By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Police are investigating alleged arson in which a loud explosion damaged a residence in west-central Salina late Thursday night.

A 29-year-old Salina man told police that he was awakened by a loud explosion that broke the glass on his front porch light as well as drywall inside his residence in the 500 block of S. College Avenue, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester. The incident occurred at approximately 11:50 p.m.

Video from the man's surveillance camera shows a large cloud of smoke from his front porch.

Surveillance video from the neighborhood shows a man who was walking down the street throw an object on the front porch and then run southbound from the area. The explosion is then seen on the video, Forrester said. Other surveillance video from the area is being reviewed, he added. Damage to the light and drywall was estimated at $150.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostPolice are investigating alleged arson in which a loud explosion damaged a residence in west-central Salina late Thursday night.A 29-year-old Salina man told police that he was awakened by a loud explosion that broke the glass on his front porch light as well as drywall inside his residence in the 500 block of S. College Avenue, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester. The incident occurred at approximately 11:50 p.m.Video from the man's surveillance camera shows a large cloud of smoke from his front porch.Surveillance video from the neighborhood shows a man who was walking down the street throw an object on the front porch and then run southbound from the area. The explosion is then seen on the video, Forrester said. Other surveillance video from the area is being reviewed, he added. Damage to the light and drywall was estimated at $150.

Police investigate possible arson after explosion near Salina home

WASHINGTON (AP) — For the second time this month, House Republicans are seeking to restrict presidential use of the nation’s emergency oil stockpile — a proposal that has already drawn a White House veto threat.

A GOP bill set for a vote Friday would require the government to offset any non-emergency withdrawals from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve with new drilling on public lands and oceans. Republicans accuse President Joe Biden of abusing the reserve for political reasons to keep gas prices low, while Biden says tapping the reserve was needed last year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-business-europe-3e1808077371b88ae043c86584763afd">in response to a ban on Russian oil imports following President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.</a>

Biden withdrew 180 million barrels from the strategic reserve over several months, bringing the stockpile to its lowest level since the 1980s. The administration said last month it will start to replenish the reserve now that oil prices have gone down.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre attacked the latest GOP proposal, which follows a bill approved two weeks ago that would prohibit the Energy Department from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-politics-united-states-government-us-republican-party-china-92863d8d03fe2cd9b1994e0f1f5579a6">selling oil from the strategic reserve to companies owned or influenced by the Chinese Communist Party.</a>

“House Republicans will vote to raise gas prices on American families ... and help Putin's war aims by interfering with our ability to release oil,'' Jean-Pierre said, referring to the current GOP bill. "These extreme policies would subject working families to immense financial pain and balloon our deficit, all just to benefit the wealthiest taxpayers and big corporations.''

Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, appearing with Jean-Pierre at the White House, said the bill would make it ”harder to offer Americans relief in the future" from oil disruptions that could raise prices.

Republican Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, who chairs the House Energy and Commerce Committee and sponsored the GOP bill, accused Granholm and the White House of multiple misleading claims, including an erroneous assertion that the bill could affect use of the reserve during a presidentially declared emergency.

“At a time when gas prices are on the rise, Secretary Granholm and the Biden administration need to be transparent with the American people about their efforts to cover up how they’ve abused the Strategic Petroleum Reserve as an election-year gimmick,'' McMorris Rodgers said.

"Republicans want durable, long-lasting relief at the pump. The best way to do this is by unleashing American energy,'' which her legislation helps accomplish, added McMorris Rodgers, of Washington state.

The heated rhetoric is part of a larger fight over oil drilling and climate change. Republicans say restrictions on oil leasing imposed by the Biden administration hamper U.S. energy production and harm the economy, while Democrats tout&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-science-congress-climate-and-environment-f084d23d61ebb068068d4aa92c82fdbb">a sweeping climate law approved last year</a>&nbsp;as a crucial step to wean the nation off fossil fuels such as oil, coal and natural gas. The measure authorizes billions in spending to boost renewable energy such as wind and solar power and includes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-politics-united-states-government-business-climate-and-environment-f145b24414ff245f491fd68257b3db60">incentives for Americans to buy millions of electric cars, heat pumps, solar panels and more efficient appliances.</a>

Biden, citing the dangers of climate change, canceled the controversial Keystone XL oil pipeline in his first days in office and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/why-is-biden-halting-federal-oil-and-gas-sales-b8f03552c2c2fa7ec0dfc5debeb3f882">suspended new oil and gas leases on federal lands.</a>&nbsp;The moratorium has since been lifted, under court order, but Republicans complain that lease sales for new drilling rights are still limited.

Biden campaigned on pledges to end new drilling on public lands, and climate activists have pushed him to move faster to shut down oil leasing. Fossil fuels extracted from public lands account for about 20% of energy-related U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, making them a prime target for emissions reductions intended to slow global warming.

“Whether on land or at sea, oil drilling poses an unacceptable risk for our wildlife, wild places and waterways,'' said Lisa Frank of Environment America, an advocacy group. “When we drill, we spill. At a time when we should be moving away from this destructive, dangerous practice — and expanding use of renewable power — this bill doubles down on the outmoded energy of the past.''

Frank urged lawmakers to reject the GOP bill and instead move to permanently ban new drilling off U.S. coasts and in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

Conservative and industry groups support the bill.

“We can continue making the Strategic Petroleum Reserve the nation’s sole response to future disruptions, or we can also utilize more of the vast oil supplies sitting beneath the lands and offshore areas currently kept off limits by the president,'' the Competitive Enterprise Institute and other conservative groups said in a letter to Congress.

The Treasury Department estimates that release of oil from the emergency stockpile lowered prices at the pump by up to 40 cents per gallon. Gasoline prices averaged about $3.50 per gallon on Thursday, down from just over $5 per gallon at their peak in June, according to the AAA auto club.

Morris Rodgers accused Biden of using the reserve to “cover up his failed policies" that she said are driving up energy prices and inflation. Average gas prices are up more than 30 cents from a month ago and are higher than when Biden took office in January 2021, she and other Republicans noted.

“Millions of Americans are paying more at the pump as a result of the Biden administration’s radical ‘rush-to-green’ agenda that has shut down American energy,'' McMorris Rodgers said.

Granholm, citing thousands of unused leases by oil companies, said GOP claims of obstructionism on drilling were off-base. "There's nothing standing in the way of domestic oil and gas production,'' she said, a claim McMorris Rodgers disputed.

"There are plenty of barriers to unleashing domestic oil and gas production, including burdensome regulations and this administration’s discouragement of financial investment in domestic oil and gas industries,'' she said, noting that U.S. oil production is well below its 2019 peak of 13 million barrels of oil a day.

