Legislative Update: Senator Kelly Kultala: February 2011

Friday, February 25, 2011

Week 7 Legislative Update: February 25, 2011

Good Morning All:

Wow, what a mess we have here in Topeka with the rain, snow, sleet, wind, etc. It was quite a chore to clean off the car this morning. Thank goodness I didn’t take the boots home to KCK. OK, let’s hope this is the last snowstorm of the season and that Spring is just around the corner.

Today is our Turnaround deadline and the legislature will be closed till next Wednesday. I hope everyone has a safe, warm and happy weekend. As always if you would like to have someone added to our email list or you would like to be taken off, just let us know.

Sincerely,

Kelly

Senator Kelly Kultala

Kansas District 5

Wyandotte & Leavenworth Counties

Legislative Update

Week 7

Senator Kelly Kultala

February 25, 2011

IN THIS ISSUE:

· Turnaround Marks Mid-Session

· Legislature Designates Margaret Long Interchange

· District Happenings

· Retail Tax Receipts

· Sports-Related Head Injuries

· Political Advertising

· Budget Update

· Legislative Website Re-launched

· Important State Phone Numbers

TURNAROUND MARKS MID-SESSION

This week, legislators worked all day on the floor in preparation for Saturday’s turnaround, which is the deadline for most bills to clear their house of origin. In total, we debated more than 60 bills. On top of my typical legislative duties, it made for a very long but productive week.

The Senate will be off this Monday and Tuesday. On Wednesday, we’ll continue debating bills sent over from the House of Representatives. Conference committees will also continue to meet on bills that have been approved by both chambers.

All House and Senate sessions are open to the public. And live broadcasts of Senate and House proceedings can be found at www.kslegislature.org. To hear legislative proceedings, just click on the “Listen in Live” link.

I am honored to serve as your Senator. My office is located in room 124-E. Please feel free to visit or contact me at 785-296-7357, if you should have any questions.

LEGISLATURE DESIGNATES REP. MARGARET LONG INTERCHANGE

The juncture of U.S. Highway 24 and K-7 Highway in Wyandotte County has been officially designated the Representative Margaret Long Interchange by the Kansas Legislature. The House of Representatives initially approved on Wednesday, following a unanimous approval by the Senate last Tuesday.

“Representative Long served the 36^th House District proudly for a decade, leading the charge on a number of education, transportation and energy issues,” said Representative Kathy Wolfe Moore, who succeeded Long and co-sponsored the bill. “She was a true leader, always making the needs of Wyandotte County her first priority.”

Senate Bill 58 will now be sent to the Governor’s Office to be signed into law.

“As Ranking Member of the House Transportation Committee, Representative Long was instrumental in drafting our state’s current 10-year comprehensive transportation program which will put more than 170,000 Kansans to work,” said Senator Kultala, also a co-sponsor. “It’s only fitting that she be honored in this way.”

Representative Long served the 38th House District from 1998 to 2002 and the 36^th House District from 2003 until her retirement in 2010. She was the ranking minority member on the House Transportation Committee for 10 of those years. She also served as a member of the education and utilities committees.

DISTRICT HAPPENINGS

· Sporting Kansas City – formerly known as the Wizards – has signed its second-ever home grown player. Nineteen-year-old defender Kevin Ellis, a Kansas City native, played four years on the Juniors League before signing onto KC’s 2011 roster.

· Congratulations to Leavenworth resident Phyllis Bass, who was recognized by Churches United for Our Youth on Saturday evening for her dedication to educational programs at the Richard Allen Cultural Center and Museum.

· Taste of Leavenworth - A sampling of Leavenworth's finest in food, beverages, music, businesses, artisans, silent and live auction; fundraiser for the Leavenworth Historical Museum Association, Old Sears location-Leavenworth Plaza, 3400 S. 4th St, 5:30-10:30pm. 913-682-1023 (Always call and confirm events.) Email Address : dsanders15@yahoo.com

· The AARP tax assistance program has four area locations including Providence Medical Center, 8929 Parallel Parkway, Kansas City, Kansas, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays; Kansas City Kansas Community College, 7250 State, Kansas City, Kansas, 10 a.m. to 2 pm. Tuesdays and Thursdays; Kansas City, Kansas, City Hall, 701 N. 7th, Kansas City, Kansas, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mondays, and Turner Recreation Center - community library, 831 S. 55th, Kansas City, Kansas, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursdays. Those participating should bring documents, Social Security cards, last year’s return and receipts if itemizing. Information about the program is on the web at www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/. The program offers assistance for low- and middle-income taxpayers, with special attention to those 60 and older.

· The eighth annual Christ the King School auction will take place Friday, Feb. 25, at the Kansas National Guard Armory, 18th and Ridge, Kansas City, Kansas. The doors open at 5 p.m., with dinner at 6 p.m. and a live auction at 7:15 p.m. The event is for those 21 and older. Tickets are $35 per person. For more details, contact 913-302-5117 or 913-287-8883.

