Attorney General Kris Kobach has filed a lawsuit against Snapchat, for violating the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksrevisor.gov/statutes/chapters/ch50/050_006_0023.html">Kansas Consumer Protection Act</a>&nbsp;(KCPA).&nbsp;

According to Kobach, the KCPA imposes civil penalties on companies that deceive Kansas consumers by marketing a product with deceptive intent. Kobach added that Snapchat is being marketed as 'safe for kids 12 and older.'&nbsp;

However, he wants to make that change from 12 and older, to 18+ due to the type of content the app portrays.

"There is just a continuous amount of information that has sexual content, nudity, profanity and drug selling on the platform," said Kobach. "I would argue that is not good for an 18-year old, but it is certainly not good for a 12-year old."

The lawsuit was officially filed on Tuesday, September 23 at the Washington County District Court. Kobach added the argument they are stating in court.

"The argument we are making in court is that Snapchat, has falsely advertised this as being safe for 12-year olds, when they know darn well that it is not safe for 12-year olds," he said.

According to <a href="https://help.snapchat.com/hc/en-us/articles/8961631424020-How-We-Rank-Content-on-Discover">Snapchat Support</a>&nbsp;and their <a href="https://values.snap.com/policy/policy-community-guidelines/sexual-content">Community guidelines</a>, the company 'strives to protect' consumers from&nbsp;unsolicited sexual content or abuse. In the case of violence, Snapchat takes 'all instances of threats, violence and harm seriously,' and 'does not allow content that encourages, threatens, or graphically depicts violent or dangerous behavior, or content that glorifies or encourages self-harm.'

One of their <a href="https://help.snapchat.com/hc/en-us/articles/8961631424020-How-We-Rank-Content-on-Discover">policies</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;"How we rank content on Discover," states the app is set up in a way that makes 'content age and language appropriate.'

The following is a statement from Snapchat Support over <a href="https://help.snapchat.com/hc/en-us/articles/8961631424020-How-We-Rank-Content-on-Discover#:~:text=4.,is%20localized%20to%20your%20location.">'content age and language appropriate</a>':

We want to make sure that the content you see is appropriate for your age and the language you speak. To do this, we look at your country, your language, the age you provided when you created an account, and the age we think you may be, based on your friends and your activity. We use this information to group you with similar users in your age group. This way we can identify content that is appropriate for you, in the language that you speak, and is localized to your location.

Kobach shared that he is concerned as parent for his children, especially for his youngest daughters that are 10 and 13. He commented that on the app store, Snapchat has an age rate of 12+ and he thinks that should not be the case.

"That little bit of information has huge consequences, because I, as the parent may be deceived in saying, this looks okay for you," he said. "The parent does not sit there looking over the shoulder of the kid, while their child is on it scrolling for an half an hour, hour, or an hour and a half. As a parent, our best place to protect our kids is before they download the app, after that it is very hard. This lawsuit is about making Snapchat be honest with people and allowing Kansas parents to better protect their kids."

KBI Director shares the dangers of Snapchat

KBI Director, Tony Mattivi shared points they know about the dangers of Snapchat, unrelated to the lawsuit.

According to Mattivi, the app is used as a 'primary mechanism,' by which fentanyl dealers are selling fentanyl to children.

"We know that fentanyl dealers are targeting children under 18, they are using social media to do it and primarily Snapchat," said Mattivi. "I can give you example after example, of Kansas teenagers who have used Snapchat to buy fake pills that had fentanyl and killed them."

Mattivi added the other way Snapchat is being used, is by the transmission of child sexual abuse materials.

"Our message has been simple to all Kansans, do not ever take a pill that you did not get from a doctor's office or a pharmacy," said Kobach. "We are doing everything we can to try and stop this...We are working hard to protect Kansas parents and their children."

"My main message to parents would be, if you did not get that pill from a pharmacist yourself, then do not take it and do not let your kids take it," said Mattivi. "You have to educate your kids on that, one pill really can kill and that is not an embellishment."

According to Mattivi, fentanyl overdoses are the leading cause of death for Americans under 40.

Kobach and Mattivi also shared that a KBI agent lost his son due to a fentanyl exchange through Snapchat.

