With Valentine's Day looming, romance is in the air. If you 
decide to seek love via a dating app, be careful and watch for the 
scammers who only love your money. Scammers are using people to funnel 
stolen money out of the country. This con may look like a classic 
romance scam, but victims are tricked into illegal activity and can be 
prosecuted.

You join a dating app and start messaging with someone who looks 
amazing. They are the complete package: good-looking, successful, kind… 
and, most importantly, really into you, too! After chatting for a little
 while, your new love interest suggests that you chat on text or email, 
rather than through the app. If you do that, you may notice that they 
also delete their dating profile.

Everything seems great, but soon your new beau has some unusual – but
 seemingly harmless – requests. They want you to receive money for them 
and wire it overseas. They may claim to be helping a loved one battling 
COVID-19, doing a business deal, or representing a charitable 
organization. If you refuse, your amorous new beau may suddenly get 
hostile, threaten you or grow distant.

It turns out that the money they want you to receive is actually 
stolen. After stealing it, scammers send the money through someone in 
the United States or Canada to make it harder for authorities to trace. 
Money laundering and wire fraud are illegal! Although the “money mule” 
is a victim, too, they may still face prosecution.

For more information Find more information in <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/17057-online-romance-scams-a-bbb-study-on-how-scammers-use-impersonation-blackmail-and-trickery-to-steal-from-unsuspecting-daters" target="_blank">this romance scams study from BBB</a> and <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/scams/17012-bbb-tip-romance-scams" target="_blank">these romance scam tips</a>.

Learn more about money mule scams on the <a href="https://www.fbi.gov/news/pressrel/press-releases/fbi-warns-of-money-mule-schemes-exploiting-the-covid-19-pandemic" target="_blank">Federal Bureau of Investigations website</a> and the <a href="https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/features-vedette/2020/awareness-sensibilisation-eng.htm" target="_blank">Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre</a>.

If you’ve been the victim of scam, please report it on the <a href="https://www.BBB.org/ScamTracker" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>. Your report can help others to stay alert and avoid similar scams.

Learn more about <a href="https://www.bbb.org/standards-for-trust" target="_blank">BBB's Standards for Trust</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579883951052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BBBWith Valentine's Day looming, romance is in the air. If you 
decide to seek love via a dating app, be careful and watch for the 
scammers who only love your money. Scammers are using people to funnel 
stolen money out of the country. This con may look like a classic 
romance scam, but victims are tricked into illegal activity and can be 
prosecuted.How the scam works:You join a dating app and start messaging with someone who looks 
amazing. They are the complete package: good-looking, successful, kind… 
and, most importantly, really into you, too! After chatting for a little
 while, your new love interest suggests that you chat on text or email, 
rather than through the app. If you do that, you may notice that they 
also delete their dating profile.Everything seems great, but soon your new beau has some unusual – but
 seemingly harmless – requests. They want you to receive money for them 
and wire it overseas. They may claim to be helping a loved one battling 
COVID-19, doing a business deal, or representing a charitable 
organization. If you refuse, your amorous new beau may suddenly get 
hostile, threaten you or grow distant.It turns out that the money they want you to receive is actually 
stolen. After stealing it, scammers send the money through someone in 
the United States or Canada to make it harder for authorities to trace. 
Money laundering and wire fraud are illegal! Although the “money mule” 
is a victim, too, they may still face prosecution.Protect yourself from this scam:<ul>
 <li>Do your research. Many scammers steal photos from 
the internet to use in their dating profiles. You can do a reverse image
 lookup using a website, like <a href="https://images.google.com/" target="_blank">Google Images</a>,
 to see if the photos on a profile are stolen from somewhere else. You 
can also search online for a profile name, email, or phone number to see
 what adds up and what doesn’t. Scammers most often pose as men and 
target women in their 50s and 60s. </li><li>Ask specific questions about details given in a profile. A scammer may stumble over remembering details or making a story fit. </li><li>Never send money or sensitive personal information to someone you’ve never met in person.
 Cut off contact if someone starts asking you for financial or 
personally identifiable information (PII), like your credit card number 
or government ID numbers. </li><li>Be very suspicious of requests to wire money or use a pre-paid debit card. These are scammers’ favorite ways to send payments because, like cash, once the money is gone, it can’t be recovered.</li>
 </ul>For more information Find more information in <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/17057-online-romance-scams-a-bbb-study-on-how-scammers-use-impersonation-blackmail-and-trickery-to-steal-from-unsuspecting-daters" target="_blank">this romance scams study from BBB</a> and <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/scams/17012-bbb-tip-romance-scams" target="_blank">these romance scam tips</a>.Learn more about money mule scams on the <a href="https://www.fbi.gov/news/pressrel/press-releases/fbi-warns-of-money-mule-schemes-exploiting-the-covid-19-pandemic" target="_blank">Federal Bureau of Investigations website</a> and the <a href="https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/features-vedette/2020/awareness-sensibilisation-eng.htm" target="_blank">Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre</a>.If you’ve been the victim of scam, please report it on the <a href="https://www.BBB.org/ScamTracker" target="_blank">BBB.org/ScamTracker</a>. Your report can help others to stay alert and avoid similar scams.Learn more about <a href="https://www.bbb.org/standards-for-trust" target="_blank">BBB's Standards for Trust</a>.&nbsp;

Scam alert: Romance scam tricks victims into laundering money

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal accidental shooting have identified the victim as 14-year-old Forever Latham of Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.

Just after 4p.m. Saturday, police responded to a check shots call at a home in the 1200 block of East Alta in Wichita, according to Macy.

&nbsp;At the home, police located Latham who had a gunshot wound to his body.&nbsp; He was taken to an area hospital where he died from his injuries.

Investigators learned the boy was inside of a bedroom handling a firearm when it accidentally discharged, striking him.&nbsp; Other teenagers and adult family members were at the home at the time of the incident and were not hurt.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal accidental shooting have identified the victim as 14-year-old Forever Latham of Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.Just after 4p.m. Saturday, police responded to a check shots call at a home in the 1200 block of East Alta in Wichita, according to Macy.&nbsp;At the home, police located Latham who had a gunshot wound to his body.&nbsp; He was taken to an area hospital where he died from his injuries.Investigators learned the boy was inside of a bedroom handling a firearm when it accidentally discharged, striking him.&nbsp; Other teenagers and adult family members were at the home at the time of the incident and were not hurt.

Police ID Kansas teen who died in accidental shooting

WASHINGTON — As part of ongoing efforts to provide additional help 
for people during this period, the IRS announced today the suspension of
 more than a dozen additional letters, including the mailing of 
automated collection notices normally issued when a taxpayer owes 
additional tax, and the IRS has no record of a taxpayer filing a tax 
return.

These mailings include balance due notices and unfiled tax return 
notices. The IRS entered this filing season with several million 
original and amended returns filed by individuals and businesses that 
have not been processed due to challenges of the historic pandemic and 
is taking this step to help avoid confusion for taxpayers and tax 
professionals.

“IRS employees are committed to doing everything possible with our 
limited resources to help people during this period,” said IRS 
Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “We are working hard, long hours pushing 
creative paths forward in an effort to be part of the solution, rather 
than the problem. Our employees continue to expend every effort to 
balance a confluence of multiple, unprecedented demands − including 
successfully starting the filing season, working our inventory of 
unprocessed tax returns as well as looking for additional ways to 
minimize burden for taxpayers, tax professionals and businesses.

“Our efforts are not limited to suspension of these additional 
letters and the possibility of similar actions going forward. We have 
redeployed and reallocated resources throughout the IRS and have 
implemented innovative strategies in an ongoing effort to provide a 
meaningful reduction in our inventories,” Rettig said.

These automatic notices have been temporarily stopped until the 
backlog is worked through. The IRS will continue to assess the inventory
 of prior year returns to determine the appropriate time to resume the 
notices.

Some taxpayers and tax professionals may still receive these notices 
during the next few weeks. Generally, there is no need to call or 
respond to the notice as the IRS continues to process prior year tax 
returns as quickly as possible.

However, if a taxpayer or tax professional believes a notice is 
accurate, they should act to rectify the situation for the well-being of
 the taxpayer. For example, the IRS cautions people with a balance due 
that interest and penalties can continue to accrue. In addition, IRS 
employees may in select circumstances issue notices to particular 
taxpayers to resolve specific compliance issues.

