FINNEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man and woman in connection with the murder of a Colorado man on May 14, according to a media release from the <a href="https://cbi.colorado.gov/news-article/two-arrested-in-la-junta-homicide">Colorado Bureau of Investigation.</a>

Matthew Perez, 39,  Garden City is being held on a requested charge of First Degree Murder and Nikki Olivas, 32, Garden City faces a charge of Accessory to First Degree Murder in connection to the murder of 49-year-old Ernesto Apodaca.

He was shot inside of his vehicle parked in front of his apartment building located in the 600 block of Sunrise Avenue in the Morningside Heights&nbsp; neighborhood of La Junta, Colorado on Friday evening.

Officers arrested Perez and Olivas in rural Finney County, Kansas without incident. Authorities also located the suspect vehicle.

Perez and Olivas are currently being held without bond in the Finney County Sheriff’s Office Detention Facility pending extradition to Otero County.&nbsp;

It’s believed Apodaca and Perez are known to one another; however, the circumstances surrounding the shooting are part of the active investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621506858741.png" alt="Perez photo Finney County" />
 <figcaption>Perez photo Finney County</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man and woman in connection with the murder of a Colorado man on May 14, according to a media release from the <a href="https://cbi.colorado.gov/news-article/two-arrested-in-la-junta-homicide">Colorado Bureau of Investigation.</a>Matthew Perez, 39, Garden City is being held on a requested charge of First Degree Murder and Nikki Olivas, 32, Garden City faces a charge of Accessory to First Degree Murder in connection to the murder of 49-year-old Ernesto Apodaca.He was shot inside of his vehicle parked in front of his apartment building located in the 600 block of Sunrise Avenue in the Morningside Heights&nbsp; neighborhood of La Junta, Colorado on Friday evening.Officers arrested Perez and Olivas in rural Finney County, Kansas without incident. Authorities also located the suspect vehicle.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621507016239.png" alt="Olivas photo Finney" />
 <figcaption>Olivas photo Finney</figcaption>
 </figure>Perez and Olivas are currently being held without bond in the Finney County Sheriff’s Office Detention Facility pending extradition to Otero County.&nbsp;It’s believed Apodaca and Perez are known to one another; however, the circumstances surrounding the shooting are part of the active investigation.

SW Kansas couple accused of murder in Colorado

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers who 
missed the recent tax-filing deadline who are due a refund that there is
 no penalty for filing late. Those who owe and missed the deadline 
without requesting an extension should file quickly to limit penalties 
and interest.

Extra time to file and pay any taxes due without penalties and interest is available for some taxpayers. Included are:

The only way to get a refund is to file a tax return. There is no 
penalty for filing after the deadline if a refund is due. Use electronic
 filing options including IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> available on IRS.gov through October 15 to prepare and file returns electronically.

COVID-19 continues to cause delays in some IRS services. If a 
taxpayer filed a paper tax return, the IRS will process it in the order 
it was received. Taxpayers should not file a second tax return or call 
the IRS. The IRS issues more than nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21
 days. However, it's possible a tax return may require <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/tax-season-refund-frequently-asked-questions">additional review</a> and take longer.

Taxpayers can track a refund using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a> tool on IRS.gov, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> and by phone at <a href="tel:800-829-1954">800-829-1954</a>.
 Taxpayers need the primary Social Security number on the tax return, 
the filing status and the expected refund amount. The tool updates once 
daily, usually overnight, so there's no need to check more frequently. 
The Where's My Refund?&nbsp;tool cannot be used to track Economic Impact 
Payments.

Normally, taxpayers should file their tax return, or request an 
extension, and pay any taxes they owe by the deadline to avoid penalties
 and interest. An extension to file is not an extension to pay. 
Penalties and interest will apply to taxes owed after May 17.

Even if a taxpayer can't afford to immediately pay the taxes they 
owe, they should still file a tax return as soon as possible to reduce 
possible penalties. The IRS has more information for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/what-if-i-cant-pay-my-taxes">taxpayers who owe the IRS, but cannot afford to pay</a>.

Ordinarily, the failure to file penalty is 5% of the tax owed for 
each month or part of a month that a tax return is late, up to five 
months, reduced by the failure to pay penalty amount for any month where
 both penalties apply. If a return is filed more than 60 days after the 
due date, the minimum penalty is either $435 or 100% of the unpaid tax, 
whichever is less. Filing and paying as much as possible is important 
because the late-filing penalty and late-payment penalty add up quickly.
 The failure to pay penalty rate is generally 0.5% of unpaid tax owed 
for each month or part of a month until the tax is fully paid or until 
25% is reached. The rate is subject to change. For more information see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/understanding-penalties-and-interest">IRS.gov/penalties</a>.

Taxpayers who have a history of filing and paying on time often 
qualify for penalty relief. A taxpayer will usually qualify if they have
 filed and paid timely for the past three years and meet other 
requirements. For more information, see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/penalty-relief-due-to-first-time-penalty-abatement-or-other-administrative-waiver">first-time penalty abatement</a> page on IRS.gov.

Interest is charged on tax and penalties until the balance is <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">paid in full</a>.

Those who owe taxes can pay with IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a>, by <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-your-taxes-by-debit-or-credit-card">debit or credit card</a> or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application">apply online for a payment plan (including an installment agreement)</a>. For more electronic payment options visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">IRS.gov/payments</a>.
 They are secure and easy to use. Taxpayers paying electronically 
receive immediate confirmation when they submit their payment. With 
Direct Pay and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)</a>, taxpayers can opt in to receive email notifications about their payments.

The IRS offers tips to help taxpayers choose a tax return preparer wisely. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">Choosing a Tax Professional</a> page has information about tax return preparer <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/understanding-tax-return-preparer-credentials-and-qualifications">credentials and qualification</a>s and guidance on avoiding unscrupulous tax return preparers

The <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>
 can help taxpayers find tax return preparers who hold a professional 
credential recognized by the IRS or who have completed the requirements 
for the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/annual-filing-season-program">Annual Filing Season Program</a>.

Taxpayers have fundamental rights under the law that protect taxpayers when they interact with the IRS. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxpayer-bill-of-rights">Taxpayer Bill of Rights</a> presents these rights in 10 categories. IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-1">Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer</a>, highlights these rights and the agency's obligation to protect them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers who 
missed the recent tax-filing deadline who are due a refund that there is
 no penalty for filing late. Those who owe and missed the deadline 
without requesting an extension should file quickly to limit penalties 
and interest.<h2>Extra time to file and pay any taxes due without penalties and interest is available for some taxpayers. Included are:</h2><ul>
 <li>Members of the military who served or are currently in a combat zone. They may qualify for an <a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p3#idm139848472538848">additional extension of at least 180 days</a> to file and pay taxes.</li><li>Support personnel in combat zones or a contingency operation in support of the Armed Forces. They may also <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/extension-of-deadlines-combat-zone-service">qualify for a filing and payment extension</a> of at least 180 days.</li><li>Some disaster victims. Those who qualify have <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/disaster-assistance-and-emergency-relief-for-individuals-and-businesses">more time to file and pay</a> what they owe.</li>
 </ul><h2>Here are some tips for late filers:</h2><h2>File to get a tax refund</h2>The only way to get a refund is to file a tax return. There is no 
penalty for filing after the deadline if a refund is due. Use electronic
 filing options including IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> available on IRS.gov through October 15 to prepare and file returns electronically.COVID-19 continues to cause delays in some IRS services. If a 
taxpayer filed a paper tax return, the IRS will process it in the order 
it was received. Taxpayers should not file a second tax return or call 
the IRS. The IRS issues more than nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21
 days. However, it's possible a tax return may require <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/tax-season-refund-frequently-asked-questions">additional review</a> and take longer.Taxpayers can track a refund using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a> tool on IRS.gov, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> and by phone at <a href="tel:800-829-1954">800-829-1954</a>.
 Taxpayers need the primary Social Security number on the tax return, 
the filing status and the expected refund amount. The tool updates once 
daily, usually overnight, so there's no need to check more frequently. 
The Where's My Refund?&nbsp;tool cannot be used to track Economic Impact 
Payments.<h2>File to reduce penalties and interest</h2>Normally, taxpayers should file their tax return, or request an 
extension, and pay any taxes they owe by the deadline to avoid penalties
 and interest. An extension to file is not an extension to pay. 
Penalties and interest will apply to taxes owed after May 17.Even if a taxpayer can't afford to immediately pay the taxes they 
owe, they should still file a tax return as soon as possible to reduce 
possible penalties. The IRS has more information for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/what-if-i-cant-pay-my-taxes">taxpayers who owe the IRS, but cannot afford to pay</a>.Ordinarily, the failure to file penalty is 5% of the tax owed for 
each month or part of a month that a tax return is late, up to five 
months, reduced by the failure to pay penalty amount for any month where
 both penalties apply. If a return is filed more than 60 days after the 
due date, the minimum penalty is either $435 or 100% of the unpaid tax, 
whichever is less. Filing and paying as much as possible is important 
because the late-filing penalty and late-payment penalty add up quickly.
 The failure to pay penalty rate is generally 0.5% of unpaid tax owed 
for each month or part of a month until the tax is fully paid or until 
25% is reached. The rate is subject to change. For more information see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/understanding-penalties-and-interest">IRS.gov/penalties</a>.Taxpayers who have a history of filing and paying on time often 
qualify for penalty relief. A taxpayer will usually qualify if they have
 filed and paid timely for the past three years and meet other 
requirements. For more information, see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/penalty-relief-due-to-first-time-penalty-abatement-or-other-administrative-waiver">first-time penalty abatement</a> page on IRS.gov.Interest is charged on tax and penalties until the balance is <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">paid in full</a>.<h2>Pay taxes due electronically</h2>Those who owe taxes can pay with IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a>, by <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-your-taxes-by-debit-or-credit-card">debit or credit card</a> or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application">apply online for a payment plan (including an installment agreement)</a>. For more electronic payment options visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">IRS.gov/payments</a>.
 They are secure and easy to use. Taxpayers paying electronically 
receive immediate confirmation when they submit their payment. With 
Direct Pay and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)</a>, taxpayers can opt in to receive email notifications about their payments.<h2>Selecting a tax professional</h2>The IRS offers tips to help taxpayers choose a tax return preparer wisely. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">Choosing a Tax Professional</a> page has information about tax return preparer <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/understanding-tax-return-preparer-credentials-and-qualifications">credentials and qualification</a>s and guidance on avoiding unscrupulous tax return preparersThe <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>
 can help taxpayers find tax return preparers who hold a professional 
credential recognized by the IRS or who have completed the requirements 
for the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/annual-filing-season-program">Annual Filing Season Program</a>.<h2>Taxpayer Bill of Rights</h2>Taxpayers have fundamental rights under the law that protect taxpayers when they interact with the IRS. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxpayer-bill-of-rights">Taxpayer Bill of Rights</a> presents these rights in 10 categories. IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-1">Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer</a>, highlights these rights and the agency's obligation to protect them.