"People ask me all the time, what is the biggest myth about fentanyl? It is actually three. Can't happen in my community, can't happen to my family and can't happen to me," said Mattivi. "If we can have a career drug agent (KBI) lose their child to fentanyl poisoning, it can happen to anybody."&nbsp;

Kansas, now the 4th state to sue Snapchat

Following the lawsuit from the AG, Kansas is not first state to sue Snapchat. Kobach said states such as Utah, Florida and New Mexico have sued the social media company in the past.

Kobach said the lawsuit also seeks financial penalties. 

The KCPA allows Kansas to recover up to $10,000 per incident.&nbsp;

Snapchat facing lawsuit after violating Kansas Consumer Protection Act 

&nbsp;Kansas Department of Transportation

OTTAWA COUNTY - Beginning Wednesday, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) plans to begin resurfacing K-106 in Ottawa County.

Project work will consist of a surface recycle on about 7 miles of K-106 from the east city limits of Minneapolis to the Ottawa County State Fishing Lake. (See map above).

During construction, flaggers and a pilot car will be used to guide one lane of traffic through construction at a reduced speed. Drivers should plan for delays of 15 minutes or less during daylight hours.

Dustrol Inc., of Towanda, is the prime contractor for this $946,547 project, which is scheduled to be completed by November 2025, conditions permitting.

KDOT urges motorists to stay alert and follow posted signs in all work zones. For current road conditions, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kandrive.gov%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/010101999bb3d2dc-9964ca00-8844-463a-bb7f-99d2d5b5ca67-000000/DyrOsALbQiQsT7MlLtCaRnWPZ8U3t3LkNTHHGJRzpwA=424">kandrive.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 5-1-1.

For updates on highway projects in north central Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.gov%2Fnorthcentralnews%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/010101999bb3d2dc-9964ca00-8844-463a-bb7f-99d2d5b5ca67-000000/_2_x_ElsU0QuIFALF0wv_Ttpmz7RR9BlVj1w0KSmelg=424">ksdot.gov/northcentralnews</a>.

K-106 resurfacing has begun in Ottawa County

The Kansas Department of Commerce (KDOC) announced that $1.5 million is available for a sixth round of Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grants to revitalize dilapidated and underutilized downtown buildings in small communities across the state. These grants help close the financial gaps for communities striving to make their downtown districts economically vibrant.

Since the launch of the program in 2021, $7 million has been awarded to fund more than 100 different community projects throughout Kansas. The state investment has leveraged $36.7 million in local matching funds.

“Most small communities have plenty of buildings in their downtown, but not enough of them are ready to be occupied by small businesses,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Restoring these beautiful buildings brings the structures back to productive use as centers of commerce and helps keep downtowns alive and vital.”

The HEAL grant program helps communities revitalize downtown buildings as spaces for new or expanding businesses, housing, arts and culture, civic engagement, childcare or entrepreneurial activities.

Submitted projects must show potential to become economic drivers in the community and demonstrate that the space will be occupied by the end of the project. There must be proof of 1:1 matching funds from the building owner that will be required at the time of application.

The application window opens October 1 and closes December 31. Awardees will be notified in March. Communities that received HEAL grants in fall 2024 or spring 2025 are not eligible to apply for this round of funding.

For interested parties, a virtual webinar about the specifics of the program is scheduled for 3:00 pm Monday, October 6. Registration is required for the webinar and a Zoom link will be provided once registration is completed. To register, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fus02web.zoom.us%2Fwebinar%2Fregister%2FWN_9GpOdD5hRdG2S-7tWT3vBA%23%2Fregistration/1/010101999c38d28f-a6831313-010a-40c9-835d-a6971c91c7fe-000000/spr4ao2wEA53KX9z5BO2togAl9-XU5uYpRHX_ujv8vo=424">here</a>.

The Office of Rural Prosperity will host office hours from 10:00 to 11:00 am October 16, November 13 and December 11 for those with questions. Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fus02web.zoom.us%2Fmeeting%2Fregister%2FemYrwRQARD6I0699gFKeAQ%23%2Fregistration/1/010101999c38d28f-a6831313-010a-40c9-835d-a6971c91c7fe-000000/dzBzYFUB6q2VoaPBJTtCgaGcVXhPAPoHFCQva5-Rn24=424">here</a>&nbsp;to register.

For additional information about HEAL grants, the webinar and the online application, please click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansascommerce.gov%2Fcommunity-development%2Fheal%2F/1/010101999c38d28f-a6831313-010a-40c9-835d-a6971c91c7fe-000000/J3bG8tk1SbIUjdzyhOUvftXT5NpvXLlQ-O5XsH0x2ZE=424">here</a>.

