236/" target="_blank">HB 2236</a> would state that a parent has a right to direct the education, upbringing, and moral or religious training of their children. The bill would also direct local boards of education to adopt policies and procedures to guarantee the free exercise of these rights and establish a means by which a parent could remove their child from a lesson or class based upon objections to the course material.&nbsp; HB 2236 passed 23-17.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb297/" target="_blank">SB 297</a> would amend the definition of abortion and would adopt the definition of abortion uniformly for statutes pertaining to insurance coverage for elective abortions, abortion facility licensure, abortion of a pain-capable unborn child, the Kansas Unborn Child Protection from Dismemberment Abortion Act, and general abortion statutes addressing viability, restrictions and prohibitions, and information to be provided. The bill would clarify certain medical procedures and the prescription, dispensing, administration, sale, or use of any method of contraception would not to be considered an abortion.&nbsp; SB 297 passed 29-11.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2024/" target="_blank">HB 2024</a> would amend the Newborn Infant Protection Act within the Revised Kansas Code for Care of Children to provide an alternate means to legally surrender an infant pursuant to the Act.&nbsp; The bill would authorize a parent or other person who chooses to surrender physical custody of an infant to a newborn safety device, installed at a police station, sheriff’s office, law enforcement center, fire station, city or county health department, hospital, ambulatory surgical center, or recuperation center. HB 2024 passed 35-5.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2313/" target="_blank">HB 2313</a> would enact the Born-alive Infants Protection Act. To provide legal protections for infants who are born alive regardless of the intent of the delivery.&nbsp; The bill would require, in the event an abortion or attempted abortion results in a child being born alive, any health care provider present at the time the child is born alive to exercise the same degree of professional skill, care, and diligence, to preserve the life and health of the child as a reasonably diligent and conscientious health care provider would render to any other child born alive at the same gestational age; and ensure that the child who is born alive is immediately transported to a hospital. HB 2313 passed 31-9.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2325/" target="_blank">HB 2325</a> would amend the Health Care Provider Insurance Availability Act to add certain maternity centers to the definition of “health care provider” and to add facilities where elective abortions are performed to the list of entities that are not health care providers as defined in the bill, which would make such facilities ineligible to purchase professional liability insurance from the Health Care Stabilization Fund.&nbsp; HB 2325 passed 33-6.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb271/" target="_blank">SB 271</a> would add law regarding the maximum length of a train, distances between railroad crossings and rail cars stored on sidings, and enforcement of those provisions.&nbsp; SB 271 passed 27-13. I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb55/" target="_blank">Sub SB 55</a> would modify the property tax exemption for Strother Field airport to replace the condition to qualify for the exemption from being property owned by the airport.&nbsp; Sub SB 55 passed 27-11.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2096/" target="_blank">HB 2096</a> would amend provisions pertaining to premium taxes paid by municipal group-funded liability pools and group-funded workers’ compensation pools to change the basis upon which the premium taxes for these pools are calculated.&nbsp; HB 2096 passed 39-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2097/" target="_blank">HB 2097</a> would remove the requirement of a documented written demand from an insurance company for unpaid premiums by an agent or broker.&nbsp; HB 2097 passed 39-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2098/" target="_blank">HB 2098</a> would add “and any other legal entity under the jurisdiction of the commissioner” to the definition of “person” in a statute pertaining to enforcement of insurance laws. HB 2098 passed 39-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2100/" target="_blank">HB 2100</a> would amend the effective date specified in the Insurance Code for the risk-based capital (RBC) instructions promulgated by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners for property and casualty companies and for life insurance companies.&nbsp; HB 2100 passed 39-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2214/" target="_blank">HB 2214</a> would amend the definition of “correctional institution” in the Department of Corrections (KDOC) definitions statute. The amended definition would change the name of the Larned Correctional Mental Health to the Larned State Correctional Facility.&nbsp;&nbsp; HB 2214 passed 39-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2285/" target="_blank">HB 2285</a> would clarify the definition of “insurance company” and make other technical corrections and reconciling changes in the Insurance Code.&nbsp; HB 2285 passed 39-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2298/" target="_blank">HB 2298</a> would designate as the Donald Burton Gamblin Jr Memorial Highway the portion of I-435 in Johnson County from its junction with Shawnee Mission Parkway north to its junction with Holliday Drive.&nbsp; HB 2298 passed 39-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb147/" target="_blank">SB 147</a> would increase the Kansas tax credits for adoption expenses and child and dependent care expenses.&nbsp; SB 147 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2019/" target="_blank">HB 2019</a> would establish conditions in the Kansas Transportation Network Company Services Act for when a driver for a transportation network company (TNC) is an independent contractor.&nbsp; HB 2019 passed 29-11.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2039/" target="_blank">HB 2039</a> would require the Secretary of Wildlife and Parks to issue a free permanent hunting and fishing license to any person residing in the state upon providing proof to the Secretary that such person is a disabled veteran.&nbsp; HB 2039 passed 39-1.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2059/" target="_blank">HB 2059</a> would amend various provisions of the Kansas Liquor Control Act (KLCA) and Club and Drinking Establishment Act concerning samples and common consumption areas and the KLCA provisions concerning prohibited acts to allow alcoholic liquor or cereal malt beverages to be the prize of a charitable raffle.&nbsp; HB 2059 passed 35-5.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2080/" target="_blank">HB 2080</a> would enact law supplemental to the Virtual School Act to allow students enrolled full-time in a Kansas virtual school to take statewide assessments, required by state law, in a virtual setting.&nbsp; HB 2080 passed 34-5.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2082/" target="_blank">HB 2082</a> would authorize counties to create a Code Inspection and Enforcement Fund, a Municipalities Fight Addiction Fund, and expand the existing County Equipment Reserve Fund to include purchases of technology and technology services.&nbsp; HB 2082 passed 38-2.