IRS: Despite May 17 deadline, still time to get refund, cut penalties

By BRIAN GRIMMETT <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/state-will-help-kansas-school-districts-pay-winter-heat-bills-were-10x-higher-normal">Kansas News Service</a>

In a typical February, the small <a href="https://www.usd329.com/o/usd-329" target="_blank">Wabaunsee school district</a> just west of Topeka pays a natural gas utility bill of about $4,300. This year its bill was more than $53,000.

It’s
 not because classrooms were cranking up the heat. Wabaunsee is just one
 of hundreds of school districts in Kansas hit by an unprecedented spike
 in wholesale natural gas prices during February’s record-setting winter
 storm. Now the state is stepping in with $20 million in loans to help.&nbsp;

“For
 a lot of districts you’re talking about their entire annual budget for 
natural gas being used really to pay for an eight-day period,” said 
Austin Harris, the director of member engagement at the Kansas 
Association of School Boards.

During those eight days, 
temperatures across much of the state and central part of the United 
States reached well below zero. Wichita, for example, set a record for 
consecutive days with a high below 20 degrees.

The extreme cold 
not only increased the demand for natural gas, but also broke some of 
the infrastructure that transports the gas to customers. This created a 
huge imbalance in the supply of natural gas and the demand.

During
 the height of the winter storm, the wholesale natural gas price went 
from about $2.50 per unit to more than $650 per unit.

“No one anywhere could have anticipated that kind of an increase,” Kansas State Treasurer Lynn Rogers said.

The
 spike caused businesses, school districts and cities exposed to 
wholesale prices to see their bills increase 10 to 15 times normal. Many
 smaller cities can’t afford that.

The Legislature <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb88/">quickly passed a plan</a>
 making $100 million dollars available in low interest loans to the 
cities impacted. They’ve issued about $80 million dollars so far.

State officials are now <a href="https://www.kansascash.ks.gov/fin_serv.html" target="_blank">using the remaining $20 million</a> of that fund to open up loans to school districts and businesses.

The
 loans would be issued by local banks, but funded by the state. School 
districts and businesses can get as much as $500,000 to be paid back 
within three years.

“These loans are going to be paid back, the 
state is not going to be at risk,” Rogers said. “But it is an issue that
 we don’t have a lot of resources to keep doing this each and every 
year.”

Even with the loan programs, the spike in natural gas 
prices will have long-lasting impacts. The Wabaunsee school district 
said even with spreading out the extra cost over several years, it has 
to pay $1,000 more a month than usual. That’s real money for a small 
district of about 450 students.

Larger school districts aren’t immune, either. The <a href="https://www.usd497.org/Page/1" target="_blank">Lawrence School District</a>
 saw its bill go from $54,000 to $498,000. A district spokeswoman said 
it is currently in negotiations with its supplier for price reductions. 
Because there is potential for a lawsuit, she wouldn’t comment any 
further.

Harris said figuring all of this out will be a slow process for some districts and could last through the end of the year.

“Everyone is kind of scrambling to figure out how they cover the costs,” Harris said, “and what resources are available.”

The
 Kansas attorney general has opened an investigation into whether 
natural gas companies illegally price gouged during the winter storm and
 took advantage of customers during a time of emergency.

“It’s 
really on the shoulders of the attorney general to make sure that this 
doesn’t happen again,” Rogers said, “and the folks that gouged will be 
paying for this or pay us back.”

Brian Grimmett reports on 
the environment, energy and natural resources for KMUW in Wichita and 
the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/briangrimmett?lang=en">@briangrimmett</a> or email him at grimmett@kmuw.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621453816112.png" alt="Snow falls on a school crossing sign in Kansas City on Oct. 26, 2020. Carlos Moreno" />
 <figcaption>Snow falls on a school crossing sign in Kansas City on Oct. 26, 2020. Carlos Moreno</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRIAN GRIMMETT <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/state-will-help-kansas-school-districts-pay-winter-heat-bills-were-10x-higher-normal">Kansas News Service</a>In a typical February, the small <a href="https://www.usd329.com/o/usd-329" target="_blank">Wabaunsee school district</a> just west of Topeka pays a natural gas utility bill of about $4,300. This year its bill was more than $53,000.It’s
 not because classrooms were cranking up the heat. Wabaunsee is just one
 of hundreds of school districts in Kansas hit by an unprecedented spike
 in wholesale natural gas prices during February’s record-setting winter
 storm. Now the state is stepping in with $20 million in loans to help.&nbsp;“For
 a lot of districts you’re talking about their entire annual budget for 
natural gas being used really to pay for an eight-day period,” said 
Austin Harris, the director of member engagement at the Kansas 
Association of School Boards.During those eight days, 
temperatures across much of the state and central part of the United 
States reached well below zero. Wichita, for example, set a record for 
consecutive days with a high below 20 degrees.The extreme cold 
not only increased the demand for natural gas, but also broke some of 
the infrastructure that transports the gas to customers. This created a 
huge imbalance in the supply of natural gas and the demand.During
 the height of the winter storm, the wholesale natural gas price went 
from about $2.50 per unit to more than $650 per unit.“No one anywhere could have anticipated that kind of an increase,” Kansas State Treasurer Lynn Rogers said.The
 spike caused businesses, school districts and cities exposed to 
wholesale prices to see their bills increase 10 to 15 times normal. Many
 smaller cities can’t afford that.The Legislature <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb88/">quickly passed a plan</a>
 making $100 million dollars available in low interest loans to the 
cities impacted. They’ve issued about $80 million dollars so far.State officials are now <a href="https://www.kansascash.ks.gov/fin_serv.html" target="_blank">using the remaining $20 million</a> of that fund to open up loans to school districts and businesses.The
 loans would be issued by local banks, but funded by the state. School 
districts and businesses can get as much as $500,000 to be paid back 
within three years.“These loans are going to be paid back, the 
state is not going to be at risk,” Rogers said. “But it is an issue that
 we don’t have a lot of resources to keep doing this each and every 
year.”Even with the loan programs, the spike in natural gas 
prices will have long-lasting impacts. The Wabaunsee school district 
said even with spreading out the extra cost over several years, it has 
to pay $1,000 more a month than usual. That’s real money for a small 
district of about 450 students.Larger school districts aren’t immune, either. The <a href="https://www.usd497.org/Page/1" target="_blank">Lawrence School District</a>
 saw its bill go from $54,000 to $498,000. A district spokeswoman said 
it is currently in negotiations with its supplier for price reductions. 
Because there is potential for a lawsuit, she wouldn’t comment any 
further.Harris said figuring all of this out will be a slow process for some districts and could last through the end of the year.“Everyone is kind of scrambling to figure out how they cover the costs,” Harris said, “and what resources are available.”The
 Kansas attorney general has opened an investigation into whether 
natural gas companies illegally price gouged during the winter storm and
 took advantage of customers during a time of emergency.“It’s 
really on the shoulders of the attorney general to make sure that this 
doesn’t happen again,” Rogers said, “and the folks that gouged will be 
paying for this or pay us back.”Brian Grimmett reports on 
the environment, energy and natural resources for KMUW in Wichita and 
the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/briangrimmett?lang=en">@briangrimmett</a> or email him at grimmett@kmuw.org.