KDOC offers $1.5M in HEAL grants to revitalize downtown buildings

After Attorney General, Kris Kobach sued the Kelly administration for not sending basic information of&nbsp;Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to the federal government, the Shawnee County District Court has granted a dismissal of the lawsuit.

According to the Kelly administration, the court granted the Governor a motion to dismiss AG Kobach's lawsuit regarding the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) SNAP data request on Tuesday. 

Governor Kelly issued the following statement:

“It is unfortunate that Attorney General Kobach decided to engage in low-rent political theater, wasting taxpayer dollars and spreading misinformation,”&nbsp;said Gov. Kelly.&nbsp;“I appreciate the court granting my administration’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit on the grounds that the Attorney General’s actions were premature as we continue through the USDA’s administrative review process and that my administration does not have a legal duty to turn over Kansans’ personal information at this time. Had the Attorney General met with my office prior to filing his lawsuit, as my office had requested, we could have explained the issue without having to go through the time and expense of the court. It is clear from the court’s order that the Attorney General’s arguments were without merit.”

ORIGINAL: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/0ad24636-7369-4fc8-8b5e-855a301361ad">DCF in full support of not releasing personal info of SNAP recipients following lawsuit from Kobach</a>

The Kelly administration added that AG Kobach has 'made false claims' that Kansas has lost $10.4 million in SNAP funding.

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/0ad24636-7369-4fc8-8b5e-855a301361ad"></a>"The Attorney General has, on multiple occasions, made false claims that the State of Kansas has lost $10.4 million in administrative funding for the SNAP program," said the Office of Governor Kelly.

According to the Kansas Department for Children and Families, the state 'has not lost any SNAP administrative funding' and will continue to operate as normal.

The following is a statement from AG Kobach:

“We disagree with the judge’s interpretation of ripeness and are considering an appeal. Regardless, the governor continues to defy Kansas law. Needy Kansans have now lost $10.4 million in food assistance because of her political theatrics. That money is not coming back. It is laughable to suggest that she will be able to persuade the USDA to change its decision. And now, because of the governor’s desire to thumb her nose at the Trump administration, needy Kansans will lose another $10.4 million of food assistance in December.”

UPDATE: Court grants Kelly administration motion to dismiss AG Kobach's SNAP lawsuit, comments from both sides

Governor Kelly has directed flags to be flown at half-staff on all state buildings, grounds and facilities from sunup to sundown on Friday, October 3, in honor of Hays Police Sergeant Scott Heimann.

Sgt. Heimann was killed in the line of duty on Sunday, September 28.

“For nearly a decade, Sergeant Heimann was committed to protecting those in Hays, and he made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his community,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“His sacrifice is a debt that we will never forget or be able to repay. My sincere condolences go out to his family and loved ones as they mourn this tragedy, and to all Kansans as we grieve our state’s fourth line-of-duty death in the last three months.”

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/45c90b33-b465-4895-91a5-6a3500fa2d9f">Sergeant Heimann will be honored during services held on Friday, October 3.</a>

Flag directed at half-staff for fallen Hays officer on Friday

Kansas Law Enforcement and First Responders traveled through I-135 for the vehicle escort of fallen Hays Police Department officer,&nbsp;Sgt. Scott Heimann.

The escort started Tuesday afternoon in Wichita and traveled through I-135, past Salina.

Hays Memorial Chapel (1906 Pine Street) is the destination point.

Heimann was killed in the line of duty while responding to a barricaded subject incident. He was pronounced dead just after 4:00 am on Sunday, September 28.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 am on Friday, October 3, at Gross Memorial Coliseum with Fr. Fred Gatschet officiating.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.haysmemorial.com/obituary/Scott-Heimann">Click here to read</a>&nbsp;the full obituary

KS Law Enforcement and First Responders travel through Salina during escort for fallen Hays officer 

Victim of fraud recovers over $7,000 before nearly losing the amount by a scammer.&nbsp;

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Monday, a 74-year old woman was on her computer at home, when suddenly a fraudulent pop-up came across her browser. She then clicked on the pop-up and was provided a phone number to contact.

Afterwards, the woman contacted the phone number and connected with someone claiming they were from the "FDIC fraud division from Sunflower Bank." The caller advised that she needed to go to her bank, take $7,400 from her checking/savings account and transfer the amount over to the scammer.

