Week #3: January 30, 2010

IN THIS ISSUE:

* Keep In Touch

* Senate Approves Responsible Recession Bill

* Mayor Reardon Speaks to Senate Ways & Means Committee

* Gold Star License Plate

* Bill Clarifies Organ Donor Registry

* $4.4 Million Economic Development Investment Set for Kansas

* Senate Votes to Eliminate Cap on Small Claims Cases

* Unemployment Information

* Useful State Phone Numbers

KEEP IN TOUCH

I am honored to serve as your Senator and am humbled by the support I receive from my community. I want to thank the people of the 5th District for allowing me this opportunity. My office is located in room 124-E. Please feel free to visit, or to contact me at (785) 296-7357, if you should have any questions.

Complete daily calendars are available for you to follow at www.kslegislature.org along with live broadcasts of Senate and House proceedings.

SENATE APPROVES RESPONSIBLE RECESSION BILL

With the State of Kansas facing a $400 million deficit, a coalition of Senate Democrats and Republicans joined together this week to pass a responsible list of funding adjustments for FY 2010.

This plan, which was based on recommendations by Governor Parkinson and amended by the Ways and Means Committee, addresses our current state budget needs by making tough but necessary cuts to a number of state agencies.

During debate on the Senate floor, an amendment was introduced to reinstate the Governor’s 10 percent cut to Medicaid by borrowing $22 million in federal dollars designated for FY 2011 without replacing it.

I completely agree that cutting Medicaid rates is a very bad idea, reduces access to health care, and creates a terrific burden on the doctors, hospitals and nursing homes that are willing to make the sacrifices to care for Medicaid residents and patients.

However, the author of the amendment failed to answer the question, how do we pay for it? Restoring the Medicaid funds in 2010 would add $22.7 million to the nearly $400 million hole we are already facing in 2011.

Instead of making the budget hole bigger, the legislature should be working to find a way to restore Medicaid cuts in FY 2011 – a $77 million cost to the state.

Budget cuts have gone past the point of finding ‘efficiencies’ and ‘savings’. The cuts we are being forced to make this year are hurting real people.

The Governor’s recommended 2011 budget includes the restoration of the Medicaid funds, the base state aid per pupil for K-12 education would be increased, and $10 million would be provided to Kansas universities, community colleges and vocational and technical colleges. He has also included $1 million in additional funding to reduce the backlog in DNA analysis cases at the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Currently, there are more than 30,000 DNA samples backlogged at the KBI.

In order to implement these services while maintaining a balanced budget the Governor has recommended several revenue sources: temporarily increasing the sales tax rate from 5.3% to 6.3% for 36 months, then keeping .2% for a transportation program; increasing the cigarette and tobacco tax rate to the national average, from .79 cents to $1.34 on cigarettes and 10% to 40% on tobacco products; and transferring$107.4 million from the highway fund.

I don’t believe that the Governor expects all of the revenue options to be supported by the Legislature, however revenue enhancements are now on the table for discussion. We must work across party lines to consider all revenue options and develop a total budget package that includes the elimination of some tax exemptions, more efficiencies within state departments and additional revenues because I cannot support any additional cuts to education, or the continued 10% cuts to Medicaid, or additional cuts to public safety or corrections, or cuts to those programs that service our most vulnerable citizens, the frail and elderly, the disabled or the mentally ill.

MAYOR REARDON SPEAKS TO SENATE WAYS & MEANS COMMITTEE

Mayor/CEO of the Unified Government Joe Reardon joined the mayors of Overland Park and Wichita in a joint address to the Senate Ways & Means Committee this week. They asked lawmakers to work with them when making difficult budget decisions that often affect local governments.

In a quote from the Kansas City Star Mayor Reardon stated, “We understand budget cuts and the need to make tough decisions in these most challenging economic times, but if there are ways we can meet those ends by working together … we would like to have those conversations with you.”

GOLD STAR LICENSE PLATE

Senate Transportation Committee is considering a bill that would create a "Gold Star Family" license plate. SB 361 would allow families to honor their military family members killed in action. Similar legislation stalled last year over concerns about who would pay the $10,000 cost of designing and distributing the plates. Supporters told the committee private donations could cover the cost.

Another supporter suggested instead of creating multiple different plates, the department could use decals that family members could buy for an additional $2.

But the Department of Revenue is upgrading its licensing computer system. A KDOR representative said the department does not have the resources to put out any new license plates and suggested delaying the new plate until 2012 when the upgrade is expected to be complete.