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2121/" target="_blank">Sub. for HB 2121</a> would amend law governing statutory speedy trial in the Kansas Code of Criminal Procedure. The bill would suspend statutory speedy trial rights for defendants in all criminal cases until March 1, 2024. [Note: Current law suspends statutory speedy trial rights until May 1, 2023.]&nbsp; Sub for HB 2121 passed 32-8.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2125/" target="_blank">HB 2125</a> would amend law related to tattooing, cosmetic tattooing, and body piercing and exempt adult care homes and long-term care units of a medical care facilities from statutes governing barbering and cosmetology. The bill would authorize the Kansas State Board of Cosmetology to create and issue charitable event permits and demonstration permits.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; HB 2125 passed 38-1.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2173/" target="_blank">HB 2173</a> would prohibit any state agency or local unit of government from prohibiting or restricting the use of any refrigerant approved for use under federal Safe Alternatives Policy (42 U.S. Code Section 7671k).&nbsp; HB 2173 passed 31-9. I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2196/" target="_blank">HB 2196</a> would expand the defined membership of the Deferred Retirement Option Program (DROP) to include any member of the Kansas Police and Firemen’s Retirement System who is eligible to participate and elects to participate in DROP. Under current law, a DROP participant can only include a trooper, examiner, or officer of the Kansas Highway Patrol or an agent of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI).&nbsp; HB 2196 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2226/" target="_blank">HB 2226</a> would amend the Kansas Underground Utility Damage Prevention Act regarding excavation notification and white lining [i.e., the marking of a site for excavation].&nbsp; HB 2226 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2234/" target="_blank">HB 2234</a> would increase the cost thresholds for state building projects at which a negotiating committee must be convened for the selection of architectural, engineering, or land surveying services to $1.5 million and provide for future increases to the thresholds.&nbsp; HB 2234 passed 36-4.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2240/" target="_blank">HB 2240</a> would amend the Revised Kansas Code for Care of Children to clarify and require the clerk of the district court to provide various parties with written notice when a child is placed in a qualified residential treatment program.&nbsp;&nbsp; HB 2240 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2269/" target="_blank">HB 2269</a> would amend the Kansas Cigarette and Tobacco Products Act to raise the minimum age to 21 to sell, purchase, and possess cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, and tobacco products.&nbsp; HB 2269 passed 28-11.&nbsp; I voted no.&nbsp; Current federal law passed in 2019 is age 21. &nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2284/" target="_blank">HB 2284</a> would amend law requiring certain municipalities to pay for the premiums for the continuation of insurance coverage under COBRA for the surviving spouse and eligible dependent children of a firefighter who dies in the line of duty.&nbsp; HB 2284 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2288/" target="_blank">HB 2288</a> would establish the Counseling Compact to facilitate interstate practice of licensed professional counselors. The bill would also amend law to add a licensure fee relating to the privilege to practice under the Compact. HB 2288 passed 36-4.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2322/" target="_blank">HB 2322</a> would amend provisions within the Special Education for Exceptional Children Act to define the term “emotional disability,” revise the definition of “children with disabilities” to include dyslexia, and replace the term “emotional disturbance” with “emotional disability.”&nbsp; HB 2322 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2335/" target="_blank">HB 2335</a> would authorize the Rail Service Improvement Fund to be used for qualified track maintenance and would increase transfers from the State Highway Fund to the Rail Service Improvement Fund from $5.0 million to $10.0 million annually, starting July 1, 2023.&nbsp; HB 2335 passed 38-2.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2375/" target="_blank">HB 2375</a> would create a new type of temporary license for certain applicants who have graduated from a social work program, including an online social work program, that is in candidacy from a national accrediting body recognized by the Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board.&nbsp; HB 2375 passed 39-1. I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb40/" target="_blank">SB 40</a> would allow taxpayers to subtract certain net operating losses in determining their Kansas adjusted gross income and would make changes to the Homestead Property Tax Refund Act.&nbsp; SB 40 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb287/" target="_blank">SB 287</a> would expand current provisions to permit the issuance of a silver alert for a missing person 18 years of age or older who has dementia, a developmental disability such as autism spectrum disorder, or a cognitive impairment.&nbsp; SB 287 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb301/" target="_blank">SB 301</a> would require elected and appointed officers of a governmental subdivision to file annual statements of substantial interest with the office where declarations of candidacy are required to be filed. Current law requires such officeholders to file statements only in a year in which their substantial interests change. Upon receipt of a statement of substantial interest, the receiving office would be required to submit a copy to the Secretary of State.&nbsp; SB 301 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb307/" target="_blank">SB 307</a> would amend the Kansas Fights Addiction Act (Act) to include for-profit private entities in the definition of “qualified applicant.” Under continuing law, the Act allows qualified applicants to apply for grants from the Kansas Fights Addiction Fund for projects and activities that prevent, reduce, treat, or mitigate the effects of substance abuse and addiction. These grant applications must be approved by the Kansas Fights Addiction Grant Review Board.&nbsp; SB 307 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2016/" target="_blank">Senate Sub. for HB 2016</a> would enact the Act Against Abusive Website Access Litigation to create a civil action for determining whether litigation that alleges any website access violation under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or similar law constitutes abusive litigation.&nbsp; Senate Sub for HB 2016 passed 35-5.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2027/" target="_blank">HB 2027</a> would amend the “slayer rule” to create a procedure to prevent the distribution of estate assets until the resolution of criminal proceedings involving a person who has interest in the estate and who has been arrested or charged with the felonious killing of the decedent.&nbsp; HB 2027 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2087/" target="_blank">HB 2087</a> would amend law regarding the selection of presidential electors, the day presidential electors meet and perform their required duties, and contests to the election of the presidential electors. HB 2087 passed 39-1.