The scammer gave instructions to the victim to say to the banktellers, she is needing the cash to "take a trip to Jamaica," if they expressed concerns of fraud. The victim then said the statement to the tellers and withdrew the full amount.

Furthermore, the scammer told the victim to turn the cash into Bitcoin. She then was able transfer the amount through Bitcoin Depot, which the funds were placed into a Bitcoin wallet.

Shortly after, the victim contacted SPD about concerns of her being scammed.

SPD was then able to contact Bitcoin Depot to freeze the victim's account, before the money was fully transferred.

The victim successfully recovered the full amount.

SPD Lt. Zeigler warned the public that it is a scam, if people tell you to lie to the bank and say you taking a trip somewhere you are not.

Fraud victim recovers over $7,000 before nearly losing the amount by a scammer

Two juveniles were arrested after committing multiple thefts at Target.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD), security of the Target store on 2939 Market Pl., detained two female juveniles ages 14 and 16 for shoplifting.&nbsp;

Reportedly, Target has been aware of the shoplifting since September 17 where the juveniles stole $96.99 of items. Moreover, on the 20th the juveniles stole $17 worth of items and on the 23rd, they stole $186.46 of items from the store.

Then on Monday, September 29 they stole a total of $66 of items.

SPD apprehended the juveniles from Target security and transported them to the Juvenile Detention Center in Junction City.

Furthermore, SPD added a third female suspect aged 13, was part of the shoplifting crimes, but was not present during the time of the arrest of the other two juveniles.&nbsp;

According to SPD Lt. Zeigler, the crimes are a Felony Theft.

Multiple Target store thefts results in two juvenile arrests

Salina authorities are investigating a theft of a pickup truck that was stolen from a car dealership.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) from Saturday, September 27 at 4:00 pm - the morning of Monday, September 29, Salina Used Cars (833 E. Crawford) reported a pickup truck was stolen from the business.

Employees reported a white 2017 Chevy Silverado, no tag with&nbsp;a distinctive bedliner was stolen from the lot.

The truck is&nbsp;and&nbsp;valued&nbsp;at $24,900.

Investigation ensues after stolen pickup truck from car dealership in East Salina

The Salina Police Department (SPD) has provided a full report regarding the suspect who burglarized the VFW Post 1432.

ORIGINAL:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/c298e4b4-6190-41a1-861e-3cbe8a4d26d5">VFW Post 1432 burglarized, investigation ongoing</a>

According to SPD, at around 1:00 am on Monday a male suspect broke into VFW Post 1432. The suspect reportedly broke into 3 gaming machines, an electronic dart machine and stole a safe. He also attempted to break into an ATM machine.

The suspect stole a total of over $5,000 in cash.

UPDATE: SPD gives full report regarding VFW burglary

This fall, Kansans for Life launched AFTERMATH, a first-of-its-kind traveling memorial that is now making its way through communities across Kansas.

At each stop, visitors walk through a powerful display the size of a basketball court - 19,467 fetal models, each representing a child lost to abortion in Kansas in 2023. Visitors have described the memorial as sobering, emotional and unforgettable.

AFTERMATH was created in response to the surge of abortions in Kansas since the 2019 state Supreme Court ruling that declared abortion a constitutional right. That decision stripped away long-standing protections for women and their preborn children. The result has been devastating: thousands more abortions each year, families forever changed, and a human cost too often hidden from view. This memorial brings that reality into the light.

City after city, local churches and volunteers have stepped up to host, set up, greet visitors, and repack the display - making it possible for Kansans of every age and background to encounter the truth in a way statistics alone cannot express.

Beyond the display itself, the memorial gives visitors the chance to learn how Kansas arrived at this moment, reflect as they walk through, and respond. There will also be resources available for those who may have been personally impacted by abortion, as well as free pregnancy help across the state for families who need support.

And the journey is not finished. AFTERMATH will continue traveling in the weeks ahead, giving more Kansans the chance to walk through the memorial, reflect, and respond.

This Friday, October 3, AFTERMATH will be in Salina from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm at Jerry Ivey Memorial Park. All are welcome to experience this powerful memorial.

