Washington— The U.S. Senate on Wednesday passed Senator Roger Marshall's legislation to halt President Biden’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate for healthcare workers. Senator Marshall delivered remarks on the Senate floor prior to the vote.&nbsp;

“Make no mistake, this federal vaccine mandate is not about public health or science – it’s about Joe Biden fulfilling his desire to control every aspect of our lives, and it’s a slap in the face to the hard-working men and women who never took a day off on the frontline fight against COVID-19,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall. “Today is a huge victory for all the healthcare workers who ran to the sound of the COVID battle as Senate Republicans joined forces taking us one step closer to invalidating President Biden’s overreaching and harmful CMS vaccine mandate. These workers are the true heroes of the pandemic and deserve our best fight and utmost respect.”

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/CMS-Vaccine-Mandate-CRA-Floor-Speech.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view Senator Marshall’s remarks as prepared.

Washington— The U.S. Senate on Wednesday passed Senator Roger Marshall's legislation to halt President Biden’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate for healthcare workers. Senator Marshall delivered remarks on the Senate floor prior to the vote.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fb_osjCmbx0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>“Make no mistake, this federal vaccine mandate is not about public health or science – it’s about Joe Biden fulfilling his desire to control every aspect of our lives, and it’s a slap in the face to the hard-working men and women who never took a day off on the frontline fight against COVID-19,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall. “Today is a huge victory for all the healthcare workers who ran to the sound of the COVID battle as Senate Republicans joined forces taking us one step closer to invalidating President Biden’s overreaching and harmful CMS vaccine mandate. These workers are the true heroes of the pandemic and deserve our best fight and utmost respect.”Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/CMS-Vaccine-Mandate-CRA-Floor-Speech.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view Senator Marshall’s remarks as prepared.

Senate passes Marshall's bill to stop vaxx mandate for healthcare workers

By SUZANNE PEREZ <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2022-03-01/derby-residents-pack-school-board-meeting-to-support-principals-lesson-on-white-privilege">Kansas News Service</a>

WICHITA, Kansas — Debate over a video about white privilege 
dominated the Derby school board meeting this week, with one board 
member linking the video to critical race theory and others saying they 
support its message and the principal who shared it.

More than 100
 people packed into the board chambers and an overflow room for Monday’s
 meeting. Many wore green “Team Hamblin” T-shirts in support of Derby 
High Principal Tim Hamblin.

Hamblin spoke publicly for the first time since the controversy began, saying he <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/education/2022-02-20/fallout-from-video-about-white-privilege-roils-derby-school-district" target="_blank">shared the video with teachers</a> in January after learning about race-based attacks on social media against two Black students.

“‘See
 something, say something.’ It’s on the Derby homepage. It’s in every 
building in this district,” Hamblin said. “I was trying to teach kids 
how they can help others.”

Hamblin <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2022-02-09/a-kansas-principal-shared-a-video-about-speaking-up-against-racism-he-was-ordered-to-apologize" target="_blank">emailed his staff last month</a>
 to apologize for showing the video. He said an anonymous employee had 
complained to a school board member that the video was offensive and 
created a hostile work environment.

The <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wf9QBnPK6Yg" target="_blank">video features Black author Joy DeGruy</a>
 relating a story about being treated differently at a store because of 
her race. A lighter-skinned family member “used her white privilege and …
 pointed out the injustice,” DeGruy says in the video.

School board member Andy Watkins emailed Superintendent Heather Bohaty about the video on Feb. 6.

“I really believe the community/patrons of our district would not be 
OK with this video,” Watkins said in the email. He said students and 
teachers who watched it should get an apology or explanation.

“Do 
we need some kind of policy which talks more about disparaging one race 
over another (which seems like common sense but may be needed to prevent
 a video like this in the future)?” Watkins wrote in the email.

“I
 really need to understand your position on this video, as I think it 
dictates what possible next steps look like and further questions.”

Board members were <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/12LquYeN0_WcUae9m7_kI0dCRB0ZhEcsX/view" target="_blank">scheduled to review Bohaty’s contract</a> the following day.

On
 Monday, Watkins said he raised concerns about the video because he 
thinks terminology used in it “has a direct tie to critical race 
theory,” and he was concerned about “making this terminology … the 
norm.”

Critical race theory is not taught in Kansas K-12 schools, 
but its core idea holds that racism is embedded in American culture and 
policies. Some critics say conversations about white privilege can make 
people feel uncomfortable and accelerate racial conflict.

Watkins 
said he did not order Hamblin to apologize. But Hamblin said he viewed 
board members as “the ultimate formal authority” in the district.

“This
 is a dumb analogy, but if my father asked me to mow the lawn, I never 
really thought I had a choice,” Hamblin said. “I respected his formal 
authority, and it was an expectation that I would do so.”

Bohaty, 
the superintendent, drew loud applause from the audience Monday when she
 said she supported Hamblin’s decision to show the video.

“I do 
not believe there was a communication breakdown. I have clearly stated …
 that an apology should not be requested from DHS administration,” 
Bohaty said.

“We have to do better. We must have an environment where conversations can occur, and every student feels safe in our school.”

Board
 president Michael Blankenship thanked Bohaty “for finally taking a 
stance on the video.” Then added, “Unfortunately, it’s about a month 
late.”

Several Derby residents addressed the school board in support of Hamblin.

“We
 live in a dangerous time when the sensibilities of the oppressors and 
their apologists are given more consideration than the experiences of 
true victims,” said Karen Runyon, a parent and school district employee.

“Kudos
 to Mr. Hamblin for attempting to deal with a complex and difficult 
issue in a productive way, and shame on those who requested an apology 
for his efforts.”

Cheryl Bannon, a former Derby City Council 
member, motioned to the crowd in attendance. “I represented this 
community for 17 years, and I can guarantee you, as shown by this sea of
 green, most of the community would not have a problem with that video.”

Sherilyn Ray, a Derby High graduate who is Black, said racism is a problem in the district and needs to be addressed.

“If
 every single person that was voted into a position … within this school
 district doesn't stand up and do something different, you're all 
accountable for that,” she said. “If you stand up and take a position … 
be on the right side, and that's on the side of the kids that are 
suffering.”

Suzanne Perez reports on education for KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter @SuzPerezICT.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646248303390.png" alt="More than 100 people attended Monday's Derby school board meeting in support of Derby High Principal Tim Hamblin. Derby High School Panther's Tale, courtesy Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>More than 100 people attended Monday's Derby school board meeting in support of Derby High Principal Tim Hamblin. Derby High School Panther's Tale, courtesy Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By SUZANNE PEREZ <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2022-03-01/derby-residents-pack-school-board-meeting-to-support-principals-lesson-on-white-privilege">Kansas News Service</a>WICHITA, Kansas — Debate over a video about white privilege 
dominated the Derby school board meeting this week, with one board 
member linking the video to critical race theory and others saying they 
support its message and the principal who shared it.More than 100
 people packed into the board chambers and an overflow room for Monday’s
 meeting. Many wore green “Team Hamblin” T-shirts in support of Derby 
High Principal Tim Hamblin.Hamblin spoke publicly for the first time since the controversy began, saying he <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/education/2022-02-20/fallout-from-video-about-white-privilege-roils-derby-school-district" target="_blank">shared the video with teachers</a> in January after learning about race-based attacks on social media against two Black students.“‘See
 something, say something.’ It’s on the Derby homepage. It’s in every 
building in this district,” Hamblin said. “I was trying to teach kids 
how they can help others.”Hamblin <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2022-02-09/a-kansas-principal-shared-a-video-about-speaking-up-against-racism-he-was-ordered-to-apologize" target="_blank">emailed his staff last month</a>
 to apologize for showing the video. He said an anonymous employee had 
complained to a school board member that the video was offensive and 
created a hostile work environment.The <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wf9QBnPK6Yg" target="_blank">video features Black author Joy DeGruy</a>
 relating a story about being treated differently at a store because of 
her race. A lighter-skinned family member “used her white privilege and …
 pointed out the injustice,” DeGruy says in the video.School board member Andy Watkins emailed Superintendent Heather Bohaty about the video on Feb. 6.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646248392918.png" alt="Derby school board member Andy Watkins / USD 260" />
 <figcaption>Derby school board member Andy Watkins / USD 260</figcaption>
 </figure>“I really believe the community/patrons of our district would not be 
OK with this video,” Watkins said in the email. He said students and 
teachers who watched it should get an apology or explanation.“Do 
we need some kind of policy which talks more about disparaging one race 
over another (which seems like common sense but may be needed to prevent
 a video like this in the future)?” Watkins wrote in the email.“I
 really need to understand your position on this video, as I think it 
dictates what possible next steps look like and further questions.”Board members were <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/12LquYeN0_WcUae9m7_kI0dCRB0ZhEcsX/view" target="_blank">scheduled to review Bohaty’s contract</a> the following day.On
 Monday, Watkins said he raised concerns about the video because he 
thinks terminology used in it “has a direct tie to critical race 
theory,” and he was concerned about “making this terminology … the 
norm.”Critical race theory is not taught in Kansas K-12 schools, 
but its core idea holds that racism is embedded in American culture and 
policies. Some critics say conversations about white privilege can make 
people feel uncomfortable and accelerate racial conflict.Watkins 
said he did not order Hamblin to apologize. But Hamblin said he viewed 
board members as “the ultimate formal authority” in the district.“This
 is a dumb analogy, but if my father asked me to mow the lawn, I never 
really thought I had a choice,” Hamblin said. “I respected his formal 
authority, and it was an expectation that I would do so.”Bohaty, 
the superintendent, drew loud applause from the audience Monday when she
 said she supported Hamblin’s decision to show the video.“I do 
not believe there was a communication breakdown. I have clearly stated …
 that an apology should not be requested from DHS administration,” 
Bohaty said.“We have to do better. We must have an environment where conversations can occur, and every student feels safe in our school.”Board
 president Michael Blankenship thanked Bohaty “for finally taking a 
stance on the video.” Then added, “Unfortunately, it’s about a month 
late.”Several Derby residents addressed the school board in support of Hamblin.“We
 live in a dangerous time when the sensibilities of the oppressors and 
their apologists are given more consideration than the experiences of 
true victims,” said Karen Runyon, a parent and school district employee.“Kudos
 to Mr. Hamblin for attempting to deal with a complex and difficult 
issue in a productive way, and shame on those who requested an apology 
for his efforts.”Cheryl Bannon, a former Derby City Council 
member, motioned to the crowd in attendance. “I represented this 
community for 17 years, and I can guarantee you, as shown by this sea of
 green, most of the community would not have a problem with that video.”Sherilyn Ray, a Derby High graduate who is Black, said racism is a problem in the district and needs to be addressed.“If
 every single person that was voted into a position … within this school
 district doesn't stand up and do something different, you're all 
accountable for that,” she said. “If you stand up and take a position … 
be on the right side, and that's on the side of the kids that are 
suffering.”Suzanne Perez reports on education for KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter @SuzPerezICT.

