HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt joined 18 of his colleagues in sending a letter to President Biden asking him to reopen the process on the Keystone XL pipeline in light of the cyberattack that shut down a portion of the Colonial Pipeline earlier this month.

"On his first day in office, President Biden canceled the permit for the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline," Schmidt said. "We've sued him over that, because we think that cancellation violated due process. Not only is that a pipeline issue, but who is ever going to make a large investment in any capital project that requires government approval if the government can just turn on a dime and say, I changed my mind, sorry, you've invested billions of dollars, now you're stuck."

Schmidt believes the marketplace will help fix the issues that were caused by the Colonial outage, if it is allowed to work.

"At the end of the day, we don't have sufficient redundancy," Schmidt said. "We don't have sufficient capacity, if a large pipeline goes off line, as the Colonial Pipeline did. The result has been gas lines like we haven't seen since the 1970s on the East Coast and gasoline at $7 a gallon. Markets work, as long as their excesses are properly monitored and controlled. Markets work. We have to trust them and allow that to happen."

Schmidt and 20 other attorneys general filed suit in March in Texas against Biden's order. Their argument is the power to regulate international commerce resides with Congress. Congress expressly permitted the project in the 2011 Temporary Payroll Tax Cut Continuation Act.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583409290272.jpeg" alt="Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt</figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt joined 18 of his colleagues in sending a letter to President Biden asking him to reopen the process on the Keystone XL pipeline in light of the cyberattack that shut down a portion of the Colonial Pipeline earlier this month."On his first day in office, President Biden canceled the permit for the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline," Schmidt said. "We've sued him over that, because we think that cancellation violated due process. Not only is that a pipeline issue, but who is ever going to make a large investment in any capital project that requires government approval if the government can just turn on a dime and say, I changed my mind, sorry, you've invested billions of dollars, now you're stuck."Schmidt believes the marketplace will help fix the issues that were caused by the Colonial outage, if it is allowed to work."At the end of the day, we don't have sufficient redundancy," Schmidt said. "We don't have sufficient capacity, if a large pipeline goes off line, as the Colonial Pipeline did. The result has been gas lines like we haven't seen since the 1970s on the East Coast and gasoline at $7 a gallon. Markets work, as long as their excesses are properly monitored and controlled. Markets work. We have to trust them and allow that to happen."Schmidt and 20 other attorneys general filed suit in March in Texas against Biden's order. Their argument is the power to regulate international commerce resides with Congress. Congress expressly permitted the project in the 2011 Temporary Payroll Tax Cut Continuation Act.

Kan. AG: Pipeline outage shows need for Keystone XL

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — With new COVID-19 vaccinations declining,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/kansas">Kansas</a>&nbsp;is changing its strategy for reaching herd immunity from holding mass immunization clinics to having doctor's offices and pharmacies give shots.

Public health officials said this week that the change will make getting the shots more convenient for some people or tap into their existing trust in their doctors to overcome hesitation about getting vaccinated. Kansas has continued to have more than 600,000 unused doses since late April and the state has ratcheted back on ordering more from the federal government — seeking only 2.3% of its allotment for this week, or 3,440 of the 147,600 doses available.

County health departments have cut hours for mass vaccination clinics, and since the end of April, the state Department of Health and Environment has allowed health care providers to order as little as a single vial of doses at a time.

"Whatever it takes to facilitate individuals getting vaccinated, that’s what we want to do,” said Paula Rowden, a registered nurse and the administrator for the Stevens County Health Department in southwest Kansas.

The state reported that as of Wednesday, about 1.18 million of the state's 2.9 million residents, or 40.5%, had received at least one vaccine shot.

The pace of vaccinations in Kansas peaked at an average of 29,380 shots a day for the seven days ending April 7. They've declined since and averaged 7,530 a day for the seven days ending Wednesday, according to state data.

Department spokeswoman Kristi Zears said “a general consensus” is that reaching herd immunity requires 75% to 80% of the population to have COVID-19 antibodies, either from vaccinations or previous infections. The state's data suggests that if vaccinations don't pick up again, that would not happen for months.

Herd immunity can differ by disease. For example, it's 80% for polio and 95% for measles, said Dr. Samni Areola, director of the health department in Johnson County, the state's most populous county.

“The more people that we vaccinate, the more that we break the cycle of transmission,” Aerola said.

The state reported that 43.7% of Johnson County residents had received at least one vaccine shot as of Wednesday, the fourth-highest rate among Kansas' 105 counties. In Stevens County, the figure is 22.8%, making it one of four counties below 25%.

Public health officials said mass clinics were effective in managing immunizations when vaccine supplies were limited and demand was high and later when many people remained eager to get immunized.

But Dr. Dana Hawkinson, director of infection control for the University of Kansas Health System, said changing the strategy is “probably going to be able to get the vaccines into arms a lot better.”

Public health officials do expect mass vaccination clinics to continue for some time, even if they'll be scaled back. Gov. Laura Kelly toured one Monday at Topeka High School, where 250 to 275 students aged 12 to 15 — and a few parents — got their first shots.

“I think it's important for young people, and I think it's important for everyone,” said Laura Vandruff, a 15-year-old Topeka High sophomore who received her first shot Monday.

Public health officials said some Kansas residents were put off by mass vaccination clinics, either because they found the locations or times inconvenient or because they were uncomfortable with the setting. Others who've hesitated to get the vaccine will trust their personal doctors' advice to get shots, they said.

“We do know that people's personal physicians are their most trusted medical adviser," Kelly told reporters after touring the Topeka High clinic.

But public health officials also face the question of how many people still won't get vaccinated, even if they can do it at a doctor's office or in a pharmacy without an appointment.

“We’re reaching a point of saturation for the individuals who are interested in being vaccinated,” said Rowden, the health department administrator in Stevens County.

Follow John Hanna on Twitter: https://twitter/apjdhanna

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621618774960.png" alt="A girl in Douglas County wanted a vaccination to celebrate her 16th birthday this week-photo Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>A girl in Douglas County wanted a vaccination to celebrate her 16th birthday this week-photo Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNA, Associated PressTOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — With new COVID-19 vaccinations declining,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/kansas">Kansas</a>&nbsp;is changing its strategy for reaching herd immunity from holding mass immunization clinics to having doctor's offices and pharmacies give shots.Public health officials said this week that the change will make getting the shots more convenient for some people or tap into their existing trust in their doctors to overcome hesitation about getting vaccinated. Kansas has continued to have more than 600,000 unused doses since late April and the state has ratcheted back on ordering more from the federal government — seeking only 2.3% of its allotment for this week, or 3,440 of the 147,600 doses available.County health departments have cut hours for mass vaccination clinics, and since the end of April, the state Department of Health and Environment has allowed health care providers to order as little as a single vial of doses at a time."Whatever it takes to facilitate individuals getting vaccinated, that’s what we want to do,” said Paula Rowden, a registered nurse and the administrator for the Stevens County Health Department in southwest Kansas.The state reported that as of Wednesday, about 1.18 million of the state's 2.9 million residents, or 40.5%, had received at least one vaccine shot.The pace of vaccinations in Kansas peaked at an average of 29,380 shots a day for the seven days ending April 7. They've declined since and averaged 7,530 a day for the seven days ending Wednesday, according to state data.Department spokeswoman Kristi Zears said “a general consensus” is that reaching herd immunity requires 75% to 80% of the population to have COVID-19 antibodies, either from vaccinations or previous infections. The state's data suggests that if vaccinations don't pick up again, that would not happen for months.Herd immunity can differ by disease. For example, it's 80% for polio and 95% for measles, said Dr. Samni Areola, director of the health department in Johnson County, the state's most populous county.“The more people that we vaccinate, the more that we break the cycle of transmission,” Aerola said.The state reported that 43.7% of Johnson County residents had received at least one vaccine shot as of Wednesday, the fourth-highest rate among Kansas' 105 counties. In Stevens County, the figure is 22.8%, making it one of four counties below 25%.Public health officials said mass clinics were effective in managing immunizations when vaccine supplies were limited and demand was high and later when many people remained eager to get immunized.But Dr. Dana Hawkinson, director of infection control for the University of Kansas Health System, said changing the strategy is “probably going to be able to get the vaccines into arms a lot better.”Public health officials do expect mass vaccination clinics to continue for some time, even if they'll be scaled back. Gov. Laura Kelly toured one Monday at Topeka High School, where 250 to 275 students aged 12 to 15 — and a few parents — got their first shots.“I think it's important for young people, and I think it's important for everyone,” said Laura Vandruff, a 15-year-old Topeka High sophomore who received her first shot Monday.Public health officials said some Kansas residents were put off by mass vaccination clinics, either because they found the locations or times inconvenient or because they were uncomfortable with the setting. Others who've hesitated to get the vaccine will trust their personal doctors' advice to get shots, they said.“We do know that people's personal physicians are their most trusted medical adviser," Kelly told reporters after touring the Topeka High clinic.But public health officials also face the question of how many people still won't get vaccinated, even if they can do it at a doctor's office or in a pharmacy without an appointment.“We’re reaching a point of saturation for the individuals who are interested in being vaccinated,” said Rowden, the health department administrator in Stevens County.___Follow John Hanna on Twitter: https://twitter/apjdhanna