Visit aftermathks.com for the upcoming tour schedule, volunteer opportunities, and resources to share with your church or community

AFTERMATH: Traveling memorial in response to abortions across Kansas arrives to Salina on Friday

<a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Salina&amp;state=KS&amp;site=ICT&amp;lat=38.8158&amp;lon=-97.6178">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Monitor local weather updates frequently in multiple ways by listening to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/nwr/">NOAA Weather Radio</a>, checking local news and emergency notifications. You can also stay informed by following Saline County and the National Weather Service on social media.

For the latest forecast updates, visit the National Weather Service Wichita office at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">https://www.weather.gov/ict/</a>. To check forecasts frequently, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weather.gov</a>.

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 29 - October 1

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 26 - September 28

For the latest forecast updates, visit the National Weather Service Wichita office at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">https://www.weather.gov/ict/</a>. To check forecasts frequently, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weathe</a>

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 24 - September 26

As Tuesday morning's showers continue throughout Central Kansas,&nbsp; flooding remains a possibility.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS) the severity remains low for these scattered showers and storms throughout the region on Tuesday. However, heavy rainfall amounts and flooding are a possibility.&nbsp;

Please stay alert on the roadways and be safe while driving.

Flooding remains possible with Tuesday morning's showers 

The US National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita forecasts severe thunderstorms are expected to develop after midnight tonight and continue into Tuesday morning across Central Kansas.

According to NWS Wichita, these storms are likely to produce high rainfall rates, which may lead to flooding. Storms are expected to move in from the west after midnights, with most locations in Saline County after 3:00 am. The heaviest rainfall is likely between 4:00 am and noon Tuesday.

Saline County Emergency Management stated there is slightly lower confidence on how large hailstones may get, but the confidence is in the heavy rainfall and flooding potential has been increasing.

Severe storms with heavy rainfall amounts expected after midnight in Central Kansas

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 22 - September 24

Scattered storms are possible to develop this evening across Central Kansas.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), these storms have a chance of occurring late tonight with stronger storms capable of producing hail up to quarter size. However, the severity is marginal and chances are low throughout the region.

Scattered storms possible to occur late tonight in Central Kansas

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 19 - September 21

Showers and thunderstorms expected to continue today and into Thursday throughout the Central Kansas region.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms have impacted central and north-central Kansas this morning. Locally heavy rainfall will be the primary hazard. However, activity should tend to gradually dissipate as the morning progresses.

A few strong to marginally severe thunderstorms are possible after 4:00 pm today, mainly along the west of Flint Hills.&nbsp;

These showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue into Thursday.

Showers and thunderstorms expected to continue into Thursday, heavy rainfall anticipated

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 17 - September 19

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are&nbsp;investigating an aggravated battery at a memory care facility involving residents of the facility. 

Shortly after 8 a.m. Tuesday, emergency services were called to a long-term care facility near 75th and Switzer Road in Overland Park, according to Officer John Lacy. 

Upon arrival, Johnson County Emergency Medical Services determined there were two residents who were in need of medical care. EMS responders transported them to a local hospital. One of the involved residents, a 66-year-old man, received life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital. A second resident, a 71-year-old man, had non-life-threatening injuries.

The investigation led detectives to believe a third resident was responsible for the injuries to the other two residents. The suspect, an 84-year-old man, is being evaluated at a local hospital and is pending disposition. He is cooperating with investigators.

Staff from the long-term care facility are cooperating with the investigation. The families of the involved subjects have been notified and requested privacy at this time. 

Police: 2 injured after assault at Kan. memory care facility 

SEDGWICK COUNTY– A 23-year-old man of Wichita is in extremely critical condition after being shot during a disturbance early Tuesday morning at a QuikTrip in southwest Wichita. A 16-year-old juvenile suspect of Wichita has been taken into custody.

Just before 3a.m., police responded to the shooting in the QuikTrip parking lot at Pawnee and Meridian in Wichita, according to a media release.

 Investigators learned several people were involved in an argument that turned physical. During the altercation, the suspect pulled out a firearm and shot the victim.

A passerby attempted life-saving measures until Sedgwick County EMS arrived and transported the victim to a local hospital. The victim underwent surgery and remains in extremely critical condition.

The 16-year-old suspect was booked into juvenile detention on requested charges of Aggravated Battery, Criminal discharge of a firearm at an occupied building and Juvenile in possession of a firearm

Police Chief Joe Sullivan expressed his frustration with the ongoing violence involving juveniles and firearms.