The Gold Star tradition began shortly after World War I with service banners, usually displayed in a window at the homes of parents of military personnel. The original banners would show a blue star for each child in the service and a gold star for each killed in action.

Currently, there is a Gold Star Mother’s plate, which recognizes the mothers of serviceman and women who have served honorably in the armed forces.

BILL CLARIFIES ORGAN DONOR REGISTRY

On Tuesday, the Public Health and Welfare Committee voted to pass as amended a bill making it easier for organ donors to have their wishes recognized and officially registered.

Senate Bill 391, which was requested by the Midwest Transplant Network, would change two provisions of the Revised Uniform Anatomical Gift Act. First, the bill clarifies that any person agreeing to donate an organ or tissue at their time of death has “given full legal consent.” The second change would allow donors to change or reverse their decision by directly accessing the registry Web site.

Proponents of the bill include the Midwest Transplant Network and the National Kidney Foundation.

The Senate will have an opportunity to further discuss the merits of this bill next week, although I predict that it will be approved without much hesitation

$4.4 MILLION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENT SET FOR KANSAS

Former Kansas Governor John Carlin announced in a Senate Chamber news conference on Tuesday that the Kansas Bioscience Authority (KBA) will invest more than $4 million to expand the state’s animal health, human health and bioenergy sectors.

The KBA, an independent economic development group, has committed to funding five new initiatives including a $1.8 investment to support cancer research at The University of Kansas. This investment will help Kansas bring cutting-edge cancer treatments closer to home, while sharing our unique cancer-fighting capabilities with the world.

Additional investments will include $600,000 for the study of a potential brain cancer treatment, $500,000 for development of vaccines aimed at preventing swine viral disease, and $1.5 million to research biofuels.

With direct support from KBA leadership, Governor Parkinson and the legislature were also able to secure a new, world-class bio- and agro-defense facility to Manhattan. As a result, hundreds of new jobs have been created and studies show that for every $1 invested, $7.59 will be returned to our state economy!

I look forward to working with KU and KBA as Kansas continues to expand its commitment to research, innovation, and job growth in the bioscience and animal health industry.

SENATE VOTES TO ELIMINATE CAP ON SMALL CLAIMS CASES

The Senate on Wednesday approved on voice vote Senate Bill 360, which if signed into law would delete the limit on the number of small claims cases that can be filed annually. Under current Kansas law, any person or company is limited to 20 small claims actions per year.

I voted in favor of this bill. Although 20 cases per year may seem like a lot, the cap often hinders small businesses that need to file claims against customers who owe money. It’s also important to note that filing fees would counter any costs to the state.

UNEMPLOYMENT HELP

Confronted by skyrocketing unemployment, the Kansas Department of Labor has been overwhelmed in recent months with the number of claimants filing for unemployment benefits. If you or a family member are having trouble filing for due unemployment benefits, here are some tips that you may find useful:

File for Benefits Online

At www.getkansasbenefits.com claimants can:

- Apply for unemployment benefits

- File a weekly claim

- Check the account balance of your claims – including information about your weekly claim status and the last 3 payment dates and amounts

- Change personal information

- Review a comprehensive list of Frequently Asked Questions.

Call the Contact Center

Contact Center hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. There is a higher call volume on Monday and Tuesday, while Wednesday and Thursday tend to have lower call volumes. Be sure to keep a record of all correspondence with the Kansas Department of Labor.

Kansas Unemployment Contact Center Numbers

- Topeka Area...............(785) 575-1460

- Kansas City Area........(913) 596-3500

- Wichita Area................(316) 383-9947

- Toll-free.......................1-800-292-6333

USEFUL STATE PHONE NUMBERS

The following is a list of numbers I often receive requests for during the legislative session. You can find these as well as many others online at the following Web site: http://da.state.ks.us/phonebook. I hope you will find this information helpful.

