By STEVEN HOWE State Representative (R-71st District)

Last month, the governor vetoed a bipartisan tax reduction bill (SB37), expressing concern about the long-term costs of sustaining a lower tax structure. The governor then called for a special session of the Legislature to reconsider a revised tax plan, Senate Bill #1, which was agreed upon in advance by the governor, House and Senate leadership.

Yesterday, I was in the Capitol for this much-anticipated special session. Both sides of the aisle were told that we needed to pass a “clean” bill without amendments otherwise, it might result in another veto from the governor. 

We were told this was the best we could do in light of the governor’s veto pen.

I joined a super-majority of legislators in the Kansas House passing SB 1 by a margin of 121-2. The Senate passed the same legislation 34-4 and now it goes to the governor for her signature.

This tax reduction bill does the following beginning in tax year 2024:

⦁ Fully exempts Social Security income from Kansas income tax

Restructures individual income tax brackets and rates to provide for a two-bracket system (5.58% and 5.2%.)

⦁ Increases the standard deduction amounts from $3,500 to $3,605 for single filing status, $8,000 to $8,240 for married filing status and $6,000 to $6,180 for head-of-household filing status.

⦁ Increases the personal exemption allowance amount, currently set at $2,250 for all persons on the return, to $18,320 for married couples filing jointly, $9,160 for all other filers, and an additional $2,320 for each dependent listed on the return.

⦁ Abolishes the Local Ad Valorem Tax Reduction Fund and County and City Revenue Sharing Fund.

⦁ Increases the amount of residential property exempt from the statewide uniform school finance levy to $75,000 of appraised value.

⦁ Increases the tax credit for household and dependent care expenses from 25 percent to 50 percent of the federally-allowed amount.

⦁ Reduces the privilege tax rates applied to financial institutions (for banks it goes from 2.25% to 1.94%) (for trust companies and savings and loan associations it goes from 2.25% to 1.93%).

⦁Excludes Section 1031 exchange sales from being considered valid sales for property valuation purposes.

While many of us wish we could have done more, some tax reduction is better than nothing at all. In order to further reduce taxes in future years, the Legislature and governor need to get serious about reducing state spending, which has seen exponential growth in recent years.

Lastly, during the special session, legislation (HB 2001) was introduced and passed in both chambers to lure a professional sports team, NFL and MLB, to Kansas. Both the Royals and Chiefs are considering their options in light of a sales tax proposal being defeated by voters in Jackson County, Missouri in April of this year. While I think highly of the Royals and Chiefs, and I have enjoyed their successes over the recent years, I voted against HB 2001.

Essentially, I do not think it is the role of the state government to be involved in incentivizing the construction of luxurious sports stadiums, especially when many people cannot afford to enjoy a game or concert. The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) published an informative report on this subject, which I will share a link to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncsl.org/fiscal/stadium-game-back-in-play">here</a>.

 In this report it states, “For the past several decades, cities and states have subsidized the construction of new sports facilities. However, consensus among economists and other experts is that sports stadiums do not offer a positive return on investment.” 

I would encourage everyone who is interested in this issue to read this informative report.

Moreover, according to recent news reports, the Chiefs and the Royals, they hired 35 lobbyists to blitz legislators leading up to the special session with phone calls, meetings and even steak dinners, as reported by the Kansas Reflector. 

No wonder people are disillusioned with politicians. Fast-tracking legislation like this confirms people’s suspicion that special interests rule the agenda in Topeka and that the government is overrun by people with deep pockets.

Luckily, and for everyone's sake, the Legislature is now adjourned until January 2025. Ultimately, the vitality of our republican model of government rests on your participation. Each election year, the people of Kansas consent to the kind of government they want. Please do not sit on the sidelines this election year. Ask questions, do your research, meet the candidates, attend a forum, and most importantly - VOTE!