The IRS does not have the authority to stop all notices as many are 
legally required to be issued within a certain timeframe. The IRS will 
continue to assess other changes and system modifications that the IRS 
may be able to implement to assist taxpayers on an array of issues. The 
IRS will continue to make information available to taxpayers throughout 
the filing season.

The IRS encourages those who have a filing requirement and have yet 
to file a prior year tax return or to pay any tax due to promptly do so 
as interest and penalties will continue to accrue. Visit IRS.gov for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">payment options</a>.

Click <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-continues-work-to-help-taxpayers-suspends-mailing-of-additional-letters">HERE</a> for more.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — As part of ongoing efforts to provide additional help 
for people during this period, the IRS announced today the suspension of
 more than a dozen additional letters, including the mailing of 
automated collection notices normally issued when a taxpayer owes 
additional tax, and the IRS has no record of a taxpayer filing a tax 
return.These mailings include balance due notices and unfiled tax return 
notices. The IRS entered this filing season with several million 
original and amended returns filed by individuals and businesses that 
have not been processed due to challenges of the historic pandemic and 
is taking this step to help avoid confusion for taxpayers and tax 
professionals.“IRS employees are committed to doing everything possible with our 
limited resources to help people during this period,” said IRS 
Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “We are working hard, long hours pushing 
creative paths forward in an effort to be part of the solution, rather 
than the problem. Our employees continue to expend every effort to 
balance a confluence of multiple, unprecedented demands − including 
successfully starting the filing season, working our inventory of 
unprocessed tax returns as well as looking for additional ways to 
minimize burden for taxpayers, tax professionals and businesses.“Our efforts are not limited to suspension of these additional 
letters and the possibility of similar actions going forward. We have 
redeployed and reallocated resources throughout the IRS and have 
implemented innovative strategies in an ongoing effort to provide a 
meaningful reduction in our inventories,” Rettig said.These automatic notices have been temporarily stopped until the 
backlog is worked through. The IRS will continue to assess the inventory
 of prior year returns to determine the appropriate time to resume the 
notices.Some taxpayers and tax professionals may still receive these notices 
during the next few weeks. Generally, there is no need to call or 
respond to the notice as the IRS continues to process prior year tax 
returns as quickly as possible.However, if a taxpayer or tax professional believes a notice is 
accurate, they should act to rectify the situation for the well-being of
 the taxpayer. For example, the IRS cautions people with a balance due 
that interest and penalties can continue to accrue. In addition, IRS 
employees may in select circumstances issue notices to particular 
taxpayers to resolve specific compliance issues.The IRS does not have the authority to stop all notices as many are 
legally required to be issued within a certain timeframe. The IRS will 
continue to assess other changes and system modifications that the IRS 
may be able to implement to assist taxpayers on an array of issues. The 
IRS will continue to make information available to taxpayers throughout 
the filing season.The IRS encourages those who have a filing requirement and have yet 
to file a prior year tax return or to pay any tax due to promptly do so 
as interest and penalties will continue to accrue. Visit IRS.gov for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">payment options</a>.Click <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-continues-work-to-help-taxpayers-suspends-mailing-of-additional-letters">HERE</a> for more.

IRS suspends mailing of some notices due to backlogs

HUTCHINSON — Renewable energy firm Siemens Gamesa is laying off 69 employees in Hutchinson and 121 in Iowa. Employees were told in meetings on Wednesday.&nbsp; The company builds wind turbines and related services, according to the their web site.

After Wednesday’s workforce reduction, 254 employees remain at the Fort Madison facility and 117 employees remain at the Hutchinson facility.

Shannon Sturgil, CEO of Onshore North America said in a statement that the patent challenge case brought by GE forced the company not to pursue new orders while that was being fought out in court. Sturgil also said that buyers are waiting to see what new climate legislation may come out before making decisions, which has slowed production.

The company said it will provide employees with severance, benefits continuation, career counseling, resume preparation and job placement assistance.

HUTCHINSON — Renewable energy firm Siemens Gamesa is laying off 69 employees in Hutchinson and 121 in Iowa. Employees were told in meetings on Wednesday.&nbsp; The company builds wind turbines and related services, according to the their web site.After Wednesday’s workforce reduction, 254 employees remain at the Fort Madison facility and 117 employees remain at the Hutchinson facility.Shannon Sturgil, CEO of Onshore North America said in a statement that the patent challenge case brought by GE forced the company not to pursue new orders while that was being fought out in court. Sturgil also said that buyers are waiting to see what new climate legislation may come out before making decisions, which has slowed production.The company said it will provide employees with severance, benefits continuation, career counseling, resume preparation and job placement assistance.

Renewable energy firm laying off employees in Kansas 

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A man who has insisted for more than 20 years that he was wrongly convicted as a teenager of killing his mother has been granted parole.

Attorneys for 37-year-old Michael Politte confirmed Tuesday that he had been given parole, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/state/missouri/article258190203.html#storylink=cpy">Kansas City Star reported.</a>&nbsp;He is set to be released April 23 from the Jefferson City Correctional Center.

Politte was 14 years old in 1998 when, according to his lawyers, he found the burning body of his mother, Rita Politte, on the floor of their home in the eastern Missouri town of Hopewell as he and a friend, who said they awoke to smoke, scrambled to escape.

Investigators said the fire was started with gasoline and determined that Rita Politte had also suffered blunt force head trauma. The investigation focused on her teenage son as the main suspect and four years later, he was convicted as an adult of second-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison.

The Midwest Innocence Project and the MacArthur Justice Center, which both work to overturn wrongful convictions,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-business-missouri-c11bb1934a7b50779da9776d2221a49c">have sought to exonerate Politte,</a>&nbsp;saying he was convicted based on debunked science and a biased investigation.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jefferson-city-missouri-8c18acad73cd26d834e535ebbca6cf1b">petition by Politte's attorneys</a>&nbsp;last year seeking his release from prison faulted investigators who determined that the teen had gasoline on his shoes, which was the only physical evidence they said linked him to the crime. The findings were based on now-discredited fire investigation techniques, and the state has conceded that Politte did not have gas on his shoes, the attorneys said.

The petition said investigators ignored other potential suspects, including Politte’s father, who was going through a difficult divorce with Rita Politte at the time of her killing.

Michael Politte's attorneys said Tuesday that his parole will not curtail their efforts to get him exonerated.

"We will continue to litigate in court to overturn his conviction,” his lawyers said in a statement. “His release on parole means he can now continue this fight from home with his sisters.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644424817527.png" alt="Politte-photo MODOC" />
 <figcaption>Politte-photo MODOC</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A man who has insisted for more than 20 years that he was wrongly convicted as a teenager of killing his mother has been granted parole.Attorneys for 37-year-old Michael Politte confirmed Tuesday that he had been given parole, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/state/missouri/article258190203.html#storylink=cpy">Kansas City Star reported.</a>&nbsp;He is set to be released April 23 from the Jefferson City Correctional Center.Politte was 14 years old in 1998 when, according to his lawyers, he found the burning body of his mother, Rita Politte, on the floor of their home in the eastern Missouri town of Hopewell as he and a friend, who said they awoke to smoke, scrambled to escape.Investigators said the fire was started with gasoline and determined that Rita Politte had also suffered blunt force head trauma. The investigation focused on her teenage son as the main suspect and four years later, he was convicted as an adult of second-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison.The Midwest Innocence Project and the MacArthur Justice Center, which both work to overturn wrongful convictions,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-business-missouri-c11bb1934a7b50779da9776d2221a49c">have sought to exonerate Politte,</a>&nbsp;saying he was convicted based on debunked science and a biased investigation.A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jefferson-city-missouri-8c18acad73cd26d834e535ebbca6cf1b">petition by Politte's attorneys</a>&nbsp;last year seeking his release from prison faulted investigators who determined that the teen had gasoline on his shoes, which was the only physical evidence they said linked him to the crime. The findings were based on now-discredited fire investigation techniques, and the state has conceded that Politte did not have gas on his shoes, the attorneys said.The petition said investigators ignored other potential suspects, including Politte’s father, who was going through a difficult divorce with Rita Politte at the time of her killing.Michael Politte's attorneys said Tuesday that his parole will not curtail their efforts to get him exonerated."We will continue to litigate in court to overturn his conviction,” his lawyers said in a statement. “His release on parole means he can now continue this fight from home with his sisters.”

Man convicted at 14 of killing his mom gets parole

LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man has pleaded no contest to second-degree murder for the shooting death last year of a 12-year-old boy outside a Leavenworth pharmacy. 