Attorney General’s Office

(888) 428-8436

Child/Adult Abuse Hotline

(800) 922-5330

Crime Tip Hotline

(800) 572-7463

Crime Victim Referral

(800) 828-9745

Driver’s License Bureau

(785) 296-3963

KPERS

(888) 275-5737

Governor’s Office

(877) 579-6757

Highway Conditions

(800) 585-7623

Housing Hotline

(800) 752-4422

KS Department on Aging

(800) 432-3535

Kansas Jobs

(785) 235-5627

Kansas Lottery

(785) 296-5700

Legislative Hotline

(800) 432-3924

Live Homework Help

www.HomeworkKansas.org

Lt. Governor’s Office

(800) 748-4408

School Safety Hotline

(877) 626-8203

Social Security

(800) 772-1213

SRS

(785) 296-3959

Tax Refund Status Info

(800) 894-0318

Taxpayer Assistance

(800) 259-2829

Unclaimed Property

(800) 432-0386

Vital Statistics

(785) 296-1400

Voter Registration

(800) 262-8683

Welfare Fraud Hotline

(800) 432-3913

Week #2: January 23, 2010

IN THIS ISSUE:

* Senator Kultala Saves Taxpayers More Than $6000 By Refusing Legislative Postage Allowance

* Bill Would Outlaw Texting While Driving

* Tax Credit Proposed for Historic Restoration Projects

* Cerner, Wizards Coming to Kansas City

* Senator Kultala Introduces Bill To Establish A Scholarship Program for Early Graduates

* Finalists for Kansas Teacher of the Year Recognized

* “Pioneer” Class set to Graduate from KAMS

* Public Safety Still a Big Concern

* Unemployed Kansans to Receive Extended Assistance

*Useful State Phone Numbers

SENATOR KULTALA SAVES TAXPAYERS MORE THAN $6,000 BY REFUSING LEGISLATIVE POSTAGE ALLOWANCE

In an effort to help balance the budget and save the state money, this week I returned more than $6,000 which had been allocated to me for legislative postage costs. Each year, Senators are given $3,066 to pay for postage on state-related mailings such as newsletters. While it’s important for elected officials to stay in touch with constituents, I have made the personal decision to not use the money which was given to me last year and to refuse the money for this year. Although $6,000 might not sound like a lot, I believe that small sacrifices by each legislator could result in a really big savings for Kansas taxpayers.

Please note that I will continue to send legislative updates via e-mail and through a blog I have posted on my Facebook page. Any additional mailings will be paid for by me personally.

SHORT WEEK AT THE CAPITOL

The legislature met for only four days this week, so that all state employees could commemorate the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday. Even with a short week, however, many bills were introduced on the Senate floor and committees were able to continue their work.

I am honored to serve as your Senator and am humbled by the support I receive from my community. I want to thank the people of the 5th District for allowing me this opportunity. My office is located in room 124-E. Please feel free to visit, or to contact me at (785) 296-7357, if you should have any questions.

Complete daily calendars are available for you to follow at www.kslegislature.org along with live broadcasts of Senate and House proceedings.

BILL WOULD OUTLAW TEXTING WHILE DRIVING

A bill introduced last week that would ban drivers from text messaging while operating a vehicle has been referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee for further study. The bill, Senate Bill 351 outlaws typing on any “handheld wireless device” while driving, including wireless telephones, pagers, and laptop computers.

The bill would permit text messaging, laptops and similar devices to be used by police and EMT’s or in the case of an emergency, when reporting a safety hazard or a crime.

Drivers found guilty of illegally texting may receive a Class C misdemeanor. Those with two or more violations could lose their license for up to 90 days.

A Judiciary hearing on the bill is scheduled for Thursday, January 28th.

A 2007 study by Clemson University reported that drivers who were texting or using an iPod left their lanes 10 percent more often than non-distracted drivers. A similar report found that texting took the focus away from drivers an average of 4.6 seconds – enough time to travel the length of a football field at 55 mph.

According to a recent studies, teen drivers are the most at risk for having an accident while texting. According to a 2007 study by AAA, nearly half of all teen drivers – 46% – admit to texting while driving.

TAX CREDIT PROPOSED FOR HISTORIC RESTORATION PROJECTS

Members of the Senate Ways and Means Committee have introduced a bill to restore the state’s historic preservation tax credits by eliminating a cap that was placed last year.

The Kansas Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program would allow developers to receive tax credits worth up to 25 percent of a rehabilitation or preservation project that has been deemed a certified historic structure or is registered as a Kansas historic place. Projects which are already exempt from federal taxes can receive a credit up to 27 percent of the projects cost.

Although the State issued $10 million in credits in 2008, a downturn in the state’s economy led the legislature to place a $3.75 million cap on the program for fiscal years 2010 and 2011.