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Communications. The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709073668247.jpeg" alt="Steven Howe" />
 <figcaption>Steven Howe</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVEN HOWE State Representative (R-71st District)Last month, the governor vetoed a bipartisan tax reduction bill (SB37), expressing concern about the long-term costs of sustaining a lower tax structure. The governor then called for a special session of the Legislature to reconsider a revised tax plan, Senate Bill #1, which was agreed upon in advance by the governor, House and Senate leadership.Yesterday, I was in the Capitol for this much-anticipated special session. Both sides of the aisle were told that we needed to pass a “clean” bill without amendments otherwise, it might result in another veto from the governor. We were told this was the best we could do in light of the governor’s veto pen.I joined a super-majority of legislators in the Kansas House passing SB 1 by a margin of 121-2. The Senate passed the same legislation 34-4 and now it goes to the governor for her signature.This tax reduction bill does the following beginning in tax year 2024:⦁ Fully exempts Social Security income from Kansas income taxRestructures individual income tax brackets and rates to provide for a two-bracket system (5.58% and 5.2%.)⦁ Increases the standard deduction amounts from $3,500 to $3,605 for single filing status, $8,000 to $8,240 for married filing status and $6,000 to $6,180 for head-of-household filing status.⦁ Increases the personal exemption allowance amount, currently set at $2,250 for all persons on the return, to $18,320 for married couples filing jointly, $9,160 for all other filers, and an additional $2,320 for each dependent listed on the return.⦁ Abolishes the Local Ad Valorem Tax Reduction Fund and County and City Revenue Sharing Fund.⦁ Increases the amount of residential property exempt from the statewide uniform school finance levy to $75,000 of appraised value.⦁ Increases the tax credit for household and dependent care expenses from 25 percent to 50 percent of the federally-allowed amount.⦁ Reduces the privilege tax rates applied to financial institutions (for banks it goes from 2.25% to 1.94%) (for trust companies and savings and loan associations it goes from 2.25% to 1.93%).⦁Excludes Section 1031 exchange sales from being considered valid sales for property valuation purposes.While many of us wish we could have done more, some tax reduction is better than nothing at all. In order to further reduce taxes in future years, the Legislature and governor need to get serious about reducing state spending, which has seen exponential growth in recent years.Lastly, during the special session, legislation (HB 2001) was introduced and passed in both chambers to lure a professional sports team, NFL and MLB, to Kansas. Both the Royals and Chiefs are considering their options in light of a sales tax proposal being defeated by voters in Jackson County, Missouri in April of this year. While I think highly of the Royals and Chiefs, and I have enjoyed their successes over the recent years, I voted against HB 2001.Essentially, I do not think it is the role of the state government to be involved in incentivizing the construction of luxurious sports stadiums, especially when many people cannot afford to enjoy a game or concert. The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) published an informative report on this subject, which I will share a link to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ncsl.org/fiscal/stadium-game-back-in-play">here</a>. In this report it states, “For the past several decades, cities and states have subsidized the construction of new sports facilities. However, consensus among economists and other experts is that sports stadiums do not offer a positive return on investment.” I would encourage everyone who is interested in this issue to read this informative report.Moreover, according to recent news reports, the Chiefs and the Royals, they hired 35 lobbyists to blitz legislators leading up to the special session with phone calls, meetings and even steak dinners, as reported by the Kansas Reflector. No wonder people are disillusioned with politicians. Fast-tracking legislation like this confirms people’s suspicion that special interests rule the agenda in Topeka and that the government is overrun by people with deep pockets.Luckily, and for everyone's sake, the Legislature is now adjourned until January 2025. Ultimately, the vitality of our republican model of government rests on your participation. Each election year, the people of Kansas consent to the kind of government they want. Please do not sit on the sidelines this election year. Ask questions, do your research, meet the candidates, attend a forum, and most importantly - VOTE!The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Communications. The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.

A QUICK LOOK — Rep. Howe shares whats inside the bipartistan tax reduction bill

By BILL FIANDER Insight Kansas

Last semester, I asked my sustainable city planning class to close their eyes and visualize the typologies of five cradle-to-grave residences: birth residence, high school residence, current residence, parent’s residence, and oldest family member’s residence.

About 80% visualized at least two of the four basic residential typologies – single-family detached, single-family attached, small multi-family, and large multi-family (20+ units).

Yet, local zoning laws are almost exclusively tilted towards only one type - single-family detached. It’s common to find 80-90% of residential zoning dedicated to the most expensive and land-consumptive typology.

Unsuspectingly, my students demonstrated two profound points: equitable housing choices are a basic need in life, and ignoring zoning reform will be done at the peril of your community’s prosperity.

