TOPEKA
March 23
SENATE HIGHLIGHTS – Weekly Update – Week 10
The Senate continues working through legislation as we approach First Adjournment on March 27. Committees are wrapping up, and we are spending long days on the Senate floor. We are also beginning Conference Committees, where final versions of bills are worked out before heading to the Governor.
The Senate voted on more than 80 bills and resolutions last week, covering a wide range of issues important to Kansans.
To stay informed, you can review bill texts, committee schedules, and final votes at www.kslegislature.org, and listen to live proceedings throughout the session.
RURAL KANSAS PRIORITIES
Several bills passed last week directly benefit rural communities across north-central Kansas.
We advanced efforts to strengthen the rural workforce, including incentives to bring more attorneys to underserved areas. Water policy remains a priority, with tools to support long-term planning and safe water reuse—critical for agriculture and the future of rural Kansas. Legislation also supports agritourism and reduces unnecessary regulatory burdens, helping producers diversify and grow. In addition, infrastructure improvements—including expanded broadband conduit development—will improve connectivity and create new economic opportunities across rural Kansas.
SENATE ACTION LAST WEEK
The Senate also advanced legislation on public safety, education, health care, and government accountability, with many bills now heading to the Governor.
Last week’s action included stronger penalties for crimes involving children and modern offenses such as digital blackmail and AI-generated “deepfakes,” along with improved enforcement against fraud and financial exploitation. We also passed measures to strengthen informed consent protections and expand education opportunities and scholarships for Kansas students.
Property taxes continue to be a top concern. The Senate passed bills to improve fairness in the appraisal process by requiring more accurate, property-specific valuations and adding safeguards against rapid increases. These changes are designed to provide greater transparency and protection for taxpayers.
We also advanced improvements to the childcare system, including direct payments to providers, and measures to help foster children remain in school. Additional licensure compacts will help address workforce shortages by allowing professionals to more easily practice across state lines.
CHECK FOR YOURS – KANSAS UNCLAIMED PROPERTY
More than $451 million has been returned to Kansans through the State Treasurer’s unclaimed property program, with more still waiting. Funds may include uncashed checks, bank accounts, insurance proceeds, or utility deposits. I encourage you to take a few minutes to search your name at www.KansasCash.ks.gov.
THANK YOU FOR ENGAGING
Thank you to everyone who has reached out with calls, emails, and letters regarding issues before the Kansas Legislature. I truly appreciate hearing your thoughts and concerns, and I always encourage you to stay informed about the legislation under consideration.
Committee schedules, bill text, voting records, and other helpful information are available at www.kslegislature.org.
For a more detailed explanation of specific bills, click on “Bills & Laws,” select “Senate Bills,” locate the bill number you are interested in, and then click on “SN” (Supplemental Notes). These summaries are prepared by the nonpartisan Legislative Research and Revisor staff and provide a clear overview of each measure. The website also allows you to listen to or watch live sessions, as well as review past committee meetings and floor proceedings.
Your engagement in the legislative process is important and always welcome.
Senator Elaine Bowers
Kansas State Capitol Building
Room 223-E
300 SW 10th St.
Topeka, KS 66612
elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov
785-296-7389
https://elainebowers.com/
www.kslegislature.org