Tag: Kansas Reflector

Proposed Bill Would Require Kansas Governor To Submit Personal Food Assistance Data To Feds

A Kansas legislative hearing discussed Senate Bill 428, which mandates the Department for Children and Families to provide personal data to federal agencies within 90 days. Attorney General Kris Kobach argues for data sharing to prevent fraud, while Governor Laura Kelly's administration cites legal concerns about privacy violations. There's ongoing tension regarding compliance and the potential impact on food assistance programs.

Six Kansas GOP Candidates For Governor Toss Haymakers In First Debate, Find Unity On Key Issues

Six Republican candidates for Kansas governor debated key issues including abortion, marijuana, and judicial bias. Charlotte O’Hara criticized fellow Republicans, while candidates united against abortion and for judicial amendments. They expressed discontent with career politicians and endorsed a vision to align more with Trump, aiming for a unified GOP front ahead of the August primary.

Kansas Bird Flu Outbreak is Worst In Nation

Kansas is experiencing the worst outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza, affecting nearly 414,000 birds, primarily in Pottawatomie County. While HPAI poses low public health risks, it can transfer to humans. The state urges poultry owners to protect flocks from wild birds. No human cases have been reported in Kansas.

Kansas legislators to meet Monday about deal to bring Kansas City Chiefs across the state line

Kansas legislative leaders are set to consider a public funding package to attract the Kansas City Chiefs to Kansas, facilitating the construction of a new domed stadium. The deal, involving bonds worth hundreds of millions, could address the Chiefs' potential relocation before their current lease expires in 2031. However, discussions regarding the Royals are not on the agenda.

University of Kansas Joins $3.7 Million Program To Generate More Special Education Doctorates

The University of Kansas, along with institutions in Arizona and Michigan, will use a $3.75 million federal grant to develop a doctoral program in special education leadership. The initiative aims to improve outcomes for students with disabilities by training a new generation of leaders in the field, starting in fall 2026.

Lawsuit Claims Farm Bureau Hid Fraudulent Activity From Insurance Regulators

Two former investigators are suing Farm Bureau Insurance for racketeering and wrongful termination after alleging the company concealed fraudulent activities from regulators. Their claims include obstructing justice and violating reporting laws. The lawsuit stems from a 2023 incident involving an adjuster's illegal access to a client’s garage during an investigation.

🚤 Pioneering Dredging Project Targets Silt Buildup in Tuttle Creek Lake

Kansas organizations initiated a groundbreaking project to remove silt from Tuttle Creek Lake, aiming to prevent it from becoming 75% silt-filled by 2074. Using innovative water injection dredging, the process will help manage sediment and ensure the lake's capacity for flood control remains effective, while researchers monitor downstream effects.

States told by Trump administration to ‘undo’ full SNAP benefits paid for November

The U.S. Supreme Court's emergency ruling has led to a reversal of full November SNAP benefits, affecting 42 million people. The Trump administration has instructed states to cut payments to 65%, despite previous approvals for full aid. Governors in Kansas and Wisconsin express disappointment, calling the decision harmful to vulnerable populations.

Kansas hospitals urge congressional delegation to restore health care tax credits

Kansas hospital leaders are urging Congress to extend premium tax credits for Affordable Care Act Marketplace health insurance. Republicans recently removed these credits, threatening coverage for over 160,000 Kansans and straining rural hospitals. Hospital executives warn that losing these credits will lead to increased premiums and financial instability for families and healthcare providers.

Sierra Club report calls out Kansas utility Evergy for failing to meet climate goals

The Sierra Club's report criticizes Kansas utility Evergy for failing to meet climate goals, giving it an F for its declining renewable energy investments. Evergy's score dropped from 12 to 9 out of 100 due to delays in closing coal plants and plans for new gas plants, reflecting national trends in utilities.

Rivals launch fight over Kansas constitutional amendment to elect Supreme Court justices

Debate is intensifying in Kansas over a constitutional amendment proposing direct elections for Supreme Court justices, set for a vote in August 2026. Proponents argue for public involvement, while opponents cite concerns about judicial independence and influence from special interests, emphasizing the merits of the current selection process.

Federal court rules Kansas legislators tried to suppress speech with 2021 advance voting law

A federal court has permanently blocked a 2021 Kansas law banning groups from sending advance ballot applications, citing suppression of free speech. The ruling supports voter participation, emphasizing protection under the First Amendment. Critics, including Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab, argue it undermines voter confidence and complicates election integrity.