“This has got to stop. It is unacceptable for juveniles to have access to guns,” Sullivan said. “Picking up a firearm to solve a temporary problem is not the answer. Too many lives are being destroyed by these reckless choices.”&nbsp;

Police: 16-year-old shot man in Kansas store parking lot fight

WASHINGTON –&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran on Tuesday evening spoke on the Senate floor after the Senate failed to pass a continuing resolution to fund the government at current levels until November 21 and avert a government shutdown. The final vote was 55 – 45 but required 60 votes for passage.

“We are coming to the end of the fiscal year, and not all of the appropriations bills have been approved, although almost all of them have been approved by the Senate Committee on Appropriations and several have been passed here in the United States Senate,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.

“Every city council or commission, every school board, every local government office in my state passes a budget and then lives within that budget every year,”&nbsp;continued Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“Every local unit of government at home can figure this out, and the U.S. Senate is failing one more time. A shutdown means uncertainty; a shutdown means dysfunction. The issue is the continuing resolution that would fund the federal government until November 21 and is designed to avoid that disfunction, avoid that uncertainty. All that’s required is that we pass the continuing resolution, 60 votes in the U.S. Senate, to keep government functioning, so that we can then pass the remaining appropriations bills.”

“We can’t pass a continuing resolution because there are those who want to bring other issues into the bill,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“Seems to me that appropriating is one of the primary responsibilities and necessities of the United States Senate. This is simple and straightforward.”

The Senate Committee on Appropriations has passed 11 of the 12 annual appropriations bills, and for the first time since 2019, the U.S. Senate passed three of the appropriations bills before the August state work period.

🎥Moran: The U.S. Senate is failing one more time

WASHINGTON (AP) — Plunged into a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-chuck-schumer-20e54a0f5e4fee909d0f9ea2c07c15e1">government shutdown</a>, the U.S. is confronting a fresh cycle of uncertainty after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;and Congress&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-senate-schumer-thune-trump-health-care-b85fe6cdd5d8cdc3e3aa1f4ae889474f">failed to strike an agreement</a>&nbsp;to keep government programs and services running by Wednesday’s deadline.

Roughly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/donald-trump-news-updates-9-30-2025#00000199-9b62-d3e5-a399-ff7b4ce10000">750,000 federal workers</a>&nbsp;are expected to be furloughed, some&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/donald-trump-news-updates-9-30-2025#00000199-9c25-d394-abb9-bf2ff8a90000">potentially fired</a>&nbsp;by the Trump administration. Many&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/effects-of-government-shutdown-donald-trump-4a16fc477eb67b7cf7ac708e578146e3">offices will be shuttered</a>, perhaps permanently, as Trump vows to “do things that are irreversible, that are bad” as retribution. His&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=ap%2C+deportations&amp;rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS1151US1151&amp;oq=ap%2C+deportations&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIICAEQABgWGB4yCAgCEAAYFhgeMggIAxAAGBYYHjIKCAQQABgKGBYYHjILCAUQABgWGB4YxwMyCwgGEAAYFhgeGMcDMgYIBxBFGEHSAQgzMzAxajBqN6gCCLACAfEFvyEijmQRltw&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">deportation agenda</a>&nbsp;is expected to run full speed ahead, while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/donald-trump-news-updates-9-30-2025#00000199-9ca5-d8db-af9f-bcbfbbfc0000">education</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/donald-trump-news-updates-9-30-2025#00000199-9b5d-d3e5-a399-ff7d80870000">environmental</a>&nbsp;and other services sputter. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/donald-trump-news-updates-9-30-2025#00000199-9ca8-d073-abdf-ddfdfb520000">economic fallout</a>&nbsp;is expected to ripple nationwide.

“We don’t want it to shut down,” Trump said at the White House before the midnight deadline.

But&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-trump-democrats-health-care-blame-ee852953197b7b59f3447aa3a2167ac0">the president</a>, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-shutdown-government-chuck-schumer-8510b2fa4d40c4bbc058951c49c42468">met privately with congressional leadership</a>&nbsp;this week, appeared unable to negotiate any deal between Democrats and Republicans to prevent that outcome.