Residents pack board meeting to support Kan. principal's lesson on 'white privilege'

By SUZANNE PEREZ <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2022-03-02/former-kansas-attorney-general-phill-kline-subpoenaed-by-jan-6-committee">Kansas News Service</a>

WICHITA — A U.S. House select committee investigating the Jan.
 6 attack on the Capitol has subpoenaed Phill Kline, a former Kansas 
attorney general.

According to the subpoena, Kline convened a 
meeting between then-President Donald Trump and 300 state lawmakers in 
an attempt to “disseminate purported evidence of election fraud” and 
ultimately overturn the 2020 election.

The subpoena says Kline 
encouraged the legislators to sign a letter urging former Vice President
 Mike Pence to delay the electoral certification on Jan. 6, 2021.

Kline, a Republican who served as Kansas attorney general from 2003 to 2007, was one of <a href="https://january6th.house.gov/news/press-releases/select-committee-demands-information-witnesses-who-promoted-unsupported-claims" target="_blank">six people subpoenaed by the committee</a> on Tuesday. The subpoenas seek documents and testimony from attorneys who worked on behalf of Trump.

Kline has until March 15 to produce documents and was ordered to appear for a deposition on March 25.

Kline founded a group called <a href="https://www.theamistadproject.org/" target="_blank">The Amistad Project</a>, which bills itself as “the nation’s leading election integrity watchdog.” Recent news reports reveal that the group was <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-01-24/former-kansas-attorney-general-phill-kline-led-effort-to-promote-fake-trump-electors-in-2020" target="_blank">active in promoting fake slates of pro-Trump electors</a> in 2020.

The
 new subpoenas reflect the Jan. 6 committee’s focus on Trump’s efforts 
to stop President Joe Biden’s certification, including plans to send 
slates of electors to return Trump to office.

“The select 
committee is seeking information about attempts to disrupt or delay the 
certification of electoral votes and any efforts to corruptly change the
 outcome of the 2020 election,” Rep. Bennie Thompson, a Mississippi 
Democrat and chairman of the panel, said in a statement.

“The six 
individuals we’ve subpoenaed today all have knowledge related to those 
matters and will help the select committee better understand all the 
various strategies employed to potentially affect the outcome of the 
election,” Thompson said.

Suzanne Perez reports for KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter @SuzPerezICT.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646248163529.png" alt="Former Kansas attorney general Phill Kline / Kansas News Service photo" />
 <figcaption>Former Kansas attorney general Phill Kline / Kansas News Service photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By SUZANNE PEREZ <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/news/2022-03-02/former-kansas-attorney-general-phill-kline-subpoenaed-by-jan-6-committee">Kansas News Service</a>WICHITA — A U.S. House select committee investigating the Jan.
 6 attack on the Capitol has subpoenaed Phill Kline, a former Kansas 
attorney general.According to the subpoena, Kline convened a 
meeting between then-President Donald Trump and 300 state lawmakers in 
an attempt to “disseminate purported evidence of election fraud” and 
ultimately overturn the 2020 election.The subpoena says Kline 
encouraged the legislators to sign a letter urging former Vice President
 Mike Pence to delay the electoral certification on Jan. 6, 2021.Kline, a Republican who served as Kansas attorney general from 2003 to 2007, was one of <a href="https://january6th.house.gov/news/press-releases/select-committee-demands-information-witnesses-who-promoted-unsupported-claims" target="_blank">six people subpoenaed by the committee</a> on Tuesday. The subpoenas seek documents and testimony from attorneys who worked on behalf of Trump.Kline has until March 15 to produce documents and was ordered to appear for a deposition on March 25.Kline founded a group called <a href="https://www.theamistadproject.org/" target="_blank">The Amistad Project</a>, which bills itself as “the nation’s leading election integrity watchdog.” Recent news reports reveal that the group was <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-01-24/former-kansas-attorney-general-phill-kline-led-effort-to-promote-fake-trump-electors-in-2020" target="_blank">active in promoting fake slates of pro-Trump electors</a> in 2020.The
 new subpoenas reflect the Jan. 6 committee’s focus on Trump’s efforts 
to stop President Joe Biden’s certification, including plans to send 
slates of electors to return Trump to office.“The select 
committee is seeking information about attempts to disrupt or delay the 
certification of electoral votes and any efforts to corruptly change the
 outcome of the 2020 election,” Rep. Bennie Thompson, a Mississippi 
Democrat and chairman of the panel, said in a statement.“The six 
individuals we’ve subpoenaed today all have knowledge related to those 
matters and will help the select committee better understand all the 
various strategies employed to potentially affect the outcome of the 
election,” Thompson said.Suzanne Perez reports for KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter @SuzPerezICT.

Former Kansas AG Phill Kline subpoenaed by Jan. 6 committee

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A community task force is calling for the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate the death of a Black teenager who was restrained facedown for more than 30 minutes at a Kansas juvenile detention center.

Sedgwick County Commission Chairman David Dennis said last month that he was told by county Sheriff Jeff Easter that the&nbsp;FBI&nbsp;requested all information regarding the death of 17-year-old Cedric Lofton. The FBI is part of the Justice Department.

But the task force wasn’t certain about the status of the investigation because its members only knew about it secondhand and they wanted to add their voices to those asking, said member Jazmine Rogers, an organizer with the Wichita-based youth civil rights group Progeny.

Lofton’s foster father called authorities in September seeking help because the teenager was hallucinating. Police initially tried to convince him to go to a mental health facility, but body camera video shows him refusing to go and then resisting when officers tried to force him.

Lofton then was taken to the Sedgwick County Juvenile Intake and Assessment Center, where he had to be resuscitated after he was held facedown. He died two days later.

The county prosecutor declined to file charges in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wichita-kansas-a51f619b8b196987e74b046ac399680c">January</a>, citing the state’s stand-your-ground law self defense law.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642880340757.png" alt="Lofton as seen at the Sedgwick County Juvenile Intake and Assessment Center . Image from the video of the encounter released by Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Lofton as seen at the Sedgwick County Juvenile Intake and Assessment Center . Image from the video of the encounter released by Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A community task force is calling for the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate the death of a Black teenager who was restrained facedown for more than 30 minutes at a Kansas juvenile detention center.Sedgwick County Commission Chairman David Dennis said last month that he was told by county Sheriff Jeff Easter that the&nbsp;FBI&nbsp;requested all information regarding the death of 17-year-old Cedric Lofton. The FBI is part of the Justice Department.But the task force wasn’t certain about the status of the investigation because its members only knew about it secondhand and they wanted to add their voices to those asking, said member Jazmine Rogers, an organizer with the Wichita-based youth civil rights group Progeny.Lofton’s foster father called authorities in September seeking help because the teenager was hallucinating. Police initially tried to convince him to go to a mental health facility, but body camera video shows him refusing to go and then resisting when officers tried to force him.Lofton then was taken to the Sedgwick County Juvenile Intake and Assessment Center, where he had to be resuscitated after he was held facedown. He died two days later.The county prosecutor declined to file charges in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wichita-kansas-a51f619b8b196987e74b046ac399680c">January</a>, citing the state’s stand-your-ground law self defense law.