· The seventh annual Piper High School auction starts at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 26 with the silent auction, followed by dinner at 6:15 p.m. and a live auction at 7:15 p.m. at the George Meyn Center, Wyandotte County Park, 126th and State, Bonner Springs. The event is sponsored by Security Bank. The cost of the event is $25, including a catered dinner from CNJ Catering of brisket, chicken, meatballs, salad, green beans and dessert. One drink is included. Tickets at the door are $35. There also will be music with a disc jockey from Full Blown Entertainment. Those attending must be at least 21 years old.

RETAIL TAX RECEIPTS

Senators have approved legislation to better protect consumers against unlawful sales tax charges.

As it was originally introduced, Senate Bill 1 mandated that Kansas retailers print the current sales tax rate on all electronically printed receipts. In committee, the bill was amended to give retailers another option for posting the current tax rate. The amendment allows retailers to either print the rate on receipts or display the rate in a highly visible location near the register.

I supported this bill. An investigation found that at least three Kansas convenience stores were taxing consumers more than 10% on their purchases, although the current tax rate in those counties was 8.925%.

It’s our duty as elected officials to protect the people of Kansas from unscrupulous practices. By mandating the retailers post their current tax rate, the legislature can better protect hard-working consumers and pinpoint retailers who have knowingly overtaxed their customers.

SPORTS-RELATED HEAD INJURIES

The Senate on Tuesday passed a bill that will make it safer for school athletes to play dangerous sports. Senate Bill 33 requires the State Board of Education and KSHSAA to provide information to students about the risks of sports-related head injuries. It also sets new guidelines for when a student can return to play after suffering a head injury.

According to research, nearly 136,000 high school athletes suffer concussions each year. More than 50,000 concussions are to high school football players – approximately 5 percent of all players.

Teens take longer to recover from head injuries than adults, and are at a higher risk of serious re-injury. By preventing players from returning to the field before full recovery, we can help prevent permanent brain injuries and dementia.

POLITICAL ADVERTISING

The Senate approved Senate Bill 145 this week, which changes disclosure requirements for radio and TV political advertisements. Disclosure typically includes information about who paid for the ad and the organization’s treasurer. The amended bill eliminates the “paid for by” requirement, bringing state law into compliance with federal rules.

BUDGET UPDATE

A conference committee continues to work on negotiations over the current year’s budget. Slow but steady progress is being made on the K-12 special education shortfall that threatened forfeiture of more than $100 million in federal aid.

Both chambers have agreed to find a way to fund maintenance of effort mandates, preventing recurring federal penalties, however each chamber has its’ own plan it supports.

There is still disagreement on funding for the last two years of undermarket pay adjustments for state employees. The senate-approved rescission bill approved the measure. The House rescission bill did not.

Gov. Brownback said he wanted the bill on his desk by the end of January, but at the present pace he may be lucky to see it by the end of March.

LEGISLATIVE WEBSITE RELAUNCHES

Kansas Legislative Information Systems and Services (KLISS) has re-launched the state’s legislative Web site. The new site includes community discussion groups, and the ability for users to post and respond to questions. Visitors can also access and track bills, read committee minutes, find legislators and much more.

Check it out at www.kslegislature.org.

Monday, February 21, 2011

Week 6 Legislative Update - February 18, 2011

Good Afternoon Everyone:

I hope you have all been able to enjoy the warmer weather the last couple of days. We’ve been spending many hours here inside the capitol trying to get bills passed out of committee before our Turnaround deadline next week, which is a deadline where bills are supposed to be out of their house of origin or they die. Of course, there are ways to get around the deadline, but it seems to give legislators a goal. I was very happy to get to see people from The Guidance Center in Leavenworth and the University of Kansas Hospital this week. I think the highlight for legislators this week was to meet current Green Bay Packer and former K-State football player Jordy Nelson and his wife Emily. They were in the capitol being recognized for his accomplishments on the football field and his work in the community.

As always if you would like your name removed from our email list or if you know of someone we should add, please just email us back. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

Best,

Kelly

Senator Kelly Kultala

Kansas District 5

Wyandotte & Leavenworth Counties

Legislative Update

Week 6

Senator Kelly Kultala

February 18, 2011

IN THIS ISSUE:

· Last Day for Committees

· Rep. Margaret Long Interchange Bill Passes Senate

· District Happenings

· Expansion of Beer and Liquor Sales Bill

· Senate Passes Rescission Bill

· Unemployment Insurance Debated

· Safety Presentations for Motor Carriers

· Nominations Open for Business Appreciation Month

· Important State Phone Numbers

LAST WEEK FOR COMMITTEES

We are getting very close to turnaround – the deadline for most bills to clear their house of origin. Next Tuesday will be the last day for committees to meet at their regularly scheduled times. The rest of the week will be spent all day on the floor, and conference committees will meet as needed.