State will help Kan. schools hammered by winter heating bills

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly is facing increasing pressure from companies, business groups and prominent Republicans to have Kansas stop paying an extra $300 a week in benefits to unemployed workers.

The top three Republicans in the Kansas House on Wednesday called on Kelly to end the additional benefits. Speaker Ron Ryckman Jr., of Olathe, Speaker Pro Tem Blaine Finch, of Ottawa, and Majority Leader Dan Hawkins, of Wichita, issued a joint statement calling the extra benefits “counterproductive.”

They did so in response to a letter Tuesday to Kelly from the Kansas Chamber of Commerce and 180 organizations arguing that many businesses forced to restrict operations during the coronavirus pandemic now are having problems hiring enough workers “to return to full capacity.” The signers included businesses, trade associations, other groups and even a few public agencies.

The extra benefits are part of the $1.9 trillion in federal coronavirus relief approved by Congress in March and are set to expire in September. More than 20 states with Republican governors have opted to end the benefits early, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-health-coronavirus-pandemic-5b3af7a07493a5b6c79b6ea8d8be0c60">neighboring Missouri.</a>&nbsp;Kelly said last week that she is reviewing the issue.

“Many employers are finding it nearly impossible to fully staff their businesses which impacts the supply chain and timely delivery of goods and services,” the Kansas chamber’s letter said.

Many Republicans argue that the additional benefits discourage people from accepting employment. An analysis by Bank of America economists found that people who had earned $32,000 or less at their previous jobs can receive as much or more income from jobless aid, and some unemployed workers say the extra benefit has allowed them to take more time to look for work and puts pressure on employers to raise wages.

In Kansas, the minimum wage has remained at $7.25 an hour since 2009, or about $15,000 a year full-time.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pandemics-health-coronavirus-pandemic-business-9a76a15cf9e7d37076c91e5abeb1137b">Other factors</a>&nbsp;also help explain why unemployed workers might be reluctant to take jobs.

Some worry that working in hospitality or other service businesses will expose them to COVID-19, according to government surveys. Many women have had to leave the workforce to care for children still in online school for at least part of the week, though Kansas is requiring all of its public school districts to offer in-person classes for all students.

The nonpartisan, left-leaning Economic Policy Institute said in a blog post last week that some labor shortages have occurred for hospitality and leisure businesses, where wages are typically low, but that they shouldn’t spill into other industries. Furthermore, it said, cutting off the extra benefits could hurt the economy, adding that goal shouldn’t be to “chase” as many adults into jobs as possible but “to provide good options and economic security for all.”

The Kansas chamber’s letter suggested that federal money could be redirected to employee signing bonuses, help with child care and job retraining.

Republican U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall publicly called on Kelly last week to end the extra benefits. He fellow Republican Sen. Jerry Moran and the three Kansas Republicans in the U.S. House all sent her a letter Monday urging her to do so.

More than 37,000 Kansas residents received the extra unemployment benefits for the week ending Saturday, with payments totaling nearly $9.4 million, according to state Department of Labor figures. The state’s regular unemployment benefits averaged $389 that week.

Kelly’s office did not respond Wednesday to the calls for her to end the extra benefits but pointed to a statement last week saying she would “monitor this situation closely” but is focusing on recruiting businesses and creating jobs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619210947266.png" alt="More than 37,000 Kansas residents received the extra unemployment benefits for the week ending Saturday, with payments totaling nearly $9.4 million, according to state Department of Labor figures.&nbsp; Gov. Kelly’s office did not respond Wednesday to the calls for her to end the extra benefits&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>More than 37,000 Kansas residents received the extra unemployment benefits for the week ending Saturday, with payments totaling nearly $9.4 million, according to state Department of Labor figures.&nbsp; Gov. Kelly’s office did not respond Wednesday to the calls for her to end the extra benefits&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly is facing increasing pressure from companies, business groups and prominent Republicans to have Kansas stop paying an extra $300 a week in benefits to unemployed workers.The top three Republicans in the Kansas House on Wednesday called on Kelly to end the additional benefits. Speaker Ron Ryckman Jr., of Olathe, Speaker Pro Tem Blaine Finch, of Ottawa, and Majority Leader Dan Hawkins, of Wichita, issued a joint statement calling the extra benefits “counterproductive.”They did so in response to a letter Tuesday to Kelly from the Kansas Chamber of Commerce and 180 organizations arguing that many businesses forced to restrict operations during the coronavirus pandemic now are having problems hiring enough workers “to return to full capacity.” The signers included businesses, trade associations, other groups and even a few public agencies.The extra benefits are part of the $1.9 trillion in federal coronavirus relief approved by Congress in March and are set to expire in September. More than 20 states with Republican governors have opted to end the benefits early, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-health-coronavirus-pandemic-5b3af7a07493a5b6c79b6ea8d8be0c60">neighboring Missouri.</a>&nbsp;Kelly said last week that she is reviewing the issue.“Many employers are finding it nearly impossible to fully staff their businesses which impacts the supply chain and timely delivery of goods and services,” the Kansas chamber’s letter said.Many Republicans argue that the additional benefits discourage people from accepting employment. An analysis by Bank of America economists found that people who had earned $32,000 or less at their previous jobs can receive as much or more income from jobless aid, and some unemployed workers say the extra benefit has allowed them to take more time to look for work and puts pressure on employers to raise wages.In Kansas, the minimum wage has remained at $7.25 an hour since 2009, or about $15,000 a year full-time.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pandemics-health-coronavirus-pandemic-business-9a76a15cf9e7d37076c91e5abeb1137b">Other factors</a>&nbsp;also help explain why unemployed workers might be reluctant to take jobs.Some worry that working in hospitality or other service businesses will expose them to COVID-19, according to government surveys. Many women have had to leave the workforce to care for children still in online school for at least part of the week, though Kansas is requiring all of its public school districts to offer in-person classes for all students.The nonpartisan, left-leaning Economic Policy Institute said in a blog post last week that some labor shortages have occurred for hospitality and leisure businesses, where wages are typically low, but that they shouldn’t spill into other industries. Furthermore, it said, cutting off the extra benefits could hurt the economy, adding that goal shouldn’t be to “chase” as many adults into jobs as possible but “to provide good options and economic security for all.”The Kansas chamber’s letter suggested that federal money could be redirected to employee signing bonuses, help with child care and job retraining.Republican U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall publicly called on Kelly last week to end the extra benefits. He fellow Republican Sen. Jerry Moran and the three Kansas Republicans in the U.S. House all sent her a letter Monday urging her to do so.More than 37,000 Kansas residents received the extra unemployment benefits for the week ending Saturday, with payments totaling nearly $9.4 million, according to state Department of Labor figures. The state’s regular unemployment benefits averaged $389 that week.Kelly’s office did not respond Wednesday to the calls for her to end the extra benefits but pointed to a statement last week saying she would “monitor this situation closely” but is focusing on recruiting businesses and creating jobs.___

More pressure on Kan. governor to end extra $300 in jobless aid

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska man charged in the deaths of his two young children waived extradition from California on Wednesday.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ne-state-wire-nebraska-229fc166be11a0fcdd20e3967ac452e5">Adam Price</a>, 35, appeared at a court hearing in San Mateo County, California. He said little during the hearing, which last just over five minutes.

He was arrested in Pacifica, California, on Sunday, hours after the bodies of his children — 5-year-old Emily and 3-year-old Theodore — were found at his home in Bellevue, an Omaha suburb.

Authorities haven’t said how or when the children died.

Price has been charged with two counts of felony child abuse resulting in death.

Price filled out paperwork to get an attorney while in the California county jail, which would have prompted an extradition hearing at another time. Instead, he changed his mind and decided not to fight extradition.

It was not immediately clear when Price would be returned to Nebraska.