Task force: DOJ should investigate Kan. teen's in custody death

TOPEKA — The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 924 to a total of 766,969, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The state reported 29 additional COVID-19 deaths for a total of 7,975.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.

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

As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;

Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

TOPEKA — The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 924 to a total of 766,969, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp; &nbsp;The state reported 29 additional COVID-19 deaths for a total of 7,975.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646244099939.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

KDHE reports 29 additional COVID-19 deaths

By MATT OTT AP Business Writer

SILVER SPRING, Md. — Google-owned Fitbit has recalled 1 million of its Ionic smartwatches after dozens of users reported burn injuries because the battery overheated. 

The fitness gadget maker says consumers who bought the $299 watches with the model number FB503 should immediately stop using the product and contact Fitbit for packaging to return them. 

The company says consumers will receive full refunds and a discount of 40% to purchase certain Fitbit products. 

Fitbit received 115 reports of the battery overheating in the U.S., with 78 reports of burn injuries including 2 reports of third-degree burns and four claims of second-degree burns.

By MATT OTT AP Business WriterSILVER SPRING, Md. — Google-owned Fitbit has recalled 1 million of its Ionic smartwatches after dozens of users reported burn injuries because the battery overheated. The fitness gadget maker says consumers who bought the $299 watches with the model number FB503 should immediately stop using the product and contact Fitbit for packaging to return them. The company says consumers will receive full refunds and a discount of 40% to purchase certain Fitbit products. Fitbit received 115 reports of the battery overheating in the U.S., with 78 reports of burn injuries including 2 reports of third-degree burns and four claims of second-degree burns.Cover image courtesy Pixabay

Fitbit recalls 1M Ionic watches after burn injuries

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — A suspect in the fatal shooting of a North Carolina bus driver has been arrested in Kansas, police announced Tuesday.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg police said in a news release that detectives found Darian Dru Thavychith, 21, through a collaboration with state police, the FBI and the Shawnee, Kansas, Police Department. Thavychith was arrested without incident at a gas station in Shawnee, according to police there.

Thavychith is charged with murder and shooting into occupied property in the death of Charlotte Area Transit System bus driver Ethan Rivera last month, police said. He is in the Johnson County, Kansas, jail, Shawnee police records show. At a court hearing Tuesday, Thavychith agreed to be extradited to Charlotte.

Officers responding to a call about a shooting on Feb. 11 found a bus off the road and the bus driver shot, police said. Rivera was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries and police said he died the next day. The four passengers on the bus at the time were not hurt, police said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646237757506.png" alt="Thavychit-is being held in Johnson County" />
 <figcaption>Thavychit-is being held in Johnson County</figcaption>
 </figure>CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — A suspect in the fatal shooting of a North Carolina bus driver has been arrested in Kansas, police announced Tuesday.Charlotte-Mecklenburg police said in a news release that detectives found Darian Dru Thavychith, 21, through a collaboration with state police, the FBI and the Shawnee, Kansas, Police Department. Thavychith was arrested without incident at a gas station in Shawnee, according to police there.Thavychith is charged with murder and shooting into occupied property in the death of Charlotte Area Transit System bus driver Ethan Rivera last month, police said. He is in the Johnson County, Kansas, jail, Shawnee police records show. At a court hearing Tuesday, Thavychith agreed to be extradited to Charlotte.Officers responding to a call about a shooting on Feb. 11 found a bus off the road and the bus driver shot, police said. Rivera was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries and police said he died the next day. The four passengers on the bus at the time were not hurt, police said.

Suspect in February killing of bus driver captured in Kansas

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Two off-duty police officers in Wichita found a baby unharmed in the back seat of a car that had been stolen from a Walmart parking lot. Television station KAKE reports the theft happened Tuesday afternoon. 

The officers were off-duty and working at a business on Pawnee Street when they learned of the car theft with the 11-month-old baby still in the car's back seat. 

The pair began patrolling the area looking for the car and found it abandoned a short distance away with the baby still in the back seat. 

The suspect who stole the car is described as a white male in his 50s with brownish, blonde hair, some facial hair and he was wearing blue jeans and a checkered, flannel shirt, according to OffiCer Charley Davidson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646235649403.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation Tuesday afternoon-photo courtesy KAKE" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation Tuesday afternoon-photo courtesy KAKE</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Two off-duty police officers in Wichita found a baby unharmed in the back seat of a car that had been stolen from a Walmart parking lot. Television station KAKE reports the theft happened Tuesday afternoon. The officers were off-duty and working at a business on Pawnee Street when they learned of the car theft with the 11-month-old baby still in the car's back seat. The pair began patrolling the area looking for the car and found it abandoned a short distance away with the baby still in the back seat. The suspect who stole the car is described as a white male in his 50s with brownish, blonde hair, some facial hair and he was wearing blue jeans and a checkered, flannel shirt, according to OffiCer Charley Davidson.

Kan. officers found baby in car stolen from Walmart parking lot

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today updated its 
frequently asked questions (FAQs) on Tax Credits for Paid Leave Under 
the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 for Leave After March 31, 2021.

These FAQs (<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/newsroom/fs-2022-15.pdf">FS-2022-15</a>&nbsp;PDF) revisions add Questions 98a and 116a.

These FAQs are being issued to provide general information to taxpayers and tax professionals as expeditiously as possible.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today updated its 
frequently asked questions (FAQs) on Tax Credits for Paid Leave Under 
the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 for Leave After March 31, 2021.These FAQs (<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/newsroom/fs-2022-15.pdf">FS-2022-15</a>&nbsp;PDF) revisions add Questions 98a and 116a.These FAQs are being issued to provide general information to taxpayers and tax professionals as expeditiously as possible.---------------------WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today updated its 
frequently asked questions (FAQs) on Tax Credits for Paid Leave Under 
the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 for Leave After March 31, 2021.These FAQs (<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/newsroom/fs-2022-15.pdf">FS-2022-15</a>&nbsp;PDF) revisions add Questions 98a and 116a.These FAQs are being issued to provide general information to taxpayers and tax professionals as expeditiously as possible.

IRS: Updates to rules on COVID relief payments, paid leave

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Democrats in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/kansas">Kansas</a>&nbsp;filed a third lawsuit Tuesday against a congressional redistricting law enacted by the Republican-controlled Legislature, arguing that GOP gerrymandering aimed to “practically void” Democratic votes in the liberal enclave of Lawrence.

Four Democrats from the northeast Kansas city filed the lawsuit in Douglas County District Court, claiming that the new law violates the Kansas Constitution. It moved Lawrence from the 2nd District of northeast Kansas into the sprawling 1st District of central and western Kansas with conservative Republican communities hours away by car.

The U.S. Supreme Court declared in 2019 that partisan gerrymandering is a political issue and not for the federal courts to resolve. That still leaves the question of whether state courts might declare that the Kansas Constitution separately bars gerrymandering.

The lawsuit filed Tuesday and two others filed last month in Wyandotte County District Court ask for just such a ruling.

Republican lawmakers dismissed allegations of gerrymandering.

Attorney General Derek Schmidt, a Republican running for governor, already has filed a petition with the Kansas Supreme Court, asking it to intervene and declare that partisan gerrymandering isn't an issue for the state courts, either. Schmidt spokesperson John Milburn said the Democrats who filed the lawsuit Tuesday “appear to be raising the same legal questions.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643147273216.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Democrats in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/kansas">Kansas</a>&nbsp;filed a third lawsuit Tuesday against a congressional redistricting law enacted by the Republican-controlled Legislature, arguing that GOP gerrymandering aimed to “practically void” Democratic votes in the liberal enclave of Lawrence.Four Democrats from the northeast Kansas city filed the lawsuit in Douglas County District Court, claiming that the new law violates the Kansas Constitution. It moved Lawrence from the 2nd District of northeast Kansas into the sprawling 1st District of central and western Kansas with conservative Republican communities hours away by car.The U.S. Supreme Court declared in 2019 that partisan gerrymandering is a political issue and not for the federal courts to resolve. That still leaves the question of whether state courts might declare that the Kansas Constitution separately bars gerrymandering.The lawsuit filed Tuesday and two others filed last month in Wyandotte County District Court ask for just such a ruling.Republican lawmakers dismissed allegations of gerrymandering.Attorney General Derek Schmidt, a Republican running for governor, already has filed a petition with the Kansas Supreme Court, asking it to intervene and declare that partisan gerrymandering isn't an issue for the state courts, either. Schmidt spokesperson John Milburn said the Democrats who filed the lawsuit Tuesday “appear to be raising the same legal questions.”