This is the third time Trump has presided over a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdowns-history-schumer-trump-f442ba1392fab3e7cab37756302e829c">federal funding lapse</a>, the first since his return to the White House this year, in a remarkable record that underscores the polarizing divide over budget priorities and a political climate that rewards hardline positions rather than more traditional compromises.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-health-care-subsidies-schumer-6b0d64fe442fc4fa8a8daf283a30ce76">Democrats picked this fight</a>, which was unusual for the party that prefers to keep government running, but their voters are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/democrats-congress-chuck-schumer-government-funding-shutdown-43d1acea20c34ad28d848edc08ad6375">eager to challenge</a>&nbsp;the president’s second-term agenda. Democrats are demanding funding for health care subsidies that are expiring for millions of people under the Affordable Care Act, spiking the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-health-care-tax-credits-obamacare-shutdown-f1ee636ddba7f65baa5234c55cb0c96e">costs of insurance premiums</a>&nbsp;nationwide.

Republicans have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-republicans-funding-schumer-congress-trump-0c1973b2d0aad76aa5a3ec3749965edd">refused to negotiate</a>&nbsp;for now and have encouraged Trump to steer clear of any talks. After the White House meeting, the president posted a cartoonish fake video mocking the Democratic leadership that was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/donald-trump-news-updates-9-30-2025#00000199-9afd-d8db-af9f-baff3ed90000">widely viewed as unserious and racist</a>.

What neither side has devised is an easy offramp to prevent what could become a protracted closure. The ramifications are certain to spread beyond the political arena, upending the lives of Americans who rely on the government for benefit payments, work contracts and the various services being thrown into turmoil.

“What the government spends money on is a demonstration of our country’s priorities,” said Rachel Snyderman, a former White House budget official who is the managing director of economic policy at the Bipartisan Policy Center, a think tank in Washington.

Shutdowns, she said, “only inflict economic cost, fear and confusion across the country.”

Economic fallout expected to ripple nationwide

An economic jolt could be felt in a matter of days. The government is expected Friday to produce its monthly jobs report, which may or may not be delivered.

While the financial markets have generally “shrugged” during past shutdowns, according to a Goldman Sachs analysis, this one could be different partly because there are no signs of broader negotiations.

“There are also few good analogies to this week’s potential shutdown,” the analysis said.

Across the government, preparations have been underway. Trump’s Office of Management and Budget, headed by Russ Vought, directed agencies to execute plans for not just furloughs, as are typical during a federal funding lapse, but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-congress-government-shutdown-99d4cafe53209f6dc6ae5562c2ac79d2">mass firings</a>&nbsp;of federal workers. It’s part of the Trump administration’s mission, including its Department of Government Efficiency, to shrink the federal government.

The Medicare and Medicaid health care programs are expected to continue, though staffing shortages could mean delays for some services. The Pentagon would still function. And most employees will stay on the job at the Department of Homeland Security.

But Trump has warned that the administration could focus on programs that are important to Democrats, “cutting vast numbers of people out, cutting things that they like, cutting programs that they like.”

As agencies sort out which workers are essential, or not, Smithsonian museums are expected to stay open at least until Monday. A group of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-national-parks-burgum-superintendents-trash-b5109ba06f1cb3baef9370f585650136">former national park superintendents</a>&nbsp;urged the Trump administration to close the parks to visitors, arguing that poorly staffed parks in a shutdown are a danger to the public and put park resources at risk.

Ahead of Wednesday’s start of the fiscal year, House Republicans had approved a temporary funding bill, over opposition from Democrats, to keep government running into mid-November while broader negotiations continue.

But that bill has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-trump-funding-bill-republicans-shutdown-1fea0f79c85ec69b91d9789fbda00834">failed repeatedly</a>&nbsp;in the Senate, including late Tuesday. It takes a 60-vote threshold for approval, which requires cooperation between the two parties. A Democratic bill also failed. With a 53-47 GOP majority, Democrats are leveraging their votes to demand negotiation.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-thune-ap-interview-omb-memo-6b79cd64987b6173f1b3295dc3505994">Senate Majority Leader John Thune</a>&nbsp;has said Republicans are happy to discuss the health care issue with Democrats — but not as part of talks to keep the government open. More votes are expected Wednesday.

The standoff is a political test for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/charles-schumer">Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer</a>, who has drawn scorn from a restive base of left-flank voters pushing the party to hold firm in its demands for health care funding.

“Americans are hurting with higher costs,” Schumer said after the failed vote Tuesday.

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/">House Speaker Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;sent lawmakers home nearly two weeks ago after having passed the GOP bill, blaming Democrats for the shutdown.