WASHINGTON (AP) — For the second time this month, House Republicans are seeking to restrict presidential use of the nation’s emergency oil stockpile — a proposal that has already drawn a White House veto threat.A GOP bill set for a vote Friday would require the government to offset any non-emergency withdrawals from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve with new drilling on public lands and oceans. Republicans accuse President Joe Biden of abusing the reserve for political reasons to keep gas prices low, while Biden says tapping the reserve was needed last year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-business-europe-3e1808077371b88ae043c86584763afd">in response to a ban on Russian oil imports following President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.</a>Biden withdrew 180 million barrels from the strategic reserve over several months, bringing the stockpile to its lowest level since the 1980s. The administration said last month it will start to replenish the reserve now that oil prices have gone down.White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre attacked the latest GOP proposal, which follows a bill approved two weeks ago that would prohibit the Energy Department from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-politics-united-states-government-us-republican-party-china-92863d8d03fe2cd9b1994e0f1f5579a6">selling oil from the strategic reserve to companies owned or influenced by the Chinese Communist Party.</a>“House Republicans will vote to raise gas prices on American families ... and help Putin's war aims by interfering with our ability to release oil,'' Jean-Pierre said, referring to the current GOP bill. "These extreme policies would subject working families to immense financial pain and balloon our deficit, all just to benefit the wealthiest taxpayers and big corporations.''Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, appearing with Jean-Pierre at the White House, said the bill would make it ”harder to offer Americans relief in the future" from oil disruptions that could raise prices.Republican Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, who chairs the House Energy and Commerce Committee and sponsored the GOP bill, accused Granholm and the White House of multiple misleading claims, including an erroneous assertion that the bill could affect use of the reserve during a presidentially declared emergency.“At a time when gas prices are on the rise, Secretary Granholm and the Biden administration need to be transparent with the American people about their efforts to cover up how they’ve abused the Strategic Petroleum Reserve as an election-year gimmick,'' McMorris Rodgers said."Republicans want durable, long-lasting relief at the pump. The best way to do this is by unleashing American energy,'' which her legislation helps accomplish, added McMorris Rodgers, of Washington state.The heated rhetoric is part of a larger fight over oil drilling and climate change. Republicans say restrictions on oil leasing imposed by the Biden administration hamper U.S. energy production and harm the economy, while Democrats tout&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-science-congress-climate-and-environment-f084d23d61ebb068068d4aa92c82fdbb">a sweeping climate law approved last year</a>&nbsp;as a crucial step to wean the nation off fossil fuels such as oil, coal and natural gas. The measure authorizes billions in spending to boost renewable energy such as wind and solar power and includes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-politics-united-states-government-business-climate-and-environment-f145b24414ff245f491fd68257b3db60">incentives for Americans to buy millions of electric cars, heat pumps, solar panels and more efficient appliances.</a>Biden, citing the dangers of climate change, canceled the controversial Keystone XL oil pipeline in his first days in office and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/why-is-biden-halting-federal-oil-and-gas-sales-b8f03552c2c2fa7ec0dfc5debeb3f882">suspended new oil and gas leases on federal lands.</a>&nbsp;The moratorium has since been lifted, under court order, but Republicans complain that lease sales for new drilling rights are still limited.Biden campaigned on pledges to end new drilling on public lands, and climate activists have pushed him to move faster to shut down oil leasing. Fossil fuels extracted from public lands account for about 20% of energy-related U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, making them a prime target for emissions reductions intended to slow global warming.“Whether on land or at sea, oil drilling poses an unacceptable risk for our wildlife, wild places and waterways,'' said Lisa Frank of Environment America, an advocacy group. “When we drill, we spill. At a time when we should be moving away from this destructive, dangerous practice — and expanding use of renewable power — this bill doubles down on the outmoded energy of the past.''Frank urged lawmakers to reject the GOP bill and instead move to permanently ban new drilling off U.S. coasts and in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.Conservative and industry groups support the bill.“We can continue making the Strategic Petroleum Reserve the nation’s sole response to future disruptions, or we can also utilize more of the vast oil supplies sitting beneath the lands and offshore areas currently kept off limits by the president,'' the Competitive Enterprise Institute and other conservative groups said in a letter to Congress.The Treasury Department estimates that release of oil from the emergency stockpile lowered prices at the pump by up to 40 cents per gallon. Gasoline prices averaged about $3.50 per gallon on Thursday, down from just over $5 per gallon at their peak in June, according to the AAA auto club.Morris Rodgers accused Biden of using the reserve to “cover up his failed policies" that she said are driving up energy prices and inflation. Average gas prices are up more than 30 cents from a month ago and are higher than when Biden took office in January 2021, she and other Republicans noted.“Millions of Americans are paying more at the pump as a result of the Biden administration’s radical ‘rush-to-green’ agenda that has shut down American energy,'' McMorris Rodgers said.Granholm, citing thousands of unused leases by oil companies, said GOP claims of obstructionism on drilling were off-base. "There's nothing standing in the way of domestic oil and gas production,'' she said, a claim McMorris Rodgers disputed."There are plenty of barriers to unleashing domestic oil and gas production, including burdensome regulations and this administration’s discouragement of financial investment in domestic oil and gas industries,'' she said, noting that U.S. oil production is well below its 2019 peak of 13 million barrels of oil a day.

House GOP seeks new restrictions on use of US oil stockpile

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas felon fleeing police died from injuries in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Thursday in Sedgwick County.

On Thursday morning, police were in the area of Hydraulic and Wassal in Wichita following up on information regarding a vehicle that had been involved in several larcenies in the Wichita area, according to Officer Trevor Macy.

An officer spotted the suspect vehicle and witnessed it commit a traffic violation at Washington and Wassal. The officer followed the vehicle and attempted to initiate a traffic stop at Pawnee and Washington.

The suspect immediately accelerated away from the officer going left of the center line northbound on Washington.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported the suspect vehicle, a 2005 Toyota Corolla driven by&nbsp; 59-year-old Kennedy Jewel Edmond of Wichita,&nbsp; was northbound in the 1700 Block of South Washington in Wichita attempting to pass a 2010 Buick LaCrosse driven by 67-year-old Lamoine Hutton of Tulsa on the right.

The Toyota sideswiped the Buick and overturned. Edmond ran from the vehicle, then collapsed behind a truck nearby. He was transported by EMS to an area hospital where he was later pronounced deceased, according to Wichita Police Officer Trevor Macy.

Hutton was not injured.&nbsp; EMS observed a passenger in the Toyota identified as 49-year-old Donald Allen Maggard&nbsp; of Wichita. He refused treatment.&nbsp;

Edmond had previous convictions for involuntary manslaughter, aggravated robbery, aggravated battery, theft burglary and for drugs, according to the Kan. Department of Corrections.&nbsp;In Sept. police in Wichita arrested Edmond on requested charges of aggravated battery and fleeing police, according to Sedgwick County arrest records.

Police requested the Kansas Highway Patrol to take over the accident investigation for accountability and transparency purposes.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash after a driver fled from police.

The officer initiated a pursuit that was quickly terminated. After the termination of the pursuit, the suspect continued northbound on Washington at a high rate of speed.

Just north of Funston, the suspect vehicle attempted to pass another vehicle on the right. The suspect lost control of the vehicle when sideswiped the vehicle he attempted to pass.

The suspect vehicle overturned and came to rest in the 1700 block of S. Washington, according to Macy.

The driver ran from the vehicle, then collapsed behind a truck nearby. He was transported by EMS to an area hospital where he was later pronounced deceased, according to Macy.

A passenger was also in the suspect vehicle – he was seen on scene by EMS but refused treatment. The driver of the civilian vehicle that was struck was uninjured.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674756123276.png" alt="First responders at the scene of the fatal crash -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene of the fatal crash -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas felon fleeing police died from injuries in an accident just before 8:30a.m. Thursday in Sedgwick County.On Thursday morning, police were in the area of Hydraulic and Wassal in Wichita following up on information regarding a vehicle that had been involved in several larcenies in the Wichita area, according to Officer Trevor Macy.An officer spotted the suspect vehicle and witnessed it commit a traffic violation at Washington and Wassal. The officer followed the vehicle and attempted to initiate a traffic stop at Pawnee and Washington.The suspect immediately accelerated away from the officer going left of the center line northbound on Washington.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported the suspect vehicle, a 2005 Toyota Corolla driven by&nbsp; 59-year-old Kennedy Jewel Edmond of Wichita,&nbsp; was northbound in the 1700 Block of South Washington in Wichita attempting to pass a 2010 Buick LaCrosse driven by 67-year-old Lamoine Hutton of Tulsa on the right.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674778276822.png" alt="Edmond had previous convictions for involuntary manslaughter, aggravated robbery, aggravated battery, theft burglary and for drugs, according to the Kan. Department of Corrections.&nbsp; In Sept. police in Wichita arrested Edmond on requested charges of aggravated battery and fleeing police, according to Sedgwick County arrest records." />
 <figcaption>Edmond had previous convictions for involuntary manslaughter, aggravated robbery, aggravated battery, theft burglary and for drugs, according to the Kan. Department of Corrections.&nbsp; In Sept. police in Wichita arrested Edmond on requested charges of aggravated battery and fleeing police, according to Sedgwick County arrest records.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Toyota sideswiped the Buick and overturned. Edmond ran from the vehicle, then collapsed behind a truck nearby. He was transported by EMS to an area hospital where he was later pronounced deceased, according to Wichita Police Officer Trevor Macy.Hutton was not injured.&nbsp; EMS observed a passenger in the Toyota identified as 49-year-old Donald Allen Maggard&nbsp; of Wichita. He refused treatment.&nbsp;Edmond had previous convictions for involuntary manslaughter, aggravated robbery, aggravated battery, theft burglary and for drugs, according to the Kan. Department of Corrections.&nbsp;In Sept. police in Wichita arrested Edmond on requested charges of aggravated battery and fleeing police, according to Sedgwick County arrest records.Police requested the Kansas Highway Patrol to take over the accident investigation for accountability and transparency purposes.--------SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash after a driver fled from police.On Thursday morning, police were in the area of Hydraulic and Wassal in Wichita following up on information regarding a vehicle that had been involved in several larcenies in the Wichita area, according to Officer Trevor Macy.An officer spotted the suspect vehicle and witnessed it commit a traffic violation at Washington and Wassal. The officer followed the vehicle and attempted to initiate a traffic stop at Pawnee and Washington.The suspect immediately accelerated away from the officer going left of the center line northbound on Washington.The officer initiated a pursuit that was quickly terminated. After the termination of the pursuit, the suspect continued northbound on Washington at a high rate of speed.Just north of Funston, the suspect vehicle attempted to pass another vehicle on the right. The suspect lost control of the vehicle when sideswiped the vehicle he attempted to pass.The suspect vehicle overturned and came to rest in the 1700 block of S. Washington, according to Macy.The driver ran from the vehicle, then collapsed behind a truck nearby. He was transported by EMS to an area hospital where he was later pronounced deceased, according to Macy.A passenger was also in the suspect vehicle – he was seen on scene by EMS but refused treatment. The driver of the civilian vehicle that was struck was uninjured.Police requested the Kansas Highway Patrol to take over the accident investigation for accountability and transparency purposes.

Driver who died in crash fleeing police had history of crime

By ROSE CONLON <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2023-01-26/despite-a-ballot-box-loss-anti-abortion-lawmakers-in-kansas-propose-a-complete-ban">Kansas News Service</a>

WICHITA, Kan. — Republican lawmakers in Kansas have 
introduced legislation that would outlaw abortion beginning at 
fertilization — without exceptions for rape, incest or to save the life 
or health of the mother.