Just ask The Fonz! The iconic leather-jacketed uber-cool greaser of ABC’s Happy Days sitcom from my 70s childhood. Long before today’s demographic and economic shifts necessitated rethinking our love affair with single-family zoning – delayed marriages, lower birth rates, elderly adults soon outnumbering children, rising single-person households – Fonzie was making zoning reform cool.

He lived in a small accessory dwelling unit (ADU) above the Cunningham family’s garage subordinate to their primary residence. Lending to his coolness, it was illegal. But it offset Mr. and Mrs. C’s mortgage costs and gave suburbia a housing choice for working-class mechanics it didn’t have otherwise. The property not only posed theatrically as a quintessential 1950s suburb but as a bellwether for today’s zoning reform front lines.

The fact that it is still illegal in most of America should come as no surprise. What may surprise you is the juice this idea is gaining in city halls and capitals to address critical shortfalls in housing. California, Oregon, Washington, Connecticut, and Maine have led state-enabling acts for ADUs and prohibit local bans. Others as big as Texas are very close. Some cities like Minneapolis and Alexandria, Virginia have monumentally done away with single-family zoning altogether.

While ADU zoning is decidedly a local matter, housing supply is of mutual interest to states and locals. Cooperative state legislation has shown it can provide political cover to local governments prone to the weight of NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) proselytizing. As Cincinnati’s Mayor, Aftab Pureval puts it, “The third rail of local politics is zoning”.

In Kansas, legislators and mayors should be aware that easing up on zoning to allow small and multi-family units garnered astonishing support in the statewide Kansas Speaks survey last year – 44% favored vs. 14% against. This is not true everywhere like Prairie Village. However, Topeka is the latest of a few municipalities to go down the zoning reform path with ADUs. As they mull a proposal to open 100% of their residential zoning to ADUs under certain conditions, its significance should not be understated; if only 5% of the newly opened areas

contained ADUs, around 2,500 units would be created or 30% of their 20-year multi-family demand. Other benefits – aging in place, multigenerational living, and passive income for homeowners – are no less significant.

ADUs are not a silver bullet. Addressing other zoning barriers for live-work units, “missing middle” typologies (duplexes, triplexes, townhomes, small apartments), transit-oriented development, minimum lot sizes, density caps, and parking mandates are complimentary.

But wouldn’t it be cool if openness to naturally occurring affordable housing is closer in reach with the stroke of a pen and some new map colors than a tax dollar?

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708024541249.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BILL FIANDER Insight KansasLast semester, I asked my sustainable city planning class to close their eyes and visualize the typologies of five cradle-to-grave residences: birth residence, high school residence, current residence, parent’s residence, and oldest family member’s residence.About 80% visualized at least two of the four basic residential typologies – single-family detached, single-family attached, small multi-family, and large multi-family (20+ units).Yet, local zoning laws are almost exclusively tilted towards only one type - single-family detached. It’s common to find 80-90% of residential zoning dedicated to the most expensive and land-consumptive typology.Unsuspectingly, my students demonstrated two profound points: equitable housing choices are a basic need in life, and ignoring zoning reform will be done at the peril of your community’s prosperity.Just ask The Fonz! The iconic leather-jacketed uber-cool greaser of ABC’s Happy Days sitcom from my 70s childhood. Long before today’s demographic and economic shifts necessitated rethinking our love affair with single-family zoning – delayed marriages, lower birth rates, elderly adults soon outnumbering children, rising single-person households – Fonzie was making zoning reform cool.He lived in a small accessory dwelling unit (ADU) above the Cunningham family’s garage subordinate to their primary residence. Lending to his coolness, it was illegal. But it offset Mr. and Mrs. C’s mortgage costs and gave suburbia a housing choice for working-class mechanics it didn’t have otherwise. The property not only posed theatrically as a quintessential 1950s suburb but as a bellwether for today’s zoning reform front lines.The fact that it is still illegal in most of America should come as no surprise. What may surprise you is the juice this idea is gaining in city halls and capitals to address critical shortfalls in housing. California, Oregon, Washington, Connecticut, and Maine have led state-enabling acts for ADUs and prohibit local bans. Others as big as Texas are very close. Some cities like Minneapolis and Alexandria, Virginia have monumentally done away with single-family zoning altogether.While ADU zoning is decidedly a local matter, housing supply is of mutual interest to states and locals. Cooperative state legislation has shown it can provide political cover to local governments prone to the weight of NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) proselytizing. As Cincinnati’s Mayor, Aftab Pureval puts it, “The third rail of local politics is zoning”.In Kansas, legislators and mayors should be aware that easing up on zoning to allow small and multi-family units garnered astonishing support in the statewide Kansas Speaks survey last year – 44% favored vs. 14% against. This is not true everywhere like Prairie Village. However, Topeka is the latest of a few municipalities to go down the zoning reform path with ADUs. As they mull a proposal to open 100% of their residential zoning to ADUs under certain conditions, its significance should not be understated; if only 5% of the newly opened areascontained ADUs, around 2,500 units would be created or 30% of their 20-year multi-family demand. Other benefits – aging in place, multigenerational living, and passive income for homeowners – are no less significant.ADUs are not a silver bullet. Addressing other zoning barriers for live-work units, “missing middle” typologies (duplexes, triplexes, townhomes, small apartments), transit-oriented development, minimum lot sizes, density caps, and parking mandates are complimentary.But wouldn’t it be cool if openness to naturally occurring affordable housing is closer in reach with the stroke of a pen and some new map colors than a tax dollar?Heeey!