Kansas changing COVID-19 vaccine strategy

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 406 to a total of 312,997, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;

The state reported 4 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5057.

<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.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 406 to a total of 312,997, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 4 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5057.<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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621616684217.png" alt="Friday May 21, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Friday May 21, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

HUTCHINSON— A Kansas woman has accepted a plea deal in a crash that killed one person and injured six others.&nbsp;

Viola Rhodes, 31, Hutchinson, pleaded guilty Wednesday to involuntary manslaughter while driving under the influence and six counts of aggravated battery. In exchange, prosecutors agreed not to charge her with reckless second-degree murder.&nbsp;

Rhodes was arrested on potential charges of driving under the influence of alcohol, illegal transportation of alcoholic beverage, aggravated battery; DUI, and involuntary homicide after an accident December 5,&nbsp; 2020.

Rhodes was driving a van on Yoder Road that night when the vehicle overturned ejecting 44-year-old Brian Biookout who was killed. Two passengers were taken to Hutchinson Regional Health Center and four others were treated by EMS at the scene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607530198056.jpeg" alt="Rhodes photo Reno County" />
 <figcaption>Rhodes photo Reno County</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON— A Kansas woman has accepted a plea deal in a crash that killed one person and injured six others.&nbsp;Viola Rhodes, 31, Hutchinson, pleaded guilty Wednesday to involuntary manslaughter while driving under the influence and six counts of aggravated battery. In exchange, prosecutors agreed not to charge her with reckless second-degree murder.&nbsp;Rhodes was arrested on potential charges of driving under the influence of alcohol, illegal transportation of alcoholic beverage, aggravated battery; DUI, and involuntary homicide after an accident December 5,&nbsp; 2020.Rhodes was driving a van on Yoder Road that night when the vehicle overturned ejecting 44-year-old Brian Biookout who was killed. Two passengers were taken to Hutchinson Regional Health Center and four others were treated by EMS at the scene.Sentencing for Rhodes is set for July 9.-----------

Kan. woman pleads guilty in fatal DUI rollover crash

ELLSWORTH COUNTY —An Ellsworth Correctional Facility resident, David Garcia, 40, died Thursday, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections. 

The cause of death is pending an autopsy. Preliminary assessment indicates the death was not related to COVID-19.

Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the KDOC, the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

Garcia was serving a 29-year sentence for multiple convictions of distribution/possession, taxation, possession of paraphernalia, sale/distribution/cultivation of opiates, and violation of Kansas Offender Registration Act. He had been imprisoned with KDOC since April of 2014. He also had been disciplined 9 times for a variety of issues that included fighting and misuse of medication, according to the KDOC.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621612030906.png" alt="Garcia's ten convictions are from crimes in southwest Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Garcia's ten convictions are from crimes in southwest Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLSWORTH COUNTY —An Ellsworth Correctional Facility resident, David Garcia, 40, died Thursday, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections. The cause of death is pending an autopsy. Preliminary assessment indicates the death was not related to COVID-19.Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the KDOC, the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.Garcia was serving a 29-year sentence for multiple convictions of distribution/possession, taxation, possession of paraphernalia, sale/distribution/cultivation of opiates, and violation of Kansas Offender Registration Act. He had been imprisoned with KDOC since April of 2014. He also had been disciplined 9 times for a variety of issues that included fighting and misuse of medication, according to the KDOC.&nbsp;

40-year-old Kansas inmate's death under investigation

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Arkansas River is closed for all recreational activity due to the high flow rate, according to the city of Wichita.

This includes, but is not limited to swimming, boating, kayaking and canoeing. The river will be closed until the flow rate has lessened. 

<a href="https://wichita.gov/ParkandRec/Pages/RiverRecreation.aspx">Click here</a> to check for updates.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Arkansas River is closed for all recreational activity due to the high flow rate, according to the city of Wichita.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The forecast continues to call for scattered thunderstorms through next week. Staff will monitor flood hot zones, dams, pump stations, and the floodway as needed. Appropriate actions will be taken based upon changing weather conditions. <a href="https://t.co/RSEulti9pE">pic.twitter.com/RSEulti9pE</a>&mdash; City of Wichita (@CityofWichita) <a href="https://twitter.com/CityofWichita/status/1395754718203424771?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>This includes, but is not limited to swimming, boating, kayaking and canoeing. The river will be closed until the flow rate has lessened. <a href="https://wichita.gov/ParkandRec/Pages/RiverRecreation.aspx">Click here</a> to check for updates.

City of Wichita: Arkansas River closed for all activities

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A man has been charged in the shooting death of a personal trainer in Kansas City's historic 18th &amp; Vine district, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced Thursday.

Jerronn Anderson, 29, was charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action in the killing of 34-year-old Gary Taylor on April 25. Three other people were shot and injured.

Video from surveillance cameras in the area showed Taylor and two friends walking in the moments before the shooting. Anderson approached and shot Taylor, according to court documents.

Taylor’s friends started shooting toward Anderson, who fled and then got into a truck, prosecutors said. Anderson later showed up at a hospital with a gunshot wound but left before his treatment was complete, according to court records.

Anderson was arrested Wednesday and declined to give detectives as statement, prosecutors said.

Prosecutors asked that his bond be set at $250,000. Online court records don't name an attorney for him.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621593770435.png" alt="Anderson photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Anderson photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A man has been charged in the shooting death of a personal trainer in Kansas City's historic 18th &amp; Vine district, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced Thursday.Jerronn Anderson, 29, was charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action in the killing of 34-year-old Gary Taylor on April 25. Three other people were shot and injured.Video from surveillance cameras in the area showed Taylor and two friends walking in the moments before the shooting. Anderson approached and shot Taylor, according to court documents.Taylor’s friends started shooting toward Anderson, who fled and then got into a truck, prosecutors said. Anderson later showed up at a hospital with a gunshot wound but left before his treatment was complete, according to court records.Anderson was arrested Wednesday and declined to give detectives as statement, prosecutors said.Prosecutors asked that his bond be set at $250,000. Online court records don't name an attorney for him.