The <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/hb2181_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">near-total ban</a>
 is the most extreme anti-abortion legislation introduced in Kansas so 
far this legislative session. It comes less than six months after Kansas
 voters dealt a landslide upset to abortion opponents when they rejected
 an anti-abortion ballot measure.

And while the bill would almost 
surely be struck down by Kansas courts — they’ve already ruled the state
 constitution includes a right to abortion — it reflects efforts by a 
faction of the anti-abortion movement to pursue hardline restrictions 
anyway.

Rep. Brett Fairchild, a St. John Republican and one of the
 bill’s seven co-sponsors, said in an email that the introduction of the
 abortion ban fulfills one of his campaign promises.

“This bill simply provides for equal protection under the law for all human beings, both born and unborn,” he said.

The
 bill would also restrict the use of fetal tissue in medical research 
and make it a crime to destroy fertilized embryos, which could 
jeopardize the legality of common fertility treatments like in vitro 
fertilization.

If the bill were to become law — likely needing an 
override of Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly — it would face immediate 
scrutiny from Kansas courts. The Kansas Supreme Court ruled in 2019 that
 the state’s constitution protects the right to an abortion. Last year, 
by a formidable 19-point margin, voters rejected a proposed 
constitutional amendment that would have eliminated those protections.

“It’s
 an unconstitutional bill, on its face,” said Teresa Woody, a longtime 
attorney representing abortion providers in Kansas, including in the 
2019 case.

The bill seeks to get in front of those almost certain 
challenges by declaring any court decision overruling the act itself a 
violation of the Kansas and U.S. constitutions. Additionally, it states 
that any judge who enjoins or overrules the legislation is subject to 
impeachment and removal.

Woody said those provisions don’t stand legal muster, and called them a “gross intrusion” into the separation of powers.

“This
 law has to be interpreted by the Kansas courts — because that’s their 
job; to interpret the laws vis a vis the Constitution of Kansas,” she 
said. “It would be a breach of separation of powers for the Legislature 
to say that they can control the outcomes and opinions of the Kansas 
appellate court.”

Abortion providers and reproductive rights advocates decried the bill.

“Anti-abortion
 lawmakers went to considerable effort in 2022 to ban abortion through a
 ballot measure in a special election that failed resoundingly by any 
measure,” said Zack Gingrich-Gaylord, a spokesperson for the Trust Women
 clinic in Wichita. “To continue to introduce anti-abortion legislation 
they know will not pass constitutional muster is a subversion of 
democracy, and a shameful waste of taxpayer resources and time.”

In
 a statement, Planned Parenthood Great Plains Votes spokesperson 
Anamarie Rebori Simmons said conservative lawmakers are “intentionally 
and continually subverting the will of the voters.”

The near-total ban is a notable departure from the <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2023-01-12/how-kansas-lawmakers-could-try-to-restrict-abortion-this-year" target="_blank">more measured approach</a> put forth this year by Republican leadership and the state’s most prominent anti-abortion lobbying group, Kansans for Life.

Jeanne
 Gawdun, a senior lobbyist for Kansans for Life, said its lawyers have 
not reviewed the bill and referred to its 2023 legislative agenda in 
which the group outlined priorities including funding for anti-abortion 
crisis pregnancy centers.

Republicans are expected to introduce 
legislation that would do that in short order. Legislation already 
introduced in the Kansas Senate seeks to <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2023-01-20/kansas-abortion-bill-republicans-want-local-governtments-enact-bans" target="_blank">enable local governments to enact their own abortion bans</a> and <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2023-01-12/how-kansas-lawmakers-could-try-to-restrict-abortion-this-year" target="_blank">ban the prescription</a> of <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2022-12-20/kansas-planned-parenthood-telehealth-abortion-pill-court-ruling" target="_blank">abortion pills over telemedicine</a>.

But
 the near-total ban, introduced the day after hundreds of anti-abortion 
protestors rallied outside of the Kansas State Capitol in Topeka for the
 state’s annual March for Life, reflected the urging of some more ardent
 members of the anti-abortion movement.

At the rally, Scott 
Stringfield, the medical director of Choices Medical Clinic, a Wichita 
crisis pregnancy center, invoked the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 
2001, and urged lawmakers to act aggressively to enact abortion 
restrictions.

“The men who were willing to pay the price of their 
lives to do such a heinous act when they flew those planes into the Twin
 Towers and into the Pentagon — you have to look at one thing: They were
 principled. They were willing to die for what they believed in,” 
Stringfield told protestors from the steps of the capitol. “And so I 
would encourage you to always choose principle over pragmatism.”

Rose
 Conlon reports on health for KMUW and the Kansas News Service. You can 
follow her on Twitter at @rosebconlon or email her at conlon@kmuw.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674763122792.png" alt="Anti-abortion protestors rallied outside the Kansas State Capitol in Topeka on Tuesday for the annual March for Life. Rose Conlon / Kansas News Service " />
 <figcaption>Anti-abortion protestors rallied outside the Kansas State Capitol in Topeka on Tuesday for the annual March for Life. Rose Conlon / Kansas News Service </figcaption>
 </figure>By ROSE CONLON <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2023-01-26/despite-a-ballot-box-loss-anti-abortion-lawmakers-in-kansas-propose-a-complete-ban">Kansas News Service</a>WICHITA, Kan. — Republican lawmakers in Kansas have 
introduced legislation that would outlaw abortion beginning at 
fertilization — without exceptions for rape, incest or to save the life 
or health of the mother.The <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/hb2181_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">near-total ban</a>
 is the most extreme anti-abortion legislation introduced in Kansas so 
far this legislative session. It comes less than six months after Kansas
 voters dealt a landslide upset to abortion opponents when they rejected
 an anti-abortion ballot measure.And while the bill would almost 
surely be struck down by Kansas courts — they’ve already ruled the state
 constitution includes a right to abortion — it reflects efforts by a 
faction of the anti-abortion movement to pursue hardline restrictions 
anyway.Rep. Brett Fairchild, a St. John Republican and one of the
 bill’s seven co-sponsors, said in an email that the introduction of the
 abortion ban fulfills one of his campaign promises.“This bill simply provides for equal protection under the law for all human beings, both born and unborn,” he said.The
 bill would also restrict the use of fetal tissue in medical research 
and make it a crime to destroy fertilized embryos, which could 
jeopardize the legality of common fertility treatments like in vitro 
fertilization.If the bill were to become law — likely needing an 
override of Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly — it would face immediate 
scrutiny from Kansas courts. The Kansas Supreme Court ruled in 2019 that
 the state’s constitution protects the right to an abortion. Last year, 
by a formidable 19-point margin, voters rejected a proposed 
constitutional amendment that would have eliminated those protections.“It’s
 an unconstitutional bill, on its face,” said Teresa Woody, a longtime 
attorney representing abortion providers in Kansas, including in the 
2019 case.The bill seeks to get in front of those almost certain 
challenges by declaring any court decision overruling the act itself a 
violation of the Kansas and U.S. constitutions. Additionally, it states 
that any judge who enjoins or overrules the legislation is subject to 
impeachment and removal.Woody said those provisions don’t stand legal muster, and called them a “gross intrusion” into the separation of powers.“This
 law has to be interpreted by the Kansas courts — because that’s their 
job; to interpret the laws vis a vis the Constitution of Kansas,” she 
said. “It would be a breach of separation of powers for the Legislature 
to say that they can control the outcomes and opinions of the Kansas 
appellate court.”Abortion providers and reproductive rights advocates decried the bill.“Anti-abortion
 lawmakers went to considerable effort in 2022 to ban abortion through a
 ballot measure in a special election that failed resoundingly by any 
measure,” said Zack Gingrich-Gaylord, a spokesperson for the Trust Women
 clinic in Wichita. “To continue to introduce anti-abortion legislation 
they know will not pass constitutional muster is a subversion of 
democracy, and a shameful waste of taxpayer resources and time.”In
 a statement, Planned Parenthood Great Plains Votes spokesperson 
Anamarie Rebori Simmons said conservative lawmakers are “intentionally 
and continually subverting the will of the voters.”The near-total ban is a notable departure from the <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2023-01-12/how-kansas-lawmakers-could-try-to-restrict-abortion-this-year" target="_blank">more measured approach</a> put forth this year by Republican leadership and the state’s most prominent anti-abortion lobbying group, Kansans for Life.Jeanne
 Gawdun, a senior lobbyist for Kansans for Life, said its lawyers have 
not reviewed the bill and referred to its 2023 legislative agenda in 
which the group outlined priorities including funding for anti-abortion 
crisis pregnancy centers.Republicans are expected to introduce 
legislation that would do that in short order. Legislation already 
introduced in the Kansas Senate seeks to <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2023-01-20/kansas-abortion-bill-republicans-want-local-governtments-enact-bans" target="_blank">enable local governments to enact their own abortion bans</a> and <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2023-01-12/how-kansas-lawmakers-could-try-to-restrict-abortion-this-year" target="_blank">ban the prescription</a> of <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2022-12-20/kansas-planned-parenthood-telehealth-abortion-pill-court-ruling" target="_blank">abortion pills over telemedicine</a>.But
 the near-total ban, introduced the day after hundreds of anti-abortion 
protestors rallied outside of the Kansas State Capitol in Topeka for the
 state’s annual March for Life, reflected the urging of some more ardent
 members of the anti-abortion movement.At the rally, Scott 
Stringfield, the medical director of Choices Medical Clinic, a Wichita 
crisis pregnancy center, invoked the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 
2001, and urged lawmakers to act aggressively to enact abortion 
restrictions.“The men who were willing to pay the price of their 
lives to do such a heinous act when they flew those planes into the Twin
 Towers and into the Pentagon — you have to look at one thing: They were
 principled. They were willing to die for what they believed in,” 
Stringfield told protestors from the steps of the capitol. “And so I 
would encourage you to always choose principle over pragmatism.”Rose
 Conlon reports on health for KMUW and the Kansas News Service. You can 
follow her on Twitter at @rosebconlon or email her at conlon@kmuw.org.