INSIGHT KANSAS: Happy days of housing supply

By LORI BLAKE Candidate for Kansas House of Representatives 69th District Last&nbsp;year, I decided to run for the State House in the 69th district. &nbsp;Over three decades as a small business owner and administrator in public education, disability supports and child abuse prevention, I have learned families are the foundation for society.&nbsp;After thirteen years on the Southeast of Saline &nbsp;School Board, I want to share my knowledge and experience supporting high quality education and representing the real needs of local families to change &nbsp;policy. I’m running for the Democratic nomination. But I have a confession: the Democrat label doesn’t quite describe me.

Though registered as a Democrat when I was younger,&nbsp;over the years I’ve also registered as a Republican, and I’ve voted for both Democrats and Republicans many times.&nbsp;As a school board member advocating to our legislators, I quickly became frustrated by the gridlock caused by our two party system and their inability to collaborate to solve problems. I chose to unaffiliate and tried to distance myself from both major parties because I think politics at the state and national level have gotten nasty. And too often, these same politicians forget there are local leaders elected to &nbsp;make decisions that are local issues. We are not a one-size fits all state. Much of the focus in Topeka should be sent back to our city, county and school boards. These people understand their communities and their values best. &nbsp;

Both parties are too dominated by their extremes and people with narrow agendas that the average person doesn’t care much about. &nbsp;People like me, who just want government to focus on setting policy that betters people’s lives, tend to stay away from running for office. &nbsp;Picking one of the major party banners doesn’t quite feel right.

But this year something different is stirring here in Kansas: the United Kansas Party. It’s a new political party that wants to lift the voices and values of moderates—people who value collaboration, compromise and understand a single mind can’t arrive at the best solution due to their limited experience. We are stronger when we work together. &nbsp;We should seek to create a culture of civility over ideological wars focused on beating the “other side.”

What makes United Kansas different from other third parties is that it wants to be a constructive party, not one that runs its own fringe candidates, dividing the vote. It’s focused on reviving fusion voting, an old practice here in Kansas that used to be common until the early 1900s.

Fusion voting is when two or more parties each nominate the same candidate, but voters get to express their support for that candidate on the ballot line that most closely matches their values. Fusion will let people like me express our support in the general election in a way that will make moderation more of a political force to be reckoned with.