As our days become busier and busier, it’s important that I hear from constituents about the issues the legislature is addressing. Please feel free to call my legislative office, or e-mail me with any concerns you may have.

Also, please feel free to visit the Capitol during this exciting time. All House and Senate sessions are open to the public. And live broadcasts of Senate and House proceedings can be found at www.kslegislature.org. To hear legislative proceedings, just click on the “Listen in Live” link.

I am honored to serve as your Senator. My office is located in room 124-E. Please feel free to visit or contact me at 785-296-7357, if you should have any questions.

REP. MARGARET LONG INTERCHANGE BILL PASSES SENATE

SB 58, which would name the interchange at the juncture of U.S. 24 & K-7, the Rep. Margaret Long Interchange, passed the Senate unanimously last Tuesday. I sponsored this bill and carried it on the floor of the Senate to honor former State Rep. Margaret Long for her many years of service to the 36^th House District and her ten years of work as the Ranking Democrat on the House Transportation Committee. Rep. Long was responsible for steering the T-Works Comprehensive Transportation Plan through the House last year. The T-Works plan will put over 170,000 people to work over the next ten years.

DISTRICT HAPPENINGS

· Congratulations to Leavenworth natives Robin Grenier and Jonathan Martens for being named to the 2011 edition of Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. Students are selected based on their academic achievement, service to the community, leadership in extracurricular activities and potential for continued success.

· In a Monday night board meeting, the Lansing Board of Education voted to begin the process of purchasing 24 new school buses. The purchase will allow the district to have better-control driver selection, and is expected to save the district money.

· The Unified Government of Wyandotte County/KCK will be hosting its 19^th Annual Black History Banquet on Saturday, February 19^th at 6p.m. This year’s theme is “From the Homeland to the Heartland”.

· Presentation on 'Frontier Feminist' to be Feb. 20. A presentation about Clarina Howard Nichols, a pre-Civil War-era feminist and abolitionist in the Quindaro area of Wyandotte County, is planned for Sunday, Feb. 20, in Kansas City, Mo. Marilyn Blackwell and Kristen Oertel, who wrote the book, “Frontier Feminist,” will make a presentation at 2 p.m. Feb. 20 at the Kansas City, Mo., Central Library, 14 W. 10th, Kansas City, Mo.

EXPANSION OF BEER AND LIQUOR SALES BILL

SB 54, which would allow the sale of beer, wine and liquor in convenience stores and grocery stores, had hearings this week in the Senate Federal & State Affairs Committee. Proponents, opponents and neutral parties presented testimony for 3 days. The bill also creates 3 types of liquor licenses, limits the number of liquor licenses available in the state with a moratorium on Class C licenses for 3 years and allows retail liquor stores to sell grocery items. The bill may be discussed and worked in committee next Tuesday, Feb. 22 at 10:30 am in Room 144-S.

SENATE PASSES RESPONSIBLE RESCISSION BILL

On Monday, a bipartisan coalition joined together to pass a responsible rescission bill. While the rescission plan is far from perfect, it addressed a critical issue for Kansas public schools.

As you may be aware, the governor’s FY2011 budget proposes $50 million in cuts to Kansas public schools. If these cuts are implemented, Kansas would fall out of compliance with federal maintenance of effort guidelines for special education funding.

Had we not passed a plan that funded these mandates, the state would forfeit more than $100 million in federal funds that could be used in future budget years. Those funds won’t ever be replaced, even if we maintain funding in the future. After school districts have already absorbed $241 million in cuts in just two years, it would have been unfair to punish school children further.

Because the House and Senate rescission plans differ, a conference committee has been appointed to find a compromise. As discussions continue I hope that both chambers will stand united behind one of our core Kansas values – the value of education.

UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE DEBATED

On Tuesday, the Senate approved a bill that will change unemployment insurance mandates. The bill would make two major changes to current state law. First, it would eliminate the trailing spouse clause. Second, it would reinstate a waiting week before unemployed workers could receive benefits.

During debate, an amendment was proposed to eliminate the waiting week and keep the trailing spouse clause. I voted for this amendment; unfortunately it failed.

For decades, unemployed workers have waited a full week before receiving benefits so claims could be manually processed. Current technology has made this practice outdated and unnecessary. And in 2007, the legislature eliminated the waiting week.

As we all know, utility bills, rent, and food expenses don’t wait when a worker is unemployed. By providing immediate relief, we support workers’ living costs during a period of unemployment and help stabilize the economy.

Under the “Trailing Spouse” clause, a person who quits their job because a spouse has been transferred can still apply for unemployment benefits. That means, if your spouse transfers to a job in Oklahoma, you could join your spouse out-of-state without losing your benefits. Eliminating this clause makes it even more difficult for families to stay intact.

SAFETY PRESENTATIONS FOR MOTOR CARRIERS

In the coming months, the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) will be hosting a number of safety presentations across the state for motor carriers.