The Kansas City Star reports that 26-year-old Darvon Deshawn Thomas entered the plea Tuesday in Leavenworth County District Court, admitting to his role in the April death of 12-year-old Brian Henderson, of Kansas City, Missouri. 

Prosecutors say the boy was not the intended target, but simply in the backseat of a car with someone meeting Thomas to sell a gun when the deal went bad and someone with Thomas began shooting. Two teens allegedly with Thomas during the shooting are also standing trial. Thomas is set to be sentenced in March.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618591549655.png" alt="Thomas" />
 <figcaption>Thomas</figcaption>
 </figure>LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man has pleaded no contest to second-degree murder for the shooting death last year of a 12-year-old boy outside a Leavenworth pharmacy. The Kansas City Star reports that 26-year-old Darvon Deshawn Thomas entered the plea Tuesday in Leavenworth County District Court, admitting to his role in the April death of 12-year-old Brian Henderson, of Kansas City, Missouri. Prosecutors say the boy was not the intended target, but simply in the backseat of a car with someone meeting Thomas to sell a gun when the deal went bad and someone with Thomas began shooting. Two teens allegedly with Thomas during the shooting are also standing trial. Thomas is set to be sentenced in March.

Kan. man enters plea in killing of 12-year-old outside pharmacy

RILEY COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) on Wednesday shared additional information related to the homicide and officer-involved shooting that occurred Saturday, Feb. 5 in Manhattan.

Tremelle R. Montgomery, 19, of Fort Riley, was released from Stormont Vail hospital in Topeka on Wednesday, and then immediately transported to the Riley County Jail. He was booked into jail at around 3:40 p.m. for first-degree murder, and three counts of attempted first-degree murder related to the shooting where Joshua Wardi was killed.

Charges have not yet been determined related to the subsequent officer-involved shooting incident.

The investigation is ongoing. Once completed the findings will be presented to the Riley County Attorney for his determination of charges.

Nothing further will be released at this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644236764866.png" alt="KBI on the scene of the investigation photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>KBI on the scene of the investigation photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) on Wednesday shared additional information related to the homicide and officer-involved shooting that occurred Saturday, Feb. 5 in Manhattan.Tremelle R. Montgomery, 19, of Fort Riley, was released from Stormont Vail hospital in Topeka on Wednesday, and then immediately transported to the Riley County Jail. He was booked into jail at around 3:40 p.m. for first-degree murder, and three counts of attempted first-degree murder related to the shooting where Joshua Wardi was killed.Charges have not yet been determined related to the subsequent officer-involved shooting incident.The investigation is ongoing. Once completed the findings will be presented to the Riley County Attorney for his determination of charges.Nothing further will be released at this time.

KBI updates officer-involved shooting, homicide in Manhattan

"American Pickers" is returning to Kansas, planning to film episodes of The History Channel television series in April.


"American Pickers" is a documentary series that explores the fascinating world of antique “picking” on The
History Channel. The hit show follows skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America’s most valuable
antiques. They are always excited to find sizable, unique collections and learn the interesting stories
behind them.


As they hit the backroads from coast to coast, the Pickers are on a mission to recycle and rescue forgotten
relics. Along the way, they want to meet characters with remarkable and exceptional items. They hope to give
historically significant objects a new lease on life while learning a thing or two about America’s past along the
way. The Pickers have seen a lot of rusty gold over the years and are always looking to discover something
they’ve never seen before. They are ready to find extraordinary items and hear fascinating tales about them.


Show producers will be following all COVID guidelines and
protocols for safe filming outlined by the state and CDC.&nbsp;

"American Pickers" is looking for leads and would love to explore your hidden treasure. 

If you or
someone you know has a large, private collection or accumulation of antiques that the Pickers can spend the
better part of the day looking through, send your name, phone number, location and description of the
collection with photos to: <a href="mailto:americanpickers@cineflix.com">americanpickers@cineflix.com</a> or call (646) 493-2184

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644437416399.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News release"American Pickers" is returning to Kansas, planning to film episodes of The History Channel television series in April.
"American Pickers" is a documentary series that explores the fascinating world of antique “picking” on The
History Channel. The hit show follows skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America’s most valuable
antiques. They are always excited to find sizable, unique collections and learn the interesting stories
behind them.
As they hit the backroads from coast to coast, the Pickers are on a mission to recycle and rescue forgotten
relics. Along the way, they want to meet characters with remarkable and exceptional items. They hope to give
historically significant objects a new lease on life while learning a thing or two about America’s past along the
way. The Pickers have seen a lot of rusty gold over the years and are always looking to discover something
they’ve never seen before. They are ready to find extraordinary items and hear fascinating tales about them.
Show producers will be following all COVID guidelines and
protocols for safe filming outlined by the state and CDC.&nbsp;"American Pickers" is looking for leads and would love to explore your hidden treasure. If you or
someone you know has a large, private collection or accumulation of antiques that the Pickers can spend the
better part of the day looking through, send your name, phone number, location and description of the
collection with photos to: <a href="mailto:americanpickers@cineflix.com">americanpickers@cineflix.com</a> or call (646) 493-2184
facebook: @GotAPick

'American Pickers' looking for Kansas filming locations

By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/09/kansas-medical-officers-warn-declining-covid-19-caseload-doesnt-mean-people-are-in-the-clear/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — While COVID-19 case 
numbers are beginning to decline in Kansas hospitals, officials are 
issuing a warning to stay vigilant and follow the pillars of infection 
prevention.

Hospital administrators reported on a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/kuhospital/videos/712320636599906">University of Kansas Health System briefing</a>
 Wednesday that they are seeing improvements across the board with 
additional bandwidth for non-COVID patients. Still, they are reminding 
people to remain on guard as the ebbs and flows of the pandemic remain 
uncertain.

Richard Watson, the co-founder of Motient, which assists the Kansas 
Department of Health and Environment in connecting rural hospitals when 
transferring patients, said beds are beginning to clear up. Transfers 
remain well behind pre-pandemic speeds, however.

“Patients are waiting 10-plus hours for transport, as opposed to what
 we usually see if it were normal capacity, where it would be one to two
 hours with time-critical diseases being less than an hour to move 
patients,” Watson said. “This is an unbelievably exceptional moment we 
have, and while there is a good trend all across the board, we don’t 
think that this is letting up next week or the week after.”

Since the onset of the pandemic, KDHE has recorded 748,520 COVID-19 
cases, 7,725 deaths and 18,562 hospitalizations. Currently, 33% of 
Intensive Care Unit beds are available statewide, an improvement from 
21% just a month ago.

A major factor is the number of long-haul COVID-19 patients, said Stephen Stites, chief medical officer at the health system.

“That’s a whole group of folks we’re not talking a lot about yet, but
 we’re going to be talking about for years to come because there are a 
lot of people who are going to suffer or are suffering for a very long 
time,” Stites said.

For those fully vaccinated and boosted, administrators said letting 
your guard down when around others who are taking similar precautionary 
measures may be all right in specific situations. Still, unpredictable 
mutations and warning signs from countries like the United Kingdom have 
administrators concerned spring could bring another surge.

James Alexander, chief medical officer for St. Catherine Hospital in 
Garden City, said in times where hospitals are struggling, it is 
paramount the public pick up the slack to ensure they are not 
overwhelmed.

“I have a concern about this little glitch where omicron wasn’t ‘as 
bad’ as delta, but who knows what’s next,” Alexander said. “Maybe we’ll 
have another delta. That’s my concern, and so we just have to educate 
communities.”

Issues extend beyond high case numbers and limited beds. For example,
 Lisa Hays, chief medical officer of AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, said 
they have had difficulties with the supply chain, particularly Styrofoam
 cups for patients.

“Our emergency management manager had to do a Costco run and buy up as many Styrofoam cups as he could,” Hays said.

Robert Freelove, chief medical officer of Salina Regional Health 
Center, said they have encountered struggles in the PCR testing supply 
chain.