Anti-abortion lawmakers in Kansas propose a complete ban

WASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service and partners nationwide today kicked off their <a href="https://www.eitc.irs.gov/partner-toolkit/eitc-awareness-day/eitc-awareness-day-2">Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day</a> outreach campaign to help millions of Americans who earned $59,187 or less last year take advantage of the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit-eitc">Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)</a>.

"This is an extremely important tax credit that helps millions of 
hard-working people every year," said IRS Acting Commissioner Doug 
O'Donnell. "But each year, many people miss out on the credit because 
they don't know about it or don't realize they're eligible. In 
particular, people who have experienced a major life change in the past 
year – in their job, marital status, a new child or other factors – may 
qualify for the first time. The IRS urges people to carefully to review 
this important credit; we don't want people to miss out."

In 2022, 31 million eligible workers and families across the country 
received about $64 billion in Earned Income Tax Credits, with an average
 amount of more than $2,000.

The IRS administers the EITC, which Congress originally approved in 
1975. It was developed in part to offset the burden of Social Security 
taxes and provide an incentive to work.

The IRS and partners urge people to check to see if they qualify for 
this important credit. They also encourage people who don't normally 
file a tax return to review whether they qualify for EITC and other <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions-for-individuals">valuable credits</a>.

The EITC is a tax credit for certain people who work and have low to 
moderate income. A tax credit usually reduces tax owed and may also 
result in a refund. Even though millions of people get the EITC, the IRS
 estimates that about 20% of EITC eligible taxpayers do not claim it.

Workers at risk for overlooking the EITC include those:

The IRS also reminds taxpayers that the quickest way to get a tax refund is by filing an accurate tax return <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-options">electronically</a> and choosing <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">direct deposit</a> for their refund. Tax software, tax professionals and other <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">free options</a> can help people see if they qualify for the EITC.

To qualify, taxpayers must meet certain requirements and file a tax 
return, even if they did not earn enough money to be obligated to file a
 tax return. There's no need to guess about <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit-eitc">EITC eligibility</a>; find out with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit/use-the-eitc-assistant">EITC Assistant</a>.

Workers with qualifying children may be eligible for EITC if their 
adjusted gross income (AGI) was less than $53,057 in 2022 ($59,187 for 
married filing jointly). These individuals can receive a maximum of 
$6,935 in EITC, up from $6,728 in 2021.

The maximum EITC for taxpayers with no dependents is $560, available 
to filers with an AGI below $16,480 in 2022 ($22,610 for married filing 
jointly), and it can be claimed by eligible workers between the ages of 
25 and 64. Married but separated spouses who do not file a joint return 
may qualify to claim EITC if they meet certain requirements.

EITC is for workers whose income does not exceed the following limits in 2022:

To get the EITC, workers must file a tax return and claim the credit.
 Eligible taxpayers should claim the credit even if their earnings were 
below the income requirement to file a tax return. <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers">Free tax preparation help is available</a> online and through volunteer organizations.

Those eligible for the EITC have these options:

The IRS reminds taxpayers to be sure they have valid Social 
Security numbers for themselves, their spouse if filing a joint return 
and for each qualifying child claimed for the EITC. The SSNs must be 
issued before the April due date of the return. There are special rules 
for those in the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit/military-and-clergy-rules-for-the-earned-income-tax-credit#Military">military</a> or those out of the country.

Most EITC refunds deposited by late February

While the IRS began accepting 2022 returns on January 23, 2023, the 
IRS cannot issue a refund that includes the Earned Income Tax Credit or 
Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) before mid-February. This is due to 
the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit/when-to-expect-your-refund-if-you-claimed-the-earned-income-tax-credit-or-additional-child-tax-credit">2015 PATH Act</a> law passed by Congress, which provides this additional time to help the IRS stop fraudulent refunds from being issued.

<a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>
 should show an updated status by February 18 for most early EITC/ACTC 
filers. The IRS expects most EITC/ACTC related refunds to be available 
in taxpayer bank accounts or on debit cards by February 28 if taxpayers 
chose direct deposit and there are no other issues with their tax 
return.

Taxpayers are responsible for the accuracy of their tax return even 
if someone else prepares it for them. Since the rules for claiming the 
EITC can be complex, the IRS urges taxpayers to understand all of them.

Be sure to <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">choose a tax preparer</a>
 wisely. Beware of scams that claim to increase the EITC refund. Scams 
that create fictitious qualifying children or inflate income levels to 
get the maximum EITC could leave taxpayers with a penalty.