Man charged in killing of Kansas City personal trainer

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly on Wednesday vetoed a bill favored by many Republican lawmakers that could have encouraged some people to stick longer with short-term health coverage that critics label “junk insurance.”

The bill’s backers said it simply would have given people who buy limited duration health insurance more protection against premium increases or coverage changes. Such plans, lasting up to a year, offer lower premiums than comprehensive plans but don’t cover pre-existing medical conditions and other items such as medications or maternity care.

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/ccrb_sb29_02_stld.pdf" target="_blank">The bill</a>&nbsp;would have allowed a consumer to buy new plans for two additional years without having the insurer reconsider the terms. Backers strongly object to the term “junk insurance.”

Kelly advocates&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-medical-marijuana-kansas-marijuana-medicaid-a11663e4684db69315b71f1db5353013">expanding the state’s Medicaid program</a>&nbsp;for the needy to cover up to 165,000 additional Kansas residents and said lawmakers should do that “if they want to get serious about improving access to health care.” But many Republicans oppose Medicaid expansion, and Kelly has been unable to get a bill through the GOP-controlled Legislature.

“Junk insurance – which doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions or provide consumer protections – is just that, ‘junk,’” Kelly said in her veto message.

Some critics of the bill were worried because in 2019, Kelly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/8c6f552e504e490b8ce2cd7d753e1995">didn’t block</a>&nbsp;a GOP measure to permit the Kansas Farm Bureau to offer health coverage that doesn’t comply with the federal Affordable Care Act, letting it become law without her signature. No Democrats voted for the final version of this year’s bill.

Critics said the bill did not represent an improvement over existing rules for short-term plans because companies still can decline later to sell new policies to the same consumers.

“Short-term health plans pose serious and often underestimated risks to people facing illness and discriminate against people who’ve experienced cancer,” said Dana Bacon, a lobbyist for the Leukemia &amp; Lymphoma Society.

The bill passed the Senate earlier this month on a party-line&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210507150401_849820/" target="_blank">29-11 vote,</a>&nbsp;giving supporters two votes more than the two-thirds majority needed to override a veto. But the vote in the House was&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210507115434_172015/" target="_blank">68-51,</a>&nbsp;leaving supporters well short of the 84 needed for a veto override.

Supporters of the bill said short-term plans are mainly for people who are between jobs, employed but trying to find insurance on their own, waiting for an employer’s coverage to start, or retiring before they’re eligible for federal Medicare coverage for people 65 or older.

They said companies are up front about what’s covered and what’s not and are regulated by the state.

“It is a very much a niche product,” said Senate Insurance Committee Chair Jeff Longbine, an Emporia Republican. “It really comes down to the consumer being able to choose what they can afford, and if this is what they can afford, it’s certainly better than being uninsured.”

State Sen. Beverly Gossage, a Eudora Republican and insurance agent who championed the bill, said Kelly misunderstood the measure and the issues involved. She said the measure improves an existing option for consumers.

She said about 1,800 Kansas residents have short-term plans, and they’re in middle-class families that don’t qualify for enough of a subsidy to make comprehensive plans in the federal government’s online insurance marketplace affordable.

Gossage argued that even people wary of short-term plans should support the measure.

“It’s just that you have some people that, the minute you say, ‘Wait a minute; I’ve heard about these plans; they don’t cover pre-existing conditions,’ their fingers go in their ears and they start to say, ”La, la, la, la, la,” she said. “They don’t hear anything else you say.”

By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly on Wednesday vetoed a bill favored by many Republican lawmakers that could have encouraged some people to stick longer with short-term health coverage that critics label “junk insurance.”The bill’s backers said it simply would have given people who buy limited duration health insurance more protection against premium increases or coverage changes. Such plans, lasting up to a year, offer lower premiums than comprehensive plans but don’t cover pre-existing medical conditions and other items such as medications or maternity care.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Junk insurance plans don’t cover preexisting conditions and don’t protect consumers. They’re bad for Kansas families and our workforce – that’s why I’ve vetoed this bill. <a href="https://t.co/GUBQCCqzWs">pic.twitter.com/GUBQCCqzWs</a>&mdash; Governor Laura Kelly (@GovLauraKelly) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovLauraKelly/status/1395438088361545731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/ccrb_sb29_02_stld.pdf" target="_blank">The bill</a>&nbsp;would have allowed a consumer to buy new plans for two additional years without having the insurer reconsider the terms. Backers strongly object to the term “junk insurance.”Kelly advocates&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-medical-marijuana-kansas-marijuana-medicaid-a11663e4684db69315b71f1db5353013">expanding the state’s Medicaid program</a>&nbsp;for the needy to cover up to 165,000 additional Kansas residents and said lawmakers should do that “if they want to get serious about improving access to health care.” But many Republicans oppose Medicaid expansion, and Kelly has been unable to get a bill through the GOP-controlled Legislature.“Junk insurance – which doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions or provide consumer protections – is just that, ‘junk,’” Kelly said in her veto message.Some critics of the bill were worried because in 2019, Kelly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/8c6f552e504e490b8ce2cd7d753e1995">didn’t block</a>&nbsp;a GOP measure to permit the Kansas Farm Bureau to offer health coverage that doesn’t comply with the federal Affordable Care Act, letting it become law without her signature. No Democrats voted for the final version of this year’s bill.Critics said the bill did not represent an improvement over existing rules for short-term plans because companies still can decline later to sell new policies to the same consumers.“Short-term health plans pose serious and often underestimated risks to people facing illness and discriminate against people who’ve experienced cancer,” said Dana Bacon, a lobbyist for the Leukemia &amp; Lymphoma Society.The bill passed the Senate earlier this month on a party-line&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210507150401_849820/" target="_blank">29-11 vote,</a>&nbsp;giving supporters two votes more than the two-thirds majority needed to override a veto. But the vote in the House was&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210507115434_172015/" target="_blank">68-51,</a>&nbsp;leaving supporters well short of the 84 needed for a veto override.Supporters of the bill said short-term plans are mainly for people who are between jobs, employed but trying to find insurance on their own, waiting for an employer’s coverage to start, or retiring before they’re eligible for federal Medicare coverage for people 65 or older.They said companies are up front about what’s covered and what’s not and are regulated by the state.“It is a very much a niche product,” said Senate Insurance Committee Chair Jeff Longbine, an Emporia Republican. “It really comes down to the consumer being able to choose what they can afford, and if this is what they can afford, it’s certainly better than being uninsured.”State Sen. Beverly Gossage, a Eudora Republican and insurance agent who championed the bill, said Kelly misunderstood the measure and the issues involved. She said the measure improves an existing option for consumers.She said about 1,800 Kansas residents have short-term plans, and they’re in middle-class families that don’t qualify for enough of a subsidy to make comprehensive plans in the federal government’s online insurance marketplace affordable.Gossage argued that even people wary of short-term plans should support the measure.“It’s just that you have some people that, the minute you say, ‘Wait a minute; I’ve heard about these plans; they don’t cover pre-existing conditions,’ their fingers go in their ears and they start to say, ”La, la, la, la, la,” she said. “They don’t hear anything else you say.”

Governor vetoes bill on what she calls 'junk insurance'

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Computer issues with the system that provides check-in services for multiple airlines caused delays and long check-in lines across the nation on Friday morning.

Sabre, the company that several airlines use for flight bookings, said it experienced an outage that affected several customers.

“However, the issue is now fully resolved, and we will take all necessary measures to prevent a recurrence,” the company said in a statement.

The problem affected American Airlines, JetBlue and Alaska Airlines.