“We’ve had to send more tests out to reference labs, and there’s a 
lag there of three to five days to get some of those results back,” 
Freelove said. “So, while it does look like our case rate has dropped 
some, it’s hard to tell for sure because of that lag.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644437145082.png" alt="While COVID-19 cases are starting to decline, Richard Watson said hospital transfers are still taking up to 10 hours, rather than the one or two hours patients usually face. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from University of Kansas Health System Facebook)" />
 <figcaption>While COVID-19 cases are starting to decline, Richard Watson said hospital transfers are still taking up to 10 hours, rather than the one or two hours patients usually face. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from University of Kansas Health System Facebook)</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/09/kansas-medical-officers-warn-declining-covid-19-caseload-doesnt-mean-people-are-in-the-clear/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — While COVID-19 case 
numbers are beginning to decline in Kansas hospitals, officials are 
issuing a warning to stay vigilant and follow the pillars of infection 
prevention.Hospital administrators reported on a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/kuhospital/videos/712320636599906">University of Kansas Health System briefing</a>
 Wednesday that they are seeing improvements across the board with 
additional bandwidth for non-COVID patients. Still, they are reminding 
people to remain on guard as the ebbs and flows of the pandemic remain 
uncertain.Richard Watson, the co-founder of Motient, which assists the Kansas 
Department of Health and Environment in connecting rural hospitals when 
transferring patients, said beds are beginning to clear up. Transfers 
remain well behind pre-pandemic speeds, however.“Patients are waiting 10-plus hours for transport, as opposed to what
 we usually see if it were normal capacity, where it would be one to two
 hours with time-critical diseases being less than an hour to move 
patients,” Watson said. “This is an unbelievably exceptional moment we 
have, and while there is a good trend all across the board, we don’t 
think that this is letting up next week or the week after.”Since the onset of the pandemic, KDHE has recorded 748,520 COVID-19 
cases, 7,725 deaths and 18,562 hospitalizations. Currently, 33% of 
Intensive Care Unit beds are available statewide, an improvement from 
21% just a month ago.A major factor is the number of long-haul COVID-19 patients, said Stephen Stites, chief medical officer at the health system.“That’s a whole group of folks we’re not talking a lot about yet, but
 we’re going to be talking about for years to come because there are a 
lot of people who are going to suffer or are suffering for a very long 
time,” Stites said.For those fully vaccinated and boosted, administrators said letting 
your guard down when around others who are taking similar precautionary 
measures may be all right in specific situations. Still, unpredictable 
mutations and warning signs from countries like the United Kingdom have 
administrators concerned spring could bring another surge.James Alexander, chief medical officer for St. Catherine Hospital in 
Garden City, said in times where hospitals are struggling, it is 
paramount the public pick up the slack to ensure they are not 
overwhelmed.“I have a concern about this little glitch where omicron wasn’t ‘as 
bad’ as delta, but who knows what’s next,” Alexander said. “Maybe we’ll 
have another delta. That’s my concern, and so we just have to educate 
communities.”Issues extend beyond high case numbers and limited beds. For example,
 Lisa Hays, chief medical officer of AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, said 
they have had difficulties with the supply chain, particularly Styrofoam
 cups for patients.“Our emergency management manager had to do a Costco run and buy up as many Styrofoam cups as he could,” Hays said.Robert Freelove, chief medical officer of Salina Regional Health 
Center, said they have encountered struggles in the PCR testing supply 
chain.“We’ve had to send more tests out to reference labs, and there’s a 
lag there of three to five days to get some of those results back,” 
Freelove said. “So, while it does look like our case rate has dropped 
some, it’s hard to tell for sure because of that lag.”

Kan. docs: Declining COVID caseload doesn’t mean people are in the clear

TOPEKA —Kansas legislators completed an override of Governor Laura Kelly's veto of a controversial congressional redistricting map.

(Click below to listen to portions of the debate on Wednesday)

On Wednesday afternoon, member of the Kansas House voted 85-37 to override the veto. The Senate vote Tuesday was 27-11 giving Republican leaders the two-thirds majority they needed.

The new map splits the state’s portion of the Kansas City area into two congressional districts, costing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-kansas-kansas-city-lawrence-topeka-7e616acdf227d7ce8356a821fda8ea76">Democratic U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids</a>&nbsp;some of the territory in her 3rd District.

The map also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-election-2020-kansas-city-kansas-donald-trump-85844d07388c25e71440059be29b7a6e">moves the liberal northeast Kansas community of Lawrence,</a>&nbsp;home to the main University of Kansas campus, from the 2nd District of eastern Kansas into the 1st District of central and western Kansas with conservative communities six or more hours away by car.

In a statement from her office when she issued the veto Governor Kelly stated, “The process of drawing districts each decade is the core to ensuring that all Kansans have the opportunity to participate in their government and have their voices heard. The courts and the Legislature have established case law and criteria on how to draw Kansas districts fairly and constitutionally.&nbsp; &nbsp;

-The Associated Press contributed to this report

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644433454226.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Representative Barbara Ballard of Lawrence expressed her opposition to the veto override during the debate Wednesday morning in the House.- image Kansas Legislature YouTube" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Representative Barbara Ballard of Lawrence expressed her opposition to the veto override during the debate Wednesday morning in the House.- image Kansas Legislature YouTube</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —Kansas legislators completed an override of Governor Laura Kelly's veto of a controversial congressional redistricting map.(Click below to listen to portions of the debate on Wednesday)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xbLwFz3tAfE?start=1432" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On Wednesday afternoon, member of the Kansas House voted 85-37 to override the veto. The Senate vote Tuesday was 27-11 giving Republican leaders the two-thirds majority they needed.The new map splits the state’s portion of the Kansas City area into two congressional districts, costing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-kansas-kansas-city-lawrence-topeka-7e616acdf227d7ce8356a821fda8ea76">Democratic U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids</a>&nbsp;some of the territory in her 3rd District.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643147273216.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The map also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-election-2020-kansas-city-kansas-donald-trump-85844d07388c25e71440059be29b7a6e">moves the liberal northeast Kansas community of Lawrence,</a>&nbsp;home to the main University of Kansas campus, from the 2nd District of eastern Kansas into the 1st District of central and western Kansas with conservative communities six or more hours away by car.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">If Kansas Republicans override the Governor&#39;s veto and enact an unconstitutional map, Kansas will be sued. <a href="https://t.co/hTZvJtjiKL">pic.twitter.com/hTZvJtjiKL</a>&mdash; Marc E. Elias (@marceelias) <a href="https://twitter.com/marceelias/status/1491417742821707781?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In a statement from her office when she issued the veto Governor Kelly stated, “The process of drawing districts each decade is the core to ensuring that all Kansans have the opportunity to participate in their government and have their voices heard. The courts and the Legislature have established case law and criteria on how to draw Kansas districts fairly and constitutionally.&nbsp; &nbsp;-The Associated Press contributed to this report

🎥Kan. legislators kill governor's veto of congressional map

By KEN CARPENTER <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>

GREAT BEND — The Barton 
County Commission threw their support Wednesday behind the construction 
of a new hospital in Ellinwood. Kile Magner, the hospital's chief 
executive officer, told the Commission that the hospital is seeking 
approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for a loan that will be
 supported by revenue bonds. &nbsp;

Magner asked the Commissioners to 
sign a letter of support for the project. He described some of the 
reasons why Ellinwood needs a new hospital.&nbsp;

“We’re landlocked; we
 can’t expand or add services,” Magner commented. “And even if we wanted
 to, to renovate a 76-year-old building is going to cost nearly as much 
as a replacement project.”&nbsp;

The new hospital will be located on 
the corner of U.S. Highway 56 and Park Avenue on the southwest side of 
the town. Wagner said a new building would have room for a surgery 
department and an outpatient clinic that could bring in outside 
specialists.&nbsp;

All five commissioners agreed to send a letter of support. Commissioner Jennifer Schartz explained her vote.&nbsp;

“We
 are really fortunate to have such good health care in Barton County,” 
Schartz said. “We have choices here that many areas don’t. I’ve used all
 three of the hospitals here in Barton County, and I can confirm that 
all of them give really, really good care. This change in Ellinwood can 
only make our healthcare stronger in Barton County, so I’m very much in 
favor of supporting them with a letter.” &nbsp;

According to Magner, groundbreaking for the new hospital could take place as early as this fall.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644445059784.jpeg" alt="Ellinwood's current hospital building" />
 <figcaption>Ellinwood's current hospital building</figcaption>
 </figure>By KEN CARPENTER <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>GREAT BEND — The Barton 
County Commission threw their support Wednesday behind the construction 
of a new hospital in Ellinwood. Kile Magner, the hospital's chief 
executive officer, told the Commission that the hospital is seeking 
approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for a loan that will be
 supported by revenue bonds. &nbsp;Magner asked the Commissioners to 
sign a letter of support for the project. He described some of the 
reasons why Ellinwood needs a new hospital.&nbsp;“We’re landlocked; we
 can’t expand or add services,” Magner commented. “And even if we wanted
 to, to renovate a 76-year-old building is going to cost nearly as much 
as a replacement project.”&nbsp;The new hospital will be located on 
the corner of U.S. Highway 56 and Park Avenue on the southwest side of 
the town. Wagner said a new building would have room for a surgery 
department and an outpatient clinic that could bring in outside 
specialists.&nbsp;All five commissioners agreed to send a letter of support. Commissioner Jennifer Schartz explained her vote.&nbsp;“We
 are really fortunate to have such good health care in Barton County,” 
Schartz said. “We have choices here that many areas don’t. I’ve used all
 three of the hospitals here in Barton County, and I can confirm that 
all of them give really, really good care. This change in Ellinwood can 
only make our healthcare stronger in Barton County, so I’m very much in 
favor of supporting them with a letter.” &nbsp;According to Magner, groundbreaking for the new hospital could take place as early as this fall.&nbsp;

New Ellinwood hospital gets thumbs up from Barton Co.