To qualify for a tax credit, a project must cost at least $5,000 and be filed by June 30^th, 2011. To learn more or to claim the historic preservation credit you must fill out a Schedule K-35, which can be found on the Kansas Department of Revenue’s Web site at http://www.ksrevenue.org/pdf/forms/k-35.pdf. You may also call the Department of Revenue voice mail system at (785) 296-4937 to request Schedule K-35.

CERNER, WIZARDS COMING TO KANSAS CITY

The Unified Government of Wyandotte County announced this week that it has finalized a more than $400-million deal to bring a major expansion of the Cerner Corporation and an 18,000 seat stadium for the Kansas City Wizards MLS soccer team to the Village West tourism district in Wyandotte County.

Under the agreement, the Cerner Corporation will begin construction of a 600,000 square foot office complex by the end of 2011. Construction on the sports stadium will start in 2010 and be completed in time for the 2012 Major League Soccer season.

In addition to the soccer stadium, the proposal includes 18 tournament quality soccer fields designed to attract national soccer tournaments to be located in Wyandotte County Park. The $30-million tournament complex will be one of the largest in the Midwest, attracting more than two million athletes, family members and spectators every year to Kansas City. The tournament fields will be built before the end of 2012. The developers will also construct three recreational soccer fields located throughout Wyandotte County for use by residents.

As many as 3,000 construction workers could be put to work building the project. Once completed, this once-in-a-lifetime project will boast 4,500 permanent, high-paying jobs and bring a number of new economic development opportunities to northeast Kansas and the entire state.

SENATOR KULTALA INTRODUCES BILL TO ESTABLISH A SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM FOR EARLY GRADUATES

Kansas high school students planning to graduate early may receive financial help through a new scholarship program being proposed by Senator Kelly Kultala. The Program, called the “Early High School Graduation Scholarship Program”, would provide qualifying high school students with up to $4,000 in scholarship money to offset the costs of tuition and housing at any in-state college or university.

The state would pay for the scholarships by capturing money lost to school districts when students graduate early from high school. Any leftover money would be used to increase state aid to public school students.

To qualify, a student must meet the graduation criteria set up by the Department of Education and their school district, and discuss the pros and cons of graduating early with a school counselor.

Supporters and opponents of the program will have an opportunity to share their views at a hearing scheduled for Monday, January 25^th at the Statehouse.

FINALISTS FOR KANSAS TEACHER OF THE YEAR RECOGNIZED

On Tuesday, the Senate unanimously approved a resolution congratulating and commending the eight teachers who have been chosen as finalists for 2010 Kansas Teacher of the Year.

Each year, the Kansas State Department of Education sponsors the Kansas Teacher of the Year program to honor excellent teaching in the elementary and secondary classrooms across our state. Two teachers – one elementary and one secondary – are selected from each of the state’s four congressional districts. The state winner will go on to represent Kansas in the National Teacher of the Year Program.

Karen M. Tritt, Shawnee Mission USD 512 – Kansas Teacher of the Year

Arthur R. Commons, Baxter Springs USD 508

Cathy Durano, Andover USD 385

Jeline D. Harclerode, Emporia USD 253

Joan L. Moore, McPherson USD 418

Rose M. Nemchik, De Soto USD 232

Beth Slawson, Paola USD 368

Tracey B. Repp, Andover USD 385

Congratulations to each of the nominees and to all the teachers and school employees in our community. Your work is greatly appreciated!

“PIONEER” CLASS SET TO GRADUATE FROM KAMS

Twenty-four students were recognized in the Senate Chambers this week as the first graduating class of the Kansas Academy of Math and Science (KAMS) at Fort Hays State University. Two of the students were from Lansing High School.

Opened in 2009, KAMS provides high school juniors and seniors who excel in mathematics or science with an accelerated two-year program that meets the requirements for both high school graduation and associate degrees.

Upon graduation, these students will have earned the college credits equivalent to an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree, in addition to a high school diploma.

Congratulations again to those graduates from our community.

PUBLIC SAFETY STILL A BIG CONCERN

As we talk about funding cuts and filling the budget gap, I am particularly concerned with the impact of these cuts on public safety. I asked the Department of Corrections to share information with me regarding the specific impact these cuts have had on local communities and the Kansas corrections system as a whole.

In an effort to lessen the impact of reduced funding, the Department prioritized the cuts based on their impact to public safety. First to go were things that had no immediate impact, specifically surplus beds at three small facilities which were closed. Then the Department cut those things that had the next-to-least immediate impact, such as programs or facilities serving lower risk offenders (boot camps and the remaining small minimum facilities), or those things where the impact would be felt further out (such as some education and treatment programming). The Department tried to retain staff in whom they had invested a great deal of training and skill development because they estimated it would take at least five years to recruit new staff, train them and get them to the same skill levels of the current staff. Some contractual services were cut instead, as those can generally be recovered more quickly.