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2114/" target="_blank">HB 2114</a> would rename the Joint Committee on Corrections and Juvenile Justice Oversight to the J. Russell (Russ) Jennings Joint Committee on Corrections and Juvenile Justice Oversight. HB 2114 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2147/" target="_blank">HB 2147</a> would create law to require a public agency or towing or wrecking service lawfully selling an abandoned or towed motor vehicle to provide a certification to the purchaser that statutory recovery, storage, notification, and verification requirements associated with abandoned or towed vehicles have been satisfied, and that vehicle identification number inspection requirements have been met.&nbsp; HB 2147 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2160/" target="_blank">HB 2160</a> would amend secured load requirements for trucks, trailers, and semitrailers hauling cotton bales.&nbsp; The bill would clarify the cotton bales could be transported by the cotton producer intrastate from the place of production or storage to a market on the truck, trailer, or semitrailer equipped with cradles, and stakes, sideboards, or side posts that are no less than 12 inches high. HB 2160 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2170/" target="_blank">Senate Sub. for HB 2170</a> would create the Donor Intent Protection Act, which would provide legal recourse to an individual charitable donor when the donor’s gift restrictions are not followed by the recipient charitable organization.&nbsp; Senate Sub. for HB 2170 passed 31-8.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2225/" target="_blank">HB 2225</a> would amend law authorizing a Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC)-regulated utility to recover costs associated with the transmission of electric power through a transmission delivery charge.&nbsp; HB 2225 passed 37-2. I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2279/" target="_blank">HB 2279</a> would add sections to the Kansas Groundwater Management District Act to require groundwater management districts to submit annual reports to the Legislature with conservation and stabilization action plans to the Chief Engineer, Division of Water Resources, Kansas Department of Agriculture.&nbsp; HB 2279 passed 35-5. I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2290/" target="_blank">HB 2290</a> would authorize the affiliation of Northwest Kansas Technical College and North Central Kansas Technical College with Fort Hays State University (FHSU).&nbsp; HB 2290 passed 39-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2302/" target="_blank">Senate Sub. for HB 2302</a> would establish funding for the State Water Plan and water infrastructure projects, create the Water Technical Assistance Fund (Assistance Fund) and the Water Projects Grant Fund (Grant Fund), authorize the Kansas Water Office (KWO) to provide grants and adopt rules and regulations to establish criteria for grants, update reporting requirements for the Kansas Water Authority.&nbsp; Senate Sub. for HB 2302 passed 39-1.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2326/" target="_blank">HB 2326</a> would extend the sunset date on the Scrap Metal Theft Reduction Act from July 1, 2023, to July 1, 2028, and would specify “regulated scrap metal” under the Act includes catalytic converters, as defined by the bill.&nbsp; HB 2326 passed 39-1.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2346/" target="_blank">HB 2346</a> would authorize “back the blue” and City of Topeka distinctive license plates; require each license plate furnished to have the county of registration either printed or shown by decal affixed to the license plate and permit any distinctive license plate to also be a personalized plate.&nbsp; HB 2346 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2350/" target="_blank">HB 2350</a> would create the crimes of human smuggling and aggravated human smuggling, provide for criminal penalties, and make these provisions supplemental to the Kansas Criminal Code. HB 2350 passed 38-1.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2395/" target="_blank">HB 2395</a> would remove sunset provisions for confidentiality of certain records and would make those records permanent exceptions to the Kansas Open Records Act. The bill would also remove the requirement for legislative review of those exceptions prior to July 1, 2023. HB 2395 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2002/" target="_blank">HB 2002</a> would amend law related to the revenue neutral rate hearing notice, require property valuation notices to include additional information, permit the use of fee simple appraisals performed by Kansas Certified Residential Real Property Appraisers in certain valuation appeals, permit payment under protest appeals by taxpayers having already appealed their property valuation pursuant to an equalization appeal, and codify agricultural land adverse influences for property valuation purposes.&nbsp; HB 2002 passed 34-6.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2021/" target="_blank">HB 2021</a> would amend law regarding the provision of services to children in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems by requiring the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), the Department for Children and Families (DCF), and the Judicial Branch to collaborate when providing services. HB 2021 passed 40-0.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2060/" target="_blank">Senate Sub. for HB 2060</a> would make technical changes to law relating to the Drivers’ Training School License Act to ensure community colleges and other institutions receive payments from the State Safety Fund.&nbsp; Senate Sub. For HB 2060 passed 35-5.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2172/" target="_blank">HB 2172</a> would enact the Uniform Trust Decanting Act and would amend law in the Kansas Uniform Trust Code, Kansas Probate Code, and Kansas Income Tax Act with respect to the statutory rule against perpetuities, to make the RAP inapplicable in certain circumstances.&nbsp; HB 2172 passed 36-4.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2216/" target="_blank">HB 2216</a> would remove, for a first-time offender, the mandatory term of imprisonment for driving with a driver’s license that was canceled, suspended, or revoked for failure to appear in response to a traffic citation or failure to pay fines or otherwise comply with a traffic citation. Convictions for the offense would be subject to a mandatory fine of at least $100. [Note: Current law provides a mandatory fine of at least $100 and a minimum of five days’ imprisonment.]&nbsp; HB 2216 passed 34-6.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2323/" target="_blank">HB 2323</a> would regulate the process of property transfer agreements in Johnson County between a fire district and city, on land annexed by the city.&nbsp; HB 2323 passed 38-2.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2336/" target="_blank">HB 2336</a> would amend law pertaining to the issuance of general obligation bonds by the board of directors of airport authorities enacted under the Surplus Property and Public Airport Authority Act.&nbsp; HB 2336 passed 3010.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb208/" target="_blank">H Sub for SB 208</a> would amend provisions in the Campaign Finance Act on topics including procedures of the Kansas Governmental Ethics Commission (Commission) H Sub for SB 208 passed 27-12. Having already passed the House, it is now headed directly to the governor, who is expected to sign it.&nbsp; I voted yes.&nbsp;