MANHATTAN —Business owners are looking for answers after two recent shooting incidents in the Aggieville district of Manhattan, including one last weekend where a Fort Riley man died and another Fort Riley man was transported to a Topeka hospital.&nbsp;

Dennis Cook, Executive Director of the Aggieville Business Association, said there have been discussions with the leadership including the commanding general of Fort Riley and the acting director of the Riley County Police Department. "I think the consensus so far is, number one, we don't look at this as a Fort Riley situation at all. They've got 15,000 soldiers and these are two incidents of somebody from Fort Riley, yes, but that's a pretty broad stroke to paint."

Cook said the Aggieville Business Association is supportive of Fort Riley and the service men and women who defend the country. He noted that the feedback he has received from them is that Aggieville wasn't the spark that caused the incidents. "This is a couple people who made some really poor decisions but that doesn't mean we don't take a look at what we can proactively do. " Cook added officials are still trying to figure that out.&nbsp;

Cook said there have been discussions about having a sit-down meeting&nbsp; with Aggieville business leaders, city and police, "to all talk about it together. The thing we hit on most is being more visible and being more open, and out there in a more protect and serve attitude so that people can feel safe down here."

Cook noted that they are talking about bringing back the courtesy patrol where there would be uniformed officers from Fort Riley in Aggieville. In the past with the courtesy patrol those officers would walk with Riley County police to be visible so soldiers knew that they were dealing with not just local officers, but military officers were nearby as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644236423354.png" alt="Police tape in Aggieville after a fatal weekend shooting photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police tape in Aggieville after a fatal weekend shooting photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN —Business owners are looking for answers after two recent shooting incidents in the Aggieville district of Manhattan, including one last weekend where a Fort Riley man died and another Fort Riley man was transported to a Topeka hospital.&nbsp;Dennis Cook, Executive Director of the Aggieville Business Association, said there have been discussions with the leadership including the commanding general of Fort Riley and the acting director of the Riley County Police Department. "I think the consensus so far is, number one, we don't look at this as a Fort Riley situation at all. They've got 15,000 soldiers and these are two incidents of somebody from Fort Riley, yes, but that's a pretty broad stroke to paint."Cook said the Aggieville Business Association is supportive of Fort Riley and the service men and women who defend the country. He noted that the feedback he has received from them is that Aggieville wasn't the spark that caused the incidents. "This is a couple people who made some really poor decisions but that doesn't mean we don't take a look at what we can proactively do. " Cook added officials are still trying to figure that out.&nbsp;Cook said there have been discussions about having a sit-down meeting&nbsp; with Aggieville business leaders, city and police, "to all talk about it together. The thing we hit on most is being more visible and being more open, and out there in a more protect and serve attitude so that people can feel safe down here."Cook noted that they are talking about bringing back the courtesy patrol where there would be uniformed officers from Fort Riley in Aggieville. In the past with the courtesy patrol those officers would walk with Riley County police to be visible so soldiers knew that they were dealing with not just local officers, but military officers were nearby as well.

Business leaders in Manhattan address crime in Aggieville

BY JARED STRONG <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/carroll-superintendent-no-litter-boxes-schools">States Newsroom</a>

CARROLL, Iowa — There are no litter boxes in the restrooms of the Carroll Community 
School District, its superintendent stressed, despite internet rumors 
that some schools are installing them for children who “identify” as 
cats.

“Staff members are not encouraging or accommodating anyone behaving 
or identifying as a cat or any other animal,” Superintendent Casey 
Berlau said Tuesday in a note to parents in the western Iowa district. 
“It is very unfortunate that this rumor has been spread over the last 
several weeks.”

His exasperated note came amid a heightened scrutiny of schools across the nation, where <a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2021/06/08/iowa-bans-divisive-concepts-from-diversity-trainings-school-curriculum/">curriculum about race</a> is being questioned and the recommendations of certain books might lead to <a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/briefs/bill-would-charge-teachers-administrators-with-serious-misdemeanor-for-obscene-content/">criminal prosecution</a>. Iowa lawmakers are also considering a requirement to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=89&amp;ba=HF2177">surveil teachers with cameras</a>.

The latest notion that schools would supply litter boxes for students
 who consider themselves cats is apparently rooted in an increasingly 
tolerant student culture for those that openly question their sexual 
identities and gender preferences.

“WARNING RANT!!!!” wrote Carroll resident Shelly Loew on Facebook, in
 a now-deleted Monday post of which Iowa Capital Dispatch obtained 
screenshots. “So 2 middle school kids are allowed to identify as cats 
and go to school? &amp; Now some schools are also allowing litter 
boxes??!!”

Loew did not immediately respond to a request to comment for this article.

Her post elicited comments from a former Carroll school board 
president, Jen Munson, that “I warned people during the election about 
this type of stuff” and from an area resident, Tristan Hinners, who 
claimed that Des Moines has students who say they are a dog and a 
falcon.

“The one that identifies as a dog has to be taken outside to use the 
bathroom by a teacher..,” she wrote, “and the falcon screeches up and 
down the hallways.”

Phil Roeder, a spokesperson for Des Moines Public Schools, is aware 
of the swirling claims but said: “We have real education issues to deal 
with here. Litter box rumor control isn’t one of them.”

Berlau wrote that Carroll is not alone in Iowa in dispelling rumors of litter boxes in bathrooms. Indeed, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/23/us/politics/michigan-litter-box-school.html">schools in other states</a> have been forced to grapple with the perplexing notions.

“This issue gains negative attention because of its outrageousness,” Berlau wrote in his note to parents.

He did not immediately respond to a request to comment for this article.