Democrats file 3rd lawsuit over new Kansas congressional map

&nbsp;SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities have located a 1-year-old Kansas girl reported missing early Wednesday.

Kamryn is safe and police arrested her father identified as 41-year-old James Nordman on requested charges that include a violation of a domestic violence protection order, according to Officer Charley Davidson. Police released no additional details about how or where they found the child.

Just before 12:30 a.m. Wednesday, officers responded to a domestic violence report call at a home in the 1000 block of South Christine in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson. Upon arrival, officers contacted a 25-year-old female of the residence.  

She reported that her boyfriend, James, was at the home with their child, Kamryn, while she was away.  When she arrived home James and Kamryn were gone, and they did not return for several hours.  Investigators are concerned for the welfare of Kamryn and need assistance locating her.  Additionally, James is wanted for a violation of a domestic violence protection order.

Nordman has previous convictions for theft, burglary and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are asking for assistance in locating 1-year-old Kamryn Nordman and 41-year-old James Nordman.

  They are traveling in a white 1999 Chevy Trailblazer with Kansas tag 388 MGG.  If you see Kamryn, James, or the Chevy Trailblazer, or know their whereabouts, please call 911.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646231301148.png" alt="Nordman has previous convictions for theft, burglary and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Nordman has previous convictions for theft, burglary and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities have located a 1-year-old Kansas girl reported missing early Wednesday.Kamryn is safe and police arrested her father identified as 41-year-old James Nordman on requested charges that include a violation of a domestic violence protection order, according to Officer Charley Davidson. Police released no additional details about how or where they found the child.Just before 12:30 a.m. Wednesday, officers responded to a domestic violence report call at a home in the 1000 block of South Christine in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson. Upon arrival, officers contacted a 25-year-old female of the residence. She reported that her boyfriend, James, was at the home with their child, Kamryn, while she was away. When she arrived home James and Kamryn were gone, and they did not return for several hours. Investigators are concerned for the welfare of Kamryn and need assistance locating her. Additionally, James is wanted for a violation of a domestic violence protection order.Nordman has previous convictions for theft, burglary and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.-------SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are asking for assistance in locating 1-year-old Kamryn Nordman and 41-year-old James Nordman.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646220988772.png" alt="photo courtesy Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure> They are traveling in a white 1999 Chevy Trailblazer with Kansas tag 388 MGG. If you see Kamryn, James, or the Chevy Trailblazer, or know their whereabouts, please call 911.Just before 12:30 a.m. Wednesday, officers responded to a domestic violence report call at a home in the 1000 block of South Christine in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson. Upon arrival, officers contacted a 25-year-old female of the residence. She reported that her boyfriend, James, was at the home with their child, Kamryn, while she was away. When she arrived home James and Kamryn were gone, and they did not return for several hours. Investigators are concerned for the welfare of Kamryn and need assistance locating her. Additionally, James is wanted for a violation of a domestic violence protection order.

Police find missing 1-year-old Kan. girl, arrest her father

WASHINGTON (AP) — Addressing a concerned nation and anxious world, President Joe Biden vowed in his first State of the Union address Tuesday night to check&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-abc3e297725e57e6052529d844b5ee2f">Russian aggression in Ukraine,&nbsp;</a>tame soaring U.S. inflation and deal with the fading but still dangerous coronavirus.

Biden declared that he and all members of Congress, whatever their political differences, are joined “with an unwavering resolve that freedom will always triumph over tyranny.” He asked lawmakers crowding the House chamber to stand and salute the Ukrainians as he began his speech. They stood and cheered.

It was a notable show of unity after a long year of bitter acrimony between Biden’s Democratic coalition and the Republican opposition.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-vladimir-putin-voting-rights-immigration-state-of-the-union-address-5894f85ff2872a4c28b4f2bbde2741c7">Biden’s 62-minute speech,&nbsp;</a>which was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-vladimir-putin-state-of-the-union-address-joe-biden-coronavirus-pandemic-feaf4678d114e37ce708aa41fae8be82">split between attention to war abroad and worries at home</a>&nbsp;— reflected the same balancing act he now faces in his presidency. He must marshal allied resolve against Russia’s aggression while tending to inflation, COVID-19 fatigue and sagging approval ratings heading into the midterm elections.

Aiming to build on momentum from the speech, Biden will head to Wisconsin on Wednesday in an effort to show Americans that his domestic agenda is working. His vice president and Cabinet members will fan out around the country to amplify the message.

Biden heads again to an old bridge set to be repaired — increasingly a symbol for his administration, tangible evidence of the nation that he’s working to update. This time, it’s a wrought-iron bridge that connects Duluth, Minnesota, and Superior, Wisconsin, across the St. Louis Bay.

The bridge will be replaced using funds from the massive infrastructure plan signed into law last year, a signature piece of bipartisan legislation and proof — Biden says — that the GOP and Democrats can still work together.

In Tuesday’s speech, Biden highlighted the bravery of Ukrainian defenders and a newly reinvigorated Western alliance that has worked to rearm the Ukrainian military and cripple Russia’s economy through sanctions. He acknowledged costs to the American economy, as well, but warned ominously that without consequences, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s aggression wouldn’t be contained to Ukraine.

“Throughout our history we’ve learned this lesson – when dictators do not pay a price for their aggression, they cause more chaos,” Biden said. “They keep moving. And, the costs and threats to America and the world keep rising.”

As Biden spoke, Russian forces were escalating their attacks in Ukraine, having bombarded the central square of country’s second-biggest city and Kyiv’s main TV tower, killing at least five people. The Babi Yar Holocaust memorial was also damaged.

Biden announced that the U.S. is following Canada and the European Union in banning Russian planes from its airspace in retaliation for the invasion of Ukraine. He also said the Justice Department was launching a task force to go after Russian oligarchs, whom he called “corrupt leaders who have bilked billions of dollars off this violent regime.”

“We are coming for your ill-begotten gains,” he said, pledging that the U.S. and European allies were after their yachts, luxury apartments and private jets.

Biden pivoted in his speech from the troubles abroad to those at home. Even before the Russian invasion sent energy costs skyrocketing, prices for American families had been rising, and the COVID-19 pandemic continues to hurt families and the country’s economy.

Biden outlined plans to address inflation by reinvesting in American manufacturing capacity, speeding supply chains and reducing the burden of childcare and eldercare on workers.

“Too many families are struggling to keep up with the bills,” Biden said. “Inflation is robbing them of the gains they might otherwise feel. I get it. That’s why my top priority is getting prices under control.”

In one sign of national progress on the pandemic, Biden entered the House chamber without a mask, as coronavirus cases decline and new federal guidance tries to nudge the public back to pre-pandemic activities. But there was evidence of ongoing tension as well: The Capitol was newly fenced due to security concerns after last year’s insurrection.

Set against disquiet at home and danger abroad, the White House had conceived Tuesday night’s speech as an opportunity to highlight the improving coronavirus outlook, rebrand Biden’s domestic policy priorities and show a path to lower costs for families grappling with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/consumer-prices-inflation-c1bfd93ed1719cf0135420f4fd0270f9">soaring inflation</a>. But events took a turn toward world affairs with last week’s Russian invasion of Ukraine and nuclear saber-rattling by Putin.

As is customary, one Cabinet secretary, in this case Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, was kept in a secure location during the address, ready to take over the government in the event of a catastrophe.

The State of the Union is typically an address targeted to a national audience, but this year’s had the world watching. In an interview with CNN and Reuters, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged Biden to deliver a strong and “useful” message about Russia’s invasion. In a show of unity, Ukrainian Ambassador to the U.S. Oksana Markarova joined first lady Jill Biden in the House gallery for the speech.

In a rare discordant moment, Rep. Lauren Boebert of Colorado yelled out that Biden was to blame for the 13 service members who were killed during last August’s chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

“You put them in. Thirteen of them,” Boebert yelled as Biden mentioned his late son Beau, a veteran who died from brain cancer and served near toxic military burn pits, used extensively in Iraq and Afghanistan. Biden is pursuing legislation to help veterans suffering exposure and other injuries.

While the crisis in Eastern Europe may have helped to cool partisan tensions in Washington, it didn’t erase the political and cultural discord that is casting doubt on Biden’s ability to deliver.

A February AP-NORC poll found that more people disapproved than approved of how Biden is handling his job, 55% to 44%. That’s down from a 60% favorable rating last July.

Biden, used his remarks to highlight the progress from a year ago — with the majority of the U.S. population now vaccinated and millions more people at work — but also acknowledged that the job is not yet done, a recognition of American discontent.