“They want to fight Trump,” Johnson said Tuesday on CNBC. “A lot of good people are going to be hurt because of this.”

Trump, during his meeting with the congressional leaders, expressed surprise at the scope of the rising costs of health care, but Democrats left with no path toward talks.

During Trump’s first term, the nation endured its longest-ever shutdown, 35 days, over his demands for funds Congress refused to provide to build his promised U.S.-Mexico border wall.

In 2013, the government shut down for 16 days during the Obama presidency over GOP demands to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. Other closures date back decades.

First closure of US government since 2018 begins 

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Authorities are still investigating the cause of a fire that took the life of a 15-year-old, authorities reported on Tuesday.

Just before 6p.m. September 25, the Kansas City, Kansas, Fire Department responded to the apartment fire on South 71st Street, according to a media release.

First responders observed smoke coming from the upper apartment windows and were told someone may still be inside. Firefighters found an unresponsive 15-year-old boy on the second floor of the unit.

He was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased abound 90 minutes later. A resident was transported to a hospital for treatment of lacerations from breaking a window to help another resident. That occupant was also taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation.&nbsp;One firefighter was treated for heat exhaustion.

15-year-old dies in Kansas apartment fire

MONTGMERY COUNTY— Two suspects injured in a crash during a police chase in Montgomery County are now in jail.

Four people were injured in the accident that occurred just after 4p.m. on September 26.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Jeep driven by Tenisha D.&nbsp;Mayberry, 38, Blue Springs, Mo., was northbound on Patterson Boulevard fleeing law enforcement. The driver failed to yield at a stop light at 8th Street in Coffeyville and struck the passenger side of eastbound Chevy Tahoe driven by Maia E, O'Connell, 17, Coffeyville.

After impact the Jeep traveled off the road and overturned. The Tahoe left the road and rolled onto its roof.

EMS transported Mayberry, a passenger in the Jeep Cortez J. Wasson, Jr. 19,&nbsp; Blue Springs, Missouri, O'Connell to Coffeyville Regional Hospital. EMS transported a passenger in the Tahoe Serafina L&nbsp; O'Connell, 15, Coffeyville, to&nbsp;St Francis Hospital in Tulsa. Wasson was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mayberry is being held on requested charges of felony interference with law enforcement, felony fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer, Aggravated battery; Reckless deadly weapon cause great body harm/disfig/death, Possession of marijuana, according to online jail records.&nbsp; Wasson is being held on requested charges of&nbsp;felony interference with law enforcement, Aggravated battery; Reckless deadly weapon cause great body harm/disfig/death and possession of marijuana.

Suspects in KHP chase, crash moved from hospital to jail

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The Des Moines public schools superintendent who has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ian-roberts-des-moines-schools-ice-arrest-510efff3950a1890a384e1b3e0c8b5a3">detained by immigration authorities</a>&nbsp;submitted his resignation Tuesday while he focuses on challenging his looming deportation, his lawyer said.

Ian Roberts had been under the impression from a prior attorney that his immigration case was “resolved successfully,” said attorney Alfredo Parrish. His law firm filed a request to stay Roberts’ deportation with an immigration court in Omaha, Nebraska, and was working on another motion to reopen the educator’s immigration proceedings.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-des-moines-superintendent-ian-roberts-b52a9ea28d002d27832c67513403368e">detained Roberts last week</a>, saying the Guyana native and former Olympic runner was living and working in the country illegally. A state board stripped Roberts’ license to be superintendent.

The Des Moines school board voted Monday to put Roberts on unpaid leave from his job leading the district, which has more than 30,000 students.

Roberts submitted a letter through his attorney announcing his immediate resignation Tuesday, saying he did not want to distract the district’s leaders and teachers from focusing on educating students.

Board chair Jackie Norris had given Roberts until noon Tuesday to provide documentation showing he can legally work in the U.S., or face dismissal proceedings. The board plans to hold a special meeting Tuesday night to consider whether to accept the resignation.

The backlash from the arrest was far from over.

The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division announced Tuesday that it would investigate whether the district has engaged in racial discrimination by favoring non-white applicants as part of a plan to “increase the number of teachers of color.” A district spokesperson said the matter was under review.

Roberts, 54, is being held at the Woodbury County Jail in Sioux City, Iowa, about 150 miles (240 kilometers) northwest of Des Moines.

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