<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/02/09/carroll-superintendent-no-litter-boxes-in-schools/">Courtesy Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644438968621.png" alt="Unfounded rumors of cat litter boxes in school restrooms prompted a note to parents from one Iowa superintendent. (Photo by Jared Strong/Iowa Capital Dispatch)" />
 <figcaption>Unfounded rumors of cat litter boxes in school restrooms prompted a note to parents from one Iowa superintendent. (Photo by Jared Strong/Iowa Capital Dispatch)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY JARED STRONG <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/carroll-superintendent-no-litter-boxes-schools">States Newsroom</a>CARROLL, Iowa — There are no litter boxes in the restrooms of the Carroll Community 
School District, its superintendent stressed, despite internet rumors 
that some schools are installing them for children who “identify” as 
cats.“Staff members are not encouraging or accommodating anyone behaving 
or identifying as a cat or any other animal,” Superintendent Casey 
Berlau said Tuesday in a note to parents in the western Iowa district. 
“It is very unfortunate that this rumor has been spread over the last 
several weeks.”His exasperated note came amid a heightened scrutiny of schools across the nation, where <a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2021/06/08/iowa-bans-divisive-concepts-from-diversity-trainings-school-curriculum/">curriculum about race</a> is being questioned and the recommendations of certain books might lead to <a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/briefs/bill-would-charge-teachers-administrators-with-serious-misdemeanor-for-obscene-content/">criminal prosecution</a>. Iowa lawmakers are also considering a requirement to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=89&amp;ba=HF2177">surveil teachers with cameras</a>.The latest notion that schools would supply litter boxes for students
 who consider themselves cats is apparently rooted in an increasingly 
tolerant student culture for those that openly question their sexual 
identities and gender preferences.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644439063249.png" alt="A screenshot of a now-deleted Facebook post." />
 <figcaption>A screenshot of a now-deleted Facebook post.</figcaption>
 </figure>“WARNING RANT!!!!” wrote Carroll resident Shelly Loew on Facebook, in
 a now-deleted Monday post of which Iowa Capital Dispatch obtained 
screenshots. “So 2 middle school kids are allowed to identify as cats 
and go to school? &amp; Now some schools are also allowing litter 
boxes??!!”Loew did not immediately respond to a request to comment for this article.Her post elicited comments from a former Carroll school board 
president, Jen Munson, that “I warned people during the election about 
this type of stuff” and from an area resident, Tristan Hinners, who 
claimed that Des Moines has students who say they are a dog and a 
falcon.“The one that identifies as a dog has to be taken outside to use the 
bathroom by a teacher..,” she wrote, “and the falcon screeches up and 
down the hallways.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644439096211.png" alt="A screenshot of a now-deleted Facebook post." />
 <figcaption>A screenshot of a now-deleted Facebook post.</figcaption>
 </figure>Phil Roeder, a spokesperson for Des Moines Public Schools, is aware 
of the swirling claims but said: “We have real education issues to deal 
with here. Litter box rumor control isn’t one of them.”Berlau wrote that Carroll is not alone in Iowa in dispelling rumors of litter boxes in bathrooms. Indeed, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/23/us/politics/michigan-litter-box-school.html">schools in other states</a> have been forced to grapple with the perplexing notions.“This issue gains negative attention because of its outrageousness,” Berlau wrote in his note to parents.He did not immediately respond to a request to comment for this article.<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/02/09/carroll-superintendent-no-litter-boxes-in-schools/">Courtesy Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>

No, there are no litter boxes in Iowa schools for students identifying as cats

WASHINGTON (AP) — Millions of Americans who have never filed a tax return will need to do so this year in order to claim what's coming to them under the enhanced child tax credit.

Previously, only people who earned enough money to owe income taxes could qualify for the full credit.

But as part of the $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package, President Joe Biden expanded the program, increasing the payments to up to $3,600 annually for each child aged 5 or under and $3,000 for those who are ages 6 to 17.

The monthly payments have amounted to $300 for each child 5 and younger and $250 for those between 5 and 17.

The government began to send the payments out — an overall $93 billion — on a monthly basis starting last July. Now, there are an additional six months' worth of payments waiting to be claimed. And some families haven't collected any of the benefits they're due yet. In all, an estimated $193 billion is yet to be claimed.

The only way to receive that money is to file a tax return.

Some questions and answers about who's eligible for the credit and how to get it:

More than 36 million families received the advanced payments in December alone, which marked the last month that advanced monthly payments were sent to households. Families qualify for the full credit if their 2021 adjusted gross income was at or below $150,000 for married couples filing a joint return, or $75,000 for single-filer parents.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I QUALIFY AND WHAT IF I DON'T OWE TAXES?

Whether or not a family owes tax money or has filed taxes before, they will need to file a return to get all or the rest of their money.

Eligible families that didn’t receive any advance child tax credit payments during 2021 can still claim the full amount of the child tax credit on their federal tax return. Those families that are unsure of whether they've received payments, or potentially received paper checks that went uncashed, can visit the Child Tax Credit Update Portal, to see how much of the credit they should have received.

Additionally, families that received payments should have received a "Letter 6419, 2021 advance CTC" notice, which includes information on the amount of advance payments families have received and tax information for filing purposes.

However, the IRS has said that some people may have received incorrect information on their forms. The portal can help people who want to confirm the correct amount they should have received. Despite any inconsistencies in documentation, the IRS advises that taxpayers should keep the letter, and any other IRS communications about advance payments, with their tax records.

The IRS urges individuals to file their taxes electronically to process forms quicker, and provides links on the agency website to free filing sites like GetYourRefund.org, which helps families earning less than about $66,000 a year file their taxes for free. The organization partners with IRS-certified Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, and provides free help in English and Spanish. Another option is MyFreeTaxes.com, which provides virtual assistance to people who make $58,000 or less to file their federal and state taxes for free. That service is offered through the United Way.

The IRS also has a tool to help individuals identify other free file sites that offer tax filing help.

While the coronavirus relief package included child tax credit benefits for residents of Puerto Rico, they were not eligible to receive the advance monthly payments. Instead, Puerto Rican residents can receive the full amount of child tax credit that they are eligible for by filing a federal income tax return this year. Additionally, residents of American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam or the U.S. Virgin Islands may be eligible for the full child tax credit payments, but they will need to contact their local U.S. territory tax agency.

The IRS has launched a website, called ChildTaxCredit.gov, which lists criteria that filers must meet in order to receive the full credit. Additionally, the federal agency will begin offering walk-in assistance with IRS volunteers in limited locations for individuals who need help filing their taxes, beginning Feb. 12.

Thirty-five tax assistance centers around the country will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the second Saturday of the next four months.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644421639295.png" alt="Vice President Kamala Harris during a virtual child tax credit event Tuesday-White House photo" />
 <figcaption>Vice President Kamala Harris during a virtual child tax credit event Tuesday-White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Millions of Americans who have never filed a tax return will need to do so this year in order to claim what's coming to them under the enhanced child tax credit.Previously, only people who earned enough money to owe income taxes could qualify for the full credit.But as part of the $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package, President Joe Biden expanded the program, increasing the payments to up to $3,600 annually for each child aged 5 or under and $3,000 for those who are ages 6 to 17.The monthly payments have amounted to $300 for each child 5 and younger and $250 for those between 5 and 17.The government began to send the payments out — an overall $93 billion — on a monthly basis starting last July. Now, there are an additional six months' worth of payments waiting to be claimed. And some families haven't collected any of the benefits they're due yet. In all, an estimated $193 billion is yet to be claimed.The only way to receive that money is to file a tax return.Some questions and answers about who's eligible for the credit and how to get it:WHO GETS THE CHILD TAX CREDIT?More than 36 million families received the advanced payments in December alone, which marked the last month that advanced monthly payments were sent to households. Families qualify for the full credit if their 2021 adjusted gross income was at or below $150,000 for married couples filing a joint return, or $75,000 for single-filer parents.HOW DO I KNOW IF I QUALIFY AND WHAT IF I DON'T OWE TAXES?Whether or not a family owes tax money or has filed taxes before, they will need to file a return to get all or the rest of their money.Eligible families that didn’t receive any advance child tax credit payments during 2021 can still claim the full amount of the child tax credit on their federal tax return. Those families that are unsure of whether they've received payments, or potentially received paper checks that went uncashed, can visit the Child Tax Credit Update Portal, to see how much of the credit they should have received.Additionally, families that received payments should have received a "Letter 6419, 2021 advance CTC" notice, which includes information on the amount of advance payments families have received and tax information for filing purposes.However, the IRS has said that some people may have received incorrect information on their forms. The portal can help people who want to confirm the correct amount they should have received. Despite any inconsistencies in documentation, the IRS advises that taxpayers should keep the letter, and any other IRS communications about advance payments, with their tax records.WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO FILE?The IRS urges individuals to file their taxes electronically to process forms quicker, and provides links on the agency website to free filing sites like GetYourRefund.org, which helps families earning less than about $66,000 a year file their taxes for free. The organization partners with IRS-certified Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, and provides free help in English and Spanish. Another option is MyFreeTaxes.com, which provides virtual assistance to people who make $58,000 or less to file their federal and state taxes for free. That service is offered through the United Way.The IRS also has a tool to help individuals identify other free file sites that offer tax filing help.WHAT IF I LIVE OUTSIDE THE 50 STATES?While the coronavirus relief package included child tax credit benefits for residents of Puerto Rico, they were not eligible to receive the advance monthly payments. Instead, Puerto Rican residents can receive the full amount of child tax credit that they are eligible for by filing a federal income tax return this year. Additionally, residents of American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam or the U.S. Virgin Islands may be eligible for the full child tax credit payments, but they will need to contact their local U.S. territory tax agency.WHO CAN HELP ME SORT THIS OUT?The IRS has launched a website, called ChildTaxCredit.gov, which lists criteria that filers must meet in order to receive the full credit. Additionally, the federal agency will begin offering walk-in assistance with IRS volunteers in limited locations for individuals who need help filing their taxes, beginning Feb. 12.Thirty-five tax assistance centers around the country will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the second Saturday of the next four months.The tax filing deadline is April 18.