Full texts of the bills and supplemental notes as well as the Final Action vote on these measures can be found at <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/" target="_blank">www.kslegislature.org</a>&nbsp;

Thank you for the honor of serving you!&nbsp;

Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol Building Room 223-E 300 SW 10th St. Topeka, KS 66612 <a href="mailto:elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov" target="_blank">elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov</a> 785-296-7389 <a href="https://elainebowers.com/" target="_blank">https://elainebowers.com/</a> <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a>

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: 2023 Senate Scene Week 12

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a&nbsp; wanted Kansas sex offender who surrendered after a standoff with police.

Just after 1a.m., Monday, police were dispatched to the 900 block of South Topeka in Wichita for an Assault with a weapon call, according to Officer Chad Ditch.

At the scene, police contacted a 28-year-old woman&nbsp;who stated she was battered and assaulted with a weapon by 51-year-old Jesse Camacho.

The investigation revealed that a physical disturbance occurred in the residence between Camacho and the victim. The victim was able to escape the residence and contact Police.

Officers learned that Camacho was absconding from Parole and attempted to contact him. He refused to exit the residence. Contact was made over the phone with Camacho by Police Supervisor who spoke to Camacho for several hours to have Camacho surrender peacefully. 

Camacho would eventually disconnect the call, but prior to hanging up, he informed the supervisor to not have officers come in because he had rigged the residence with explosives.

At this point, the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team was activated as well as the Wichita Police Dept. Crisis Negotiators. The residents around the home were notified of the danger and recommended they evacuate the area.

Several hours later Camacho was taken into custody on requested charges of Aggravated Assault/Domestic Violence, Battery/Domestic Violence and obstruction.&nbsp;&nbsp;Camacho has been registered as a sex offender for a 1997 conviction of aggravated indecent liberties with a child. He also has previous convictions for arson, making a false writing and failure to register as an offender, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections

Police found no explosives during the sweep of the residence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680624930971.png" alt="Camacho has been registered as a sex offender for a 1997 conviction of aggravated indecent liberties with a child. He also has previous convictions for arson, making a false writing and failure to register as an offender, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections-&nbsp; photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Camacho has been registered as a sex offender for a 1997 conviction of aggravated indecent liberties with a child. He also has previous convictions for arson, making a false writing and failure to register as an offender, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections-&nbsp; photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a&nbsp; wanted Kansas sex offender who surrendered after a standoff with police.Just after 1a.m., Monday, police were dispatched to the 900 block of South Topeka in Wichita for an Assault with a weapon call, according to Officer Chad Ditch.At the scene, police contacted a 28-year-old woman&nbsp;who stated she was battered and assaulted with a weapon by 51-year-old Jesse Camacho.The investigation revealed that a physical disturbance occurred in the residence between Camacho and the victim. The victim was able to escape the residence and contact Police.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680555828191.png" alt="Police on the scene of the standoff Monday -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the standoff Monday -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>Officers learned that Camacho was absconding from Parole and attempted to contact him. He refused to exit the residence. Contact was made over the phone with Camacho by Police Supervisor who spoke to Camacho for several hours to have Camacho surrender peacefully. Camacho would eventually disconnect the call, but prior to hanging up, he informed the supervisor to not have officers come in because he had rigged the residence with explosives.At this point, the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team was activated as well as the Wichita Police Dept. Crisis Negotiators. The residents around the home were notified of the danger and recommended they evacuate the area.Several hours later Camacho was taken into custody on requested charges of Aggravated Assault/Domestic Violence, Battery/Domestic Violence and obstruction.&nbsp;&nbsp;Camacho has been registered as a sex offender for a 1997 conviction of aggravated indecent liberties with a child. He also has previous convictions for arson, making a false writing and failure to register as an offender, according to the Kansas Dept. of CorrectionsPolice found no explosives during the sweep of the residence.

Standoff arrest: Kan. sex offender claimed house had explosives

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

On March 26, 2023, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a home burglary in southwest Shawnee County that had occurred sometime during the previous week while the owner was out of the state, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

Two all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) were reported stolen. During the investigation, detectives discovered information regarding possible suspects.

On March 30, a detective and a deputy arrived at a residence in the 1700 block of SW Green Acres Avenue and arrested Bryan T. Gerety, 34, of Topeka. He was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and conspiracy.