Although most of us believe that motor carriers only apply to semi-trucks, state law considers motor carriers to be any single or combination vehicle weighing 10,000 pounds or more. That means trucks with attached trailers, limousines and school buses, among others.

Anyone operating one of these vehicles is required by law to comply with all KCC regulations and statutes, including:

· Alcohol and Controlled Substance Programs

· USDOT Number & Marking Requirements

· Accident Register File

· Drive Qualification Files

· Hours of Service Regulations

· Insurance Requirements

· …and more

To find out when KCC representatives will be visiting our community, visit www.kcc.state.ks.us or call the Kansas Trucking Connection at 785-271-3145.

NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN FOR BUSINESS APPRECIATION MONTH

The Kansas Department of Commerce is now accepting applications for the 2011 Kansas Business Appreciation Month Award. Nominations will be accepted in the following categories:

· Manufacturing/Distribution

· Retail

· Service

· Hospital/Non-Profit

KDOC will select local businesses in each category that drive our economy and strengthen our communities by providing jobs and supporting civic activities. Businesses can be nominated by an individual or organization. More than one business may be nominated by the same person.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, April 1^st. To submit an online nomination, visit www.KansasCommerce.com/BAM.

Friday, February 11, 2011

Week 5 Legislative Update - February 11, 2011

Good Morning to All:

The pace has really picked up here at the capitol. The deadline is today for bills to be introduced so there has been a lot of activity. I was very lucky this week to see people from back home at the Credit Union legislative reception, the League of Municipalities reception, the Travel Industry Association of Kansas dinner and the Firefighters legislative reception. Thanks to all for coming to Topeka.

As always let us know if you would like to be taken off of our email list or if you think someone should be added. I hope to see many of you this afternoon at the Leavenworth/Lansing Chamber of Commerce Eggs and Issues at the Carnegie Arts Center in Leavenworth.

Let’s enjoy the warmer weather this weekend and Happy Valentines Day.

Kelly

Senator Kelly Kultala

Kansas District 5

Wyandotte & Leavenworth Counties

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Week 5
Senator Kelly Kultala

February 11, 2011

IN THIS ISSUE:

· Bill Deadlines

· Turnaround Schedule Announced

· District Happenings

· SB 11; The USD 207 & USD 453 Busing Bill Passes Senate

· SB 58; Designating Rep. Margaret Long Interchange

· Senate Confirms Three

· Racial Profiling

· Grandparent Advocacy Bill Introduced

· Medication Distribution in Schools

· House Passes Rescission Bill

· Kansas Arts Commission – Part 2

· Day in the Life of a Snow Plow Driver

· Important State Phone Numbers

BILL DEADLINES

Wednesday was the last day for individual members to introduce a bill on the Senate floor. Any bill that wasn’t introduced is now considered “dead”, and must wait until next session to be re-introduced. However, there are exempt committees where bills can be introduced if necessary.

TURNAROUND SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED

As we approach turnaround – the deadline for most bills to clear their house of origin – Senators will be working longer hours on the Senate floor in addition to our regular committee meetings. In late February, the Senate will begin spending all day on the floor. If there is a need, we may also convene on Saturdays.

This is an exciting time of year, and I encourage each of you to take an active role in the legislative process. All House and Senate sessions are open to the public. And live broadcasts of Senate and House proceedings can be found at www.kslegislature.org. To hear legislative proceedings, just click on the “Listen in Live” link.

I am honored to serve as your Senator. My office is located in room 124-E. Please feel free to visit or contact me at 785-296-7357, if you should have any questions.

DISTRICT HAPPENINGS

· Mayor Joe Reardon delivered good news during his State of the Government address this Tuesday. During the speech, Mayor Reardon reported that violent crime was down substantially. The county was ranked 11^th nationally in job creation and ranked second for the highest-paying jobs in the state.

· Sunday, February 27, 2011, from 5 to 8 PM, the Leavenworth Animal Welfare Society (LAWS) will be sponsoring a Spayghetti Dinner to benefit the LAWS FREE Spay/Neuter program. The High Noon Saloon & Brewery @ 206 Choctaw Street in downtown Leavenworth will sponsor the event. Dinner will include spaghetti, salad, bread, dessert, and coffee or water. The cost is $10 for adults and children 12 and under $6. Tickets must be purchased in advance at Kansas Country Store, 728 Cherokee, Leavenworth, KS (651-6761) or Scriver's, 605 Shawnee, Leavenworth, KS. Tickets may also be ordered by phone by calling LAWS 913-651-LAWS (5297).

· The University of Saint Mary, Leavenworth, will hold its spring open house for prospective students from 1 to 4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 11. Prospective students will have the opportunity to learn more about the university and its programs, talk with professors and students, and take student-led campus tours. Registration is required. Call 1-800-752-7043 or visit www.stmary.edu for more information or to register.