“I have come to report on the state of the union,” Biden said. “And my report is this: The state of the union is strong — because you, the American people, are strong. We are stronger today than we were a year ago. And we will be stronger a year from now than we are today.”

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, selected to give the Republican response, said Biden’s address came as a blast from the past with rising inflation, rising crime and a resurgent Russia making it feel more like the 1980s than today.

“Even before taking the oath of office, the president said that he wanted to — quote — make America respected around the world again, and to unite us here. He’s failed on both fronts,” she said.

Biden used his speech to nudge the country back “to more normal routines” after the coronavirus reshaped American life.

“It’s time for Americans to get back to work and fill our great downtowns again,” he declared. He said people will be able to order another round of free tests from the government and that his administration was launching a “test to treat” initiative to provide free antiviral pills at pharmacies to those who test positive for the virus.

Where his speech to Congress last year saw the rollout of a massive social spending package, Biden this year largely repackaged past proposals in search of achievable measures he hopes can win bipartisan support in a bitterly divided Congress before the elections.

The president also highlighted investments in everything from internet broadband access to bridge construction from November’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-congress-infrastructure-bill-signing-b5b8cca843133de060778f049861b144">$1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure law</a>&nbsp;as an example of government reaching consensus and delivering change for the nation.

As part of his pitch to voters, he also put a new emphasis on how proposals like extending the child tax credit and bringing down child care costs could bring relief to families as prices rise. He was said his climate change proposals would cut costs for lower- and middle-income families and create new jobs.

Biden called for lowering health care costs, pitching his plan to authorize Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices, as well as an extension of more generous health insurance subsidies now temporarily available through the Affordable Care Act marketplaces where 14.5 million people get coverage.

Biden also appealed for action on voting rights, which has failed to win GOP support. And as gun violence rises, he returned to calls to ban assault weapons, a blunt request he hadn’t made in months. He called to “fund the police with the resources and training they need to protect our communities.”

He led Congress in a bipartisan tribute to retiring Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer and highlighted the biography of federal judge&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/Ketanji-Brown-Jackson-biden-supreme-court-nominee-32f77fe08d7cf64af95591668a0aaa41">Ketanji Brown Jackson,</a>&nbsp;his nominee be the first Black woman on the high court.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646187951280.png" alt="President&nbsp;Biden outlined plans to address inflation by reinvesting in American manufacturing capacity, speeding supply chains and reducing the burden of childcare and eldercare on workers.-White House photo" />
 <figcaption>President&nbsp;Biden outlined plans to address inflation by reinvesting in American manufacturing capacity, speeding supply chains and reducing the burden of childcare and eldercare on workers.-White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Addressing a concerned nation and anxious world, President Joe Biden vowed in his first State of the Union address Tuesday night to check&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-abc3e297725e57e6052529d844b5ee2f">Russian aggression in Ukraine,&nbsp;</a>tame soaring U.S. inflation and deal with the fading but still dangerous coronavirus.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mVIXLQrC9rE?start=1384" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Biden declared that he and all members of Congress, whatever their political differences, are joined “with an unwavering resolve that freedom will always triumph over tyranny.” He asked lawmakers crowding the House chamber to stand and salute the Ukrainians as he began his speech. They stood and cheered.It was a notable show of unity after a long year of bitter acrimony between Biden’s Democratic coalition and the Republican opposition.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-vladimir-putin-voting-rights-immigration-state-of-the-union-address-5894f85ff2872a4c28b4f2bbde2741c7">Biden’s 62-minute speech,&nbsp;</a>which was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-vladimir-putin-state-of-the-union-address-joe-biden-coronavirus-pandemic-feaf4678d114e37ce708aa41fae8be82">split between attention to war abroad and worries at home</a>&nbsp;— reflected the same balancing act he now faces in his presidency. He must marshal allied resolve against Russia’s aggression while tending to inflation, COVID-19 fatigue and sagging approval ratings heading into the midterm elections.Aiming to build on momentum from the speech, Biden will head to Wisconsin on Wednesday in an effort to show Americans that his domestic agenda is working. His vice president and Cabinet members will fan out around the country to amplify the message.Biden heads again to an old bridge set to be repaired — increasingly a symbol for his administration, tangible evidence of the nation that he’s working to update. This time, it’s a wrought-iron bridge that connects Duluth, Minnesota, and Superior, Wisconsin, across the St. Louis Bay.The bridge will be replaced using funds from the massive infrastructure plan signed into law last year, a signature piece of bipartisan legislation and proof — Biden says — that the GOP and Democrats can still work together.In Tuesday’s speech, Biden highlighted the bravery of Ukrainian defenders and a newly reinvigorated Western alliance that has worked to rearm the Ukrainian military and cripple Russia’s economy through sanctions. He acknowledged costs to the American economy, as well, but warned ominously that without consequences, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s aggression wouldn’t be contained to Ukraine.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646219843722.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Throughout our history we’ve learned this lesson – when dictators do not pay a price for their aggression, they cause more chaos,” Biden said. “They keep moving. And, the costs and threats to America and the world keep rising.”As Biden spoke, Russian forces were escalating their attacks in Ukraine, having bombarded the central square of country’s second-biggest city and Kyiv’s main TV tower, killing at least five people. The Babi Yar Holocaust memorial was also damaged.Biden announced that the U.S. is following Canada and the European Union in banning Russian planes from its airspace in retaliation for the invasion of Ukraine. He also said the Justice Department was launching a task force to go after Russian oligarchs, whom he called “corrupt leaders who have bilked billions of dollars off this violent regime.”“We are coming for your ill-begotten gains,” he said, pledging that the U.S. and European allies were after their yachts, luxury apartments and private jets.Biden pivoted in his speech from the troubles abroad to those at home. Even before the Russian invasion sent energy costs skyrocketing, prices for American families had been rising, and the COVID-19 pandemic continues to hurt families and the country’s economy.Biden outlined plans to address inflation by reinvesting in American manufacturing capacity, speeding supply chains and reducing the burden of childcare and eldercare on workers.“Too many families are struggling to keep up with the bills,” Biden said. “Inflation is robbing them of the gains they might otherwise feel. I get it. That’s why my top priority is getting prices under control.”In one sign of national progress on the pandemic, Biden entered the House chamber without a mask, as coronavirus cases decline and new federal guidance tries to nudge the public back to pre-pandemic activities. But there was evidence of ongoing tension as well: The Capitol was newly fenced due to security concerns after last year’s insurrection.Set against disquiet at home and danger abroad, the White House had conceived Tuesday night’s speech as an opportunity to highlight the improving coronavirus outlook, rebrand Biden’s domestic policy priorities and show a path to lower costs for families grappling with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/consumer-prices-inflation-c1bfd93ed1719cf0135420f4fd0270f9">soaring inflation</a>. But events took a turn toward world affairs with last week’s Russian invasion of Ukraine and nuclear saber-rattling by Putin.As is customary, one Cabinet secretary, in this case Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, was kept in a secure location during the address, ready to take over the government in the event of a catastrophe.The State of the Union is typically an address targeted to a national audience, but this year’s had the world watching. In an interview with CNN and Reuters, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged Biden to deliver a strong and “useful” message about Russia’s invasion. In a show of unity, Ukrainian Ambassador to the U.S. Oksana Markarova joined first lady Jill Biden in the House gallery for the speech.In a rare discordant moment, Rep. Lauren Boebert of Colorado yelled out that Biden was to blame for the 13 service members who were killed during last August’s chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.“You put them in. Thirteen of them,” Boebert yelled as Biden mentioned his late son Beau, a veteran who died from brain cancer and served near toxic military burn pits, used extensively in Iraq and Afghanistan. Biden is pursuing legislation to help veterans suffering exposure and other injuries.While the crisis in Eastern Europe may have helped to cool partisan tensions in Washington, it didn’t erase the political and cultural discord that is casting doubt on Biden’s ability to deliver.A February AP-NORC poll found that more people disapproved than approved of how Biden is handling his job, 55% to 44%. That’s down from a 60% favorable rating last July.Biden, used his remarks to highlight the progress from a year ago — with the majority of the U.S. population now vaccinated and millions more people at work — but also acknowledged that the job is not yet done, a recognition of American discontent.“I have come to report on the state of the union,” Biden said. “And my report is this: The state of the union is strong — because you, the American people, are strong. We are stronger today than we were a year ago. And we will be stronger a year from now than we are today.”Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, selected to give the Republican response, said Biden’s address came as a blast from the past with rising inflation, rising crime and a resurgent Russia making it feel more like the 1980s than today.“Even before taking the oath of office, the president said that he wanted to — quote — make America respected around the world again, and to unite us here. He’s failed on both fronts,” she said.Biden used his speech to nudge the country back “to more normal routines” after the coronavirus reshaped American life.“It’s time for Americans to get back to work and fill our great downtowns again,” he declared. He said people will be able to order another round of free tests from the government and that his administration was launching a “test to treat” initiative to provide free antiviral pills at pharmacies to those who test positive for the virus.Where his speech to Congress last year saw the rollout of a massive social spending package, Biden this year largely repackaged past proposals in search of achievable measures he hopes can win bipartisan support in a bitterly divided Congress before the elections.The president also highlighted investments in everything from internet broadband access to bridge construction from November’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-congress-infrastructure-bill-signing-b5b8cca843133de060778f049861b144">$1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure law</a>&nbsp;as an example of government reaching consensus and delivering change for the nation.As part of his pitch to voters, he also put a new emphasis on how proposals like extending the child tax credit and bringing down child care costs could bring relief to families as prices rise. He was said his climate change proposals would cut costs for lower- and middle-income families and create new jobs.Biden called for lowering health care costs, pitching his plan to authorize Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices, as well as an extension of more generous health insurance subsidies now temporarily available through the Affordable Care Act marketplaces where 14.5 million people get coverage.Biden also appealed for action on voting rights, which has failed to win GOP support. And as gun violence rises, he returned to calls to ban assault weapons, a blunt request he hadn’t made in months. He called to “fund the police with the resources and training they need to protect our communities.”He led Congress in a bipartisan tribute to retiring Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer and highlighted the biography of federal judge&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/Ketanji-Brown-Jackson-biden-supreme-court-nominee-32f77fe08d7cf64af95591668a0aaa41">Ketanji Brown Jackson,</a>&nbsp;his nominee be the first Black woman on the high court.___