Later that day, the same detective and deputy arrived at a residence in the 3600 block of SE 9th Street and arrested Bren M. Cowles, 36, of Topeka on requested charges with possession of methamphetamine, conspiracy, burglary and theft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680635171313.png" alt="Gerety-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Gerety-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary and have two suspects in custodyOn March 26, 2023, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a home burglary in southwest Shawnee County that had occurred sometime during the previous week while the owner was out of the state, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.Two all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) were reported stolen. During the investigation, detectives discovered information regarding possible suspects.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680635018929.png" alt="Cowles-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Cowles-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>On March 30, a detective and a deputy arrived at a residence in the 1700 block of SW Green Acres Avenue and arrested Bryan T. Gerety, 34, of Topeka. He was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and conspiracy.Later that day, the same detective and deputy arrived at a residence in the 3600 block of SE 9th Street and arrested Bren M. Cowles, 36, of Topeka on requested charges with possession of methamphetamine, conspiracy, burglary and theft.

Sheriff investigating 2 Kansas men for an alleged rural burglary

NEW YORK (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;conspired to illegally influence the 2016 election through a series of hush money payments designed to stifle claims that could be harmful to his candidacy, prosecutors said Tuesday in unsealing a historic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indictment-full-document-640043319549?utm_source=homepage&amp;utm_medium=RelatedStories&amp;utm_campaign=position_02">34-count felony indictment</a>&nbsp;against the former president.

<a href="https://www.manhattanda.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Donald-J.-Trump-SOF.pdf">CLICK here to read </a>the indictment

The payments, said Assistant District Attorney Christopher Conroy, were part of “an unlawful plan to identify and suppress negative information that could have undermined his campaign for president.”

Trump, stone-faced and silent as he entered and exited the Manhattan courtroom, said “not guilty” in a firm voice while facing a judge who warned him to refrain from rhetoric that could inflame or cause civil unrest.

The next court date is December 4, though it is not clear if he will be required to appear.

The broad contours of the case have long been known, but indictment contains new details about a scheme that prosecutors say involved payoffs to two women, including a porn star, who said they had extramarital sexual encounters with him years earlier, as well as to a Trump Tower doorman who claimed to have a story about a child he alleged the former president had out of of wedlock.

The arraignment, though largely procedural in nature, amounts to a remarkable reckoning for Trump after years of investigations into his personal, business and political dealings. The case is unfolding against the backdrop not only of his third campaign for the White House but also against other investigations in Washington and Atlanta that might yet produce even more charges.

Trump, his lips pursed in apparent anger, entered the courtroom shortly before 2:30 p.m. He left court about an hour later, also without commenting. All told, the typically verbose Trump spoke only about 10 words during the entire proceeding.

Before the arraignment, he narrated his feelings in real time, describing the experience as “SURREAL” as he traveled from Trump Tower to lower Manhattan to face a judge.

The day's schedule, with its striking blend of legal and political events, represents the new split-screen reality for Trump as he submits to the dour demands of the American criminal justice system while projecting an aura of defiance and victimhood at celebratory campaign events.

Wearing his signature dark suit and red tie, Trump turned and waved to crowds outside the building before heading inside to be fingerprinted and processed. He arrived at court in an eight-car motorcade from Trump Tower, communicating in real time his anger at the process.

“Heading to Lower Manhattan, the Courthouse," he posted on his Truth Social platform. "Seems so SURREAL — WOW, they are going to ARREST ME. Can’t believe this is happening in America. MAGA!”

Afterward, Trump lawyer Todd Blanche told reporters that it was a “sad day for the country.”

“You don’t expect this to happen to somebody who was president of the United States," he said.

Trump, who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-impeachment-vote-capitol-siege-0a6f2a348a6e43f27d5e1dc486027860">impeached twice</a>&nbsp;by the U.S. House but was never convicted in the U.S. Senate, is the first former president to face criminal charges. The nation's 45th commander in chief was escorted from Trump Tower to the courthouse by the Secret Service.

“He is strong and ready to go,” Trump lawyer Joe Tacopina told The Associated Press. Earlier, Tacopina said in a TV interview that the former president wouldn't plead guilty to lesser charges, even if it might resolve the case. He also said he didn't think the case would make it to a jury.

New York police said they were ready for large protests by Trump supporters, who share the Republican former president’s belief that the New York grand jury indictment and three additional pending investigations are politically motivated and intended to weaken&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-2024-updates-cd5339d48064a149527e8f9a1aa7614e">his bid to retake the White House</a>&nbsp;in 2024. Journalists often outnumbered protesters, though.

Trump, a former reality TV star, has been hyping that narrative to his political advantage, saying he raised more than $8 million in the days since the indictment on claims of a “witch hunt.” His campaign released a fundraising request titled “My last email before arrest” and he has repeatedly assailed Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, egged on supporters to protest and claimed without evidence that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indictment-new-york-judge-merchan-arraignment-032a097661c259709a948ce0e70a872a">the judge presiding over the case</a>&nbsp;“hates me” — something his own lawyer has said is not true.

Trump was scheduled to return to his Palm Beach, Florida, home,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-donald-trump-mar-a-lago-ap-top-news-politics-993263aaefab49a7988bb4ccb808791d">Mar-a-Lago</a>, on Tuesday evening to give remarks. At least 500 prominent supporters have been invited, with some of the most pro-Trump congressional Republicans expected to attend.

A conviction would not prevent Trump from running for or winning the presidency in 2024.