White House explains how to get up to $3,600 per child in tax credit

TOPEKA — The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 4,454 to a total of 752,974, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The state reported 95 additional COVID-19 deaths for a total of 7,820.

<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 4,454 to a total of 752,974, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;&nbsp;The state reported 95 additional COVID-19 deaths for a total of 7,820.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644429886933.png" alt="Wednesday February 9, 2022 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday February 9, 2022 KDHE image</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: 4,454 new cases, 95 more COVID-19 deaths

SALINA—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating&nbsp;a body found in the pond at Indian Rock Park in Salina have identified the victim as 56-year-old John Palmgren of Salina.&nbsp;

Just after&nbsp; 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, a citizen walking the trails at Indian Rock Park, 1300 Gypsum Avenue Salina reported he saw what he believed to be a person lying in the pond in the middle of the park, according to a statement from Salina Police.

Officers responded and located the body of Palmgren who was pronounced dead.

The Salina Police Department is continuing to investigate the incident, and at this time no foul play is suspected.

Police are asking the public for any information they may have regarding Palmgren’s whereabouts or activities proceeding his death.

If you have any information concerning this event or identification of the individual(s) involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS, text SATIPS to CRIMES (274637), or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950">https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950</a>&nbsp;to submit a web tip. You may receive a cash reward and you are not required to give your name. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at (785) 826-7210. Case 2022-3667.

SALINA—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating&nbsp;a body found in the pond at Indian Rock Park in Salina have identified the victim as 56-year-old John Palmgren of Salina.&nbsp;Just after&nbsp; 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, a citizen walking the trails at Indian Rock Park, 1300 Gypsum Avenue Salina reported he saw what he believed to be a person lying in the pond in the middle of the park, according to a statement from Salina Police.Officers responded and located the body of Palmgren who was pronounced dead.The Salina Police Department is continuing to investigate the incident, and at this time no foul play is suspected.Police are asking the public for any information they may have regarding Palmgren’s whereabouts or activities proceeding his death.If you have any information concerning this event or identification of the individual(s) involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS, text SATIPS to CRIMES (274637), or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950">https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950</a>&nbsp;to submit a web tip. You may receive a cash reward and you are not required to give your name. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at (785) 826-7210. Case 2022-3667.

Police ID Kansas man found dead in Salina park pond

The former Kansas Department of Health and Environment secretary expressed his opinion on the actions of the Kansas Senate from the past couple of days on Tuesday. 

He didn't use his name, but Dr. Lee Norman appeared to call out Hutchinson's Sen. Dr. Mark Steffen.

Hutch Post reached out to Norman for an interview so he could further clarify his comments. 

He declined, only saying on the record,&nbsp;"I cannot figure out why his GOP colleagues are not reeling him in.  It's almost like they're afraid of him."

Norman was removed as Secretary by Gov. Laura Kelly's administration for commenting on issues beyond what was authorized by her office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599677747477.png" alt="Lee Norman--Photo from Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Lee Norman--Photo from Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>The former Kansas Department of Health and Environment secretary expressed his opinion on the actions of the Kansas Senate from the past couple of days on Tuesday. He didn't use his name, but Dr. Lee Norman appeared to call out Hutchinson's Sen. Dr. Mark Steffen.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">I pray that the KS House stops the Senate gerrymanderers from selling their souls to the charlatans pushing pre-vaccination Medieval veterinary medicine on them and on Kansans. Don&#39;t trust him. It isn&#39;t worth selling your souls for. Or for sacrificing your constituents. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a>&mdash; Lee A. Norman (@LeeNormanMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/LeeNormanMD/status/1491239791781834752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>Hutch Post reached out to Norman for an interview so he could further clarify his comments. He declined, only saying on the record,&nbsp;"I cannot figure out why his GOP colleagues are not reeling him in. It's almost like they're afraid of him."Norman was removed as Secretary by Gov. Laura Kelly's administration for commenting on issues beyond what was authorized by her office.

Former KDHE Secretary encourages Kan. House to defeat Congresssional map 

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/attorney-general-endorses-mandatory-prison-for-felons-using-guns-in-violent-crimes/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Attorney General Derek 
Schmidt endorsed legislation requiring felons prohibited from possessing
 firearms to be sentenced to prison if found guilty of new violent 
felonies.

Schmidt said many violent crimes were committed by armed repeat 
felons who know the most likely consequence of conviction would 
probation rather than incarceration.

The bill introduced in the House Corrections and Juvenile Justice 
Committee would mandate felons illegally possessing firearms while 
committing new violent felonies would be imprisoned for the weapons 
charge in addition to sanctions for the underlying offense.

If adopted by the Legislature and signed by Gov. Laura Kelly, 
sentences under the bill would run consecutively with the weapons 
violation carrying a sentence ranging from seven months to 23 months.

“This proposal focuses on taking off our streets those criminals who 
repeatedly misuse firearms to commit violent crime in our communities,” 
Schmidt said. “We are proposing to give this existing statute real bite 
by requiring that felons who repeatedly and illegally carry firearms 
while committing new violent crimes be sent to prison, not granted 
probation.”

Kelly, a Democrat, is seeking re-election and Schmidt is campaigning 
for the Republican Party’s nomination for governor in August.

Existing Kansas law places a ban ranging from five years to a 
lifetime on possession of a firearm or knife by individuals convicted of
 felony crimes. Expungement of that prior felony, under existing 
statute, doesn’t restore a person’s ability to lawfully possess firearms
 in the state.

Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay said the overwhelming 
majority of gun crime in Topeka was perpetrated by felons legally 
prohibited from possessing firearms.

“This is not an effective deterrent for the offenders, and they simply repeat their behavior,” he said.

Kansas prosecutors have recommended similar reform in the past, but the Legislature declined to approve those changes in law.

Former Secretary of State Kris Kobach, a GOP candidate for attorney 
general, urged state lawmakers in 2021 to adopt a bill allowing felons 
who had convictions expunged or pardoned to regain the right to possess a
 firearm.

A Senate committee conducted a hearing but didn’t act on the measure 
retaining lifetime bans for people convicted of person felonies with a 
firearm and the 10-year ban for people convicted of murder, assault, 
battery, rape and controlled substance crimes even if not in possession 
of a firearm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644342121344.png" alt="Attorney General Derek Schmidt, right, a Republican candidate for governor, endorsed legislation requiring prison sentences for felons convicted of using firearms in a new crime. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Attorney General Derek Schmidt, right, a Republican candidate for governor, endorsed legislation requiring prison sentences for felons convicted of using firearms in a new crime. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/attorney-general-endorses-mandatory-prison-for-felons-using-guns-in-violent-crimes/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Attorney General Derek 
Schmidt endorsed legislation requiring felons prohibited from possessing
 firearms to be sentenced to prison if found guilty of new violent 
felonies.Schmidt said many violent crimes were committed by armed repeat 
felons who know the most likely consequence of conviction would 
probation rather than incarceration.The bill introduced in the House Corrections and Juvenile Justice 
Committee would mandate felons illegally possessing firearms while 
committing new violent felonies would be imprisoned for the weapons 
charge in addition to sanctions for the underlying offense.If adopted by the Legislature and signed by Gov. Laura Kelly, 
sentences under the bill would run consecutively with the weapons 
violation carrying a sentence ranging from seven months to 23 months.“This proposal focuses on taking off our streets those criminals who 
repeatedly misuse firearms to commit violent crime in our communities,” 
Schmidt said. “We are proposing to give this existing statute real bite 
by requiring that felons who repeatedly and illegally carry firearms 
while committing new violent crimes be sent to prison, not granted 
probation.”Kelly, a Democrat, is seeking re-election and Schmidt is campaigning 
for the Republican Party’s nomination for governor in August.Existing Kansas law places a ban ranging from five years to a 
lifetime on possession of a firearm or knife by individuals convicted of
 felony crimes. Expungement of that prior felony, under existing 
statute, doesn’t restore a person’s ability to lawfully possess firearms
 in the state.Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay said the overwhelming 
majority of gun crime in Topeka was perpetrated by felons legally 
prohibited from possessing firearms.“This is not an effective deterrent for the offenders, and they simply repeat their behavior,” he said.Kansas prosecutors have recommended similar reform in the past, but the Legislature declined to approve those changes in law.Former Secretary of State Kris Kobach, a GOP candidate for attorney 
general, urged state lawmakers in 2021 to adopt a bill allowing felons 
who had convictions expunged or pardoned to regain the right to possess a
 firearm.A Senate committee conducted a hearing but didn’t act on the measure 
retaining lifetime bans for people convicted of person felonies with a 
firearm and the 10-year ban for people convicted of murder, assault, 
battery, rape and controlled substance crimes even if not in possession 
of a firearm.

