Bowers' Brief

This week marked the final stretch before the veto session. The Senate adjourned early Friday, March 27th, and will return April 9 to consider vetoes, finalize the budget, and complete remaining work. The Senate voted on more than 80 bills and resolutions and adopted more than 40 Conference Committee Reports (CCRs). Full details are available at www.kslegislature.org.

SENATE ACTION—
The Legislature fulfilled its primary constitutional duty by passing CCR 2513 and sending a $26.8 billion state budget, including $10.7 billion from the State General Fund, to the Governor. Public safety measures included HB 2412, which increased penalties for child endangerment; HB 2537, which strengthened laws against sexual extortion; and SB 366, which restricted handheld cell phone use in school and construction zones. Property tax legislation included SB 329, which required single-property appraisals in appeals, and HB 2644, which added safeguards against rapid valuation increases. HB 2745 establishes a petition process for property tax increases.

RURAL KANSAS PRIORITIES
—Several measures impacting rural Kansas advanced this week. HB 2462 prepares for long-term water supply by establishing standards for safe reuse of treated wastewater, while HB 2114 strengthens oversight of dams and watershed infrastructure. Workforce shortages were addressed through HB 2595, which created incentives for attorneys to practice in rural communities, and HB 2374, which expanded medical loan programs for providers who commit to underserved areas. Economic development efforts include HB 2466 and CCR 2464, which extend Angel Investor tax credits, with a portion directed to rural counties, and CCR 2647, which allows KDOT to expand broadband infrastructure through a statewide conduit system. Local control was also strengthened through Sub HB 2571, which raised county bid thresholds, and CCR 2124, which gave communities more flexibility with speed limits and low-speed vehicles.

SUPPORTING KANSAS VETERANS
—The Legislature also advanced several measures supporting Kansas veterans and military families. These include efforts to improve access to benefits and services, recognize military service through state programs, and ensure coordination of support in times of need. Additional provisions reinforce assistance for families affected by line-of-duty deaths and strengthen long-term support systems for those who have served.

CCR HIGHLIGHTS
—The Senate adopted more than 40 Conference Committee Reports this week. Key measures include CCR 2331, establishing a process for unclaimed cremated remains; CCR 30, requiring legislative approval for new occupational licensing; CCR 2158, allowing small-scale honey sales without full licensing; CCR 2647, expanding broadband infrastructure; CCR 2700, enacting the Right-to-Repair Act; CCR 2346, creating a Sports Tourism Grant Program; and CCR 2533, establishing multiple multi-state licensure compacts.
APPOINTMENTS CONFIRMED (39–0)
The Senate confirmed several appointments, including Paul Schneider as Adjutant General, who will lead the Kansas National Guard and state emergency response efforts; Harold Schorn to the Human Rights Commission; Rodney Sheaba and Joseph Deeds as Brigadier Generals in the Kansas National Guard; Debbie Wilkerson and Mark Uhlig to the University of Kansas Hospital Authority; and Donald (Rick) Wiley to the Public Employee Relations Board.

FIRST ADJOURNMENT
—With First Adjournment complete, the Legislature now moves into veto session. When we return on April 9th, we will consider any bills vetoed by the Governor, finalize the budget if needed, and complete work on any remaining legislation. While the wrap-up period is expected to be brief, several important items still remain.

Thank you for staying engaged. You can follow bills, votes, and live proceedings at www.kslegislature.org.

Thank you for the honor of serving you!

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