· Empower kidney disease classes will be offered from 5 to 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at Providence Medical Center, 8929 Parallel Parkway. The free classes will discuss how to take control of kidney disease and make healthy choices. Call 816-842-0076 to register for the class. Other locations also are available.

· The Schlagle Environmental Library at Wyandotte County Lake Park, 91st and Leavenworth Road, is planning a cabin fever program from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19. The Winter Fun Day will include crafts, games, scavenger hunts, hikes and snow painting. Hot cocoa and refreshments will be provided. For more information, call 913-299-2384 or visit www.kckpl.org/schlagle/.

SB 11 PASSES

SB 11, which allows USD 207 and USD 453 to bus high school students from Ft. Leavenworth to Leavenworth High School passed the Senate unanimously this week. The bill now goes to the House Education Committee for consideration.

SB 58 UPDATE

SB 58, which designates the junction of U.S. Highway 24 and K-7 Highway as the Rep. Margaret Long interchange passed out of the Senate Transportation Committee this week and will be considered by the full Senate next week. HB 2169 is the same bill in the House Transportation Committee and it has a hearing scheduled for Mon. Feb. 14 at 1:30 pm. If you would like to testify regarding this bill please call 785-296-7640.

SENATE CONFIRMS THREE

The Senate confirmed three top state officials this week. The appointments of Department of Transportation Secretary Deb Miller, Kansas Securities Commissioner Aaron Jack, and Department of Administration Secretary Dennis Taylor were all made by Governor Brownback.

Secretary Miller previously served under Governors Sebelius and Parkinson. Commissioner Jack is a former House member, while Secretary Taylor was formerly the interim director of Topeka’s Division of Utilities and Transportation.

RACIAL PROFILING

Three different racial profiling bills are working their way through committee this week.

Senate Bill 82 and Senate Bill 93 both received a two-day hearing, with proponents testifying on Wednesday and opponents testifying Thursday. Both bills redefine racial profiling as “biased policing”. Additionally, the bills would require law enforcement agencies to properly train officers, use a community advisory group, and file an annual report detailing each instance of a profiling complaint.

SB 161, which was introduced this week, outlaws racial or other profiling of motorists. It has been referred to the Federal and State Affairs Committee for a hearing.

Racial profiling is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. It is illegal – and immoral – for any person to be criminally targeted based on the color of their skin. I urge you to report any potential instance of this crime to the Kansas Human Rights Commission at (785) 296-3206.

GRANDPARENT ADVOCACY BILL INTRODUCED

This week, the Senate Judiciary Committee heard a bill that would improve court rights for grandparents. Senate Bill 52 would allow grandparents to serve as interested parties when a child has been removed from home. Under the bill, grandparents will automatically be given participatory rights unless the court finds it’s not in the best interest of the child.

Nearly 18,000 Kansas grandparents are the primary caregiver to their grandchildren. But when child custody or need-of-care proceedings are filed in the court system, grandparents often are left out. As more and more grandparents open up their homes and hearts to their grandchildren, we must make sure that a system is in place to support them.

MEDICATION DISTRIBUTION IN SCHOOLS

Senate Bill 51, which is currently in the Senate Education Committee, would authorize schools to dispense over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol to students. Medications could be distributed by a school nurse or official only when written consent from a parent or legal guardian is provided. And only recommended dosages could be given.

Hearings began this week, and will continue next week. If the committee recommends the bill for approval, it will be sent to the full Senate for a vote.

HOUSE PASSES RESCISSION BILL

The House of Representatives approved a Rescission Bill this week. The rescission cuts funding from the current fiscal year budget, so the state can end the year with a positive balance. In its current form, the plan would end the fiscal year with $36 million.

The bill cuts the pay of some state employees by 7.5%. These employees include legislators, judges, agency heads, and state employees making more than $100K. An amendment was introduced, attempting to eliminate the cut for Regents employees, but failed on a voice vote.

In order to achieve National Cancer Institute designation at the KU Med Center, bring NBAF to Manhattan, and make WSU’s National Institute for Aviation Research a national leader, we need to draw leading researchers to our universities. By cutting their salaries, these talented researches will move out-of-state – and take millions of dollars in grants with them.

The bill also cuts per pupil funding by $75 this year and drastically cuts special education. It will be incredibly hard for public schools to make these cuts in the next three months. Most schools already have their budget plans in place, and will be forced to lay off teachers or cut programs.

The Senate will vote on its own rescission bill next week. I will keep you posted about the details of this plan as it’s introduced and debated.

KANSAS ARTS COMMISSION – PART 2

The Governor’s proposal to close the Kansas Arts Commission was formally introduced this week, in the form of an Executive Reorganization Order (ERO). ERO’s are used to consolidate or eliminate a state agency.

A number of you have e-mailed or called my legislative office in the last two weeks opposing KAC’s closure. And, just yesterday, hundreds of Kansans rallied outside of the Judicial Center.

Please know that I am taking this issue very seriously. While balancing our budget is important, I have serious concerns about what KAC’s closure would mean for the arts community, economic development, and arts-sector jobs.