The children were with Price for a court-ordered visitation. Their mother, Mary Nielsen, who lives in Illinois, called police Saturday after she couldn’t reach the children. Police said they did not have sufficient reason to enter the home.

A friend's of Nielsen's went to the home Sunday at her request and found the children's bodies.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621375107607.png" alt="Price-photo Bellevue police" />
 <figcaption>Price-photo Bellevue police</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A Nebraska man charged in the deaths of his two young children waived extradition from California on Wednesday.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ne-state-wire-nebraska-229fc166be11a0fcdd20e3967ac452e5">Adam Price</a>, 35, appeared at a court hearing in San Mateo County, California. He said little during the hearing, which last just over five minutes.He was arrested in Pacifica, California, on Sunday, hours after the bodies of his children — 5-year-old Emily and 3-year-old Theodore — were found at his home in Bellevue, an Omaha suburb.Authorities haven’t said how or when the children died.Price has been charged with two counts of felony child abuse resulting in death.Price filled out paperwork to get an attorney while in the California county jail, which would have prompted an extradition hearing at another time. Instead, he changed his mind and decided not to fight extradition.It was not immediately clear when Price would be returned to Nebraska.The children were with Price for a court-ordered visitation. Their mother, Mary Nielsen, who lives in Illinois, called police Saturday after she couldn’t reach the children. Police said they did not have sufficient reason to enter the home.A friend's of Nielsen's went to the home Sunday at her request and found the children's bodies.

Man charged in his children's deaths will return to Nebraska

SHAWNEE COUNTY –Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after an arest.

On May 18, officers with the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Units erved a search warrant in the 2400 Block SW 26th Drive in Topeka, related to an ongoing investigation, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith.

While conducting the search warrant, the officers located heroin, methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

They also arrested 48-year-old Michael Stinemetz of Topeka and&nbsp; transported him to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges that include&nbsp;Possession of heroin with the intent of distribution, Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana and Possession of drug paraphernalia with the intent of distribution

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621432499190.png" alt="Stinemetz-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Stinemetz-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY –Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after an arest.On May 18, officers with the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Units erved a search warrant in the 2400 Block SW 26th Drive in Topeka, related to an ongoing investigation, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith.While conducting the search warrant, the officers located heroin, methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.They also arrested 48-year-old Michael Stinemetz of Topeka and&nbsp; transported him to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges that include&nbsp;Possession of heroin with the intent of distribution, Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana and Possession of drug paraphernalia with the intent of distribution

Kansas man accused of heroin distribution

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Nation has by far the largest land mass of any Native American tribe in the country. Now, it’s boasting the largest enrolled population, too.

Navajos clamored to enroll or fix their records as the tribe offered hardship assistance payments from last year’s federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act. That boosted the tribe’s rolls from about 306,000 to nearly 400,000 citizens.

The figure tops the Cherokee Nation’s enrollment of 392,000. But it, too, has been growing, said tribal spokeswoman Julie Hubbard. The Oklahoma tribe has been receiving about 200 more applications per month from potential enrollees, leaving Navajo’s position at the top unstable.

The numbers matter because tribes often are allocated money based on their number of citizens. Each of the 574 federally recognized tribes determines how to count its population. Navajo, for example, requires a one-quarter blood quantum to enroll. Cherokee primarily uses lineal descent.

Tribal governments received $4.8 billion from the CARES Act based on federal housing population data for tribes, which some said was badly skewed. The Treasury Department recently revised the methodology and said it would correct the most substantial disparities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621449809695.png" alt="&nbsp;The&nbsp;Native American&nbsp;population in Kansas&nbsp;is 19,504 – at 0.7% of the total population of the state, according to the most recent&nbsp;American&nbsp;Community Survey." />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;The&nbsp;Native American&nbsp;population in Kansas&nbsp;is 19,504 – at 0.7% of the total population of the state, according to the most recent&nbsp;American&nbsp;Community Survey.</figcaption>
 </figure>FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — The Navajo Nation has by far the largest land mass of any Native American tribe in the country. Now, it’s boasting the largest enrolled population, too.Navajos clamored to enroll or fix their records as the tribe offered hardship assistance payments from last year’s federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act. That boosted the tribe’s rolls from about 306,000 to nearly 400,000 citizens.The figure tops the Cherokee Nation’s enrollment of 392,000. But it, too, has been growing, said tribal spokeswoman Julie Hubbard. The Oklahoma tribe has been receiving about 200 more applications per month from potential enrollees, leaving Navajo’s position at the top unstable.The numbers matter because tribes often are allocated money based on their number of citizens. Each of the 574 federally recognized tribes determines how to count its population. Navajo, for example, requires a one-quarter blood quantum to enroll. Cherokee primarily uses lineal descent.Tribal governments received $4.8 billion from the CARES Act based on federal housing population data for tribes, which some said was badly skewed. The Treasury Department recently revised the methodology and said it would correct the most substantial disparities.

Cherokee nation is no longer the largest US tribe

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — People will be able to get beer and cocktails to go in Kansas after the coronavirus pandemic thanks to a measure signed into law Wednesday by Gov. Laura Kelly.

The new law will allow to-go beer and alcoholic drinks from clubs, bars and restaurants until 11 p.m., as long as the drinks are in sealed containers and clear bags that discourage tampering. Lawmakers approved the measure earlier this month, and it takes effect later this month.

It continues a policy Kelly set by executive order in April 2020 when Kansas was under a statewide stay-at-home order and that remained in effect through March.

The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States has said such temporary policies in more than 30 states were “a lifeline” to a hospitality industry hit hard by the pandemic, but consumers ended up liking the convenience.

The council said 11 other states have made cocktails to go permanent, including Arkansas, Iowa, Oklahoma and Texas, along with the District of Columbia. Another six have extended temporary policies at least into next year.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — People will be able to get beer and cocktails to go in Kansas after the coronavirus pandemic thanks to a measure signed into law Wednesday by Gov. Laura Kelly.The new law will allow to-go beer and alcoholic drinks from clubs, bars and restaurants until 11 p.m., as long as the drinks are in sealed containers and clear bags that discourage tampering. Lawmakers approved the measure earlier this month, and it takes effect later this month.It continues a policy Kelly set by executive order in April 2020 when Kansas was under a statewide stay-at-home order and that remained in effect through March.The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States has said such temporary policies in more than 30 states were “a lifeline” to a hospitality industry hit hard by the pandemic, but consumers ended up liking the convenience.The council said 11 other states have made cocktails to go permanent, including Arkansas, Iowa, Oklahoma and Texas, along with the District of Columbia. Another six have extended temporary policies at least into next year.

Kansas governor signs legislation keeping cocktails to go

WICHITA—Law enforcement authorities investigating a drug-deal shooting death one year ago continue to ask for help in locating 19-year-old Jakob Oneil Cuble in connection with the murder.

On May 20, 2020, Marcus Sain was shot and killed during a drug transaction at an apartment complex in the 1100 block of South Webb Road in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.

Thanks to information from the public, police detectives have been able to identify three people involved in his murder.

Two of those people Malcolm Ganther and Nathaniel Saunders are currently in custody. 

Police have not located Jakob Cuble.&nbsp; The Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office has charged Cuble with First Degree Murder and Aggravated Robbery. Cuble is described as 5-foot-6, 120 pounds with brown eyes and black hair.&nbsp;

Anyone with information regarding Cuble’s location is eligible to receive a reward by submitting a tip through Crime Stoppers by calling 316-267-2111 or online at

www.stopcrime316.com. Tipsters are always anonymous – Crime Stoppers will never ask someone to identify themselves. If your information leads to an arrest in this case, you could be eligible to receive up to $2,500.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621439006704.png" alt="Cuble photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Cuble photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA—Law enforcement authorities investigating a drug-deal shooting death one year ago continue to ask for help in locating 19-year-old Jakob Oneil Cuble in connection with the murder.On May 20, 2020, Marcus Sain was shot and killed during a drug transaction at an apartment complex in the 1100 block of South Webb Road in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.Thanks to information from the public, police detectives have been able to identify three people involved in his murder.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590157799937.png" alt="Ganther photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Ganther photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Two of those people Malcolm Ganther and Nathaniel Saunders are currently in custody. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598393802179.png" alt="Saunders photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Saunders photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Police have not located Jakob Cuble.&nbsp; The Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office has charged Cuble with First Degree Murder and Aggravated Robbery. Cuble is described as 5-foot-6, 120 pounds with brown eyes and black hair.&nbsp;Anyone with information regarding Cuble’s location is eligible to receive a reward by submitting a tip through Crime Stoppers by calling 316-267-2111 or online atwww.stopcrime316.com. Tipsters are always anonymous – Crime Stoppers will never ask someone to identify themselves. If your information leads to an arrest in this case, you could be eligible to receive up to $2,500.