Kan. AG endorses mandatory prison for felons using guns in violent crimes


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann sees China as a risk to the security of the United States.

"I just think we have to realize that China is not our friend," Mann said. "They are our adversary. You look at what they are doing around the world, you look at how they are unabashedly promoting their interests, you look at their human rights abuses, I think we've got to acknowledge that really, for the rest of this century, the debt and China are our two big adversaries."

That doesn't mean we still shouldn't sell them food and they shouldn't sell us other products, but it's a balance that bears watching and that China hasn't kept its end of the bargain.

"Really, I'm frustrated to see that the phase one China trade deal has now transitioned to phase two," Mann said. "You look back over the last two years and they were short $16 billion on their commitments to buy our ag products. There's got to be accountability there. There also has to be accountability on the intellectual property that they steal and some of the things that they are doing on the world stage."

Mann doesn't have answers for why China didn't spend what they said they would, especially since the weak dollar has made overseas exports, of grain in particular, more competitive.

"That's the question that we're asking," Mann said. "We've been raising this on the floor. We've been raising this at committee. That's exactly the question we're asking. What is the administration's plan to work to make up that difference? Every indication is that as China's economy transforms, they are moving toward commercial hog operations, confined hog feeding, which is a good thing for us, which means they are going to need more sorghum and other commodities that we grow here, but why they've not met their commitments. Those are the questions we're asking right now to try to get to the bottom of it."

Mann opposed the COMPETES Act that passed the House earlier this month due, at least in part, to those concerns about concessions to China.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611747599085.png" alt="Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann" />
 <figcaption>Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann</figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann sees China as a risk to the security of the United States."I just think we have to realize that China is not our friend," Mann said. "They are our adversary. You look at what they are doing around the world, you look at how they are unabashedly promoting their interests, you look at their human rights abuses, I think we've got to acknowledge that really, for the rest of this century, the debt and China are our two big adversaries."That doesn't mean we still shouldn't sell them food and they shouldn't sell us other products, but it's a balance that bears watching and that China hasn't kept its end of the bargain."Really, I'm frustrated to see that the phase one China trade deal has now transitioned to phase two," Mann said. "You look back over the last two years and they were short $16 billion on their commitments to buy our ag products. There's got to be accountability there. There also has to be accountability on the intellectual property that they steal and some of the things that they are doing on the world stage."Mann doesn't have answers for why China didn't spend what they said they would, especially since the weak dollar has made overseas exports, of grain in particular, more competitive."That's the question that we're asking," Mann said. "We've been raising this on the floor. We've been raising this at committee. That's exactly the question we're asking. What is the administration's plan to work to make up that difference? Every indication is that as China's economy transforms, they are moving toward commercial hog operations, confined hog feeding, which is a good thing for us, which means they are going to need more sorghum and other commodities that we grow here, but why they've not met their commitments. Those are the questions we're asking right now to try to get to the bottom of it."Mann opposed the COMPETES Act that passed the House earlier this month due, at least in part, to those concerns about concessions to China.

Kan. First District Congressman: China is not our friend

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas lawmakers are close to authorizing more than $1 billion in state incentives in hopes of attracting an undisclosed, $4 billion project from an unnamed company.

The Republican-controlled House&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20220208153724_561436/" target="_blank">voted 80-41</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday to approve&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_sb347_04_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;that would set up a new program within the state Department of Commerce to offer such a big package of incentives to a single company this year and another firm again in 2023. The GOP-controlled Senate expects to vote on the measure Wednesday, and its approval would send it to Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly.

The bill also would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-legislature-kansas-topeka-15b9bbc969b7a90b3191bcab9a337dc5">cut the state’s corporate income tax</a>&nbsp;by a half-percentage point with each deal.

Kelly pushed for a new incentives program in hopes of luring the $4 billion project to Kansas. Officials have said Kansas is competing with another state and that the company expects to make a decision on the site for its project within three weeks.

Lawmakers in both parties remained frustrated that details about the company or its proposed project haven’t been disclosed publicly.

Kelly’s version of the measure would have allowed more incentives over a shorter period of time. Republicans rewrote the bill to make it less generous, spread out the incentives over a longer time and require legislative leaders to sign off on a deal.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas lawmakers are close to authorizing more than $1 billion in state incentives in hopes of attracting an undisclosed, $4 billion project from an unnamed company.The Republican-controlled House&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20220208153724_561436/" target="_blank">voted 80-41</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday to approve&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_sb347_04_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;that would set up a new program within the state Department of Commerce to offer such a big package of incentives to a single company this year and another firm again in 2023. The GOP-controlled Senate expects to vote on the measure Wednesday, and its approval would send it to Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly.The bill also would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-legislature-kansas-topeka-15b9bbc969b7a90b3191bcab9a337dc5">cut the state’s corporate income tax</a>&nbsp;by a half-percentage point with each deal.Kelly pushed for a new incentives program in hopes of luring the $4 billion project to Kansas. Officials have said Kansas is competing with another state and that the company expects to make a decision on the site for its project within three weeks.Lawmakers in both parties remained frustrated that details about the company or its proposed project haven’t been disclosed publicly.Kelly’s version of the measure would have allowed more incentives over a shorter period of time. Republicans rewrote the bill to make it less generous, spread out the incentives over a longer time and require legislative leaders to sign off on a deal.

Kansas plan for $1B-plus in breaks for project nears passage

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Air Force became the second military service to approve religious exemptions to the mandatory COVID-19 vaccine, granting requests from nine airmen to avoid the shots, officials said Tuesday.

The nine approved so far represent just a tiny fraction of the more than 6,400 requested by Air Force troops, and they come as other service members are challenging the lack of religious exemptions in court cases. The Marine Corps is the only other military service to grant any religious accommodations, allowing three so far. The Army and Navy have not approved any.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Air Force became the second military service to approve religious exemptions to the mandatory COVID-19 vaccine, granting requests from nine airmen to avoid the shots, officials said Tuesday.The nine approved so far represent just a tiny fraction of the more than 6,400 requested by Air Force troops, and they come as other service members are challenging the lack of religious exemptions in court cases. The Marine Corps is the only other military service to grant any religious accommodations, allowing three so far. The Army and Navy have not approved any.The services have come under criticism for their failure to grant religious exemptions, with members of Congress, the military and the public questioning if the review processes have been fair. All together, the services have received more than 14,000 requests for religious exemptions.Military leaders have argued that religious exemptions to any of the many vaccines troops are required to get have been very rare over the years. Service members are required to get as many as 17 different vaccines, depending on where they deploy.A federal judge in Texas granted a preliminary injunction last month, stopping the Navy from acting against 35 sailors for refusing on religious grounds to comply with an order to get the COVID vaccine.Eight of the Air Force approvals came during the initial review process, and one was granted on appeal to senior Air Force leaders. So far, religious exemption requests from more than 3,200 airmen were denied, and another 3,200 are pending.“The Department of the Air Force determined the service members’ accommodations could be supported with no impact to mission readiness,” the statement Tuesday said.Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and military leaders have argued that the vaccine is critical to maintaining military readiness and the health of the force. And all of the services have now either discharged personnel for refusing the vaccine, or put a system in place to do so.The Marine Corps has discharged 469, the Air Force has discharged 179 and the Navy has discharged 118, according to data released in the last week. The number include active-duty personnel and entry-level recruits who were still in boot camp. The Army has issued more than 3,000 formal letters of reprimand, and fired six soldiers, but has not discharged anyone yet.All the military services have said the exemption decisions are based not only on the individual request, but also on its impact on the unit, its mission and readiness, and the health and safety of other troops.Those who get an exemption and are allowed to stay in the service may, however, see an impact on their jobs.The Navy and the Marine Corps have said unvaccinated service members are not allowed to deploy out to sea on ships, where infections can more easily spread. Those who have approved exemptions — either medical, administrative or religious — are assigned to shore duties.At least 97% of the troops in each service have gotten at least one shot.