🎥 State of the Union: Biden vows to halt Russia, hit inflation

WASHINGTON&nbsp;—&nbsp;The Internal Revenue Service today issued <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-issues-questions-and-answers-about-the-tax-year-2021-earned-income-tax-credit">frequently asked questions (FAQs) for the 2021 Earned Income Tax Credit</a> to educate eligible taxpayers on how to properly claim the credit when they prepare and file their 2021 tax return.

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) helps low- to moderate-income 
workers and families in the form of a credit to either reduce the taxes 
owed or an added payment to increase a tax refund. The amount of the 
credit may change if the taxpayer has children, dependents, are disabled
 or meet other criteria.

These FAQs&nbsp;detail what the EITC is, how it was expanded for 2021, which taxpayers are eligible, and how to claim it.

Taxpayers with income is $73,000 or less can file their federal tax returns electronically for free through the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File Program</a>.
 The fastest way to receive a tax refund is to file electronically and 
have it direct deposited into a financial account. Refunds can be 
directly deposited into bank accounts, prepaid debit cards or mobile 
apps as long as a routing and account number is provided.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON&nbsp;—&nbsp;The Internal Revenue Service today issued <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-issues-questions-and-answers-about-the-tax-year-2021-earned-income-tax-credit">frequently asked questions (FAQs) for the 2021 Earned Income Tax Credit</a> to educate eligible taxpayers on how to properly claim the credit when they prepare and file their 2021 tax return.The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) helps low- to moderate-income 
workers and families in the form of a credit to either reduce the taxes 
owed or an added payment to increase a tax refund. The amount of the 
credit may change if the taxpayer has children, dependents, are disabled
 or meet other criteria.These FAQs&nbsp;detail what the EITC is, how it was expanded for 2021, which taxpayers are eligible, and how to claim it.The 17 new FAQs are:<ul>
 <li>What is the Earned Income Tax Credit?</li><li>What is earned income?</li><li>What are the earned income limits for taxpayers without qualifying children?</li><li>How old must I be to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit if I do not have qualifying children?</li><li>Do I need to have a Social Security number (SSN) to be eligible to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit?</li><li>Do my qualifying children need to have SSNs in order for me to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit?</li><li>What are the age requirements for claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit if I have a qualifying child?</li><li>What are the earned income limits for individuals with a qualifying child?</li><li>Will any refund that I receive because I claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit affect my government benefits?</li><li>What is the maximum amount of the Earned Income Tax Credit for 2021 for eligible taxpayers without qualifying children?</li><li>Is there a limit on the amount of investment income I can earn and remain eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit?</li><li>If I am not filing a joint return with my spouse, can I claim the Earned Income Tax Credit?</li><li>Who is considered a qualified homeless youth for purposes of the Earned Income Tax Credit?</li><li>Who is considered a qualified former foster youth for purposes of the Earned Income Tax Credit?</li><li>Can I elect to use my 2019 earned income to figure my Earned Income Tax Credit for 2021?</li><li>Can a student claim the Earned Income Tax Credit for 2021?</li><li>What is a specified student for purposes of the Earned Income Tax Credit?</li>
 </ul><h2>File for free and use direct deposit</h2>Taxpayers with income is $73,000 or less can file their federal tax returns electronically for free through the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File Program</a>.
 The fastest way to receive a tax refund is to file electronically and 
have it direct deposited into a financial account. Refunds can be 
directly deposited into bank accounts, prepaid debit cards or mobile 
apps as long as a routing and account number is provided.

IRS FAQs explain 2021 Earned Income Tax Credit

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an armed robbery and asking the public for help to identify a suspect.

This suspect held three women at gunpoint about 6 p.m. on Feb. 18 at the Cash America Pawn shop at Paseo and 63rd Street, according to Kansas City Police.&nbsp;

He wore a “Saints &amp; Sinners” sweatshirt, a navy coat, black pants, black crocs, and blue latex gloves. He is believed to be a black male, about 5=-foot-8 with a regular build and in his 30s.

One woman tried pushing the panic button, but the suspect shoved her to the floor and threatened to shoot her.

If you recognize him, contact police anonymously at <a href="https://t.co/gULWXwQkBQ" target="_blank">http://kccrimestoppers.com</a> or call 816-474-TIPS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646170967734.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an armed robbery and asking the public for help to identify a suspect.This suspect held three women at gunpoint about 6 p.m. on Feb. 18 at the Cash America Pawn shop at Paseo and 63rd Street, according to Kansas City Police.&nbsp;He wore a “Saints &amp; Sinners” sweatshirt, a navy coat, black pants, black crocs, and blue latex gloves. He is believed to be a black male, about 5=-foot-8 with a regular build and in his 30s.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646170897304.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>One woman tried pushing the panic button, but the suspect shoved her to the floor and threatened to shoot her.If you recognize him, contact police anonymously at <a href="https://t.co/gULWXwQkBQ" target="_blank">http://kccrimestoppers.com</a> or call 816-474-TIPS.

Police: Suspect held 3 women at gunpoint in Kan. armed robbery

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Two Kansas City workers died and and another was injured after a trash truck rolled over and caught fire Tuesday, police said.

The crash happened Tuesday morning as the trash truck tried to exit Interstate 435 onto Front Street in northeast Kansas City, police Sgt. Bill Mahoney said.

Investigators believe the trash truck struck a concrete barrier before catching on fire, KSHB-TV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/i-435-trash-truck-crash">reported</a>.

Mahoney said a police officer was able to rescue one person from inside the trash truck.

Mahoney said one of the workers died at the scene. The other two were hospitalized, one in critical condition and the other in serious condition. No names have been released.

“I am absolutely devastated,” said Michael Shaw, director of the city's public works department. “My team is absolutely devastated.”

Shaw said he had worked for the city for 23 years and never experienced a fatality.

“We had a substantial tragedy today in Kansas City,” Mayor Quinton Lucas said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646220407423.png" alt="The crash happened Tuesday morning as the trash truck tried to exit Interstate 435 onto Front Street in northeast Kansas City-photo courtesy KSHB-TV" />
 <figcaption>The crash happened Tuesday morning as the trash truck tried to exit Interstate 435 onto Front Street in northeast Kansas City-photo courtesy KSHB-TV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Two Kansas City workers died and and another was injured after a trash truck rolled over and caught fire Tuesday, police said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I am deeply saddened to have learned that a second city employee has died as a result of today’s accident. My heart breaks for his family, his friends, and our entire Kansas City Public Works Department. My prayers are with the families and all impacted today.&mdash; Mayor Q (@QuintonLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/QuintonLucasKC/status/1498842006541512706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The crash happened Tuesday morning as the trash truck tried to exit Interstate 435 onto Front Street in northeast Kansas City, police Sgt. Bill Mahoney said.Investigators believe the trash truck struck a concrete barrier before catching on fire, KSHB-TV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/i-435-trash-truck-crash">reported</a>.Mahoney said a police officer was able to rescue one person from inside the trash truck.Mahoney said one of the workers died at the scene. The other two were hospitalized, one in critical condition and the other in serious condition. No names have been released.“I am absolutely devastated,” said Michael Shaw, director of the city's public works department. “My team is absolutely devastated.”Shaw said he had worked for the city for 23 years and never experienced a fatality.“We had a substantial tragedy today in Kansas City,” Mayor Quinton Lucas said.