“Earlier today, Sabre had a technical issue that impacted multiple carriers,” American Airlines said in a statement. “This issue has been resolved and our systems are back online. We apologize to our customers for the inconvenience.”

Alaska Airlines said the Sabre system went down and some planes unable to board. Just before 6 a.m., the airline also said it was “back up and running.”

Even though the system had been restored, there were still reports of long lines at some airports hours later.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Computer issues with the system that provides check-in services for multiple airlines caused delays and long check-in lines across the nation on Friday morning.Sabre, the company that several airlines use for flight bookings, said it experienced an outage that affected several customers.“However, the issue is now fully resolved, and we will take all necessary measures to prevent a recurrence,” the company said in a statement.The problem affected American Airlines, JetBlue and Alaska Airlines.“Earlier today, Sabre had a technical issue that impacted multiple carriers,” American Airlines said in a statement. “This issue has been resolved and our systems are back online. We apologize to our customers for the inconvenience.”Alaska Airlines said the Sabre system went down and some planes unable to board. Just before 6 a.m., the airline also said it was “back up and running.”Even though the system had been restored, there were still reports of long lines at some airports hours later.

Check in problems causes delays at airports nationwide

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House on Thursday narrowly approved $1.9 billion to fortify the Capitol after the Jan. 6 insurrection, as Democrats pushed past Republican opposition to try to harden the complex with retractable fencing and a quick-response force following the most violent domestic attack on Congress in history.

The bill’s 213-212 passage came a day after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-riots-capitol-siege-government-and-politics-3443b4d60621679dd5b42b3d3502d59d">House approved the formation of an independent commission</a>&nbsp;to investigate the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/capitol-siege">deadly mob siege</a>&nbsp;by President Donald Trump’s supporters, who battled police to storm the building in a failed attempt to overturn Democrat Joe Biden’s election.

The two measures now face an uncertain outcome in the evenly divided Senate as most Republicans have objected to both. Tensions are running high at the Capitol, with Democrats growing exasperated with Republicans who refuse to acknowledge the severity of the insurrection because of what appears to be their devotion to Trump — and fears of crossing him.

“We have a major political party in the country that’s ignoring it — we’re trying to solve a problem, they clearly don’t want to sit down and talk about it,” said Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Ohio, chairman of an appropriations subcommittee handling legislative branch security.

At the same time, the idea of bolstered security at the Capitol saddened many lawmakers who said they see no other choice because of the ongoing threats on Congress. Several leading liberal Democrats opposed the security money over concerns about policing, as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democratic leaders worked the floor during votes to ensure passage.

Together, the package of bills stemming from the domestic assault by Trump supporters on the Capitol reminded some lawmakers of the changes that emerged from the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Then, a landmark commission investigated the attack’s root causes and authorities hardened the security apparatus across the federal government.

Thursday’s vote capped two days of emotionally wrenching debate as the political divide, particularly in the House, has widened in the months since the January assault.

House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro recalled her own experience being trapped in the House gallery that day as the attackers tried to break in, calling her husband to tell him she was OK after Capitol Police told her to duck on the floor.

“This bill is not about politics, it’s not about settling scores,” DeLauro said. “It’s about ensuring that every person who comes into the Capitol is safe and is protected.”

Republicans argued that the spending bill is too expensive and no fencing is needed. Many of them said lawmakers should be spending money on border security, not Capitol security.

Rep. Lance Gooden, R-Texas, contended that Democrats would rather spend money on a wall “around this building in D.C.” than they would on finishing a border wall advocated by Trump.

Already, National Guard troops have been protecting the building for months and public access is severely limited. Though razor-wire-topped fencing that stood as a stark reminder of the siege has been removed, an extended perimeter fence remains in place, cutting off access to the lush grounds popular with the public.

The Democrats who opposed the security legislation were some of the most liberal in the House. Some have expressed the view that police treat people of color unfairly. Democratic Reps. Cori Bush of Missouri, Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts and Ilhan Omar of Minnesota voted against it.

Omar said she had “not been convinced of the importance of the money.”

Democratic Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, Jamaal Bowman of New York and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan voted “present,” effectively saving the measure from going down to defeat.

The chairwoman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington, said the lawmakers “wanted to make sure that there were accountability measures” on the security funds. She voted for the bill.

Senate Democrats will not be able to pass either bill on their own in the evenly split 50-50 Senate and could have trouble persuading enough Republicans to vote with them after Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell announced he would oppose the inquiry. Ten GOP senators would need to join Democrats to meet the 60-vote threshold needed to advance legislation. Changes could be made to win over their support.

Months in the making, the emergency spending package incorporates the recommendations from an outside panel of experts to beef up security after the mob attack.

The bill includes money for new fencing — either retractable or “pop in,” according to Democrats — that would protect the grounds. The legislation bars money from being used for permanent above-ground fencing, reflecting the wishes of most members of Congress that the area should be open to the public.

Other changes would fortify windows and doors, install new security vestibules and cameras, and protect members with increased security at home and in Washington, as threats against them have doubled in the last year. There is also money to protect federal judges who are prosecuting the rioters and have received threats, and to repay the Capitol Police and other federal agencies for their efforts on Jan. 6.

Some lawmakers have objected to the proposal for the National Guard to maintain a “quick response force” nearby after it took hours for Guard troops to arrive Jan. 6 as attackers were brutally beating officers.

Leading Republicans on the armed services committees in the House and Senate oppose relying on the troops for the work of protecting the Capitol.

The National Guard Association of the United States said in a statement that the Guard should only be used for law enforcement as a “last resort.”

Democrats said they, too, are uneasy with many of the military-like measures, but say they have little choice but to protect the building. The delays in sending the Guard to the Capitol have been blamed in part for the failure to contain the violence. Five people died, including a Trump supporter shot and killed by police as she tried to climb through a broken window to access the House chamber, and a police officer who fought off the mob and died later.