Visit IRS online to learn about other tax credits

IRS.gov is a valuable first stop to help taxpayers get it right this 
filing season. They can check to see if they also qualify for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/does-my-childdependent-qualify-for-the-child-tax-credit-or-the-credit-for-other-dependents">Child Tax Credit, Additional Child Tax Credit or Credit for Other Dependents</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service and partners nationwide today kicked off their <a href="https://www.eitc.irs.gov/partner-toolkit/eitc-awareness-day/eitc-awareness-day-2">Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day</a> outreach campaign to help millions of Americans who earned $59,187 or less last year take advantage of the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit-eitc">Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)</a>."This is an extremely important tax credit that helps millions of 
hard-working people every year," said IRS Acting Commissioner Doug 
O'Donnell. "But each year, many people miss out on the credit because 
they don't know about it or don't realize they're eligible. In 
particular, people who have experienced a major life change in the past 
year – in their job, marital status, a new child or other factors – may 
qualify for the first time. The IRS urges people to carefully to review 
this important credit; we don't want people to miss out."In 2022, 31 million eligible workers and families across the country 
received about $64 billion in Earned Income Tax Credits, with an average
 amount of more than $2,000.The IRS administers the EITC, which Congress originally approved in 
1975. It was developed in part to offset the burden of Social Security 
taxes and provide an incentive to work.The IRS and partners urge people to check to see if they qualify for 
this important credit. They also encourage people who don't normally 
file a tax return to review whether they qualify for EITC and other <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions-for-individuals">valuable credits</a>.The EITC is a tax credit for certain people who work and have low to 
moderate income. A tax credit usually reduces tax owed and may also 
result in a refund. Even though millions of people get the EITC, the IRS
 estimates that about 20% of EITC eligible taxpayers do not claim it.Workers at risk for overlooking the EITC include those:<ul>
 <li>Living in non-traditional homes, such as a grandparent raising a grandchild</li><li>Whose earnings declined or whose marital or parental status changed</li><li>Without children</li><li>With limited English skills</li><li>Who are veterans</li><li>Living in rural areas</li><li>Who are Native Americans</li><li>With earnings below the filing requirement</li>
 </ul>The IRS also reminds taxpayers that the quickest way to get a tax refund is by filing an accurate tax return <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-options">electronically</a> and choosing <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">direct deposit</a> for their refund. Tax software, tax professionals and other <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">free options</a> can help people see if they qualify for the EITC.<h2>Who can get the EITC?</h2>To qualify, taxpayers must meet certain requirements and file a tax 
return, even if they did not earn enough money to be obligated to file a
 tax return. There's no need to guess about <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit-eitc">EITC eligibility</a>; find out with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit/use-the-eitc-assistant">EITC Assistant</a>.Workers with qualifying children may be eligible for EITC if their 
adjusted gross income (AGI) was less than $53,057 in 2022 ($59,187 for 
married filing jointly). These individuals can receive a maximum of 
$6,935 in EITC, up from $6,728 in 2021.The maximum EITC for taxpayers with no dependents is $560, available 
to filers with an AGI below $16,480 in 2022 ($22,610 for married filing 
jointly), and it can be claimed by eligible workers between the ages of 
25 and 64. Married but separated spouses who do not file a joint return 
may qualify to claim EITC if they meet certain requirements.EITC is for workers whose income does not exceed the following limits in 2022:<ul>
 <li>$53,057 ($59,187 married filing jointly) with three or more qualifying children who have valid Social Security numbers (SSNs).</li><li>$49,399 ($55,529 married filing jointly) with two qualifying children who have valid SSNs.</li><li>$43,492 ($49,622 married filing jointly) with one qualifying child who have valid SSNs.</li><li>$16,480 ($22,610 married filing jointly) with no qualifying children who have valid SSNs.</li><li>Investment income must be $10,300 or less.</li>
 </ul><h2>How to claim the EITC</h2>To get the EITC, workers must file a tax return and claim the credit.
 Eligible taxpayers should claim the credit even if their earnings were 
below the income requirement to file a tax return. <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers">Free tax preparation help is available</a> online and through volunteer organizations.Those eligible for the EITC have these options:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File on IRS.gov</a>.
 Free brand-name tax software is available that leads taxpayers through a
 question-and-answer format to help prepare the tax return and claim 
credits and deductions if they're eligible. Free File also provides 
online versions of IRS paper forms, an option called <a href="https://www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/free-file-fillable-forms">Free File Fillable Forms</a>, best suited for taxpayers comfortable preparing their own returns.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/irs-free-tax-return-preparation-programs">Free tax preparation sites</a>.
 EITC-eligible workers can seek free tax preparation at thousands of 
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the 
Elderly (TCE) sites. To locate the nearest site, use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/find-a-location-for-free-tax-prep">Find a Location for Free Tax Help</a> on IRS.gov, the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go smartphone application</a>, or call toll-free <a href="tel:800-906-9887">800-906-9887</a>. Taxpayers should bring all required documents and information.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/understanding-tax-return-preparer-credentials-and-qualifications">Find a trusted tax professional</a>.
 The IRS reminds taxpayers that a trusted tax professional can prepare 
their tax return and provide helpful information and advice. <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">Tips for choosing a return preparer</a>,
 including certified public accountants, enrolled agents, attorneys and 
many others who don't have a professional credential, and details about <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/irs-tax-pro-association-partners">national tax professional groups</a> are available on IRS.gov. EITC recipients should <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-scams-consumer-alerts">watch out for unscrupulous return preparers</a>.</li>
 </ul>The IRS reminds taxpayers to be sure they have valid Social 
Security numbers for themselves, their spouse if filing a joint return 
and for each qualifying child claimed for the EITC. The SSNs must be 
issued before the April due date of the return. There are special rules 
for those in the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit/military-and-clergy-rules-for-the-earned-income-tax-credit#Military">military</a> or those out of the country.<h2>Most EITC refunds deposited by late February</h2>While the IRS began accepting 2022 returns on January 23, 2023, the 
IRS cannot issue a refund that includes the Earned Income Tax Credit or 
Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) before mid-February. This is due to 
the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit/when-to-expect-your-refund-if-you-claimed-the-earned-income-tax-credit-or-additional-child-tax-credit">2015 PATH Act</a> law passed by Congress, which provides this additional time to help the IRS stop fraudulent refunds from being issued.<a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>
 should show an updated status by February 18 for most early EITC/ACTC 
filers. The IRS expects most EITC/ACTC related refunds to be available 
in taxpayer bank accounts or on debit cards by February 28 if taxpayers 
chose direct deposit and there are no other issues with their tax 
return.<h2>Get it right</h2>Taxpayers are responsible for the accuracy of their tax return even 
if someone else prepares it for them. Since the rules for claiming the 
EITC can be complex, the IRS urges taxpayers to understand all of them.<h2>Look out for scams</h2>Be sure to <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">choose a tax preparer</a>
 wisely. Beware of scams that claim to increase the EITC refund. Scams 
that create fictitious qualifying children or inflate income levels to 
get the maximum EITC could leave taxpayers with a penalty.<h2>Visit IRS online to learn about other tax credits</h2>IRS.gov is a valuable first stop to help taxpayers get it right this 
filing season. They can check to see if they also qualify for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/does-my-childdependent-qualify-for-the-child-tax-credit-or-the-credit-for-other-dependents">Child Tax Credit, Additional Child Tax Credit or Credit for Other Dependents</a>.<h2>Related items</h2><ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.eitc.irs.gov/">EITC Central</a>, helpful resources for IRS partners and others</li><li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-596">Publication 596, Earned Income Credit (EIC)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals">Tax Professionals</a>, another place for valuable EITC resources and assistance</li>
 </ul>

IRS, partners promote benefits of Earned Income Tax Credit

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and officials with USD 497 in Lawrence investigated a bomb threat at West Middle School, 2700 Harvard Road in Lawrence.&nbsp; Officials indicated there was a written threat left on a technology device Wednesday.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Officers, along with the ATF's Explosive Detection Unit, searched the entire building and found nothing of concern, according to USD 497. The school district transported students to another facility during the investigation and district officials communicated directly with parents.

&nbsp;Authorities were able to identify and question the student responsible for the threat, who was ultimately booked into the Juvenile Detention Center.

After the "all clear," the district transported all West students and staff from Free State High School back to West. The middle school families received additional information via phone, email and text.&nbsp;

The report of a written threat left on a technology device yesterday. Police are investigating. All West students &amp; staff are safe and have been bused to Free State High, where we will serve them lunch &amp; provide support.

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and officials with USD 497 in Lawrence investigated a bomb threat at West Middle School, 2700 Harvard Road in Lawrence.&nbsp; Officials indicated there was a written threat left on a technology device Wednesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Officers, along with the ATF's Explosive Detection Unit, searched the entire building and found nothing of concern, according to USD 497. The school district transported students to another facility during the investigation and district officials communicated directly with parents.&nbsp;Authorities were able to identify and question the student responsible for the threat, who was ultimately booked into the Juvenile Detention Center.After the "all clear," the district transported all West students and staff from Free State High School back to West. The middle school families received additional information via phone, email and text.&nbsp;The report of a written threat left on a technology device yesterday. Police are investigating. All West students &amp; staff are safe and have been bused to Free State High, where we will serve them lunch &amp; provide support.

Student accused of bomb threat at Kansas middle school

GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a drug overdose death and have made an arrest.

On August 22, police responded to a call of an unresponsive subject in the 1500 Block of Patriot Drive in Junction City, according to a media release.

First responders discovered Caytlin P. Hinkle, 19, of Junction City unresponsive. EMS attempted to resuscitate her but she was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

Following an autopsy, it was determined that Hinkle’s cause of death was “Acute Fentanyl Intoxication.” 

Following a 5-month investigation, on Thursday afternoon, detectives within the Junction City Police Department’s Drug Task Force arrested Alyzah Benitez, 22, of Junction City, in connection with Hinkle's death

&nbsp;Benitez is being held on requested charges of Distribution of a controlled substance causing great bodily harm or death. Ms. Benitez was transported to the Geary County Detention Facility where she is being held with no bond pending a first appearance in Geary County District Court.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674817344508.png" alt="Benitez-photo Geary Co." />
 <figcaption>Benitez-photo Geary Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a drug overdose death and have made an arrest.On August 22, police responded to a call of an unresponsive subject in the 1500 Block of Patriot Drive in Junction City, according to a media release.First responders discovered Caytlin P. Hinkle, 19, of Junction City unresponsive. EMS attempted to resuscitate her but she was pronounced deceased at the scene. Following an autopsy, it was determined that Hinkle’s cause of death was “Acute Fentanyl Intoxication.” Following a 5-month investigation, on Thursday afternoon, detectives within the Junction City Police Department’s Drug Task Force arrested Alyzah Benitez, 22, of Junction City, in connection with Hinkle's death&nbsp;Benitez is being held on requested charges of Distribution of a controlled substance causing great bodily harm or death. Ms. Benitez was transported to the Geary County Detention Facility where she is being held with no bond pending a first appearance in Geary County District Court.&nbsp;

Kan. woman accused in 19-year-old's fentanyl overdose death

JOHNSON COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just before 8a.m. Thursday in Johnson County.

The Overland Park police reported a vehicle driven by&nbsp;26-year-old&nbsp; Marquan Wilson, Kansas City, Missouri&nbsp;was entering northbound on U.S. 69 Highway from the ramp of westbound Interstate 435. 

While traveling north on U.S. 69, Wilson initiated a lane change and struck a northbound vehicle.&nbsp;

After impact, Wilson driver lost control of the car. It struck the cement barrier and rolled Wilson and a passenger identified as&nbsp;44-year-old r Amie Wood of Kansas City, Missouri were ejected and pronounced deceased on scene. There were no other injuries reported.&nbsp; The accident remains under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674786619219.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the fatal crash investigation -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the fatal crash investigation -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just before 8a.m. Thursday in Johnson County.The Overland Park police reported a vehicle driven by&nbsp;26-year-old&nbsp; Marquan Wilson, Kansas City, Missouri&nbsp;was entering northbound on U.S. 69 Highway from the ramp of westbound Interstate 435. While traveling north on U.S. 69, Wilson initiated a lane change and struck a northbound vehicle.&nbsp;After impact, Wilson driver lost control of the car. It struck the cement barrier and rolled Wilson and a passenger identified as&nbsp;44-year-old r Amie Wood of Kansas City, Missouri were ejected and pronounced deceased on scene. There were no other injuries reported.&nbsp; The accident remains under investigation.

2 dead after ejected in crash on Kansas highway

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. special operations forces have killed a senior Islamic State group official and 10 other terrorist operatives in remote northern Somalia, the Biden administration announced Thursday.