Police: Search continues for Kan. man in drug-deal murder

HUTCHINSON— Dillons stores will change their mask policy to follow CDC guidelines starting Thursday, according to a statement from the company.&nbsp;

Fully-vaccinated customers and most fully-vaccinated associates no longer need to wear a mask in Dillons stores, distribution centers, plants, and offices, unless otherwise required by state or local jurisdiction. If there is a state or local mandate, Dillons will adhere to that requirement and its timeline. For Kansas, that includes a mask mandate in the city of Lawrence. Non-vaccinated associates will be required to wear a mask.

Associates in Dillons pharmacies and clinic locations will be required to continue wearing a mask due to the CDC’s guidance for healthcare settings.

HUTCHINSON— Dillons stores will change their mask policy to follow CDC guidelines starting Thursday, according to a statement from the company.&nbsp;Fully-vaccinated customers and most fully-vaccinated associates no longer need to wear a mask in Dillons stores, distribution centers, plants, and offices, unless otherwise required by state or local jurisdiction. If there is a state or local mandate, Dillons will adhere to that requirement and its timeline. For Kansas, that includes a mask mandate in the city of Lawrence. Non-vaccinated associates will be required to wear a mask.Associates in Dillons pharmacies and clinic locations will be required to continue wearing a mask due to the CDC’s guidance for healthcare settings.

Dillons adjusts mask policy to follow CDC guidelines

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Officers called to an apartment in a historic Kansas City neighborhood for reports of an argument followed by gunfire found a woman fatally shot, police said.

Police were called around 2 a.m. Wednesday to the apartment in Hyde Park, and arriving officers found a woman inside the apartment who had been shot. Medics pronounced the woman dead at the scene. Police say one person was arrested in the case.

Police had not released the name of the woman killed or details about what led to the shooting by Wednesday morning.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Officers called to an apartment in a historic Kansas City neighborhood for reports of an argument followed by gunfire found a woman fatally shot, police said.Police were called around 2 a.m. Wednesday to the apartment in Hyde Park, and arriving officers found a woman inside the apartment who had been shot. Medics pronounced the woman dead at the scene. Police say one person was arrested in the case.Police had not released the name of the woman killed or details about what led to the shooting by Wednesday morning.

Police make arrest in Kansas City woman's shooting death

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Manhattan man has been charged with defrauding a Wichita bank out of $127,100 in COVID-19 aid meant for small businesses affected by the pandemic.

Clifford Townsend is accused of claiming on an application for Paycheck Protection Program money that his business had 15 employees. The business, Global Network Corp., had no employees, federal prosecutors said.

Townsend was charged April 28 with two counts of bank fraud, two counts of making a false statement to a federally insured bank and two counts of money laundering.

Each bank fraud and false statement charge carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million. The money laundering charges have maximum penalties of up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000.

Prosecutors allege Townsend used about $27,000 of the money to buy a BMW and wired $80,000 into a brokerage account in the name of the business.

His initial court appearance is scheduled for Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588075781384.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Manhattan man has been charged with defrauding a Wichita bank out of $127,100 in COVID-19 aid meant for small businesses affected by the pandemic.Clifford Townsend is accused of claiming on an application for Paycheck Protection Program money that his business had 15 employees. The business, Global Network Corp., had no employees, federal prosecutors said.Townsend was charged April 28 with two counts of bank fraud, two counts of making a false statement to a federally insured bank and two counts of money laundering.Each bank fraud and false statement charge carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million. The money laundering charges have maximum penalties of up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000.Prosecutors allege Townsend used about $27,000 of the money to buy a BMW and wired $80,000 into a brokerage account in the name of the business.His initial court appearance is scheduled for Monday.

Kan. man charged with $127K  fraud involving COVID-19 aid

WASHINGTON, DC —&nbsp; First District Congressman Tracey Mann and Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall, M.D. introduced H.R.3314, legislation in response to President Biden's 30x30 Executive Order.

"On January 27, President Biden issued Executive Order 14008, Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad. Section 216 of the order directs the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, Secretary of Agriculture, Secretary of Commerce, Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality, and other heads of agencies to achieve the goal of conserving at least 30 percent of our lands and waters by 2030 or 30x30. While a subsequent report was released in May, the lack of details left many questions and concerns remaining from landowners across the country.&nbsp;

"More than 98% of land in Kansas is privately owned. Mandating the permanent conservation of 30% of America's land would require expanding federal control over land and undermining private property rights. Additionally, President Biden’s proposal would add to the large number of acres already under federal control.&nbsp;

"Rep. Mann and Sens. Moran and Marshall will continue to lead a strong Kansas push to defend private property land rights."

SubmittedWASHINGTON, DC —&nbsp; First District Congressman Tracey Mann and Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall, M.D. introduced H.R.3314, legislation in response to President Biden's 30x30 Executive Order."On January 27, President Biden issued Executive Order 14008, Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad. Section 216 of the order directs the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, Secretary of Agriculture, Secretary of Commerce, Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality, and other heads of agencies to achieve the goal of conserving at least 30 percent of our lands and waters by 2030 or 30x30. While a subsequent report was released in May, the lack of details left many questions and concerns remaining from landowners across the country.&nbsp;"More than 98% of land in Kansas is privately owned. Mandating the permanent conservation of 30% of America's land would require expanding federal control over land and undermining private property rights. Additionally, President Biden’s proposal would add to the large number of acres already under federal control.&nbsp;"Rep. Mann and Sens. Moran and Marshall will continue to lead a strong Kansas push to defend private property land rights."

Moran, Marshall and Mann respond to Biden's 30x30 order

Task force is asking Kan. ranchers to take survey to  find where shortage is most severe

By STEPHEN KORANDA <a href="https://www.kcur.org/agriculture/2021-05-18/kansas-ranchers-struggle-to-find-veterinarians-and-its-hurting-the-9-billion-cattle-industry">Kansas News Service</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas, a state that relies heavily on the 
cattle industry to power its economy, faces a shortage of the 
veterinarians that tend to the livestock.

So it’s launched a task 
force to find how to draw more people who can doctor the livestock 
driving billions of dollars in economic activity.

Cattle ranching and related businesses employ nearly 39,000 people and contribute an estimated <a href="https://agriculture.ks.gov/docs/default-source/ag-marketing/ag-contribution-2020.pdf?sfvrsn=10dc92c1_4" target="_blank">$8.7 billion</a> to the Kansas economy.

The
 veterinarian shortage poses more than just an inconvenience for people 
who ranch cattle or run cow-calf operations. If a cow needs a C-section 
and a vet isn’t available, that can mean a lost calf — and lost revenue.

“If
 you don't have a veterinarian that you can contact to provide the 
various vet services, it can have devastating impacts to your business,”
 Deputy Kansas Agriculture Secretary Kelsey Olson said.

State 
officials, the livestock industry and universities are looking for ways 
to ease the shortage. The Rural Veterinary Workforce Development Task 
Force is starting with <a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_50yAle8jT1ib7VQ" target="_blank">a survey</a> to determine where livestock producers have the greatest need for veterinarians.

Olson
 said one factor is that many students entering veterinary school are 
interested in tending to cats and dogs, rather than heifers and hogs.

“We
 see that taking off,” she said. “Many of the students are coming in 
with that experience and wanting to specifically focus on small 
animals.”

In addition, Olson said it’s a challenging job. A rural 
vet might be on call every weekend. Working in a larger practice in a 
city can seem more appealing. More staff can share the demands with 
rotating weekend shifts.

Still, Kansas is doing better at training large animal vets than many other states.

Brad
 White, a Kansas State University professor and director of the Beef 
Cattle Institute, said about 25% of the school’s graduates work in mixed
 or large animal practices. He said the nationwide average is only 
around 14%.

He’s urging livestock producers to take the survey to 
help the group find out where veterinary shortages are the most severe. 
He thinks about it the same way he would treat an animal disease.

“I
 want to be able to get a diagnosis. I want to know, exactly what are we
 dealing with?,” White said. “Then I can come up with what's the best 
treatment plan.”

Some veterinary programs at K-State already focus
 specifically on food animals. White said fixing the shortage likely 
isn’t as simple as growing those programs.

“Is it education? Is it on the supply side? Is it on the demand side? Where is the discrepancy?” he said.

The people taking part in the effort believe it won’t be an easy task to sort all that out.

“I don't think there's a quick fix,” said Matt Teagarden, CEO of the Kansas Livestock Association.

Teagarden
 said scholarship programs that target rural students might help. But 
first, members of the task force need to know where there’s sufficient 
demand to sustain a veterinary practice.

It isn’t a long-term 
solution to recruit or train a new vet then send them to an area where 
there isn’t enough demand to sustain their business.