“We’ve never had a quick response for us here — you know, we’ve never had an insurrection, either,” Ryan said. “So thinking has to evolve in order to try to solve some of these problems.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House on Thursday narrowly approved $1.9 billion to fortify the Capitol after the Jan. 6 insurrection, as Democrats pushed past Republican opposition to try to harden the complex with retractable fencing and a quick-response force following the most violent domestic attack on Congress in history.The bill’s 213-212 passage came a day after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-riots-capitol-siege-government-and-politics-3443b4d60621679dd5b42b3d3502d59d">House approved the formation of an independent commission</a>&nbsp;to investigate the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/capitol-siege">deadly mob siege</a>&nbsp;by President Donald Trump’s supporters, who battled police to storm the building in a failed attempt to overturn Democrat Joe Biden’s election.The two measures now face an uncertain outcome in the evenly divided Senate as most Republicans have objected to both. Tensions are running high at the Capitol, with Democrats growing exasperated with Republicans who refuse to acknowledge the severity of the insurrection because of what appears to be their devotion to Trump — and fears of crossing him.“We have a major political party in the country that’s ignoring it — we’re trying to solve a problem, they clearly don’t want to sit down and talk about it,” said Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Ohio, chairman of an appropriations subcommittee handling legislative branch security.At the same time, the idea of bolstered security at the Capitol saddened many lawmakers who said they see no other choice because of the ongoing threats on Congress. Several leading liberal Democrats opposed the security money over concerns about policing, as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democratic leaders worked the floor during votes to ensure passage.Together, the package of bills stemming from the domestic assault by Trump supporters on the Capitol reminded some lawmakers of the changes that emerged from the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Then, a landmark commission investigated the attack’s root causes and authorities hardened the security apparatus across the federal government.Thursday’s vote capped two days of emotionally wrenching debate as the political divide, particularly in the House, has widened in the months since the January assault.House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro recalled her own experience being trapped in the House gallery that day as the attackers tried to break in, calling her husband to tell him she was OK after Capitol Police told her to duck on the floor.“This bill is not about politics, it’s not about settling scores,” DeLauro said. “It’s about ensuring that every person who comes into the Capitol is safe and is protected.”Republicans argued that the spending bill is too expensive and no fencing is needed. Many of them said lawmakers should be spending money on border security, not Capitol security.Rep. Lance Gooden, R-Texas, contended that Democrats would rather spend money on a wall “around this building in D.C.” than they would on finishing a border wall advocated by Trump.Already, National Guard troops have been protecting the building for months and public access is severely limited. Though razor-wire-topped fencing that stood as a stark reminder of the siege has been removed, an extended perimeter fence remains in place, cutting off access to the lush grounds popular with the public.The Democrats who opposed the security legislation were some of the most liberal in the House. Some have expressed the view that police treat people of color unfairly. Democratic Reps. Cori Bush of Missouri, Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts and Ilhan Omar of Minnesota voted against it.Omar said she had “not been convinced of the importance of the money.”Democratic Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, Jamaal Bowman of New York and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan voted “present,” effectively saving the measure from going down to defeat.The chairwoman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington, said the lawmakers “wanted to make sure that there were accountability measures” on the security funds. She voted for the bill.Senate Democrats will not be able to pass either bill on their own in the evenly split 50-50 Senate and could have trouble persuading enough Republicans to vote with them after Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell announced he would oppose the inquiry. Ten GOP senators would need to join Democrats to meet the 60-vote threshold needed to advance legislation. Changes could be made to win over their support.Months in the making, the emergency spending package incorporates the recommendations from an outside panel of experts to beef up security after the mob attack.The bill includes money for new fencing — either retractable or “pop in,” according to Democrats — that would protect the grounds. The legislation bars money from being used for permanent above-ground fencing, reflecting the wishes of most members of Congress that the area should be open to the public.Other changes would fortify windows and doors, install new security vestibules and cameras, and protect members with increased security at home and in Washington, as threats against them have doubled in the last year. There is also money to protect federal judges who are prosecuting the rioters and have received threats, and to repay the Capitol Police and other federal agencies for their efforts on Jan. 6.Some lawmakers have objected to the proposal for the National Guard to maintain a “quick response force” nearby after it took hours for Guard troops to arrive Jan. 6 as attackers were brutally beating officers.Leading Republicans on the armed services committees in the House and Senate oppose relying on the troops for the work of protecting the Capitol.The National Guard Association of the United States said in a statement that the Guard should only be used for law enforcement as a “last resort.”Democrats said they, too, are uneasy with many of the military-like measures, but say they have little choice but to protect the building. The delays in sending the Guard to the Capitol have been blamed in part for the failure to contain the violence. Five people died, including a Trump supporter shot and killed by police as she tried to climb through a broken window to access the House chamber, and a police officer who fought off the mob and died later.“We’ve never had a quick response for us here — you know, we’ve never had an insurrection, either,” Ryan said. “So thinking has to evolve in order to try to solve some of these problems.”___

By 1 vote, House approves $1.9B to fortify U.S. Capitol 

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects following a chase in a stolen vehicle.&nbsp;

Just before 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, a deputy sheriff attempted to stop a stolen vehicle near Meridian and McCormick in Sedgwick County, according to Lt. Benjamin Blick.

The driver, later identified as 40-year-old convicted felon Benjamin Busby fled in the vehicle and sheriff's deputies pursued.&nbsp; 

The pursuit ended in the West High School parking lot when the Busby and a passenger later identified as 25-year-old Arianna Harrod ran from the vehicle on foot.&nbsp; 

Deputies ultimately located and arrested Busby and Harrod.&nbsp;

She was found in possession of drugs and a firearm stolen from Wichita at the time of her arrest, according to Blick. The vehicle was stolen from Park City.&nbsp;

Busby, who was wanted on outstanding warrants, was transported to a local hospital after his arrest. Just after 8p.m. Wednesday he <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=122111">was booked into jail on</a> requested charges of possession of stolen property, interference with law enforcement; obstruct felony warrant service, failure to comply, failure to appear and flee or attempt to elude.

Harrod was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail for violations of the Offender Registration Act.&nbsp; Both are from Wichita.

Busby has nine previous convictions that include burglary, theft, flee or elude and for drug possession, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621442511991.png" alt="Harrod photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Harrod photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects following a chase in a stolen vehicle.&nbsp;Just before 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, a deputy sheriff attempted to stop a stolen vehicle near Meridian and McCormick in Sedgwick County, according to Lt. Benjamin Blick.The driver, later identified as 40-year-old convicted felon Benjamin Busby fled in the vehicle and sheriff's deputies pursued.&nbsp; The pursuit ended in the West High School parking lot when the Busby and a passenger later identified as 25-year-old Arianna Harrod ran from the vehicle on foot.&nbsp; Deputies ultimately located and arrested Busby and Harrod.&nbsp;She was found in possession of drugs and a firearm stolen from Wichita at the time of her arrest, according to Blick. The vehicle was stolen from Park City.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621513388157.png" alt="Officials booked Busby into the Sedgwick County jail Wednesday evening.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Officials booked Busby into the Sedgwick County jail Wednesday evening.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Busby, who was wanted on outstanding warrants, was transported to a local hospital after his arrest. Just after 8p.m. Wednesday he <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=122111">was booked into jail on</a> requested charges of possession of stolen property, interference with law enforcement; obstruct felony warrant service, failure to comply, failure to appear and flee or attempt to elude.Harrod was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail for violations of the Offender Registration Act.&nbsp; Both are from Wichita.Busby has nine previous convictions that include burglary, theft, flee or elude and for drug possession, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.-------

Kan. man arrested in school parking lot released from hospital

KANSAS CITY(AP) — The City Council of Kansas City on Thursday approved two new ordinances that reallocate a part of the police department's budget to a new fund that would be used to focus on new strategies for combatting violent crime.

The approval came swiftly, just hours after Mayor Quinton Lucas announced the new ordinances, which reallocate about $44 million in police department funding to a new Community Services and Prevention Fund. The city manager will negotiate with police officials over how the money is spent, with an emphasis on community engagement, prevention, mental health services and other public services.

Lucas said in a news conference the changes are also aimed at increasing police accountability in a city where elected officials have almost no say in how the police department spends it money.

The department is overseen by a Board of Police Commissioners, which includes the mayor and four members appointed by the Missouri governor. The board determines how police funds are spent.

Since social justice protests erupted last year in response to George Floyd's death in Minneapolis, residents in Kansas City have ask for several things, Lucas said.

“(They've said) we want our community to be safer, we want to have a positive relationship with law enforcement, we want them to listen to us, hear from us, we want everyone to do better,” he said. "This is us recognizing that we must do better and we can do better, as a city, as city leadership and as a police department."

Lucas said in the past the city has increased funding for the police department to hire more officers, rather than looking at more creative ways to address violent crime. The approach has not worked as the city continues to have too many murders and tragedy for too many families, he said.

The ordinances come days after Police Chief Rick Smith wrote in a blog that the department needs more funding because it is facing a serious shortage of officers. He also said if more funding is not approved, community outreach programs such as the Police Athletic League and youth programs would have to be cut so officers can be used to respond to 911 calls.

The police department received $238 million in the current year budget. In his blog, Smith asked citizens to urge the city council to allocate some of the $97.5 million the city received from the federal American Rescue Plan Act to police.

Smith also said budget problems have prevented the department from having a new police recruit class since February of 2020. The proposals introduced Thursday would include $3 million for a new class of recruits, bringing total redirected spending to almost $48 million.