2 Kansas City employees dead, 1 injured in trash truck crash

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly Tuesday announced&nbsp;that&nbsp;total tax collections for February were $502.5 million. That is $18.7 million, or 3.9%, more than the February estimate. Those collections are also $46.6 million, or 10.2%, more than February 2021.&nbsp;

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjAzMDEuNTQyMjYyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NvbnRlbnQuZ292ZGVsaXZlcnkuY29tL2F0dGFjaG1lbnRzL0tTT0cvMjAyMi8wMy8wMS9maWxlX2F0dGFjaG1lbnRzLzIwOTA3OTMvMDhfRmVicnVhcnlfUmV2ZW51ZV9GWTIwMjJfMDMtMDEtMjAyMl9GaW5hbC5wZGYifQ.NY9vmUHWBTrPSTjusvqqOmUEvHLtiPOwQO6AvMm0Tc0/s/1303160919/br/127367333286-l" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;to view the tax receipts

"My administration has taken steps to restore the Kansas economy,&nbsp;and that fiscal responsibility has paved the way to provide direct tax relief to Kansans," Governor&nbsp;Laura&nbsp;Kelly said. "I urge the&nbsp;Legislature to work together&nbsp;to&nbsp;send me a clean bill eliminating the state’s tax on food immediately, so that we can&nbsp;put this money back into the pockets of Kansas taxpayers."&nbsp;

Individual income tax collections were $183.4 million in February. That is $6.6 million, or 3.5%, below the estimate. However, it is important to note that income tax refunds are being issued much quicker than in prior years. There have been 15,000 more refunds sent out in February 2022 compared to February 2021. The increase in refunds total $21.0 million more paid out in February compared to the same month of 2021.

"The positive trend in tax receipts continues with all of the major tax types, individual income tax, corporate income tax, retailer's sales tax, and compensating use tax, performing well. But for the larger number of refunds issued in February, individual income tax receipts also would have surpassed the February estimate," said Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart.&nbsp;"We are pleased to be able to get individual income tax refunds paid more quickly and into the accounts of taxpayers." 

So far, nearly 281,000 refunds, totaling $147.0 million, have been paid out this filing season. Refunds for electronically filed returns can be expected to be deposited in taxpayers' bank accounts in 4-7 days, with some deposits occurring in as little as three days.

Corporate income tax collections were $23.4 million, which is $12.4 million, or 112.8%, more than the February 2022 estimate. Those collections are $15.2 million, or 186.3% more than February 2021, reflecting substantial corporate profits.

Retail sales tax collections were $195.2 million, which is $5.2 million, or 2.8% more than the estimate. Those collections are also $16.0 million, or 8.9%, greater than February 2021. Compensating use tax collections were $59.4 million, which is $4.4 million, or 8.0%, more than the estimate. Those collections were $20.7 million, or 53.7%, more than February 2021.&nbsp;

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly Tuesday announced&nbsp;that&nbsp;total tax collections for February were $502.5 million. That is $18.7 million, or 3.9%, more than the February estimate. Those collections are also $46.6 million, or 10.2%, more than February 2021.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjAzMDEuNTQyMjYyMTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2NvbnRlbnQuZ292ZGVsaXZlcnkuY29tL2F0dGFjaG1lbnRzL0tTT0cvMjAyMi8wMy8wMS9maWxlX2F0dGFjaG1lbnRzLzIwOTA3OTMvMDhfRmVicnVhcnlfUmV2ZW51ZV9GWTIwMjJfMDMtMDEtMjAyMl9GaW5hbC5wZGYifQ.NY9vmUHWBTrPSTjusvqqOmUEvHLtiPOwQO6AvMm0Tc0/s/1303160919/br/127367333286-l" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;to view the tax receipts"My administration has taken steps to restore the Kansas economy,&nbsp;and that fiscal responsibility has paved the way to provide direct tax relief to Kansans," Governor&nbsp;Laura&nbsp;Kelly said. "I urge the&nbsp;Legislature to work together&nbsp;to&nbsp;send me a clean bill eliminating the state’s tax on food immediately, so that we can&nbsp;put this money back into the pockets of Kansas taxpayers."&nbsp;Individual income tax collections were $183.4 million in February. That is $6.6 million, or 3.5%, below the estimate. However, it is important to note that income tax refunds are being issued much quicker than in prior years. There have been 15,000 more refunds sent out in February 2022 compared to February 2021. The increase in refunds total $21.0 million more paid out in February compared to the same month of 2021."The positive trend in tax receipts continues with all of the major tax types, individual income tax, corporate income tax, retailer's sales tax, and compensating use tax, performing well. But for the larger number of refunds issued in February, individual income tax receipts also would have surpassed the February estimate," said Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart.&nbsp;"We are pleased to be able to get individual income tax refunds paid more quickly and into the accounts of taxpayers." So far, nearly 281,000 refunds, totaling $147.0 million, have been paid out this filing season. Refunds for electronically filed returns can be expected to be deposited in taxpayers' bank accounts in 4-7 days, with some deposits occurring in as little as three days.Corporate income tax collections were $23.4 million, which is $12.4 million, or 112.8%, more than the February 2022 estimate. Those collections are $15.2 million, or 186.3% more than February 2021, reflecting substantial corporate profits.Retail sales tax collections were $195.2 million, which is $5.2 million, or 2.8% more than the estimate. Those collections are also $16.0 million, or 8.9%, greater than February 2021. Compensating use tax collections were $59.4 million, which is $4.4 million, or 8.0%, more than the estimate. Those collections were $20.7 million, or 53.7%, more than February 2021.&nbsp;

Kansas tax collections for February $18.7M ahead of estimate

By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post

According to University of Kansas Law Brenneisen Distinguished Professor Raj Bhala, the choice by the European Union that was confirmed Wednesday to remove some Russian banks from SWIFT is cutting them off from the majority of trade with the world.

"Payment for normal trade transactions, by which Russia receives import revenues, those payments will not be processed by SWIFT," Bhala said. "The SWIFT banks are saying we will not deal with a designated list of major Russian banks. We'll not accept their payments. Those are the very banks that Russia has been using to make or receive payments for trade and investment transactions."

Two major Russian banks that process energy payments were not included in Wednesday's order.

"Banks will not have access to a large portion of its foreign exchange reserves," Bhala said. "Russia's got about $630 billion of hard currency in foreign exchange reserves. Those are in banks overseas. The Russian ruble is crashing."

The exchange rate as of midday Wednesday was at 105 rubles to the US Dollar.

"The denial of access to the SWIFT system is really, to me, the core sanction that is taking aim at Russia's fortress economy."

SWIFT is used by more than 11,000 financial institutions across the globe.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579783750382.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostAccording to University of Kansas Law Brenneisen Distinguished Professor Raj Bhala, the choice by the European Union that was confirmed Wednesday to remove some Russian banks from SWIFT is cutting them off from the majority of trade with the world."Payment for normal trade transactions, by which Russia receives import revenues, those payments will not be processed by SWIFT," Bhala said. "The SWIFT banks are saying we will not deal with a designated list of major Russian banks. We'll not accept their payments. Those are the very banks that Russia has been using to make or receive payments for trade and investment transactions."Two major Russian banks that process energy payments were not included in Wednesday's order."Banks will not have access to a large portion of its foreign exchange reserves," Bhala said. "Russia's got about $630 billion of hard currency in foreign exchange reserves. Those are in banks overseas. The Russian ruble is crashing."The exchange rate as of midday Wednesday was at 105 rubles to the US Dollar."The denial of access to the SWIFT system is really, to me, the core sanction that is taking aim at Russia's fortress economy."SWIFT is used by more than 11,000 financial institutions across the globe.

KU professor: SWIFT system removal is 'core sanction' against Russia

Bhala: SWIFT payment system removal is 'core sanction' against Russia

LIBERAL, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas woman won a narrow victory over her counterpart in England in the traditional Pancake Day race. Whitney Hay of Liberal, Kansas, ran the 415-yard course in 1 minute, 7 seconds on Tuesday. 

That beat Katie Godof of Olney, England, who ran her race in 1 minute, 10 seconds. The annual trans-Atlantic pancake-flipping race between Olney and Liberal began in 1950. It wasn't held last year because of the coronavirus pandemic. 