The investigation is scrutinizing six-figure payments made to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cohen-stormy-daniels-grand-jury-d48153fc2d3fe7a656e8a24ad1acd082">porn actor Stormy Daniels</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-donald-trump-ap-top-news-ca-state-wire-lawsuits-d8f22980841e44939399ae7179a4d583">former Playboy model Karen McDougal</a>. Both say they had sexual encounters with the married Trump years before he got into politics. Trump denies having sexual liaisons with either woman and has denied any wrongdoing involving payments.

The arraignment unfolded against the backdrop of heavy security in New York, coming more than two years after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-stormed-us-34417ac51a765e297faf53eb0ad15517">Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol</a>&nbsp;in a failed bid to halt the congressional certification of Democrat Joe Biden’s win.

Trump was defiant ahead of his arraignment. He used his social media network to complain that he was going to court in a heavily Democratic area, declaring, “KANGAROO COURT” and “THIS IS NOT WHAT AMERICA WAS SUPPOSED TO BE!” He and his campaign have repeatedly assailed Bragg and even trained scrutiny on members of Bragg's family.

Despite that, the scenes around Trump Tower and the courthouse where Trump will stand before a judge did not feature major unrest. Police tried to keep apart protesters supporting the former president and those opposing him by confining them to separate sides of a park near the courthouse using metal barricades.

Georgia Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, one of Trump’s staunchest supporters in Congress, staged a brief rally at the park, but the scene was so chaotic that it was hard to hear her over the crush of reporters and protesters.

“We’re the party of peace,” Greene said, thanking those Trump supporters present. “Democrats are communists.”

Embattled Republican New York Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-ethics-republicans-congress-898cc3e7e6af8659f9c6249f187362d4">George Santos</a>&nbsp;also showed up in solidarity with Trump, saying, “I want to support the president."

“I think this is unprecedented and it’s a bad day for democracy,” Santos said, suggesting that future prosecutors could target Biden and other presidents with other cases, which “cheapens the judicial system.”