Smith said in a statement Thursday that he was “disheartened” Lucas and the eight council co-sponsors had not notified the police department before announcing the ordinances, and had not mentioned them at Board of Police Commissioners meetings.

"The Mayor and the other sponsoring council members have not previously mentioned this proposal, so our discussions about it are just beginning,” Smith said.

Four city council members who represent mostly suburban Kansas City areas north of the Missouri river also said they had not been notified before Lucas held his news conference. They all voted against the ordinances, saying the city needs more, not fewer, officers. They also expressed concern that the council had not had time to vet the proposals or have public discussions on them.

Councilman Dan Fowler, who represents a part of the city in Platte County, said police already have difficulty closing cases because of a lack of officers and staff.

“I support change, we all do,” Fowler said. “I support working collaboratively to come up with creative solutions to solve complex issues, and these are complex issues. I don't support change without a plan, and that is what is happening here.”

Lucas did not respond during the council meeting to the complaints that the council members and police chief were not notified.

The ordinance reducing the police budget by $44 million gives it 20% of the city’s general fund revenue, which is the minimum required by state law.

Lucas emphasized the changes are reallocations, not a defunding of the police department, if the police board agrees to negotiate over the use of the funds. He noted the board is not under legal obligation to negotiate a contract on how the money is spent.

The city already has a contract with the police department over parking enforcement, as well as with other governmental entities, such as the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority.

In the last year, several civil rights advocates have strongly criticized Lucas, the city council and the police department — including demanding that Smith resign or be fired.

One of those critics, Gwen Grant, president and CEO of the Urban League of Kansas City, said the ordinances proposed Thursday are “a refreshing change of course” that would use tax dollars to address the root causes of violent crime and to make the city safer.

"It is time that the KCPD be held to account for their inefficient and ineffective expenditures, which have failed to substantively address the proliferation of violent crime in our community,” Grant said in a statement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621591891245.png" alt="Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas answers questions following Thursday's Council meeting. Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas answers questions following Thursday's Council meeting. Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY(AP) — The City Council of Kansas City on Thursday approved two new ordinances that reallocate a part of the police department's budget to a new fund that would be used to focus on new strategies for combatting violent crime.The approval came swiftly, just hours after Mayor Quinton Lucas announced the new ordinances, which reallocate about $44 million in police department funding to a new Community Services and Prevention Fund. The city manager will negotiate with police officials over how the money is spent, with an emphasis on community engagement, prevention, mental health services and other public services.Lucas said in a news conference the changes are also aimed at increasing police accountability in a city where elected officials have almost no say in how the police department spends it money.The department is overseen by a Board of Police Commissioners, which includes the mayor and four members appointed by the Missouri governor. The board determines how police funds are spent.Since social justice protests erupted last year in response to George Floyd's death in Minneapolis, residents in Kansas City have ask for several things, Lucas said.“(They've said) we want our community to be safer, we want to have a positive relationship with law enforcement, we want them to listen to us, hear from us, we want everyone to do better,” he said. "This is us recognizing that we must do better and we can do better, as a city, as city leadership and as a police department."Lucas said in the past the city has increased funding for the police department to hire more officers, rather than looking at more creative ways to address violent crime. The approach has not worked as the city continues to have too many murders and tragedy for too many families, he said.The ordinances come days after Police Chief Rick Smith wrote in a blog that the department needs more funding because it is facing a serious shortage of officers. He also said if more funding is not approved, community outreach programs such as the Police Athletic League and youth programs would have to be cut so officers can be used to respond to 911 calls.The police department received $238 million in the current year budget. In his blog, Smith asked citizens to urge the city council to allocate some of the $97.5 million the city received from the federal American Rescue Plan Act to police.Smith also said budget problems have prevented the department from having a new police recruit class since February of 2020. The proposals introduced Thursday would include $3 million for a new class of recruits, bringing total redirected spending to almost $48 million.Smith said in a statement Thursday that he was “disheartened” Lucas and the eight council co-sponsors had not notified the police department before announcing the ordinances, and had not mentioned them at Board of Police Commissioners meetings."The Mayor and the other sponsoring council members have not previously mentioned this proposal, so our discussions about it are just beginning,” Smith said.Four city council members who represent mostly suburban Kansas City areas north of the Missouri river also said they had not been notified before Lucas held his news conference. They all voted against the ordinances, saying the city needs more, not fewer, officers. They also expressed concern that the council had not had time to vet the proposals or have public discussions on them.Councilman Dan Fowler, who represents a part of the city in Platte County, said police already have difficulty closing cases because of a lack of officers and staff.“I support change, we all do,” Fowler said. “I support working collaboratively to come up with creative solutions to solve complex issues, and these are complex issues. I don't support change without a plan, and that is what is happening here.”Lucas did not respond during the council meeting to the complaints that the council members and police chief were not notified.The ordinance reducing the police budget by $44 million gives it 20% of the city’s general fund revenue, which is the minimum required by state law.Lucas emphasized the changes are reallocations, not a defunding of the police department, if the police board agrees to negotiate over the use of the funds. He noted the board is not under legal obligation to negotiate a contract on how the money is spent.The city already has a contract with the police department over parking enforcement, as well as with other governmental entities, such as the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority.In the last year, several civil rights advocates have strongly criticized Lucas, the city council and the police department — including demanding that Smith resign or be fired.One of those critics, Gwen Grant, president and CEO of the Urban League of Kansas City, said the ordinances proposed Thursday are “a refreshing change of course” that would use tax dollars to address the root causes of violent crime and to make the city safer."It is time that the KCPD be held to account for their inefficient and ineffective expenditures, which have failed to substantively address the proliferation of violent crime in our community,” Grant said in a statement.

City Council adopts controversial change to KCPD funding

WASHINGTON — Federal Communications Commission Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel on Thursday announced the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program enrolled more than one million households in the first week of the program’s debut.  Households in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and American Samoa are benefitting from the subsidy program initiated by Congress. 

“The high demand we’ve seen for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program demonstrates what many of us already knew to be true – too many families are struggling to get online, even in 2021.  Help is here.  As an agency, we’re continuing to focus our efforts on reaching as many communities as possible, so they can get the support they need,” said Rosenworcel. 

Over 900 broadband providers have agreed to take part in the program. &nbsp;The benefit is available to eligible new, prior, and existing customers of participating providers.&nbsp; Customers can sign up by contacting a participating provider, enroll online at https://www.getemergencybroadband.org, or sign up via mail.&nbsp; To learn more or learn where to access a mail-in application, call (833) 511-0311.

Households can qualify several ways such as through their use of existing assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, Lifeline or if a child relies on reduced-price school meals programs.&nbsp; The Emergency Broadband Benefit is also available to households who are eligible for a broadband provider’s existing COVID relief program, to those who have received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year, and to those low-income households who suffered a large loss in income during the pandemic due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584977952684.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FCCWASHINGTON — Federal Communications Commission Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel on Thursday announced the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program enrolled more than one million households in the first week of the program’s debut. Households in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and American Samoa are benefitting from the subsidy program initiated by Congress. “The high demand we’ve seen for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program demonstrates what many of us already knew to be true – too many families are struggling to get online, even in 2021. Help is here. As an agency, we’re continuing to focus our efforts on reaching as many communities as possible, so they can get the support they need,” said Rosenworcel. Over 900 broadband providers have agreed to take part in the program. &nbsp;The benefit is available to eligible new, prior, and existing customers of participating providers.&nbsp; Customers can sign up by contacting a participating provider, enroll online at https://www.getemergencybroadband.org, or sign up via mail.&nbsp; To learn more or learn where to access a mail-in application, call (833) 511-0311.Households can qualify several ways such as through their use of existing assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, Lifeline or if a child relies on reduced-price school meals programs.&nbsp; The Emergency Broadband Benefit is also available to households who are eligible for a broadband provider’s existing COVID relief program, to those who have received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year, and to those low-income households who suffered a large loss in income during the pandemic due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020.

