Tag: Kansas Governor Laura Kelly

The Kansas Department of Agriculture held the 11th annual Governor’s Summit on Agricultural Growth in Manhattan, focusing on transportation's impact on agriculture. Nearly 300 participants discussed infrastructure challenges and the importance of collaboration. Keynote speaker Alejandra Castillo highlighted global trade issues, while state leaders emphasized agriculture's vital role in Kansas' future.

Severe storms with large hail and damaging winds struck Wyandotte County on August 18-19, prompting Governor Laura Kelly to declare a disaster emergency. The storms caused significant damage to infrastructure, residences, and businesses. The state plans to assist local officials and support recovery efforts for residents facing a long road ahead.

Governor Laura Kelly announced that Kansas received $37.2 million in federal funding for 33 projects under the Transportation Alternatives program. This funding supports active transportation initiatives, such as improvements for pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, safe routes to schools, and historical preservation. The goal is to enhance mobility and safety across Kansas.

Governor Laura Kelly announced a Statement of Mutual Cooperation between Kansas and the Czech Republic, enhancing collaboration in trade, technology, and key industries like aerospace and biotechnology. This agreement aims to strengthen bilateral relations, support cultural ties, and create economic opportunities for both regions, benefiting entrepreneurs, businesses, and communities.

Governor Laura Kelly has requested a major presidential disaster declaration from FEMA due to severe weather damages occurring from June 4-15. The request includes funding for Hazard Mitigation and Public Assistance for various counties and tribal nations affected by significant damage to infrastructure and utilities, stressing the need for federal support in rebuilding efforts.

TOPEKA – Today, Governor Laura Kelly issued the following statement announcing the denial of Reginald Carr and Jonathan Carr’s clemency requests for commutation of their death sentences to life in prison without the possibility of parole:

Governor Laura Kelly appointed Judge K. Christopher Jayaram to the Kansas Supreme Court, replacing Chief Justice Marla Luckert. Jayaram, a District Court Judge since 2021 with extensive legal experience, pledged to uphold the law impartially. His appointment follows a rigorous merit-based nomination process in Kansas, emphasizing the importance of qualified justices.

Meghan Voracek has been selected by the Marshall County Republican Precinct Committee to return as Marshall County Attorney after previously serving from 2019 to 2022. Her nomination is pending approval from Governor Laura Kelly, filling the vacancy left by retiring attorney Brad Lippert, effective August 1st.

President Trump approved a federal disaster declaration for Kansas following severe storms and flooding from April 26-27, which damaged utility infrastructure and roads. This declaration will enable local governments and nonprofit organizations to access Public Assistance funds for repairing or replacing infrastructure in affected counties, including Cherokee, Morris, Osage, Saline, and Wabaunsee.

Governor Laura Kelly announced that the Kansas Health Care Access Improvement Program has been approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This plan will enhance Medicaid payments to Critical Access Hospitals and Rural Emergency Hospitals, allocating $83 million to enhance healthcare access and improve health outcomes for Kansans.

Governor Laura Kelly declared a state of disaster due to severe flooding caused by heavy rains on June 3-4, particularly impacting northeast Kansas. The declaration enables state assistance for affected areas as additional thunderstorms are expected, raising concerns of further flooding. Flood warnings are in effect for several counties.

Governor Laura Kelly and Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed have announced $5.9 million in funding for nine transportation projects via Kansas' Cost Share Program for spring 2026. This investment, which will leverage over $3.7 million in local matching funds, aims to enhance safety, support economies, and improve connectivity across Kansas.