So, my neighbors, get ready for something new (or rather, something old that is coming back). The United Kansas Party is planning to nominate a number of candidates this year, in order to give moderates like me a boost. I hope you’ll consider this shift. And maybe, just maybe, we’ll help launch &nbsp;our state to the stars out of difficulty.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717431222820.jpeg" alt="Lori blake" />
 <figcaption>Lori blake</figcaption>
 </figure>By LORI BLAKE Candidate for Kansas House of Representatives 69th District Last&nbsp;year, I decided to run for the State House in the 69th district. &nbsp;Over three decades as a small business owner and administrator in public education, disability supports and child abuse prevention, I have learned families are the foundation for society.&nbsp;After thirteen years on the Southeast of Saline &nbsp;School Board, I want to share my knowledge and experience supporting high quality education and representing the real needs of local families to change &nbsp;policy. I’m running for the Democratic nomination. But I have a confession: the Democrat label doesn’t quite describe me.Though registered as a Democrat when I was younger,&nbsp;over the years I’ve also registered as a Republican, and I’ve voted for both Democrats and Republicans many times.&nbsp;As a school board member advocating to our legislators, I quickly became frustrated by the gridlock caused by our two party system and their inability to collaborate to solve problems. I chose to unaffiliate and tried to distance myself from both major parties because I think politics at the state and national level have gotten nasty. And too often, these same politicians forget there are local leaders elected to &nbsp;make decisions that are local issues. We are not a one-size fits all state. Much of the focus in Topeka should be sent back to our city, county and school boards. These people understand their communities and their values best. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt="opinion sq.png" />
 <figcaption>opinion sq.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Both parties are too dominated by their extremes and people with narrow agendas that the average person doesn’t care much about. &nbsp;People like me, who just want government to focus on setting policy that betters people’s lives, tend to stay away from running for office. &nbsp;Picking one of the major party banners doesn’t quite feel right.But this year something different is stirring here in Kansas: the United Kansas Party. It’s a new political party that wants to lift the voices and values of moderates—people who value collaboration, compromise and understand a single mind can’t arrive at the best solution due to their limited experience. We are stronger when we work together. &nbsp;We should seek to create a culture of civility over ideological wars focused on beating the “other side.”What makes United Kansas different from other third parties is that it wants to be a constructive party, not one that runs its own fringe candidates, dividing the vote. It’s focused on reviving fusion voting, an old practice here in Kansas that used to be common until the early 1900s.Fusion voting is when two or more parties each nominate the same candidate, but voters get to express their support for that candidate on the ballot line that most closely matches their values. Fusion will let people like me express our support in the general election in a way that will make moderation more of a political force to be reckoned with.So, my neighbors, get ready for something new (or rather, something old that is coming back). The United Kansas Party is planning to nominate a number of candidates this year, in order to give moderates like me a boost. I hope you’ll consider this shift. And maybe, just maybe, we’ll help launch &nbsp;our state to the stars out of difficulty.The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Communications. The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.

OPINION: Blake, candidate for Kansas House of Representatives 69th District, ‘People Over Partisanship’

By MARK JOSLYN KU Professor of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Political Science

Why did this happen? How can it be prevented from happening again?

These are the questions asked after gunfire erupted at the conclusion of the Kansas City Super Bowl parade that left one person dead and dozens injured – including 11 children.

Citizens turned to the government for answers.

Yet the solutions proposed by elected officials differed along partisan lines.

Most Democrats consider guns a primary threat to safety. They cite thousands of gun deaths and injuries as evidence, including horrific mass shootings. To mitigate risks, and safeguard the well-being of everyone, stricter regulations that control gun ownership are required.

Most Republicans consider guns crucial for self-defense. Responsible gun owners can protect themselves and others from those who intend harm. Making access to firearms easier, not harder, empowers law-abiding citizens and contributes to a safer society.

These radically different approaches frustrate anxious citizens, fuel partisan discord, and often result in legislative paralysis.

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fbbe63eb-f441-4a46-9f13-e9822a68827f">INSIGHT KANSAS: Kansas needs affordable housing, not a football stadium</a>

It’s in fact astonishing how few politicians grasp the value of collaboration after such traumatic events.

If gun laws are modified, it’s typically due to the legislative dominance of one party. For example, six months after a deadly mass shooting in Maine that resulted in the deaths of 18 people and injuries to 13 others, the Democrat-led legislature passed various guns measures including 72-hour waiting periods for gun purchases, expanded background checks, and a ban on devices that convert guns into rapid-fire weapons.

After a school shooting in Iowa, where a school principal and sixth grade student died and several more injured, Republicans passed a bill allowing trained teachers and staff to carry guns on school property. It also required large districts to have an armed security officer at each high school – unless the school board opted out. Polling in Kansas and Missouri suggests strong support for gun measures including criminal and mental health background checks and requiring people to be 21 or older to purchase a gun. There’s also modest support for teachers with proper training to carry firearms.

Both legislatures failed to give these measures serious consideration.

Now is the time for a new path forward. Research shows most gun violence is spatially concentrated, arising from structural disadvantages such as poverty, densely crowded housing, high unemployment, lower educational attainment, as well as poor mental health, exposure to violence, and drug/alcohol abuse.