“There might be a reason,” Teagarden said, “there isn’t a vet clinic there already.”

Stephen Koranda is the Statehouse reporter and news editor for the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Stephen_Koranda" target="_blank">@Stephen_Koranda</a> or email him at stephenkoranda@kcur.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621357513370.png" alt="Livestock, including cattle, are a critical industry for the Kansas economy. Chris Neal / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Livestock, including cattle, are a critical industry for the Kansas economy. Chris Neal / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Task force is asking Kan. ranchers to take survey to find where shortage is most severe</h2>By STEPHEN KORANDA <a href="https://www.kcur.org/agriculture/2021-05-18/kansas-ranchers-struggle-to-find-veterinarians-and-its-hurting-the-9-billion-cattle-industry">Kansas News Service</a>TOPEKA — Kansas, a state that relies heavily on the 
cattle industry to power its economy, faces a shortage of the 
veterinarians that tend to the livestock.So it’s launched a task 
force to find how to draw more people who can doctor the livestock 
driving billions of dollars in economic activity.Cattle ranching and related businesses employ nearly 39,000 people and contribute an estimated <a href="https://agriculture.ks.gov/docs/default-source/ag-marketing/ag-contribution-2020.pdf?sfvrsn=10dc92c1_4" target="_blank">$8.7 billion</a> to the Kansas economy.The
 veterinarian shortage poses more than just an inconvenience for people 
who ranch cattle or run cow-calf operations. If a cow needs a C-section 
and a vet isn’t available, that can mean a lost calf — and lost revenue.“If
 you don't have a veterinarian that you can contact to provide the 
various vet services, it can have devastating impacts to your business,”
 Deputy Kansas Agriculture Secretary Kelsey Olson said.State 
officials, the livestock industry and universities are looking for ways 
to ease the shortage. The Rural Veterinary Workforce Development Task 
Force is starting with <a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_50yAle8jT1ib7VQ" target="_blank">a survey</a> to determine where livestock producers have the greatest need for veterinarians.Olson
 said one factor is that many students entering veterinary school are 
interested in tending to cats and dogs, rather than heifers and hogs.“We
 see that taking off,” she said. “Many of the students are coming in 
with that experience and wanting to specifically focus on small 
animals.”In addition, Olson said it’s a challenging job. A rural 
vet might be on call every weekend. Working in a larger practice in a 
city can seem more appealing. More staff can share the demands with 
rotating weekend shifts.Still, Kansas is doing better at training large animal vets than many other states.Brad
 White, a Kansas State University professor and director of the Beef 
Cattle Institute, said about 25% of the school’s graduates work in mixed
 or large animal practices. He said the nationwide average is only 
around 14%.He’s urging livestock producers to take the survey to 
help the group find out where veterinary shortages are the most severe. 
He thinks about it the same way he would treat an animal disease.“I
 want to be able to get a diagnosis. I want to know, exactly what are we
 dealing with?,” White said. “Then I can come up with what's the best 
treatment plan.”Some veterinary programs at K-State already focus
 specifically on food animals. White said fixing the shortage likely 
isn’t as simple as growing those programs.“Is it education? Is it on the supply side? Is it on the demand side? Where is the discrepancy?” he said.The people taking part in the effort believe it won’t be an easy task to sort all that out.“I don't think there's a quick fix,” said Matt Teagarden, CEO of the Kansas Livestock Association.Teagarden
 said scholarship programs that target rural students might help. But 
first, members of the task force need to know where there’s sufficient 
demand to sustain a veterinary practice.It isn’t a long-term 
solution to recruit or train a new vet then send them to an area where 
there isn’t enough demand to sustain their business.“There might be a reason,” Teagarden said, “there isn’t a vet clinic there already.”Stephen Koranda is the Statehouse reporter and news editor for the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Stephen_Koranda" target="_blank">@Stephen_Koranda</a> or email him at stephenkoranda@kcur.org.

Kan. ranchers struggle to find vets — and it's hurting the cattle industry 

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 518 to a total of 312,591, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

The state reported 13 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5053.

<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 518 to a total of 312,591, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 13 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 5053.<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/2021/5/1621444261356.png" alt="Wednesday May 19, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday May 19, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating two Kansas teens in connection with a drive-by shooting.

Just before 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, police responded to a shooting call in the 1600 block of East Pawnee in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.

&nbsp;Officers located a black Ford Focus that crashed into a business.&nbsp; In addition to the 20-year-old female driver with minor injuries from the crash, they found&nbsp;a 17-year-old&nbsp; passenger who had been shot.&nbsp; She was taken to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;

The investigation revealed 19-year-old&nbsp;Shaniah  Brown was driving a white Dodge Avenger with 19-year-old Trelon Woods as a passenger.&nbsp; 

Brown and the 20-year-old driving the Ford saw each other in the area of Pawnee and Hillside.&nbsp; Brown and the 20-year-old are known to each other and have had ongoing disagreements.

A disturbance ensued between individuals in both vehicles, with objects being thrown at the vehicles.&nbsp; In the 1600 block of East Pawnee, Woods pulled out a handgun and fired multiple shots at the Ford striking the 17-year-old.

Officers located both Brown and Woods in the 6100 block of East Lincoln, and they were arrested without incident.

Both are being held on requested charges of aggravated battery and shooting into an occupied vehicle, according to Davidson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621425855241.png" alt="Woods photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Woods photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating two Kansas teens in connection with a drive-by shooting.Just before 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, police responded to a shooting call in the 1600 block of East Pawnee in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621428993496.png" alt="The driver and passenger were injured -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>The driver and passenger were injured -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Officers located a black Ford Focus that crashed into a business.&nbsp; In addition to the 20-year-old female driver with minor injuries from the crash, they found&nbsp;a 17-year-old&nbsp; passenger who had been shot.&nbsp; She was taken to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;The investigation revealed 19-year-old&nbsp;Shaniah Brown was driving a white Dodge Avenger with 19-year-old Trelon Woods as a passenger.&nbsp; Brown and the 20-year-old driving the Ford saw each other in the area of Pawnee and Hillside.&nbsp; Brown and the 20-year-old are known to each other and have had ongoing disagreements.A disturbance ensued between individuals in both vehicles, with objects being thrown at the vehicles.&nbsp; In the 1600 block of East Pawnee, Woods pulled out a handgun and fired multiple shots at the Ford striking the 17-year-old.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621425827502.png" alt="Brown photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Brown photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Officers located both Brown and Woods in the 6100 block of East Lincoln, and they were arrested without incident. Both are being held on requested charges of aggravated battery and shooting into an occupied vehicle, according to Davidson.

Police: Shooting wounded Kan. girl before car crash

MCPHERSON COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 4p.m. Tuesday in McPherson County.

A Honda Accord driven by Andrew A. Tolbert, 27, Hutchinson, was traveling on Kansas 61 at 8th Avenue, according to the McPherson County Sheriff.

The car hydroplaned on wet pavement, according to witnesses, and struck the bridge pillar. Tolbert was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; The sheriff's department reported no additional details.

MCPHERSON COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 4p.m. Tuesday in McPherson County.A Honda Accord driven by Andrew A. Tolbert, 27, Hutchinson, was traveling on Kansas 61 at 8th Avenue, according to the McPherson County Sheriff.The car hydroplaned on wet pavement, according to witnesses, and struck the bridge pillar. Tolbert was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; The sheriff's department reported no additional details.

Kan. man dies after car hydroplanes, strikes bridge pillar

A Kansas House member who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-michael-brown-arrests-education-government-and-politics-93ca613c25939d062b7d4cc9f2114aaa">arrested&nbsp;</a>after videos began circulating online of him arguing with teenage students and pushing one of them while he was working as a substitute teacher entered a not guilty plea Wednesday to three counts of misdemeanor battery.

Republican state Rep. Mark Samsel, who is free on bond, also was given three weeks to undergo a mental health evaluation. The next hearing was set for July 12.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ks-state-wire-kansas-government-and-politics-4f7abc1a3efe44669614bc9c0361c748">charges&nbsp;</a>against Samsel arose from a student reporting an April 28 incident involving Samsel in what videos showed to be a noisy classroom in his hometown of Wellsville, a town of about 1,700 people roughly 55 miles southwest of Kansas City. The brief videos, provided by a parent who said they were shot by students, also showed Samsel talking about suicide, God and sex.

One video showed Samsel grabbing a boy, pushing him against a wall and telling him, “I could put the wrath of God on you right now,” before the boy breaks free and runs away, yelling.

A criminal complaint accuses Samsel of having made physical contact with two 15- or 16-year-old students “in a rude, insulting or angry manner.” The third charge alleges that Samsel caused “bodily harm” to one of the students.