New York’s ability to carry out safe and drama-free courthouse proceedings in a case involving a polarizing ex-president could be an important test case as prosecutors in Atlanta and Washington conduct their own investigations of Trump that could also result in charges. Those investigations concern efforts to undo&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-wins-white-house-ap-fd58df73aa677acb74fce2a69adb71f9">the 2020 election results</a>&nbsp;as well as the possible mishandling of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-united-states-government-indiana-donald-trump-laptops-91b5b16807b533b3ff27e9303aef38ae">classified documents</a>&nbsp;at Mar-a-Lago.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680634153416.png" alt="Former President Donald Trump sits at the defense table with his defense team in a Manhattan court, Tuesday, April 4, 2023, in New York. Trump is set to appear in a New York City courtroom on charges related to falsifying business records in a hush money investigation, the first president ever to be charged with a crime. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)" />
 <figcaption>Former President Donald Trump sits at the defense table with his defense team in a Manhattan court, Tuesday, April 4, 2023, in New York. Trump is set to appear in a New York City courtroom on charges related to falsifying business records in a hush money investigation, the first president ever to be charged with a crime. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;conspired to illegally influence the 2016 election through a series of hush money payments designed to stifle claims that could be harmful to his candidacy, prosecutors said Tuesday in unsealing a historic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indictment-full-document-640043319549?utm_source=homepage&amp;utm_medium=RelatedStories&amp;utm_campaign=position_02">34-count felony indictment</a>&nbsp;against the former president.<a href="https://www.manhattanda.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Donald-J.-Trump-SOF.pdf">CLICK here to read </a>the indictmentThe payments, said Assistant District Attorney Christopher Conroy, were part of “an unlawful plan to identify and suppress negative information that could have undermined his campaign for president.”Trump, stone-faced and silent as he entered and exited the Manhattan courtroom, said “not guilty” in a firm voice while facing a judge who warned him to refrain from rhetoric that could inflame or cause civil unrest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680641882182.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WATCH: Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg news conference on the arraignment of former President Donald Trump. <a href="https://t.co/DNhXRbLbvU">https://t.co/DNhXRbLbvU</a> <a href="https://t.co/QIxbtqsNcC">pic.twitter.com/QIxbtqsNcC</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1643370653209305092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The next court date is December 4, though it is not clear if he will be required to appear.The broad contours of the case have long been known, but indictment contains new details about a scheme that prosecutors say involved payoffs to two women, including a porn star, who said they had extramarital sexual encounters with him years earlier, as well as to a Trump Tower doorman who claimed to have a story about a child he alleged the former president had out of of wedlock.The arraignment, though largely procedural in nature, amounts to a remarkable reckoning for Trump after years of investigations into his personal, business and political dealings. The case is unfolding against the backdrop not only of his third campaign for the White House but also against other investigations in Washington and Atlanta that might yet produce even more charges.Trump, his lips pursed in apparent anger, entered the courtroom shortly before 2:30 p.m. He left court about an hour later, also without commenting. All told, the typically verbose Trump spoke only about 10 words during the entire proceeding.Before the arraignment, he narrated his feelings in real time, describing the experience as “SURREAL” as he traveled from Trump Tower to lower Manhattan to face a judge.The day's schedule, with its striking blend of legal and political events, represents the new split-screen reality for Trump as he submits to the dour demands of the American criminal justice system while projecting an aura of defiance and victimhood at celebratory campaign events.Wearing his signature dark suit and red tie, Trump turned and waved to crowds outside the building before heading inside to be fingerprinted and processed. He arrived at court in an eight-car motorcade from Trump Tower, communicating in real time his anger at the process.“Heading to Lower Manhattan, the Courthouse," he posted on his Truth Social platform. "Seems so SURREAL — WOW, they are going to ARREST ME. Can’t believe this is happening in America. MAGA!”Afterward, Trump lawyer Todd Blanche told reporters that it was a “sad day for the country.”“You don’t expect this to happen to somebody who was president of the United States," he said.Trump, who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-impeachment-vote-capitol-siege-0a6f2a348a6e43f27d5e1dc486027860">impeached twice</a>&nbsp;by the U.S. House but was never convicted in the U.S. Senate, is the first former president to face criminal charges. The nation's 45th commander in chief was escorted from Trump Tower to the courthouse by the Secret Service.“He is strong and ready to go,” Trump lawyer Joe Tacopina told The Associated Press. Earlier, Tacopina said in a TV interview that the former president wouldn't plead guilty to lesser charges, even if it might resolve the case. He also said he didn't think the case would make it to a jury.New York police said they were ready for large protests by Trump supporters, who share the Republican former president’s belief that the New York grand jury indictment and three additional pending investigations are politically motivated and intended to weaken&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-2024-updates-cd5339d48064a149527e8f9a1aa7614e">his bid to retake the White House</a>&nbsp;in 2024. Journalists often outnumbered protesters, though.Trump, a former reality TV star, has been hyping that narrative to his political advantage, saying he raised more than $8 million in the days since the indictment on claims of a “witch hunt.” His campaign released a fundraising request titled “My last email before arrest” and he has repeatedly assailed Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, egged on supporters to protest and claimed without evidence that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indictment-new-york-judge-merchan-arraignment-032a097661c259709a948ce0e70a872a">the judge presiding over the case</a>&nbsp;“hates me” — something his own lawyer has said is not true.Trump was scheduled to return to his Palm Beach, Florida, home,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-donald-trump-mar-a-lago-ap-top-news-politics-993263aaefab49a7988bb4ccb808791d">Mar-a-Lago</a>, on Tuesday evening to give remarks. At least 500 prominent supporters have been invited, with some of the most pro-Trump congressional Republicans expected to attend.A conviction would not prevent Trump from running for or winning the presidency in 2024.The investigation is scrutinizing six-figure payments made to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cohen-stormy-daniels-grand-jury-d48153fc2d3fe7a656e8a24ad1acd082">porn actor Stormy Daniels</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-donald-trump-ap-top-news-ca-state-wire-lawsuits-d8f22980841e44939399ae7179a4d583">former Playboy model Karen McDougal</a>. Both say they had sexual encounters with the married Trump years before he got into politics. Trump denies having sexual liaisons with either woman and has denied any wrongdoing involving payments.The arraignment unfolded against the backdrop of heavy security in New York, coming more than two years after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-stormed-us-34417ac51a765e297faf53eb0ad15517">Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol</a>&nbsp;in a failed bid to halt the congressional certification of Democrat Joe Biden’s win.Trump was defiant ahead of his arraignment. He used his social media network to complain that he was going to court in a heavily Democratic area, declaring, “KANGAROO COURT” and “THIS IS NOT WHAT AMERICA WAS SUPPOSED TO BE!” He and his campaign have repeatedly assailed Bragg and even trained scrutiny on members of Bragg's family.Despite that, the scenes around Trump Tower and the courthouse where Trump will stand before a judge did not feature major unrest. Police tried to keep apart protesters supporting the former president and those opposing him by confining them to separate sides of a park near the courthouse using metal barricades.Georgia Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, one of Trump’s staunchest supporters in Congress, staged a brief rally at the park, but the scene was so chaotic that it was hard to hear her over the crush of reporters and protesters.“We’re the party of peace,” Greene said, thanking those Trump supporters present. “Democrats are communists.”Embattled Republican New York Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-ethics-republicans-congress-898cc3e7e6af8659f9c6249f187362d4">George Santos</a>&nbsp;also showed up in solidarity with Trump, saying, “I want to support the president."“I think this is unprecedented and it’s a bad day for democracy,” Santos said, suggesting that future prosecutors could target Biden and other presidents with other cases, which “cheapens the judicial system.”New York’s ability to carry out safe and drama-free courthouse proceedings in a case involving a polarizing ex-president could be an important test case as prosecutors in Atlanta and Washington conduct their own investigations of Trump that could also result in charges. Those investigations concern efforts to undo&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-wins-white-house-ap-fd58df73aa677acb74fce2a69adb71f9">the 2020 election results</a>&nbsp;as well as the possible mishandling of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-united-states-government-indiana-donald-trump-laptops-91b5b16807b533b3ff27e9303aef38ae">classified documents</a>&nbsp;at Mar-a-Lago.___

🎥Read the full indictment against the former President 

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas bill that would bar transgender people from using public bathrooms or changing their name or gender on their driver's license cleared the GOP-controlled Legislature on Tuesday by margins suggesting backers could override Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s expected veto.

The state Senate voted 28-12 with one vote more than a two-thirds majority that would be needed to overturn any veto, giving final passage to an earlier House-passed version of the legislation and sending it to the governor.

The measure deals with bathrooms, locker rooms and other facilities, and defines “sex” as “either male or female, at birth,” a move LGBTQ+-rights advocates said would legally erase transgender people and deny recognition to non-binary, gender fluid and gender non-conforming people.

The sweeping transgender bill, one of the broadest of its kind in the nation, is among several hundred measures aimed at rolling back LGBTQ rights pursued by Republicans this year across the United States.