Department officials indicate that the next round of cuts will mean early release of prisoners (there is no statutory authority for this early release) or dramatic reductions in the intensity of parole supervision. These program cuts would have the most immediate and apparent impact on public safety in Kansas, as it would mean offenders out of prison early and in your community with less supervision.

Secretary of Corrections, Roger Werholtz, has developed some of the most innovative and proven programs for reintegrating parolees back into society using risk reduction strategies that assist them in acquiring pro-social behaviors. These programs have been recognized nationally as ones which keep paroled offenders from continuing a life of crime and re-entering our prison system. Cutting these programs increases the risk of re-offending and long-term strain on Kansas corrections in the future.

As we move through the budget debate, it is critical to remember that further budget cuts will have a direct impact on you and your family. State government serves important functions in every Kansas community; keeping you safe is one of them.

UNEMPLOYED KANSANS TO RECEIVE EXTENDED ASSISTANCE

Thousands of out-of-work Kansans will learn this week if they’re eligible for extended unemployment benefits, the Kansas Department of Labor announced on Thursday. The Department is determining if more than 9,000 Kansans are now eligible for Emergency Unemployment Compensation Tier III benefits. If so, some Kansans may see the first payments delivered by the end of this week.

Given the very slow recovery the State of Kansas is seeing in the labor market, these additional benefits are critical for thousands of Kansans who continue to look for work.

The Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) Tier III program was signed into law in November and provides an additional 13 weeks of unemployment benefits for individuals who have exhausted regular state benefits and existing EUC benefits.

Individuals who think they may be eligible for EUC Tier III benefits are encouraged to wait for notification from the Kansas Department of Labor.

So far, the Kansas Department of Labor has received approximately 5,400 applications for EUC Tier III benefits. More than 4,000 were processed this week with first payments being made to those eligible by Saturday.

The Kansas Department of Labor will mail an additional 6,500 letters on Jan. 21, 2010 to individuals who exhausted existing benefits after Dec. 18 and may also be eligible for EUC Tier III. Of those, approximately 5,000 remain in active claim status, which means they do not have to return an application for Tier III benefits. The Kansas Department of Labor will begin determining eligibility for those individuals immediately.

To be eligible for benefits, individuals must meet the following criteria:

• Exhausted regular state unemployment insurance benefits;

• Exhausted EUC Tier I and Tier II benefits;

• If Tier II benefits were exhausted prior to Nov. 22, 2009, all State Extended

Benefits (EB) must be exhausted before being eligible to apply for Tier III;

• Not eligible for a new state unemployment insurance claim in any state;

• Currently unemployed or working less than full-time.

The Tier III EUC program is the fifth benefit extension program implemented in Kansas since July 2008. More information about the Tier III EUC benefits and eligibility criteria is available on the Kansas Department of Labor Web site at www.dol.ks.gov.

USEFUL STATE PHONE NUMBERS

The following is a list of numbers I often receive requests for during the legislative session. You can find these as well as many others online at the following Web site: http://da.state.ks.us/phonebook. I hope you will find this information helpful.

Child/Adult Abuse Hotline

(800) 922-5330

Crime Tip Hotline

(800) 572-7463

Crime Victim Referral

(800) 828-9745

Driver’s License Bureau

(785) 296-3963

KPERS

(888) 275-5737

Constituent Services

(800) 748-4408

Highway Conditions

(800) 585-7623

Lt. Governor’s Office

(800) 748-4408

Housing Hotline

(800) 752-4422

KS Department on Aging

(800) 432-3535

Kansas Jobs

(785) 235-5627

Kansas Lottery

(785) 296-5700

Legislative Hotline

(800) 432-3924

Live Homework Help

www.HomeworkKansas.org

School Safety Hotline

(877) 626-8203

Attorney General’s Office

(888) 428-8436

SRS

(785) 296-3959

Tax Refund Status Info

(800) 894-0318

Taxpayer Assistance

(800) 259-2829

Unclaimed Property

(800) 432-0386

Vital Statistics

(785) 296-1400

Voter Registration

(800) 262-8683

Welfare Fraud Hotline

(800) 432-3913

Week #1: January 16, 2010

IN THIS ISSUE:

* 2010 Session Underway

* Governor Delivers State of the State Address

* Parkinson Outlines Budget Recommendations

* Bill would outlaw K2

* SB 342 Would Prohibit Sale of Novelty Cigarette Lighters

* Death Penalty Bill to Receive Hearing

* Kansas Celebrates Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

* Apply Now for LIEAP

* Senators Kelly, Vratil propose “Rainy Day Fund”

* Registration now open for “Knowledge is Power” Student Workshop

* Useful State Phone Numbers

2010 SESSION UNDERWAY

On Monday, January 11^th, the Kansas Legislature convened for the 2010 legislative session. Confronted by the worst economic crisis in state history, I am sure that the legislature will face many difficult decisions in the coming days. Still, I am confident that by putting partisan politics aside and working together, we will be able to pass a number of bills that improve the lives of all Kansans while protecting our most important priorities.

I am honored to serve as your Senator and am humbled by the support I receive from my community. I want to thank the people of the 5th District for allowing me this opportunity. As you may know, the State Capitol is currently undergoing major renovations, so my office has been relocated. My office is located in room 124-E. Please feel free to visit, or to contact me at 785-296-7357 or kelly.kultala@senate.ks.gov, if you should have any questions.

Complete daily calendars are available at www.kslegislature.org along with other information on the legislature. To hear legislative proceedings, click on the “Listen in Live Link.”

GOVERNOR DELIVERS STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS

On Monday, January 11, 2010, Governor Mark Parkinson delivered what most in Kansas felt to be a moving and inspirational State of the State address to a joint session of Senate and House members – all without the aid of a teleprompter or notes.

In his speech, Governor Parkinson outlined his plan for responsibly balancing the state budget without cutting deeper into essential state services.

In part, he said, “generations from now, historians will look at how Kansas handled the greatest economic crisis since the Great Depression. We have the opportunity to astonish them. The decisions that you can make will mean that not only did we fight back, not only did we protect what our ancestors built, but while everyone else was in a panic, we moved forward.”

With no political considerations or hidden agenda, Governor Parkinson offered what he felt to be the most responsible and realistic proposal to see this state through the worst financial hardship we have ever faced. While I don’t agree with each of the Governor’s recommendations, I appreciated his leadership and foresight.

Moving forward, I hope that legislators from both parties will work with Governor Parkinson to make the tough choices which I know are inevitable. After all, this is more than a discussion about our budget, it is a discussion about our overall quality of life. We owe it to our fellow citizens and future generations to do whatever we can to protect it.

To view Governor Parkinson’s full address, please visit http://governor.ks.gov.

PARKINSON OUTLINES BUDGET RECOMMENDATIONS

Kansas, like almost all states, must come to grips with a very difficult financial challenge for the coming budget year. As a result of the recession, state funds have declined for an unprecedented four straight years, while total spending has been slashed more than $1 billion in the last 18 months. Excess spending has been completely erased and further cuts would permanently damage our schools, public safety, and economic development efforts.

Within this difficult financial context, Governor Parkinson this week outlined his state budget recommendations for FY 2010 and FY 2011. The Governor’s budget proposes additional spending cuts, increasing the tax on cigarettes and tobacco, and temporarily raising sales tax by 1 cent.

The Governor’s plan also makes it possible to repair a number of crippling cuts which were made this past year. Under his budget proposal, Medicaid provider rates would be restored, Base State Aid would be increased, and $10 million would be provided to Kansas universities, community colleges and vocational and technical colleges.

Education:

Governor Parkinson’s budget proposal recommends a small increase in public school funding from FY10 to FY11. This recommendation will increase Base State Aid per Pupil (BSAPP) by $50 for every Kansas school child, from $4,012 to $4,062. The Governor also recommends that $3.6 billion in spending be allocated for various aid programs including Special Education, KPERS, and federal programs for schools.

To retain the best and the brightest students, Governor Parkinson’s budget includes $21.6 million for student financial assistance. More than $1 million is allocated for the State Scholarship Awards Program, which assists financially needy state scholars. These programs will allow more students to attend the Kansas school of their choice without worrying about the cost of tuition, books or living expenses.

Safety:

The Governor’s plan will help keep criminals off the street by enhancing funding to the state’s Department of Corrections by $3.6 million in FY11. This increase will prevent the state from having to release prisoners early to free-up bed space and will ensure that parole supervision is maintained when prisoners are released.