Samsel was banned for a year from Wellsville public school property and events. But there’s no indication yet that he might face disciplinary action from the House, which can censure or expel members over their behavior.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas House member was charged Monday with three counts of misdemeanor battery over his behavior toward students while working as a substitute teacher.

The charges against Republican state Rep. Mark Samsel, of Wellsville, arose from a student reporting an April 28 incident involving Samsel. He was arrested the next day and released on $1,000 bond. His first appearance in Franklin County District Court by video conference is scheduled for 8 a.m. Wednesday.

Franklin County Attorney Brandon Jones declined to comment after filing the charges. Samsel did not immediately return telephone and email messages seeking comment.

Kansas law says battery is either causing bodily harm to another person or physical contact with someone else “in a rude, insulting or angry manner,” and is punished by up to six months in jail.

One video provided by a parent of Wellsville students from that day, which the parent said was shot by students, showed grabbing a boy, pushing him against a wall and telling him, “I could put the wrath of God on you right now,” before the boy breaks free and runs away, yelling.

Other videos showed Samsel talking about suicide, sex, masturbation, God and the Bible.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619814603053.png" alt="Rep. Samsel's April booking photo from Franklin County" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Samsel's April booking photo from Franklin County</figcaption>
 </figure>By HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTHA Kansas House member who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-michael-brown-arrests-education-government-and-politics-93ca613c25939d062b7d4cc9f2114aaa">arrested&nbsp;</a>after videos began circulating online of him arguing with teenage students and pushing one of them while he was working as a substitute teacher entered a not guilty plea Wednesday to three counts of misdemeanor battery.Republican state Rep. Mark Samsel, who is free on bond, also was given three weeks to undergo a mental health evaluation. The next hearing was set for July 12.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ks-state-wire-kansas-government-and-politics-4f7abc1a3efe44669614bc9c0361c748">charges&nbsp;</a>against Samsel arose from a student reporting an April 28 incident involving Samsel in what videos showed to be a noisy classroom in his hometown of Wellsville, a town of about 1,700 people roughly 55 miles southwest of Kansas City. The brief videos, provided by a parent who said they were shot by students, also showed Samsel talking about suicide, God and sex.One video showed Samsel grabbing a boy, pushing him against a wall and telling him, “I could put the wrath of God on you right now,” before the boy breaks free and runs away, yelling.A criminal complaint accuses Samsel of having made physical contact with two 15- or 16-year-old students “in a rude, insulting or angry manner.” The third charge alleges that Samsel caused “bodily harm” to one of the students.Samsel was banned for a year from Wellsville public school property and events. But there’s no indication yet that he might face disciplinary action from the House, which can censure or expel members over their behavior.---------TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas House member was charged Monday with three counts of misdemeanor battery over his behavior toward students while working as a substitute teacher.The charges against Republican state Rep. Mark Samsel, of Wellsville, arose from a student reporting an April 28 incident involving Samsel. He was arrested the next day and released on $1,000 bond. His first appearance in Franklin County District Court by video conference is scheduled for 8 a.m. Wednesday.Franklin County Attorney Brandon Jones declined to comment after filing the charges. Samsel did not immediately return telephone and email messages seeking comment.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620329182480.png" alt="&nbsp;Rep. Samsel during a May 6, House debate on medical marijuana." />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Rep. Samsel during a May 6, House debate on medical marijuana.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas law says battery is either causing bodily harm to another person or physical contact with someone else “in a rude, insulting or angry manner,” and is punished by up to six months in jail.One video provided by a parent of Wellsville students from that day, which the parent said was shot by students, showed grabbing a boy, pushing him against a wall and telling him, “I could put the wrath of God on you right now,” before the boy breaks free and runs away, yelling.Other videos showed Samsel talking about suicide, sex, masturbation, God and the Bible.___

Judge orders mental health evaluation for Kan. House member

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Police in Kansas City have launched a homicide investigation after find the body of a man who had been missing for nearly a week.

The body of 52-year-old Gilberto Gutierrez was found Monday morning by officers who were called to an intersection in the Swope Parkway-Elmwood neighborhood, police said.

Police have not said how Gutierrez died, but had issued a missing persons alert for him on May 11, when he was last seen near his farm in south Kansas City.

Police said Monday that they were working with the medical examiner to determine Gutierrez’s cause of death.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Police in Kansas City have launched a homicide investigation after find the body of a man who had been missing for nearly a week.The body of 52-year-old Gilberto Gutierrez was found Monday morning by officers who were called to an intersection in the Swope Parkway-Elmwood neighborhood, police said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">*MISSING/ENDANGERED* Gilberto Gutierrez, 52 yrs, 5’8”/180, grey hair, brn eyes, grey facial hair. Last seen on 5/11 near Bannister&amp;View High Dr. The circumstances of his disappearance are suspicious &amp; his family is concerned for his welfare. If you have info or see him, call 911. <a href="https://t.co/imXZTwHs0b">pic.twitter.com/imXZTwHs0b</a>&mdash; kcpolice (@kcpolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/kcpolice/status/1392268689127391232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Police have not said how Gutierrez died, but had issued a missing persons alert for him on May 11, when he was last seen near his farm in south Kansas City.Police said Monday that they were working with the medical examiner to determine Gutierrez’s cause of death.

Homicide investigation: Kansas City police find body of missing man

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today continued an ongoing 
effort to help those experiencing homelessness by reminding people who 
don't have a permanent address or a bank account that they may still 
qualify for stimulus payments and other credits, including the advance 
Child Tax Credit.

The agency is also asking for help from groups that assist vulnerable
 or underserved people who may have difficulty getting a stimulus 
payment automatically. Filing a 2020 tax return, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/do-i-need-to-file-a-tax-return">even if people don't have to,</a> could put money in their pocket.

While the third round of <a href="https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments">Economic Impact Payments</a>
 continue to be made automatically to most eligible people, the IRS 
can't issue a payment to eligible Americans when information about them 
isn't available in the tax agency's systems.

To help people experiencing homelessness, the rural poor and other 
historically underserved groups, the IRS urges community groups, 
employers and others to share information about Economic Impact 
Payments, the upcoming advance Child Tax Credit and other tax details to
 help more eligible people file a tax return so they can receive 
everything to which they're eligible.

Advance Child Tax Credit: Payments begin soon

The IRS and the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced earlier 
this week that the first monthly payment of the expanded and 
newly-advanceable Child Tax Credit (CTC) from the American Rescue Plan 
will be made on July 15. Roughly 39 million households—covering 88% of 
children in the United States—are slated to begin receiving monthly 
payments without any further action required.

IRS and Treasury also announced the increased CTC payments will be 
made on the 15th of each month unless the 15th falls on a weekend or 
holiday. Families who receive the credit by direct deposit can plan 
their budgets around receipt of the benefit. Eligible families will 
receive a payment of up to $300 per month for each child under age 6 and
 up to $250 per month for each child age 6 and above.

The American Rescue Plan increased the maximum Child Tax Credit in 
2021 to $3,600 for children under the age of 6 and to $3,000 per child 
for children between ages 6 and 17. The American Rescue Plan is 
projected to lift more than five million children out of poverty this 
year, cutting child poverty by more than half.