Moving forward, the Senate will have up to 30 days to either accept or deny the governor’s ERO. If the legislature does not pass a resolution to change or veto it, the ERO will become effective July 1^st.

DAY IN THE LIFE OF A SNOW PLOW DRIVER

The Kansas Department of Transportation posted a great video on YouTube about what it’s like to work as a snow plow driver. It gave me a new appreciation for the hard work these men and women go through to keep our roads clear and drivers safe. Here’s a link to the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UiEf0dzRNMA.

Thanks to all of our state’s dedicated snow plow operators!

Friday, February 4, 2011

Week 4 Legislative Update - February 4, 2011

Good Afternoon Everyone:

Wow, we sure had a heck of a snowstorm this week, didn’t we? I was stuck in Topeka during the blizzard and had over a foot of snow on the windshield and hood of my car and drifts in between the cars of 2-3 feet. I’m sure glad I bought snow boots a couple of weeks ago. I was able to access emails and read legislative materials while stuck in the apt. on Tuesday and I was able to get to the capitol on Wednesday to do some more work.

In Leavenworth we lost a dedicated public servant and community volunteer last week. Marguerite Strange will be remembered by many. I can’t count the number of events I’ve attended in Leavenworth, since being elected to the senate, where I saw and chatted with Marguerite. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.

I’m glad the legislature is back on schedule with our committee and subcommittee meetings. We’ve actually started to work bills on the Senate floor and pass them over to the House. Things are really clicking now. Please let us know if you want to be taken off of our email list or let us know if you have names that would like to be added.

Keep warm!

Kelly

Senator Kelly Kultala
Kansas District 5
Wyandotte & Leavenworth Counties

LegislativeUpdate
Week 4
Senator Kelly Kultala

February 4, 2011

IN THIS ISSUE:

· Snow Closes Capitol

· Last Week for Bill Introduction

· SB 11; An Update on the USD 207 & USD 453 Busing Bill

· Leavenworth Bids Farewell to Marguerite Strange

· District Happenings

· Kansas Health Insurance Pool to Allow Kids

· Temporary Beverage Licenses Approved

· January Revenues Up

· Wear Red Day

· Addiction Help Available

· ERO’s

· Kansas Arts Commission

· Unemployment Benefits

· Important State Phone Numbers

SNOW CLOSES CAPITOL

A heavy blizzard forced the Statehouse to shut its doors Tuesday and Wednesday. Committee testimony and bill introductions were delayed until Thursday.

Although the weather caused some setbacks, we’re now back on track. I was able to attend committee meetings as usual Thursday and Friday. And the Senate worked through a number of bills before the weekend break.

I am honored to serve as your Senator. My office is located in room 124-E. Please feel free to visit or contact me at 785-296-7357, if you should have any questions.

Daily calendars, committee and district information are all available at www.kslegislature.org. To hear legislative proceedings, just click on the “Listen in Live” link.

LAST WEEK FOR BILL REQUESTS

This week marked the last day individual legislators could request a bill introduction. Monday will be the last day for committee requests. This rule is used every year, so that committees and legislators have ample time to review bills before voting.

The budget committee, Federal and State Affairs Committee, and other select committees are exempt from the deadline.

In the next two weeks, Senators will be working extra long days to prepare for turnaround. Turnaround marks the deadline for most bills to clear their house of origin. If a bill is not passed by this date, it can’t be sent onto the other chamber.

SB 11; AN UPDATE ON THE USD 207 & USD 453 BUSING BILL

SB 11 passed out of the Senate Education Committee this week and is currently sitting on the Senate’s General Orders to be pulled up for discussion and a vote. Sen. Pyle from Brown County has expressed some concern with the bill and legislative staff is trying to answer his questions so that we can, hopefully, vote on the bill next Tuesday, Feb. 8.

LEAVENWORTH BIDS FAREWELL TO MARGUERITE STRANGE

From the Leavenworth Times: Members of the Leavenworth community said good-bye Wednesday to a former mayor and longtime city clerk. Marguerite Strange, who died Jan. 27 at the age of 89, was also involved in various community organizations. Her funeral was held Wednesday at the First Presbyterian Church in Leavenworth.
“She was in the thick of every endeavor affecting the well being of our town,” Rev. Ronald VanSchenkhof said. He noted Strange was so active in the community she once was selected as the Leavenworth-Lansing Area Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year.

Strange worked for the city for 29 years as secretary to the mayor and then city clerk. Her tenure with the city also included a few months acting as the first city manager. She later served on the Leavenworth City Commission for six years. She was mayor from April 1992 to April 1993. VanSchenkhof said one always knew where Strange stood on an issue, but she listened to people who didn’t agree with her. The minister said Strange’s real strength was a willingness to change her mind after listening to the arguments of others.