FCC: Over 1M US households apply for internet assistance program

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas public school district is trying to figure out how to keep school board meetings accessible online without hindering public comments after YouTube concluded that a video of a recent meeting spread misinformation about COVID-19 and removed it.

The Shawnee Mission school board’s meeting Monday saw several parents and a Kansas lawmaker call for the district to remove its mask mandate.

Several residents of the district in Johnson County have spread misinformation about COVID-19 and mask-wearing at county, city and school board meetings during the past year.

But district spokesman David Smith said it was the first time that the district learned a video was removed.

More than two dozen residents gathered before the meeting to protest the district’s mask mandate, which officials have said will stay in place. State Sen. Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican who’s argued for ending coronavirus pandemic restrictions, was in the crowd and spoke during public comments.

YouTube’s community guidelines list COVID-19 fallacies it will remove, including that the virus is not real or that children cannot get infected.

Smith said the district is still talking about how to manage the issue.

“We really don’t want to lose our ability to broadcast,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620223298685.jpeg" alt="State Sen. Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican who’s argued for ending coronavirus pandemic restrictions, was in the crowd and spoke during public comments - photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican who’s argued for ending coronavirus pandemic restrictions, was in the crowd and spoke during public comments - photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas public school district is trying to figure out how to keep school board meetings accessible online without hindering public comments after YouTube concluded that a video of a recent meeting spread misinformation about COVID-19 and removed it.The Shawnee Mission school board’s meeting Monday saw several parents and a Kansas lawmaker call for the district to remove its mask mandate.Several residents of the district in Johnson County have spread misinformation about COVID-19 and mask-wearing at county, city and school board meetings during the past year.But district spokesman David Smith said it was the first time that the district learned a video was removed.More than two dozen residents gathered before the meeting to protest the district’s mask mandate, which officials have said will stay in place. State Sen. Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican who’s argued for ending coronavirus pandemic restrictions, was in the crowd and spoke during public comments.YouTube’s community guidelines list COVID-19 fallacies it will remove, including that the virus is not real or that children cannot get infected.Smith said the district is still talking about how to manage the issue.“We really don’t want to lose our ability to broadcast,” he said.

YouTube bans Kan. school board's video over COVID comments

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Kansas man who had amassed five different criminal cases over a three-month period entered guilty pleas to more than a dozen counts Thursday morning in Reno County District Court.

Scott Lee Lutz, 33, Hutchinson&nbsp; pleaded to numerous counts of possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell, possession of marijuana with intent to sell, several counts of possession of drug paraphernalia and three counts of felony flee and elude.

Lutz went before Judge Joe McCarville Thursday as his preliminary hearing was to begin on two of the five cases. Under the plea agreement, Lutz will not be able to appeal the cases, nor will he be able to withdraw his plea at a later date. His attorney will be allowed to argue for a departure of sentence and whether the sentences in each case will run consecutive or concurrent to each other.

Lutz asked for a reduction in his bond, stating that he was taking drug treatment, would get his job back and wanted to see his daughter before heading to prison. The request was denied. A motion will be filed by the defense in that matter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612485427414.jpeg" alt="Lutz has more than a dozen previous convictions that include arson, theft, robbery, criminal damage to property, obstruction, flee or attempt to elude, battery and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections- photo Reno County" />
 <figcaption>Lutz has more than a dozen previous convictions that include arson, theft, robbery, criminal damage to property, obstruction, flee or attempt to elude, battery and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections- photo Reno County</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Kansas man who had amassed five different criminal cases over a three-month period entered guilty pleas to more than a dozen counts Thursday morning in Reno County District Court.Scott Lee Lutz, 33, Hutchinson&nbsp; pleaded to numerous counts of possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell, possession of marijuana with intent to sell, several counts of possession of drug paraphernalia and three counts of felony flee and elude.Lutz went before Judge Joe McCarville Thursday as his preliminary hearing was to begin on two of the five cases. Under the plea agreement, Lutz will not be able to appeal the cases, nor will he be able to withdraw his plea at a later date. His attorney will be allowed to argue for a departure of sentence and whether the sentences in each case will run consecutive or concurrent to each other.Lutz asked for a reduction in his bond, stating that he was taking drug treatment, would get his job back and wanted to see his daughter before heading to prison. The request was denied. A motion will be filed by the defense in that matter.Sentencing is set for July 9.

Kan. man with history of crime enters plea to new charges

CAUTION: Graphic content included

By SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/05/20/kansas-foster-care-employee-distributed-nude-photos-of-childs-step-mom-and-kept-her-job/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — A Saint Francis 
Ministries employee at the nonprofit’s Hutchinson office distributed 
nude photos of a foster child’s stepmother and avoided discipline for 
the personal attack.

Saint Francis, the state’s
 largest foster care contractor, didn’t deny that Keighla Belote, an 
attendant care worker, sent the photos. The organization investigated 
the situation in early January and concluded her private actions on 
social media are constitutionally protected free speech.

Belote connected with the 
step-mom on Facebook after visiting the woman’s house with a case 
manager. Belote then sent three nude images she had obtained from a 
mutual friend to the step-mom’s contacts.

Kansas Reflector doesn’t 
identify victims of sexual harassment without their consent. In emails 
to Kansas Reflector, the woman said Belote’s attack made her feel 
unsafe. She provided evidence of the attack and other now-deleted images
 that Belote posted on social media.

“I can’t believe they’d 
allow people like that to work for them,” the victim said. “They should 
have morals in and outside of work.”

She sent two emails on 
Jan. 5 complaining about the situation to Saint Francis’ human resources
 department, and said she didn’t get a response from the organization.

In the emails to HR, the 
woman described Belote’s actions as “revenge porn” and “malicious.” She 
said the attack “has caused so much chaos for my family.”

“I do not believe she is 
being a mature adult/professional what so ever and I truly fear she will
 eventually affect my step son or his siblings involved with St. 
Francis,” the woman wrote.

She provided a screenshot 
of a selfie Belote had posted on Snapchat in which the employee was 
wearing a Saint Francis lanyard while flipping off the camera. The 
caption: “F*** today!”

The woman wondered how Belote’s actions reflected on the faith-based organization’s values.

“What she has done does 
not portray any of those qualities,” she wrote to HR, “especially since 
my photos did not involve her in any way other than she came across them
 and thought everyone should see them.”

Belote didn’t respond to a
 Facebook message seeking comment for this story, and Saint Francis 
declined to coordinate a statement from her.

Morgan Rothenberger, a 
spokeswoman for Saint Francis, said the organization doesn’t support the
 distribution of porn. After HR was notified of the situation, the 
organization talked to Belote and interviewed other employees.

Saint Francis, 
Rothenberger said, is respectful of an employee’s right “to be active 
online in a variety of forums” and considered the matter to be resolved.

“Some of what you’re 
discussing would be the employee’s freedom of speech or decision-making 
and would not impact Saint Francis or our clients if the employee was 
not involved in the case in question,” Rothenberger said. “Some of which
 you mentioned — obscene gestures in an SFM uniform — does violate our 
social media standards, and an employee could expect to be disciplined 
for such a violation.”

Rothenberger said Belote 
was in training with the case worker when they visited a client’s house,
 where the victim lived. Belote didn’t realize she knew the family 
before she arrived at the house, Rothenberger said.