Households covering more than 65 million children will receive the 
monthly CTC payments through direct deposit, paper check, or debit 
cards, and IRS and Treasury are committed to maximizing the use of 
direct deposit to ensure fast and secure delivery. While most taxpayers 
will not be required to take any action to receive their payments, 
Treasury and the IRS will continue outreach efforts with partner 
organizations over the coming months to make more families aware of 
their eligibility.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today continued an ongoing 
effort to help those experiencing homelessness by reminding people who 
don't have a permanent address or a bank account that they may still 
qualify for stimulus payments and other credits, including the advance 
Child Tax Credit.The agency is also asking for help from groups that assist vulnerable
 or underserved people who may have difficulty getting a stimulus 
payment automatically. Filing a 2020 tax return, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/do-i-need-to-file-a-tax-return">even if people don't have to,</a> could put money in their pocket.While the third round of <a href="https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payments">Economic Impact Payments</a>
 continue to be made automatically to most eligible people, the IRS 
can't issue a payment to eligible Americans when information about them 
isn't available in the tax agency's systems.To help people experiencing homelessness, the rural poor and other 
historically underserved groups, the IRS urges community groups, 
employers and others to share information about Economic Impact 
Payments, the upcoming advance Child Tax Credit and other tax details to
 help more eligible people file a tax return so they can receive 
everything to which they're eligible.<h2>Advance Child Tax Credit: Payments begin soon</h2>The IRS and the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced earlier 
this week that the first monthly payment of the expanded and 
newly-advanceable Child Tax Credit (CTC) from the American Rescue Plan 
will be made on July 15. Roughly 39 million households—covering 88% of 
children in the United States—are slated to begin receiving monthly 
payments without any further action required.IRS and Treasury also announced the increased CTC payments will be 
made on the 15th of each month unless the 15th falls on a weekend or 
holiday. Families who receive the credit by direct deposit can plan 
their budgets around receipt of the benefit. Eligible families will 
receive a payment of up to $300 per month for each child under age 6 and
 up to $250 per month for each child age 6 and above.The American Rescue Plan increased the maximum Child Tax Credit in 
2021 to $3,600 for children under the age of 6 and to $3,000 per child 
for children between ages 6 and 17. The American Rescue Plan is 
projected to lift more than five million children out of poverty this 
year, cutting child poverty by more than half.Households covering more than 65 million children will receive the 
monthly CTC payments through direct deposit, paper check, or debit 
cards, and IRS and Treasury are committed to maximizing the use of 
direct deposit to ensure fast and secure delivery. While most taxpayers 
will not be required to take any action to receive their payments, 
Treasury and the IRS will continue outreach efforts with partner 
organizations over the coming months to make more families aware of 
their eligibility.<h2>How to help</h2>The IRS urges community groups, employers and others to share 
information about the Child Tax Credit, Economic Impact Payments and 
other key programs to help more eligible people file a tax return so 
they can receive everything to which they're eligible. IRS.gov has a 
variety of information and tools to help people.Economic Impact Payments, also known as stimulus payments, are 
different from most other tax benefits; people are eligible for the 
payments even if they have little or no income and even if they don't 
usually file a tax return. This is true as long as they have a Social 
Security number and are not being supported by someone else who can 
claim them as a dependent. For anyone who missed out on the first two 
rounds of payments, it's not too late.However, filing a 2020 tax return is the only way, if they're 
eligible, to get the money from the first or second payment now. People 
will need to claim the 2020 <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit">Recovery Rebate Credit</a>. Most people who don't usually file can use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">IRS Free File</a> to provide very basic information. There's even a special section on IRS.gov that can help: <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit-topic-a-claiming-the-recovery-rebate-credit-if-you-arent-required-to-file-a-tax-return">Claiming the 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit if you aren't required to file a tax return.</a>When the individual answers the questions in Free File, they may also
 find that they're eligible for other tax credits which may mean a 
bigger refund. The IRS will process the tax return and issue a refund. 
The individual can expect two payments because the 2020 Recovery Rebate 
Credit is paid as part of the tax refund. After the refund is issued, if
 they're eligible, they'll get another payment shortly afterward for the
 third Economic Impact Payment.For the third round of payments, people who are experiencing 
homelessness may qualify to receive $1,400 for themselves. If they are 
married or have eligible dependents, they can get an additional $1,400 
for each of their family members.Filing a 2020 federal income tax return that provides very basic 
information about the person is something that can be done 
electronically using a smartphone or a computer. When the IRS receives 
the return, it will automatically calculate and issue the Economic 
Impact Payments to eligible individuals. People do not need a permanent 
address or a bank account. They don't need to have a job. For eligible 
individuals, the IRS will still issue the payment even if they haven't 
filed a tax return in years.<h2>Permanent address not required</h2>People can claim the Recovery Rebate Credit or other credits or get a
 third Economic Impact Payment even if they don't have a permanent 
address. For example, someone experiencing homelessness may list the 
address of a friend, relative or trusted service provider, such as a 
shelter, drop-in day center or transitional housing program, on the 
return filed with the IRS. If they are unable to choose direct deposit, a
 check or debit card for the tax refund and the third Economic Impact 
Payment can then be mailed to this address.<h2>For those with no bank account</h2>Many financial institutions will help a person lacking an account to 
open a low-cost or no-cost bank account. Individuals who open accounts 
will then have an account and routing number available if they file and 
request a direct deposit of the Economic Impact Payment.Visit the <a href="https://www.fdic.gov/about/initiatives/getbanked/index.html">Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) website</a> for details, in both English and Spanish, on opening an account online. Among other things, people can use the FDIC's <a href="https://banks.data.fdic.gov/bankfind-suite/bankfind">BankFind</a> tool to locate a nearby FDIC-insured bank. In addition, <a href="https://covidbanking.joinbankon.org/">BankOn</a>, the <a href="https://www.aba.com/advocacy/community-programs/consumer-resources/manage-your-money/choosing-safe-affordable-account">American Bankers Association</a>, <a href="https://www.icba.org/about/find-a-community-bank/open-a-bank-account-remotely">Independent Community Bankers of America</a> and the <a href="https://www.mycreditunion.gov/about-credit-unions/credit-union-locator">National Credit Union Administration</a> have all compiled lists of banks and credit unions that can open an account online.For veterans, see the <a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/banking.asp">Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP)</a>&nbsp;for access to financial services at participating banks.People with a prepaid debit card may be able to have their refund 
applied to the card. Many reloadable prepaid cards or mobile payment 
apps have account and routing numbers that can be provided to the IRS. 
Individuals would need to check with the financial institution to ensure
 the card can be used and to obtain the routing number and account 
number, which may be different from the card number.<h2>Workers experiencing homelessness can also receive the EITC</h2>A worker experiencing homelessness might also qualify for an <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit-eitc">Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)</a>.&nbsp;To
 get the credit, federal law requires that a worker live in the U.S. for
 more than half of the year and meet other requirements. This means 
living in a home in any of the 50 states or the District of Columbia. 
Therefore, individuals experiencing homelessness, including those who 
reside at one or more homeless shelters, can meet that requirement.<h2>More details on the Earned Income Tax Credit</h2>For people experiencing homelessness who have a job, filing a return 
often carries an added bonus—getting a refund based on various tax 
benefits, especially the EITC for low-and moderate-income workers and 
working families.Like many other workers, some workers experiencing homelessness still
 qualify for the credit even if they earned too little income during 
2020 to owe tax. For 2020, the income limit is $15,820 for singles with 
no children ($21,710 for couples with no children). The income limit is 
higher for people with children. For example, the limit is $50,594 for 
singles with three or more children ($56,844 for couples with three or 
more children). Those who make less must also meet other <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit/who-qualifies-for-the-earned-income-tax-credit-eitc">eligibility requirements</a>.Because it's a refundable credit, those who qualify and claim the 
credit could pay less federal tax, pay no tax or even get a tax refund. 
The EITC can put up to $6,660 into a worker's pocket. The amount varies 
depending upon the worker's income, filing status and other factors.The IRS recognizes that eligible workers experiencing homelessness often encounter unique challenges not faced by other people.To find out if they're eligible, people can use the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit/use-the-eitc-assistant">EITC Assistant</a> on IRS.gov. It's available in both English and Spanish.<h2>File for free</h2>The fastest and easiest way to claim the 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit 
and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or to get the third Economic Impact 
Payment is to file a return electronically using IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a>. People can use a smartphone or computer to visit IRS.gov.Through the Free File system, anyone who qualifies for the EITC also 
qualifies to use brand-name software to prepare and electronically file 
their return for free. The IRS urges anyone experiencing homelessness 
who has a smartphone or access to a computer to take advantage of this 
service.<h2>Direct deposit speeds payments</h2><a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">Direct deposit</a>
 is the safest and fastest way to receive a refund and the third 
Economic Impact Payment. People will need to include direct deposit 
information on their 2020 tax return to get their payment directly 
deposited.Anyone with a savings, checking or brokerage account can choose to 
have their refund electronically deposited in that account. Taxpayers 
can also <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/now-you-can-buy-us-series-i-savings-bonds-for-anyone-with-your-tax-refund">purchase U.S. Savings Bonds with their refund.</a> Direct deposit is available even for people who file a paper tax return, but processing of paper returns takes longer.<h2>Help spread the word</h2>Employers can help by making their employees aware of the third 
Economic Impact Payment, 2020 Recovery Rebate Credit and Earned Income 
Tax and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-972">Child Tax Credit</a>,
 and by encouraging them to file for these benefits based on tax year 
2020 rules. In addition, the American Rescue Plan, enacted in March 
2021, expands EITC and the Child Tax Credit benefits for the 2021 tax 
year.Some people will be able to get <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">advance payments of the Child Tax Credit</a> later this year. There is nothing those who qualify need to do at this point other than file a 2020 tax return.The IRS also continues to work extensively with community groups 
across the country to get people to file tax returns and receive all the
 Economic Impact Payments and credits they're entitled to. These efforts
 helped lead to more than 8 million people last year to submit tax 
returns who normally don't file.For more information, check out the <a href="https://www.eitc.irs.gov/partner-toolkit/employers/employers">outreach material</a>, available on IRS.gov.