DISTRICT HAPPENINGS

· Congratulations to Leavenworth native Caleb Christian Knueven, whose documentary “Preserving the Past: Topeka’s Jayhawk Theatre” premiered on WIBW-TV last week. The 20-minute film follows the story of Topeka’s Jayhawk Theatre.

· College Goal Sunday – an event to help high school students get money for college – will be held from 2-4 p.m. on February 13^th. Please visit www.CollegeGoal.org to find the closest location near your high school.

· A new musical, “Sitplot V,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” at Alcott Arts will hold a call for actors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Saturday, Feb. 4 through 5, by appointment. For more information, call 310-396-5366 or visit www.alcottartscenter.org. The auditions will not be held at the Alcott. Call 913-233-2787 for details.

· The Saturday Craft Guild will meet at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 5, at the West Wyandotte Library, 1737 N. 82nd. Those attending may bring their favorite craft project, and share their crafts with others.

· “Teen Saturday: Jazz to Hip Hop” will be presented at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 5, at the West Wyandotte Library, 1737 N. 82nd. Teens and tweens attending will be able to listen to how music has changed over time. There will be snacks.

· An opening reception for Roger Gilbert will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 5, in the Fine Arts Gallery of the West Wyandotte Library, 1737 N. 82nd, Kansas City, Kansas. Gilbert’s photographs, “Landscapes of the American West,” is on display now through Feb. 26 at the library.

· The Piper Grad Night Chili Bingo benefit event will be held Saturday, Feb. 5, at the FOP Hall, 7844 Leavenworth Road. Dinner begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by bingo at 7 p.m. The suggested donation is $12. Tickets must be purchased in advance. For information, call 913-334-5189.

· An Evening of Jazz is planned at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 8, at the West Wyandotte Library, 1737 N. 82nd. The Kansas City Kansas Community College Jazz Choir and Jazz Ensembles will perform. The program is free and appropriate for all ages.

· A Mary Kay Pampering Session will be offered from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 8, at Keeler Women's Center, 2220 Central, Kansas City, Kansas. Learn makeup tips and how to take care of your skin. Try new products and a new look. Look your best for an upcoming interview. The program will be presented by Laura Schmidt, Mary Kay representative. Call 913-906-8990 or register at www.mountosb.org/kwc/.

· “Back to School -- The Way to a Better Life,” from 10 to 11 a.m. Feb. 10 at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central, Kansas City, Kansas, raises awareness of the many education and training options available in the metropolitan area which may lead to a better job or simply enlarge your view of the world. Federal student aid and various scholarships can help make education a reality. The program is presented by Caryl Neinas of Educational Opportunity Centers, a grant-funded program based out of the University of Kansas with the mission of encouraging and assisting Wyandotte County area residents to continue their education. Call 913-906-8990 or register online at www.mountosb.org/kwc.

· The Kansas Black Chamber of Commerce will meet at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 10, for a networking meeting at Mama’s House, 4747 Parallel Parkway. The speaker will be Tresia Hassan, business tax expert.

· If the lack of “know-how” has kept you from eating fish and seafood then you won’t want to miss the Seafood Sensations program from noon to 1:15 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 15, at the K-State Research and Extension office, 1216 N. 79th. Topics include what seafood is, health benefits, food safety issues and tips that will include selecting, buying, handling, storing and cooking. The fee is $5. Call early to make your reservation at 299-9300 or e-mail Lori Wuellner at lwuellner@ksu.edu to attend the Seafood Sensations.

· The Kansas City, Kansas, Chamber of Commerce will have its annual meeting at 11:30 a.m. Feb. 17 at the Reardon Convention Center, 5th and Minnesota. Marie C. Johns, deputy administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, will be the guest speaker. For reservations or information call 913-371-3070.

KANSAS HEALTH INSURANCE ASSOCIATION TO ALLOW CHILDREN

On Thursday, the Senate unanimously approved a bill that allows the Kansas Health Insurance Association (the State High Risk Pool) to accept children. The goal is to accept children who have pre-existing conditions who are unable to obtain an individual insurance policy.

The bill was introduced at the request of the Kansas Insurance Department. In 2010, the Department was notified that a majority of insurance companies plan to stop covering children under age 19. By amending the Pool, we can ensure that these high-risk youths are able to get needed coverage.

TEMPORARY BEVERAGE LICENSES APPROVED

Also on Thursday, the Senate approved a bill authorizing counties and cities to issue temporary alcohol licenses for special events. These licenses can be used for events such as fairs, concerts, etc. that only last for a day or two.

Cities and counties currently have no authority to issue temporary licenses. According to the Alcohol Beverage Control Division, current law only permits licenses to be obtained for a full calendar year.

JANUARY REVENUES UP

Kansas’s financial forecast continues to look brighter. Reports from the Kansas Department of Revenue indicate that monthly state revenues were up more than 5% above estimates.

Several factors played into the above-estimated receipt. Although sales tax receipts were $5.5 million under estimates, use taxes were up $26 million. Individual income tax was also up 6.2%.