More than $1 million in enhanced funding from the State General Fund would reduce the backlog in DNA analysis cases at the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI). Currently, there are more than 30,000 DNA samples – which could be used to convict criminals – backlogged at the KBI.

Medicaid:

The Governor’s budget restores the 10 percent cut to Medicaid in FY11. Currently, two-thirds of Kansans on Medicaid are pregnant women or children. Restoring these cuts protects not only the 150,000 Kansas children who rely on Medicaid, but all vulnerable populations.

In order to implement these services while maintaining a balanced state budget, Governor Parkinson recommended a number of new revenue sources, including:

$ Temporarily increasing the sales tax rate by one percent, from 5.3 percent to 6.3 percent.

$ Increasing the cigarette and tobacco tax rate to the national average, from 79 cents to $1.34 on cigarettes and 10 percent to 40 percent on tobacco products.

$ Transferring $107.4 million from the Highway Fund.

While I do not agree with all of the Governor’s recommendations – especially the prospect of implementing a sales tax increase – I appreciate his efforts to balance the state budget in such a tough fiscal year.

By working together with Governor Parkinson and state agency heads, I am confident that we can find solutions to the many challenges facing our great state. We must commit ourselves to balancing the budget with common sense, strategic investments, and an understanding that we’re all in this together.

To access the Governor’s Budget Report in full, visit the Kansas Division of Budget’s Web site at http://budget.ks.gov.

BILL WOULD OUTLAW K2

On Wednesday, members of the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee recommended approval of a bill that would add three chemicals to the state’s list of illegal drugs.

Two of the chemicals, called “K2" or “Spice”, are added to herbs and smoked like marijuana. The substance is typically sold as an incense. The third is a form of the drug Ecstasy.

Senator David Haley was the only dissenting vote, stating that further research was needed before the committee moved forward on the bill. Having received committee approval, however, Senate Bill 348 will be sent to the full Senate chamber for further debate.

SB 342 WOULD PROHIBIT SALE OF NOVELTY CIGARETTE LIGHTERS

One of the first bills introduced this year would outlaw the sale of novelty cigarette lighters targeted to children. Senate Bill 342 would prohibit retailers, manufacturers and distributers from selling or giving away as promotional items lighters that resemble cartoon characters, guns, vehicles, toy animals, or that play music or have flashing lights. The bill would not affect traditional-style lighters or those designed for adults.

If enacted, violators could receive up to a $500 fine, which would be designated for use by the tobacco products regulation fund.

The bill awaits debate by members of the Senate Federal and State Affairs Committee. If approved, the bill would then be sent to the full Senate for further discussion.

DEATH PENALTY BILL TO RECEIVE HEARING

A bill introduced last year is scheduled for a hearing by members of the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday, January 19.

As introduced, SB 208 would repeal capital punishment in Kansas beginning on July 1^st, 2010. The law would not change the status of Kansas’ 10 state inmates currently awaiting execution.

Last year, the Judiciary Committee agreed to send the bill to the full Senate floor for discussion. During floor debate, however, a number of questions about the bill’s intent were raised by Senators, including the possibility that it would potentially eliminate the state’s sentence of life without parole. Others questioned whether inmates currently on death row would be able to escape the sentence if they appealed the court decision after the law was enacted.

Citing the need for further study, a majority of Senators chose to send the bill back to Judiciary Committee so that it could be re-introduced this session.

Although it has not carried out an execution since 1965, Kansas reinstated the death sentence in 1994. A 2003 Kansas legislative audit found that the estimated median cost of a case in which the death penalty was given is approximately 70% more than non-death penalty murder cases ($1.26 million compared to $740,000).

SENATORS KELLY, VRATIL PROPOSE “RAINY DAY FUND”

Last week, Senator Laura Kelly and John Vratil joined forces, calling for a constitutional amendment that would create a state Rainy Day Fund intended to protect vital services and slow the growth of spending in hard financial times.

Their proposal would create a “Rainy Day Fund” that could total up to at least 7.5% of the state general fund budget and could only be used in times of budgetary stress. Currently, Kansas is one of only five states that does not have such a fund.

If enacted as a constitutional amendment, the fund would require the Legislature to set aside at least 1 percent of the state general fund revenues any year those revenues increase by 3 percent or more over the previous year. This money would be locked away from use by the Legislature unless state general fund revenues were to drop below the previous year’s total. At that time, money in the fund could be used for any purpose a majority of the Legislature and The Governor approves. Should this fund reach 7.5 percent of the total state general fund budget, the set-sides could be suspended.