The operation carried out on Wednesday targeted Bilal al-Sudani, a key financial facilitator for the global terrorist organization, in a mountainous cave complex.

“This action leaves the United States and its partners safer and more secure, and it reflects our steadfast commitment to protecting Americans from the threat of terrorism at home and abroad,” Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin <a href="https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3279923/statement-by-secretary-of-defense-lloyd-j-austin-iii-on-somalia-operation/">said in a statement.</a>

President Joe Biden was briefed last week about the proposed mission, which came together after months of planning. He gave final approval to carry out the operation this week following the recommendation of Austin and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Army Gen. Mark Milley, according to two senior Biden administration officials who briefed reporters on the operation on the condition of anonymity.

Al-Sudani, who has been on the radar for U.S. intelligence officials for years, played a key role in helping to fund IS operations in Africa as well as the ISIS-K terrorist branch operating in Afghanistan, Austin said.

The U.S. Treasury Department alleged last year that al-Sudani had worked closely with another IS operative, Abdella Hussein Abadigga, who had recruited young men in South Africa and sent them to a weapons training camp.

Abadigga, who controlled two mosques in South Africa, used his position to extort money from members of the mosques. Al-Sudani considered Abadigga a trusted supporter who could help the IS supporters in South Africa become better organized and recruit new members, according to Treasury..

Al-Sudani had originally been designated the Treasury Department in 2012 for his role with al-Shabab, another terrorist organization operating in Somalia. He helped foreign fighters travel to an al-Shabab training camp and facilitated financing for violent extremists in Somalia, according to a senior administration official.

No civilians were injured or killed in the operation, Pentagon officials said. One American involved in the operation was bitten by a military dog, but was not seriously injured, according to an administration official.

U.S. officials provided scant details about how the operation was carried out or the circumstances surrounding al-Sudani's killing. One official said that U.S. forces had intended to capture al-Sudani but that did not prove to be “feasible” as the operation was carried out.

The operation comes days after Africa Command said it had conducted a collective self-defense strike northeast of Mogadishu, the capital, near Galcad. In that incident, Somalia National Army forces were engaged in heavy fighting following an extended and intense attack by more than 100 al-Shabab fighters.

The U.S. estimated approximately 30 al-Shabab fighters were killed in that operation.

The offensive by Somalian forces against al-Shabab has been described as the most significant in more than a decade.

Al-Shabab holds a much larger footprint in Somalia than does IS.

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. special operations forces have killed a senior Islamic State group official and 10 other terrorist operatives in remote northern Somalia, the Biden administration announced Thursday.The operation carried out on Wednesday targeted Bilal al-Sudani, a key financial facilitator for the global terrorist organization, in a mountainous cave complex.“This action leaves the United States and its partners safer and more secure, and it reflects our steadfast commitment to protecting Americans from the threat of terrorism at home and abroad,” Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin <a href="https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3279923/statement-by-secretary-of-defense-lloyd-j-austin-iii-on-somalia-operation/">said in a statement.</a>President Joe Biden was briefed last week about the proposed mission, which came together after months of planning. He gave final approval to carry out the operation this week following the recommendation of Austin and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Army Gen. Mark Milley, according to two senior Biden administration officials who briefed reporters on the operation on the condition of anonymity.Al-Sudani, who has been on the radar for U.S. intelligence officials for years, played a key role in helping to fund IS operations in Africa as well as the ISIS-K terrorist branch operating in Afghanistan, Austin said.The U.S. Treasury Department alleged last year that al-Sudani had worked closely with another IS operative, Abdella Hussein Abadigga, who had recruited young men in South Africa and sent them to a weapons training camp.Abadigga, who controlled two mosques in South Africa, used his position to extort money from members of the mosques. Al-Sudani considered Abadigga a trusted supporter who could help the IS supporters in South Africa become better organized and recruit new members, according to Treasury..Al-Sudani had originally been designated the Treasury Department in 2012 for his role with al-Shabab, another terrorist organization operating in Somalia. He helped foreign fighters travel to an al-Shabab training camp and facilitated financing for violent extremists in Somalia, according to a senior administration official.No civilians were injured or killed in the operation, Pentagon officials said. One American involved in the operation was bitten by a military dog, but was not seriously injured, according to an administration official.U.S. officials provided scant details about how the operation was carried out or the circumstances surrounding al-Sudani's killing. One official said that U.S. forces had intended to capture al-Sudani but that did not prove to be “feasible” as the operation was carried out.The operation comes days after Africa Command said it had conducted a collective self-defense strike northeast of Mogadishu, the capital, near Galcad. In that incident, Somalia National Army forces were engaged in heavy fighting following an extended and intense attack by more than 100 al-Shabab fighters.The U.S. estimated approximately 30 al-Shabab fighters were killed in that operation.The offensive by Somalian forces against al-Shabab has been described as the most significant in more than a decade.Al-Shabab holds a much larger footprint in Somalia than does IS.

US military kills senior Islamic State official in Somalia

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City-area man has been charged in connection with a domestic assault that also involved firing a handgun inside and outside a Lee's Summit residence that the suspect later failed to come out of after police surrounded the residence, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Kevin L. Williams, 31, Lee's Summit, faces Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Armed Criminal Action and Domestic Assault 3rd Degree.*

According to court records filed Tuesday, police were dispatched to the 900 block of Bristol Drive in Lee's Summit on a reported disturbance. Williams was reportedly armed. Neighbors reported hearing shots. Officers were able to get others out of the residence and set up a perimeter. 

The victim told police Williams threatened to kill her, hit her with a moving car door in the driveway and fired shots inside and outside the residence. Hours later, Williams was found in a closet. Officers said he appeared to be high on drugs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674596796211.png" alt="Williams-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Williams-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City-area man has been charged in connection with a domestic assault that also involved firing a handgun inside and outside a Lee's Summit residence that the suspect later failed to come out of after police surrounded the residence, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Kevin L. Williams, 31, Lee's Summit, faces Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Armed Criminal Action and Domestic Assault 3rd Degree.*According to court records filed Tuesday, police were dispatched to the 900 block of Bristol Drive in Lee's Summit on a reported disturbance. Williams was reportedly armed. Neighbors reported hearing shots. Officers were able to get others out of the residence and set up a perimeter. The victim told police Williams threatened to kill her, hit her with a moving car door in the driveway and fired shots inside and outside the residence. Hours later, Williams was found in a closet. Officers said he appeared to be high on drugs.

KC-area man assaulted girlfriend, fired a gun and hid in a closet

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — A Texas woman who played a role in internet romance scams that cheated victims out of a total of about $2.6 million was sentenced to over six years in prison on federal fraud and conspiracy charges Wednesday.

Dominique Golden, 31, of Houston, personally collected nearly $1.3 million in cash, checks, money orders and wire transfers from people across the U.S. in 2018 that was deposited into bank accounts opened under the names of fake people and businesses that she controlled, prosecutors in Rhode Island said. She&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-rhode-island-houston-conspiracy-d269c5c9a3d65c05f99008dea4194ec8">pleaded guilty in September</a>&nbsp;to wire fraud and conspiracy to commit mail fraud.

Her sentence will be served concurrently with a nearly 4 1/2-year sentence she began in 2020 in Georgia on an unrelated conspiracy conviction. Her attorney asked that she not serve additional time, saying that she has cooperated with authorities and is remorseful.

Golden’s alleged accomplices contacted victims via online dating sites, Facebook and “Words with Friends," cultivated the relationships and convinced the victims that they needed money, prosecutors said. The victims were in Rhode Island, New York, Arkansas, Colorado, North Carolina, Missouri and Florida.

Golden was aware that other members of the conspiracy contacted the victims for the sole purpose of perpetrating the scam, prosecutors said.

Under her plea agreement that she return the money, Golden will forfeit assets derived from her criminal conduct, including two luxury cars, three handguns, three Rolex watches and a gold chain with a diamond coin pendant, prosecutors said.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — A Texas woman who played a role in internet romance scams that cheated victims out of a total of about $2.6 million was sentenced to over six years in prison on federal fraud and conspiracy charges Wednesday.Dominique Golden, 31, of Houston, personally collected nearly $1.3 million in cash, checks, money orders and wire transfers from people across the U.S. in 2018 that was deposited into bank accounts opened under the names of fake people and businesses that she controlled, prosecutors in Rhode Island said. She&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-rhode-island-houston-conspiracy-d269c5c9a3d65c05f99008dea4194ec8">pleaded guilty in September</a>&nbsp;to wire fraud and conspiracy to commit mail fraud.Her sentence will be served concurrently with a nearly 4 1/2-year sentence she began in 2020 in Georgia on an unrelated conspiracy conviction. Her attorney asked that she not serve additional time, saying that she has cooperated with authorities and is remorseful.Golden’s alleged accomplices contacted victims via online dating sites, Facebook and “Words with Friends," cultivated the relationships and convinced the victims that they needed money, prosecutors said. The victims were in Rhode Island, New York, Arkansas, Colorado, North Carolina, Missouri and Florida.Golden was aware that other members of the conspiracy contacted the victims for the sole purpose of perpetrating the scam, prosecutors said.Under her plea agreement that she return the money, Golden will forfeit assets derived from her criminal conduct, including two luxury cars, three handguns, three Rolex watches and a gold chain with a diamond coin pendant, prosecutors said.