“The employee was never 
involved with that case again,” Rothenberger said. “Because of her 
position shadowing the case worker, it was not considered a 
conflict-of-interest situation.”

Mike Deines, spokesman for
 the Kansas Department for Children and Families, said any action that 
may have a negative impact on children and families “is of utmost 
concern.”

“The agency expects its 
case management providers and their staff to treat families with dignity
 and respect and if that does not happen to take the appropriate action 
to ensure the behavior does not continue,” Deines said. “Our providers 
should do everything possible to prevent inappropriate fraternization 
and ensure their workers maintain professional boundaries at all times.”

The victim in this case 
said she didn’t know Belote before the visit, and that Belote sent her a
 friend request on Facebook immediately after the visit. She said 
Belote’s complicated motivation for revenge involves accusations of 
infidelity.

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2020/b2019_20/statute/021_000_0000_chapter/021_061_0000_article/021_061_0001_section/021_061_0001_k/">Kansas law</a> prohibits transmission of nude images without permission. The victim said she never reported the crime to police.

“I was going to, but after Saint Francis did nothing, I was just over it and felt defeated,” she said.

She added: “I didn’t want to relive this all over again, but I definitely feel Saint Francis needs called out on their actions.”

The woman’s sister was 
among the contacts who received a message from Belote with the nude 
photos. The sister threatened to tell Belote’s supervisors.

“Unless you want to lose 
your st.Francis job, sending out OTHER peoples nudes that aren’t 
yours..I’d probably stop,” the sister wrote.

Belote responded: “LOL OK 
what are you gonna do call my boss and tell her that I prove that 
somebody else was cheating that’s fine we just had this talk once it 
hits the internet it’s public information thank you.”

After the incident was reported to Saint Francis, Belote posted another selfie on Snapchat:

“I’m still here bitch. Still doing just fine! (kiss emoji, shrug emoji)”

Sherman Smith has written award-winning news stories about the instability of the Kansas foster care system, misconduct by government officials, sexual abuse, technology, education, and the Legislature.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621547459771.png" alt="Keighla Belote posted this selfie on Snapchat after a woman complained to Saint Francis that Belote had distributed nude photos of her. "I'm still here bitch," Belote wrote. "Still doing just fine!" (Submitted to Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Keighla Belote posted this selfie on Snapchat after a woman complained to Saint Francis that Belote had distributed nude photos of her. "I'm still here bitch," Belote wrote. "Still doing just fine!" (Submitted to Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>CAUTION: Graphic content includedBy SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/05/20/kansas-foster-care-employee-distributed-nude-photos-of-childs-step-mom-and-kept-her-job/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — A Saint Francis 
Ministries employee at the nonprofit’s Hutchinson office distributed 
nude photos of a foster child’s stepmother and avoided discipline for 
the personal attack.Saint Francis, the state’s
 largest foster care contractor, didn’t deny that Keighla Belote, an 
attendant care worker, sent the photos. The organization investigated 
the situation in early January and concluded her private actions on 
social media are constitutionally protected free speech.Belote connected with the 
step-mom on Facebook after visiting the woman’s house with a case 
manager. Belote then sent three nude images she had obtained from a 
mutual friend to the step-mom’s contacts.Kansas Reflector doesn’t 
identify victims of sexual harassment without their consent. In emails 
to Kansas Reflector, the woman said Belote’s attack made her feel 
unsafe. She provided evidence of the attack and other now-deleted images
 that Belote posted on social media.“I can’t believe they’d 
allow people like that to work for them,” the victim said. “They should 
have morals in and outside of work.”She sent two emails on 
Jan. 5 complaining about the situation to Saint Francis’ human resources
 department, and said she didn’t get a response from the organization.In the emails to HR, the 
woman described Belote’s actions as “revenge porn” and “malicious.” She 
said the attack “has caused so much chaos for my family.”“I do not believe she is 
being a mature adult/professional what so ever and I truly fear she will
 eventually affect my step son or his siblings involved with St. 
Francis,” the woman wrote.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621547516237.jpeg" alt="Keighla Belote posted this selfie, in which she is wearing a Saint Francis lanyard, on social media. The words “F**** today!” appeared across the lower portion of the image. (Submitted to Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Keighla Belote posted this selfie, in which she is wearing a Saint Francis lanyard, on social media. The words “F**** today!” appeared across the lower portion of the image. (Submitted to Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>She provided a screenshot 
of a selfie Belote had posted on Snapchat in which the employee was 
wearing a Saint Francis lanyard while flipping off the camera. The 
caption: “F*** today!”The woman wondered how Belote’s actions reflected on the faith-based organization’s values.“What she has done does 
not portray any of those qualities,” she wrote to HR, “especially since 
my photos did not involve her in any way other than she came across them
 and thought everyone should see them.”Belote didn’t respond to a
 Facebook message seeking comment for this story, and Saint Francis 
declined to coordinate a statement from her.Morgan Rothenberger, a 
spokeswoman for Saint Francis, said the organization doesn’t support the
 distribution of porn. After HR was notified of the situation, the 
organization talked to Belote and interviewed other employees.Saint Francis, 
Rothenberger said, is respectful of an employee’s right “to be active 
online in a variety of forums” and considered the matter to be resolved.“Some of what you’re 
discussing would be the employee’s freedom of speech or decision-making 
and would not impact Saint Francis or our clients if the employee was 
not involved in the case in question,” Rothenberger said. “Some of which
 you mentioned — obscene gestures in an SFM uniform — does violate our 
social media standards, and an employee could expect to be disciplined 
for such a violation.”Rothenberger said Belote 
was in training with the case worker when they visited a client’s house,
 where the victim lived. Belote didn’t realize she knew the family 
before she arrived at the house, Rothenberger said.“The employee was never 
involved with that case again,” Rothenberger said. “Because of her 
position shadowing the case worker, it was not considered a 
conflict-of-interest situation.”Mike Deines, spokesman for
 the Kansas Department for Children and Families, said any action that 
may have a negative impact on children and families “is of utmost 
concern.”“The agency expects its 
case management providers and their staff to treat families with dignity
 and respect and if that does not happen to take the appropriate action 
to ensure the behavior does not continue,” Deines said. “Our providers 
should do everything possible to prevent inappropriate fraternization 
and ensure their workers maintain professional boundaries at all times.”The victim in this case 
said she didn’t know Belote before the visit, and that Belote sent her a
 friend request on Facebook immediately after the visit. She said 
Belote’s complicated motivation for revenge involves accusations of 
infidelity.<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2020/b2019_20/statute/021_000_0000_chapter/021_061_0000_article/021_061_0001_section/021_061_0001_k/">Kansas law</a> prohibits transmission of nude images without permission. The victim said she never reported the crime to police.“I was going to, but after Saint Francis did nothing, I was just over it and felt defeated,” she said.She added: “I didn’t want to relive this all over again, but I definitely feel Saint Francis needs called out on their actions.”The woman’s sister was 
among the contacts who received a message from Belote with the nude 
photos. The sister threatened to tell Belote’s supervisors.“Unless you want to lose 
your st.Francis job, sending out OTHER peoples nudes that aren’t 
yours..I’d probably stop,” the sister wrote.Belote responded: “LOL OK 
what are you gonna do call my boss and tell her that I prove that 
somebody else was cheating that’s fine we just had this talk once it 
hits the internet it’s public information thank you.”After the incident was reported to Saint Francis, Belote posted another selfie on Snapchat:“I’m still here bitch. Still doing just fine! (kiss emoji, shrug emoji)”Sherman Smith has written award-winning news stories about the instability of the Kansas foster care system, misconduct by government officials, sexual abuse, technology, education, and the Legislature.&nbsp;