Hay, a 21-year-old student at Southwestern College in Winfield, also won the Liberal segment of the race in 2020 but Olney won that year's race. Each woman must flip a pancake in a frying pan at the start and at the finish of the race.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646180880148.png" alt="Whitney Hay of Liberal, Kansas, ran the 415-yard course in 1 minute, 7 seconds-photo courtesy Rep. Tracey Mann" />
 <figcaption>Whitney Hay of Liberal, Kansas, ran the 415-yard course in 1 minute, 7 seconds-photo courtesy Rep. Tracey Mann</figcaption>
 </figure>LIBERAL, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas woman won a narrow victory over her counterpart in England in the traditional Pancake Day race. Whitney Hay of Liberal, Kansas, ran the 415-yard course in 1 minute, 7 seconds on Tuesday. That beat Katie Godof of Olney, England, who ran her race in 1 minute, 10 seconds. The annual trans-Atlantic pancake-flipping race between Olney and Liberal began in 1950. It wasn't held last year because of the coronavirus pandemic. Hay, a 21-year-old student at Southwestern College in Winfield, also won the Liberal segment of the race in 2020 but Olney won that year's race. Each woman must flip a pancake in a frying pan at the start and at the finish of the race.

Liberal wins traditional pancake race against England

By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/03/01/shooting-themselves-in-the-foot-committee-guts-kansas-bill-to-protect-water/">Kansas Reflector</a>

The prospects for <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/20/we-cant-wait-15-years-legislative-committee-works-to-overhaul-kansas-water-policy/">a major overhaul</a>
 of Kansas water programs dimmed Tuesday after a legislative committee 
gutted a reform bill meant to give cabinet-level importance to a near 
crisis in Kansas.

“What ended up happening is we kicked
 the can down the road again,” said Rep. Ron Highland, chairman of the 
House Water Committee.&nbsp;

For more than a year, Highland’s 
committee has studied the myriad water issues facing Kansas. In some 
areas of western Kansas, the aquifer is expected to dry out in the next 
10 or 20 years. Some small towns are out of compliance with drinking 
water rules, and upgrades would bankrupt them.

Committee leaders proposed a complete
 restructuring of state departments handling water issues and 
establishment of a new secretary position, vaulting water concerns into 
the governor’s cabinet.

But the bill put them at odds with 
Kansas’ largest water user: agriculture. And the state’s agriculture 
industry, committee leaders suspected, was responsible for an amendment 
proposed Tuesday to strike nearly all of the proposals.

The committee passed an amended bill 
that would carve out sales tax revenue to fund water projects and 
require some additional reporting from local officials overseeing 
groundwater management in southern and western Kansas. The amendment 
stripped the restructuring of state agencies and other reforms meant to 
give voice to water issues and give officials overseeing water 
independence from agricultural interests.

Highland, a Wamego Republican, and 
the committee’s ranking Democrat, Rep. Lindsay Vaughn of Overland Park, 
said they were frustrated by the outcome.

Vaughn said they are concerned about 
the depletion of groundwater in western Kansas. She said taking sales 
tax revenue, largely generated in eastern Kansas, and spending it 
without rethinking the way water is managed and protected wouldn’t 
change much.

“We’re just throwing more money at the problem,” she said.

Highland said he knew the amendment 
was coming after the state’s agricultural industry groups attempted to 
lobby him. He suspected it came directly from the industry.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646169157766.png" alt=" Rep. Ron Highland and Rep. Lindsay Vaughn have championed a bill to overhaul Kansas’ management of water resources. A House committee gutted it Tuesday. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Rep. Ron Highland and Rep. Lindsay Vaughn have championed a bill to overhaul Kansas’ management of water resources. A House committee gutted it Tuesday. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/03/01/shooting-themselves-in-the-foot-committee-guts-kansas-bill-to-protect-water/">Kansas Reflector</a>The prospects for <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/20/we-cant-wait-15-years-legislative-committee-works-to-overhaul-kansas-water-policy/">a major overhaul</a>
 of Kansas water programs dimmed Tuesday after a legislative committee 
gutted a reform bill meant to give cabinet-level importance to a near 
crisis in Kansas.“What ended up happening is we kicked
 the can down the road again,” said Rep. Ron Highland, chairman of the 
House Water Committee.&nbsp;For more than a year, Highland’s 
committee has studied the myriad water issues facing Kansas. In some 
areas of western Kansas, the aquifer is expected to dry out in the next 
10 or 20 years. Some small towns are out of compliance with drinking 
water rules, and upgrades would bankrupt them.Committee leaders proposed a complete
 restructuring of state departments handling water issues and 
establishment of a new secretary position, vaulting water concerns into 
the governor’s cabinet.But the bill put them at odds with 
Kansas’ largest water user: agriculture. And the state’s agriculture 
industry, committee leaders suspected, was responsible for an amendment 
proposed Tuesday to strike nearly all of the proposals.The committee passed an amended bill 
that would carve out sales tax revenue to fund water projects and 
require some additional reporting from local officials overseeing 
groundwater management in southern and western Kansas. The amendment 
stripped the restructuring of state agencies and other reforms meant to 
give voice to water issues and give officials overseeing water 
independence from agricultural interests.Highland, a Wamego Republican, and 
the committee’s ranking Democrat, Rep. Lindsay Vaughn of Overland Park, 
said they were frustrated by the outcome.Vaughn said they are concerned about 
the depletion of groundwater in western Kansas. She said taking sales 
tax revenue, largely generated in eastern Kansas, and spending it 
without rethinking the way water is managed and protected wouldn’t 
change much.“We’re just throwing more money at the problem,” she said.Highland said he knew the amendment 
was coming after the state’s agricultural industry groups attempted to 
lobby him. He suspected it came directly from the industry.“They’ve decided to fight any change 
at all, and I think the future, unfortunately … we’re having urban vs. 
rural discussions,” Highland said.Kent Askern, public policy director 
for the Kansas Farm Bureau, objected to the notion the organization was 
opposed to any kind of change. He said the organization laid out its 
priorities before the bill was revealed and bemoaned that the bill text 
was revealed just a few days before hearings began.“We want to see progress made because
 our members’ very livelihood and even ability to live in those areas 
depends upon having good water policy,” Askern said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646169240834.png" alt="Rep. Ron Highland, right, and Rep. Lindsay Vaughn, center, listen as Rep. Joe Newland explains an amendment he proposed to gut a bill aimed at overhauling the way Kansas manages water. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Ron Highland, right, and Rep. Lindsay Vaughn, center, listen as Rep. Joe Newland explains an amendment he proposed to gut a bill aimed at overhauling the way Kansas manages water. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>The amendment’s sponsor, Rep. Joe 
Newland, a Neodesha Republican and former Kansas Farm Bureau board 
member, did not immediately return a request for comment.&nbsp;<h2>Overhauling water</h2>The original <a target="_blank" href="http://kslegislature.com/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2686/">House Bill 2686</a>
 would have established a new Kansas Department of Water and Environment
 to replace fractured departments dealing with water under the Kansas 
Department of Health and Environment, the Kansas Department of 
Agriculture, the Kansas Water Authority and other agencies.Highland has said having a 
cabinet-level secretary focused on water could have helped prevent more 
than a decade of underfunding of the state’s water plan.In the past almost 15 years, Highland said, water projects have been underfunded to the tune of about $85 million.Gov. Laura Kelly has proposed fully 
funding the state’s part of water programs — $8 million — for the first 
time in more than a decade.But fully addressing the state’s ever-smaller supply of water will take more like $55 million per year, <a target="_blank" href="https://kwo.ks.gov/docs/default-source/water-vision-water-plan/blue-ribbon-funding-task-force-documents/rpt_brftf_final_011217.pdf?sfvrsn=64c48614_0">according to a task force convened under former Gov. Sam Brownback</a>.The original bill would have 
increased fees for water users that haven’t changed in about 40 years 
and levy new ones on some irrigators to raise another $8 million per 
year.The most controversial element of the
 original bill would have given more power to residents residing within 
groundwater management districts who do not hold water rights. Right 
now, to serve on the board of a groundwater management district, someone
 must own at least 40 contiguous acres or a right to withdraw water on 
their property.Highland and water law experts have said requiring property ownership to vote on water issues is likely unconstitutional.In a competing amendment to the one 
that passed, Highland proposed setting aside the groundwater management 
district reforms for now. But he said GMDs have been charged for decades
 with halting the decline of water in aquifers in arid western Kansas.“With the exception of one, not much has been done,” he said.Askern said he hoped even those who 
were disappointed with Tuesday’s outcome would get behind the gutted 
bill because it provides more funds for water projects.“I haven’t heard anybody yet who 
doesn’t want more funding,” Askern said. “… If that’s true, then why 
would we not all get behind that and try to push this past the finish 
line?”Vaughn said the committee was put in 
the position of working in opposition to the state’s agricultural 
industry —&nbsp;a politically powerful group of organizations. She noted 
farmers would be the most affected if water runs out in western Kansas.“The very people this impacts have 10, 20, 30 years left of water before it’s no longer going to exist,” Vaughn said.She added: “I really feel that they are shooting themselves in the foot.”Highland said the amended bill doesn’t do much because it eliminated most of the underlying proposals.“I’m not the loser; I think the state of Kansas is the loser today,” Highland said.