Seven states elsewhere have enacted laws banning transgender students from using school bathrooms and locker rooms associated with their gender identities, most recently Kentucky. However, the Kansas measure also covers prisons, jails, rape crisis centers, domestic violence shelters and other spaces “where biology, safety or privacy” prompt separate facilities for men and women. It defines male and female based on a person’s physical anatomy at birth.

“I am what they are scared of,” Ian Benalcazar, a 13-year-old transgender boy from Lawrence in northeast Kansas said at a recent LGBTQ-rights rally outside the Statehouse. “I am a human being and I deserve to be treated as such, and I deserve to be happy. I shouldn’t have to argue for this."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680642960114.png" alt="Ian Benalcazar, a 13-year-old transgender boy from Lawrence, Kan., speaks outside the Kansas Statehouse during a rally on Transgender Day of Visibility, Friday(Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Ian Benalcazar, a 13-year-old transgender boy from Lawrence, Kan., speaks outside the Kansas Statehouse during a rally on Transgender Day of Visibility, Friday(Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas bill that would bar transgender people from using public bathrooms or changing their name or gender on their driver's license cleared the GOP-controlled Legislature on Tuesday by margins suggesting backers could override Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s expected veto.The state Senate voted 28-12 with one vote more than a two-thirds majority that would be needed to overturn any veto, giving final passage to an earlier House-passed version of the legislation and sending it to the governor.The measure deals with bathrooms, locker rooms and other facilities, and defines “sex” as “either male or female, at birth,” a move LGBTQ+-rights advocates said would legally erase transgender people and deny recognition to non-binary, gender fluid and gender non-conforming people.The sweeping transgender bill, one of the broadest of its kind in the nation, is among several hundred measures aimed at rolling back LGBTQ rights pursued by Republicans this year across the United States.Seven states elsewhere have enacted laws banning transgender students from using school bathrooms and locker rooms associated with their gender identities, most recently Kentucky. However, the Kansas measure also covers prisons, jails, rape crisis centers, domestic violence shelters and other spaces “where biology, safety or privacy” prompt separate facilities for men and women. It defines male and female based on a person’s physical anatomy at birth.“I am what they are scared of,” Ian Benalcazar, a 13-year-old transgender boy from Lawrence in northeast Kansas said at a recent LGBTQ-rights rally outside the Statehouse. “I am a human being and I deserve to be treated as such, and I deserve to be happy. I shouldn’t have to argue for this."The Kansas bill's supporters framed their measure as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-kansas-state-government-arkansas-health-8f2edaa40b962e5642e108b83bc14246">a proposed “Women's Bill of Rights,”</a>&nbsp;similar to measures introduced in Congress and at least five other states. It was based on language circulated by several national anti-trans groups.Senate President Ty Masterson, a Wichita-area Republican, said lawmakers are trying to protect families amid what people see as a small but growing number of cases of transgender girls or women using facilities with cisgendered girls or women.“People are starting to pay attention,” Masterson said. “There have been enough problems that several members of our body are interested in finding solutions.”The state Senate vote on Tuesday approved a version of the bill passed by the House last week, advancing it to the governor's desk.House members included provisions requiring accommodations for some intersex people, who are born with chromosomes, genitalia, or reproductive organs not associated with typical definitions for males or females.The House vote last month&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/vote_view/je_20230329110115_832522/">was 83-41,</a>&nbsp;one vote shy of the two-thirds majority necessary to override a veto, but one conservative Republican who is likely to support the bill was absent.Kelly vetoed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-rights-athletes-ban-kansas-711e121ea0ab00653d61f9dadf9b9c0e">a proposed ban on transgender athletes</a>&nbsp;in girls' and women's sports this year for the third year in a row. Republican lawmakers in Kansas also are pursuing a bill aimed at stopping gender-affirming care for minors, something at least 11 states have done.The governor promised LGBTQ youth lobbying lawmakers last week that she would “protect your rights” and "veto any bill that aims to harm or discriminate against you.”The measure now headed to Kelly would declare that legally, “sex” means “biological” sex, “either male or female, at birth.” It says females have a reproductive system “developed to produce ova,” while males have one “developed to fertilize the ova.”The measure says having separate spaces for men and women, such as bathrooms and locker rooms, is justified by “the important governmental objectives of protecting the health, safety and privacy.”“This will protect women's spaces currently reserved for women and and men's spaces currently reserved for men,” House Health Committee Chair Brenda Landwehr, a Wichita Republican, said in explaining her “yes” vote for the bill last week.Doctors say reproductive anatomy at birth doesn’t always align with strict definitions of sex and that binary views of sexual identity can miss biological nuances.Carson Rapp, a Wichita-area 15-year-old who identifies as bigender or embracing “both more masculine and more feminine traits," said people expressing their gender identities don't harm others.“Why stop people from doing it if they’re just being themselves and having fun and expressing themselves?” Carson said during last week's LGBTQ-youth lobbying day.LGBTQ-rights advocates say having a driver’s license or birth certificate confirm a transgender person’s identity is important by itself but also can prevent daily hassles or harassment. The bill’s language would prevent transgender people from changing both driver's licenses and birth certificates, but Kansas is under a 2019 federal court order to allow birth certificate changes.Carson's father, Will Rapp, the Kansas managing director for GLSEN, a group advocating for LGBTQ youth, said it's discouraging to see lawmakers pursue what he sees as “pretty awful” legislation.But he added: “I would like to think that if they were to get to know these young people, that would change their hearts, and we will always have hope for that.”___