Woman sentenced for role in nationwide romance scams

KINGMAN, Kan. —&nbsp;The Occupational Safety and Health Administration this week issued a Citation and Notification of Penalty to Great Lakes Polymer Technologies LLC, which operates as FabPro Polymers in Kingman.

The OSHA report noted that on August 4, 2022, an employee was fatally injured while working on the Compression Auto Bagger machine and attempting to unjam a clog in the chute connected to Tipper #1 without utilizing procedures for the control of potentially hazardous energy.

In the CAB Area, the rotating agitator on the Compression Auto Bagger (CAB) machine at Tipper #1 was guarded by a metal grate. The metal guard was connected to an interlock switch designed to shut the machine off when the grate was opened.

On August 4, 2022, an employee was fatally injured when he opened the metal grate and the machine failed to shut off. The employee became entangled in the rotating agitator and died. The machine failed to shut off because the interlock was bypassed with duct tape so that when the guard was opened the agitator continued to rotate.

As a result of the bypassed interlock, employees, including the person that died, were exposed to struck-by, amputation, and caught-between hazards from the unguarded rotating agitator on Tipper #1 when the grate was opened.

Also, the report said that the company had a repeat violation.

In the Extrusion Area, employee(s) engaged in production activities at the #2 Godet of the Line 11 extrusion machine were exposed to amputation and caught in hazards in that the protruding rollers for the machine were not guarded. The company had previously been cited for a violation of the same occupational safety and health standard in a 2019 inspection report.

The total proposed penalties from all violations equal $292,421.00.

Fabpro produces synthetic fibers for reinforced concrete and other applications. The company has 15 days from the receipt of the citations to comply or contest the findings.

KINGMAN, Kan. —&nbsp;The Occupational Safety and Health Administration this week issued a Citation and Notification of Penalty to Great Lakes Polymer Technologies LLC, which operates as FabPro Polymers in Kingman.Multiple serious violations were cited.The OSHA report noted that on August 4, 2022, an employee was fatally injured while working on the Compression Auto Bagger machine and attempting to unjam a clog in the chute connected to Tipper #1 without utilizing procedures for the control of potentially hazardous energy.In the CAB Area, the rotating agitator on the Compression Auto Bagger (CAB) machine at Tipper #1 was guarded by a metal grate. The metal guard was connected to an interlock switch designed to shut the machine off when the grate was opened.On August 4, 2022, an employee was fatally injured when he opened the metal grate and the machine failed to shut off. The employee became entangled in the rotating agitator and died. The machine failed to shut off because the interlock was bypassed with duct tape so that when the guard was opened the agitator continued to rotate.As a result of the bypassed interlock, employees, including the person that died, were exposed to struck-by, amputation, and caught-between hazards from the unguarded rotating agitator on Tipper #1 when the grate was opened.Also, the report said that the company had a repeat violation.In the Extrusion Area, employee(s) engaged in production activities at the #2 Godet of the Line 11 extrusion machine were exposed to amputation and caught in hazards in that the protruding rollers for the machine were not guarded. The company had previously been cited for a violation of the same occupational safety and health standard in a 2019 inspection report.The total proposed penalties from all violations equal $292,421.00.Fabpro produces synthetic fibers for reinforced concrete and other applications. The company has 15 days from the receipt of the citations to comply or contest the findings.

OSHA cites Kansas plant after employee fatally injured

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder after his girlfriend and two young girls died in a house fire.

Kyle J. Tyler, 32, was also charged Wednesday with two counts of aggravated child endangerment and one count of aggravated arson, Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay said.

A fire at a Topeka home on Jan. 20 killed Genny L. Fitzpatrick, 30; Peyton L. Tyler, 9; and Kourtney K. Tyler, 1, all of Topeka.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/tragedy-strikes-family-that-needs-help?qid=c95fbfdf038303f79dfa0f20979a986f">Click here to respond</a>&nbsp;to the GoFundMe page to assist the family.

The house was fully in flames when firefighters arrived. Kagay said the three victims were inside the house and Kyle Tyler was found outside on the rear deck.

Preliminary results indicate the victims died from smoke inhalation, Kagay said. Firefighters extinguished a “major fire" upstairs and a second fire that had been started in the basement, he said.

Kyle Tyler was treated for smoke inhalation before he was arrested. He's being held on $1 million bond.

A public defender listed in court records as Tyler's attorney was not available for comment on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674225989378.png" alt="The fire at a Topeka home on Jan. 20 killed Genny L. Fitzpatrick, 30; Peyton L. Tyler, 9; and Kourtney K. Tyler, 1, all of Topeka. photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>The fire at a Topeka home on Jan. 20 killed Genny L. Fitzpatrick, 30; Peyton L. Tyler, 9; and Kourtney K. Tyler, 1, all of Topeka. photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder after his girlfriend and two young girls died in a house fire.Kyle J. Tyler, 32, was also charged Wednesday with two counts of aggravated child endangerment and one count of aggravated arson, Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay said.A fire at a Topeka home on Jan. 20 killed Genny L. Fitzpatrick, 30; Peyton L. Tyler, 9; and Kourtney K. Tyler, 1, all of Topeka.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/tragedy-strikes-family-that-needs-help?qid=c95fbfdf038303f79dfa0f20979a986f">Click here to respond</a>&nbsp;to the GoFundMe page to assist the family.The house was fully in flames when firefighters arrived. Kagay said the three victims were inside the house and Kyle Tyler was found outside on the rear deck.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674361780426.png" alt="Tyler-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Tyler-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary results indicate the victims died from smoke inhalation, Kagay said. Firefighters extinguished a “major fire" upstairs and a second fire that had been started in the basement, he said.Kyle Tyler was treated for smoke inhalation before he was arrested. He's being held on $1 million bond.A public defender listed in court records as Tyler's attorney was not available for comment on Thursday.

Man charged in Kan. fire that killed 2 children, his girlfriend

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674756123276.png" alt="First responders at the scene of the fatal crash -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene of the fatal crash -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash after a driver fled from police.On Thursday morning, police were in the area of Hydraulic and Wassal in Wichita following up on information regarding a vehicle that had been involved in several larcenies in the Wichita area, according to Officer Trevor Macy.An officer spotted the suspect vehicle and witnessed it commit a traffic violation at Washington and Wassal. The officer followed the vehicle and attempted to initiate a traffic stop at Pawnee and Washington.The suspect immediately accelerated away from the officer going left of the center line northbound on Washington.The officer initiated a pursuit that was quickly terminated. After the termination of the pursuit, the suspect continued northbound on Washington at a high rate of speed.Just north of Funston, the suspect vehicle attempted to pass another vehicle on the right. The suspect lost control of the vehicle when sideswiped the vehicle he attempted to pass.The suspect vehicle overturned and came to rest in the 1700 block of S. Washington, according to Macy.The driver ran from the vehicle, then collapsed behind a truck nearby. He was transported by EMS to an area hospital where he was later pronounced deceased, according to Macy.A passenger was also in the suspect vehicle – he was seen on scene by EMS but refused treatment. The driver of the civilian vehicle that was struck was uninjured.Police requested the Kansas Highway Patrol to take over the accident investigation for accountability and transparency purposes.

Driver who fled from police dies from injuries in Kan. crash

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — The leader of Missouri's state Senate on Thursday said Republican senators are unified against letting transgender girls play on girls' sports teams.

Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden's comments to reporters on Thursday signal that restrictions on what teams transgender student athletes can play on have a good chance of passing the GOP-led Legislature this year.

Supporters and opponents spoke for hours during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-children-jefferson-city-missouri-lgbtq-people-adb003aedb60a1ddacc077189955831d">an intense public House committee hearing</a>&nbsp;on several bills dealing with transgender student athletes, gender-affirming treatment and drag shows. The hearing lasted through Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning.

<a href="https://www.mshsaa.org/resources/pdf/Official%20Handbook.pdf">Missouri’s current public high school sports rules</a>&nbsp;already prohibit transgender girls from competing on girls teams unless they have undergone at least a year of hormone therapy and continue taking medication to maintain their hormone levels.

The Missouri State High School Activities Association requires transgender athletes to apply and submit documentation of medical care in order to compete as the gender they identify with.

A spokesman for the association said 13 students have been approved since the organization adopted the rules in 2012, including only four transgender girls.

Senate Democratic Minority Leader John Rizzo called the focus on transgender athletics “absurd.”

“There's more bills about trans kids playing sports than there are trans kids that want to play sports,” Rizzo told reporters Thursday.

Rowden said Senate Republicans also support banning minors from receiving gender-affirming surgeries and that bans on other treatments, such as hormone blockers, are still under consideration.

“We're gonna take action on that issue,” Rowden said. “Our caucus is very united behind the idea that minors should not have gender reassignment surgery taken before the age of 18.”

Bills introduced in the Legislature would ban Missouri doctors from providing any&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-health-mental-ce8f5a9ee53768af03c3c65d5331045b">gender-affirming treatments for minors</a>&nbsp;and prevent insurance from covering those treatments for minors.