Governor Parkinson has already endorsed the creation of such a fund and I believe this proposal deserves serious consideration by both chambers.

The state financial crisis has forced funding cuts of nearly $1 billion over the past year. As a result, schools are facing increased class sized and reductions in staff, Kansas colleges and universities are increasing student tuition, services for the disabled and the frail elderly have been seriously curtailed, and the Department of Corrections has nearly eliminated its highly successful community corrections program and could be forced to close a prison.

Much of our current situation could have been avoided if the state had established a Rainy Day Fund years ago. For instance, if a RDF had been created in FY 1991, the state would have had at least $465 million to help us through the present crisis.

Setting aside savings in times of economic crisis makes sense. Wise families set aside savings for a rainy day, and businesses hold back money for revenue downturns. It’s high time the State of Kansas follow their lead.

KANSAS CELEBRATES DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY

Governor Mark Parkinson and the Kansas Commission on African American Affairs hosted the Governor’s Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration in Topeka on Thursday. This year’s event featured remarks by the Governor and a keynote address by University of Kansas Chancellor, Dr. Gray-Little. The celebration also included a traditional Ceremonial march from the Judicial Center.

The official Martin Luther King Day will be on Monday, January 18^th, 2010. Celebrations will take place across the state, including several in our community.

WORKSHOPS TO TEACH HIGH SCHOOLERS FINANCIAL LITERACY

As part of the 2010 National Consumer Protection Week, Kansas Attorney General Steve Six will host two student workshops entitled “Knowledge is Power”. The free events are intended to teach Kansas high school students about important consumer protection issues, including ID Theft, Predatory Lending, Contracts and Lease Agreements. The events will also include scholarship opportunities and prize giveaways.

Workshop #1:

Dodge City Community College

February 26, 2010

9 am - 3 pm

Workshop #2:

Wichita State University

March 5, 2010

9 am - 3 pm

Both events are open to all high school age students, although space will be limited. Registration forms can be found at www.ksag.org and will be accepted through January 25^th, 2010.

APPLY NOW FOR LIEAP

Kansans struggling to afford energy costs this winter may be able to find relief with help from the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP). LIEAP is a federally-funded program that helps eligible households pay a portion of their winter heating bills by providing a one-time per year benefit.

To qualify, applicants must be personally responsible for direct payment of their heating bills at their current residence. Applicants must also demonstrate that they have made payments on their heating utility bill during the last three months and those combined payments must be equal to 10 percent of the household’s gross income or $80, whichever is less.

Individuals with disabilities, elderly persons, and families with children are the primary groups assisted, although any Kansan who meets all criteria may receive assistance.

Anyone receiving an SRS benefit (cash, medical, food assistance or LIEAP) will automatically receive an application packet in the mail and they are encouraged to use the application and return envelope that is included to expedite processing. LIEAP applications can also be requested by calling toll-free 1-800-432-0043 or visiting www.ks-energy-assistance.com to apply online beginning January 19^th. SRS will be accepting applications from January 19, 2010 through Monday, March 31, 2010

USEFUL STATE PHONE NUMBERS

The following is a list of numbers I often receive requests for during the legislative session. You can find these as well as many others online at the following Web site: http://da.state.ks.us/phonebook. I hope you will find this information helpful.

Child/Adult Abuse Hotline

(800) 922-5330

Crime Tip Hotline

(800) 572-7463

Crime Victim Referral

(800) 828-9745

Driver’s License Bureau

(785) 296-3963

KPERS

(888) 275-5737

Constituent Services

(800) 748-4408

Highway Road Conditions

(800) 585-7623

Lt. Governor’s Office

(800) 748-4408

Housing Hotline

(800) 752-4422

KS Department on Aging

(800) 432-3535

Kansas Jobs

(785) 235-5627

Kansas Lottery

(785) 296-5700

Legislative Hotline

(800) 432-3924

Live Homework Help

www.HomeworkKansas.org

School Safety Hotline

(877) 626-8203

Attorney General’s Office

(888) 428-8436

SRS

(785) 296-3959

Tax Refund Status Info

(800) 894-0318

Taxpayer Assistance

(800) 259-2829

Unclaimed Property

(800) 432-0386

Vital Statistics

(785) 296-1400

Voter Registration

(800) 262-8683

Welfare Fraud Hotline

(800) 432-3913