Year-to-date, the State of Kansas has received $5.4 million above November estimates.

The report indicates two important factors: Kansans are spending more online, and more Kansans are back to work. It’s a clear sign that we’re on the path to economic recovery.

WEAR RED DAY

Today, legislators participated in National Wear Red Day to support the fight against heart disease in women.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in Kansas. In 2007, one out of every three deaths of a Kansas woman was attributed to cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke.

Fortunately, there is something we can do. Ask your doctor to develop a heart disease prevention plan that controls key risk factors, including:

· Obesity

· Tobacco Use

· High blood pressure

· High blood cholesterol

· Physical inactivity

· Diabetes

· Unhealthy diet

You can also help raise awareness by sharing information and wearing red. While this observance is a call for women, men can show their support for the women in their lives by “Going Red” too.

Together, we can prevent more Kansas women from the devastating effects of heart disease.

ADDICTION HELP AVAILABLE

Beginning February 1^st, Kansas will offer assistance to addicted individuals and their families. The aid will be paid for by funds generated by the state-owned Dodge City casino.

Approximately $80,000 will be available during FY 2011 to provide treatment for up to 57 Kansans dealing with an addiction. Confidential, no cost assistance is available by calling the Kansas Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 or ValueOptions, Kansas at 1-866-645-8216.

EXECUTIVE REORGANIZATION ORDERS

Governor Brownback issued the 36^th Executive Reorganization Order (ERO) last week. ERO’s are used when the Governor plans to combine or eliminate several state agencies.

The Governor may reorganize only departments within the Executive branch. He cannot order changes to the judicial or legislative branches of government. All ERO’s must be issued within the first 30 calendar days of the session.

This is the Governor’s 36^th ERO in less than one month. To put that in perspective, only 33 ERO’s have been issued since the 1970s.

ERO’s ordered by Governor Brownback:

· Abolish Kansas, Inc., and replace it with the Governor’s Economic Council;

· Merge the Kansas Technology Enterprise Corporation (KTEC) into the Department of Commerce;

· Move Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns to the Governor’s office;

· Add a part-time Native American Affairs position to the Governor’s office;

· Merge the Human Rights Commission into the Attorney General’s office;

· Move E911 grant functions to the Attorney General’s office;

· Abolish the Kansas Arts Commission and replace with a private Arts Council;

· Merge the Kansas Health Policy Authority into the Department of Health and Environment;

· Eliminate the Parole Board and move its functions into the Department of Corrections;

· Move the Juvenile Justice Authority to the Department of Corrections;

· Merge the Animal Health Department, the State Conservation Commission, and Agriculture Marketing into the Department of Agriculture;

· Move Travel and Tourism to the Department of Wildlife and Parks.

EROs are sent to the House and Senate for consideration. The ERO becomes effective July 1^st unless the legislature passes a resolution to change or veto it. The legislature has 30 calendar days after it receives an ERO to act on it.

KANSAS ARTS COMMISSION

I have received a number of e-mails regarding Governor Brownback’s proposal to change the Kansas Arts Commission (KAC) into a non-profit organization. Please know that I am opposed to this plan.

Elimination of the KAC would cause Kansas to lose more than $1.2 million each year – nearly $800,000 from federal matching funds and $437,000 in grants from its regional partner.

The Kansas non-profit arts sector also supports 4,000 full-time jobs, generating over $15 million in local and state revenue. If the Kansas Arts Commission ceases to exist, jobs will be lost. Grants and professional development programs offered by the Kansas Arts Commission will no longer be available, curtailing the ability of small business owners to function.

An investment in the arts is an investment in private sector business. Cities thrive, grow, attract and retain businesses when the arts are supported. Investment in the arts increases the capacity of Kansas cities to build tourism and broaden their tax base.

Without arts programs, cities will be unable to grow and compete in the marketplace.

If you are concerned about KAC’s elimination, I encourage you to call the Governor’s office and share your thoughts. The number is (785) 296-3232.

UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS

A bill introduced Monday would make two big changes to unemployment benefits. First, it would reinstate the waiting week. Second, it would delete the “relocating spouse” clause.

For decades, unemployed workers were forced to wait a full week before receiving benefits because time was needed to manually process a claim. Current computer technology has made this practice outdated and unnecessary. And in 2007, the legislature eliminated the waiting week.

As we all know, utility bills, rent, and food expenses don’t wait when a worker is unemployed. Bills need to be paid, and families need to be fed. Reinstating the working week would put an undue strain on thousands of Kansas families.

Under the “Trailing Spouse” clause, a person who quits their job because a spouse has been transferred can still apply for unemployment benefits. That means, if your spouse is transferred to a job in Oklahoma, you could join your spouse out-of-state without losing your benefits.

In 2009, 470 Kansans filed as a “trailing spouse”. Eliminating it would make it even more difficult for families to stay intact when one is voluntarily – or involuntarily – transferred far away.