Transgender medical treatment for children and teens is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-health-texas-state-government-tennessee-minnesota-878a9217fa434f3ecd83738a71e40572">increasingly under attack in many states</a>, labeled child abuse and subject to criminalizing bans. But it has been available in the United States for more than a decade and is endorsed by major medical associations.

Efforts to outlaw public drag performances in Missouri appear less likely to advance.

When asked about whether he supports bills that would outlaw public drag performances, Rowden said lawmakers have “more important stuff to talk about.”

Proposed legislation would make performing in drag in public or where a minor could watch a misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and a $2,000 fine.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — The leader of Missouri's state Senate on Thursday said Republican senators are unified against letting transgender girls play on girls' sports teams.Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden's comments to reporters on Thursday signal that restrictions on what teams transgender student athletes can play on have a good chance of passing the GOP-led Legislature this year.Supporters and opponents spoke for hours during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-children-jefferson-city-missouri-lgbtq-people-adb003aedb60a1ddacc077189955831d">an intense public House committee hearing</a>&nbsp;on several bills dealing with transgender student athletes, gender-affirming treatment and drag shows. The hearing lasted through Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning.<a href="https://www.mshsaa.org/resources/pdf/Official%20Handbook.pdf">Missouri’s current public high school sports rules</a>&nbsp;already prohibit transgender girls from competing on girls teams unless they have undergone at least a year of hormone therapy and continue taking medication to maintain their hormone levels.The Missouri State High School Activities Association requires transgender athletes to apply and submit documentation of medical care in order to compete as the gender they identify with.A spokesman for the association said 13 students have been approved since the organization adopted the rules in 2012, including only four transgender girls.Senate Democratic Minority Leader John Rizzo called the focus on transgender athletics “absurd.”“There's more bills about trans kids playing sports than there are trans kids that want to play sports,” Rizzo told reporters Thursday.Rowden said Senate Republicans also support banning minors from receiving gender-affirming surgeries and that bans on other treatments, such as hormone blockers, are still under consideration.“We're gonna take action on that issue,” Rowden said. “Our caucus is very united behind the idea that minors should not have gender reassignment surgery taken before the age of 18.”Bills introduced in the Legislature would ban Missouri doctors from providing any&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-health-mental-ce8f5a9ee53768af03c3c65d5331045b">gender-affirming treatments for minors</a>&nbsp;and prevent insurance from covering those treatments for minors.Transgender medical treatment for children and teens is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-health-texas-state-government-tennessee-minnesota-878a9217fa434f3ecd83738a71e40572">increasingly under attack in many states</a>, labeled child abuse and subject to criminalizing bans. But it has been available in the United States for more than a decade and is endorsed by major medical associations.Efforts to outlaw public drag performances in Missouri appear less likely to advance.When asked about whether he supports bills that would outlaw public drag performances, Rowden said lawmakers have “more important stuff to talk about.”Proposed legislation would make performing in drag in public or where a minor could watch a misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and a $2,000 fine.

Battle in Missouri legislature over trans student athletes

TOPEKA —Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks invasive species biologists have been sampling on the Kansas River to remove invasive species, including Bighead and Silver Carp this winter. 

While out on the river this week, they encountered a "Kansas River monster," according to the KDWP social media account.

The Blue Catfish that weighed nearly 80 pounds. "This big blue, and all other non-target species sampled, are put back in the river."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674761754185.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks invasive species biologists have been sampling on the Kansas River to remove invasive species, including Bighead and Silver Carp this winter. While out on the river this week, they encountered a "Kansas River monster," according to the KDWP social media account.The Blue Catfish that weighed nearly 80 pounds. "This big blue, and all other non-target species sampled, are put back in the river."

Biologists find 'river monster' on the Kansas River

BOSTON (AP) — When U.S. Rep. Jake Auchincloss decided to deliver a speech on a bill that would create a U.S.-Israel artificial intelligence center, he opted to let the AI do the talking.

The brief two-paragragh speech read by the Massachusetts Democrat on the floor of the U.S. House on Wednesday was generated by the online&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-is-chat-gpt-ac4967a4fb41fda31c4d27f015e32660">AI chatbot ChatGPT</a>. His staff said they believe it’s the first time an AI-written speech was read in Congress.

Auchincloss said he prompted the system in part to “write 100 words to deliver on the floor of the House of Representatives” about the legislation. Auchincloss said he had to refine the prompt several times to produce the text he ultimately read.

The bill, which Auchincloss is refiling, would establish a joint U.S.-Israel AI Center in the United States to serve as a hub for AI research and development in the public, private and education sectors.

Auchincloss said part of the decision to read a ChatGPT-generated text was to help spur debate on AI and the challenges and opportunities created by it. He said he doesn’t want to see a repeat of the advent of social media, which started small and ballooned faster than Congress could react.

“I’m the youngest parent in the Democratic caucus, AI is going to be part of my life and it could be a general purpose technology for my children,” said Auchincloss, 34.

The release of ChatGPT and other AI programs available on the internet is already posing a challenge for teachers who must now grapple with the possibility of students handing in AI-generated essays.

Researchers also worry AI chatbots could help turbocharge efforts to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-science-business-artificial-intelligence-afb4618ff593db9e3e51ecbd91dc3eef">spread misinformation and propaganda.</a>

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-science-microsoft-corp-business-artificial-intelligence-03f157ddc482ef76f4999b929eaac7bf">OpenAI</a>, the nonprofit that created ChatGPT, has acknowledged on its website that ChatGPT “can occasionally produce incorrect answers” and that its responses will sometimes be misleading as a result of how it learns. It recommends users check whether responses are accurate or not,

The text generated from Auchincloss’s prompt includes sentences like: “We must collaborate with international partners like the Israeli government to ensure that the United States maintains a leadership role in AI research and development and responsibly explores the many possibilities evolving technologies provide.”

“There were probably about a dozen of my colleagues on the floor. I bet none of them knew it was written by a computer,” he said.

BOSTON (AP) — When U.S. Rep. Jake Auchincloss decided to deliver a speech on a bill that would create a U.S.-Israel artificial intelligence center, he opted to let the AI do the talking.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/RepAuchincloss?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepAuchincloss</a> delivers AI-generated speech on the House floor: &quot;We must collaborate with international partners like the Israeli government to ensure that the United States maintains a leadership role in AI research and development...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/xMbPIXyBJO">pic.twitter.com/xMbPIXyBJO</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1618675199678812170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The brief two-paragragh speech read by the Massachusetts Democrat on the floor of the U.S. House on Wednesday was generated by the online&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-is-chat-gpt-ac4967a4fb41fda31c4d27f015e32660">AI chatbot ChatGPT</a>. His staff said they believe it’s the first time an AI-written speech was read in Congress.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">AI has the potential to radically reshape how we use technology. But for now… my speechwriter has nothing to worry about. <a href="https://t.co/AADA3mwPrC">pic.twitter.com/AADA3mwPrC</a>&mdash; Rep. Jake Auchincloss (@RepAuchincloss) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepAuchincloss/status/1618299859785908227?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Auchincloss said he prompted the system in part to “write 100 words to deliver on the floor of the House of Representatives” about the legislation. Auchincloss said he had to refine the prompt several times to produce the text he ultimately read.The bill, which Auchincloss is refiling, would establish a joint U.S.-Israel AI Center in the United States to serve as a hub for AI research and development in the public, private and education sectors.Auchincloss said part of the decision to read a ChatGPT-generated text was to help spur debate on AI and the challenges and opportunities created by it. He said he doesn’t want to see a repeat of the advent of social media, which started small and ballooned faster than Congress could react.“I’m the youngest parent in the Democratic caucus, AI is going to be part of my life and it could be a general purpose technology for my children,” said Auchincloss, 34.The release of ChatGPT and other AI programs available on the internet is already posing a challenge for teachers who must now grapple with the possibility of students handing in AI-generated essays.Researchers also worry AI chatbots could help turbocharge efforts to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-science-business-artificial-intelligence-afb4618ff593db9e3e51ecbd91dc3eef">spread misinformation and propaganda.</a><a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-science-microsoft-corp-business-artificial-intelligence-03f157ddc482ef76f4999b929eaac7bf">OpenAI</a>, the nonprofit that created ChatGPT, has acknowledged on its website that ChatGPT “can occasionally produce incorrect answers” and that its responses will sometimes be misleading as a result of how it learns. It recommends users check whether responses are accurate or not,The text generated from Auchincloss’s prompt includes sentences like: “We must collaborate with international partners like the Israeli government to ensure that the United States maintains a leadership role in AI research and development and responsibly explores the many possibilities evolving technologies provide.”“There were probably about a dozen of my colleagues on the floor. I bet none of them knew it was written by a computer,” he said.Lawmakers and others shouldn’t be reflexively hostile to the new technology, but also shouldn’t wait too long before drafting policies or new laws to help regulate it, Auchincloss said.In particular, he argued that the country needs a “public counterweight” to the big tech firms that would help guarantee that smaller developers and universities have access to the same cloud computing, cutting edge algorithms and raw data as larger companies.