Addressing these disadvantages requires improving economic opportunities, renovating environments such as dilapidated housing and vacant buildings, developing more parks and community centers, and strengthening civic infrastructures so people can learn ways to mitigate gun violence and establish organizations to partner with police and mental health professionals.

By focusing on structural factors, lawmakers from both sides of the aisle can embrace a politically viable and arguably more effective approach.

So, when the unsettling pattern repeats – gun violence, partisan squabbles, and frequent stalemate, keep in mind gun violence has multiple causes, and existing gun laws are just one piece of a very large and complex puzzle.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Communications.

The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717013137950.png" alt="Mark Joslyn,&nbsp;KU Professor of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Political Science" />
 <figcaption>Mark Joslyn,&nbsp;KU Professor of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Political Science</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARK JOSLYN KU Professor of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Political Science Why did this happen? How can it be prevented from happening again?These are the questions asked after gunfire erupted at the conclusion of the Kansas City Super Bowl parade that left one person dead and dozens injured – including 11 children.Citizens turned to the government for answers.Yet the solutions proposed by elected officials differed along partisan lines.Most Democrats consider guns a primary threat to safety. They cite thousands of gun deaths and injuries as evidence, including horrific mass shootings. To mitigate risks, and safeguard the well-being of everyone, stricter regulations that control gun ownership are required.Most Republicans consider guns crucial for self-defense. Responsible gun owners can protect themselves and others from those who intend harm. Making access to firearms easier, not harder, empowers law-abiding citizens and contributes to a safer society.These radically different approaches frustrate anxious citizens, fuel partisan discord, and often result in legislative paralysis.READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/fbbe63eb-f441-4a46-9f13-e9822a68827f">INSIGHT KANSAS: Kansas needs affordable housing, not a football stadium</a>It’s in fact astonishing how few politicians grasp the value of collaboration after such traumatic events.Party agendas come first.If gun laws are modified, it’s typically due to the legislative dominance of one party. For example, six months after a deadly mass shooting in Maine that resulted in the deaths of 18 people and injuries to 13 others, the Democrat-led legislature passed various guns measures including 72-hour waiting periods for gun purchases, expanded background checks, and a ban on devices that convert guns into rapid-fire weapons.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt=""Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>After a school shooting in Iowa, where a school principal and sixth grade student died and several more injured, Republicans passed a bill allowing trained teachers and staff to carry guns on school property. It also required large districts to have an armed security officer at each high school – unless the school board opted out. Polling in Kansas and Missouri suggests strong support for gun measures including criminal and mental health background checks and requiring people to be 21 or older to purchase a gun. There’s also modest support for teachers with proper training to carry firearms.Both legislatures failed to give these measures serious consideration.Now is the time for a new path forward. Research shows most gun violence is spatially concentrated, arising from structural disadvantages such as poverty, densely crowded housing, high unemployment, lower educational attainment, as well as poor mental health, exposure to violence, and drug/alcohol abuse.Addressing these disadvantages requires improving economic opportunities, renovating environments such as dilapidated housing and vacant buildings, developing more parks and community centers, and strengthening civic infrastructures so people can learn ways to mitigate gun violence and establish organizations to partner with police and mental health professionals.By focusing on structural factors, lawmakers from both sides of the aisle can embrace a politically viable and arguably more effective approach.So, when the unsettling pattern repeats – gun violence, partisan squabbles, and frequent stalemate, keep in mind gun violence has multiple causes, and existing gun laws are just one piece of a very large and complex puzzle."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Communications.The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.

INSIGHT KANSAS — Partisan solutions to stop gun violence are due for a change

By MICHAEL SMITHInsight Kansas Kansas policymakers are abuzz about the recent defeat of a sports stadium tax in Jackson County, MO.&nbsp;&nbsp;Unfortunately, they’re saying all the wrong things.&nbsp; To paraphrase James Carville, “it’s affordable housing, stupid.”

If the tax had been approved, the money would have gone to renovate Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Super Bowl-winning Chiefs.&nbsp; The three eights cent sales tax extension would also have partially financed a new, downtown stadium for the Royals. Before the vote, nearly all publicity was on the Royals, who confused voters by&nbsp;repeatedly changing plans and venues&nbsp;for months prior to the vote.&nbsp; The opposition was led by KC Tenants, who had a&nbsp;simple message– why subsidize billionaire-owned, for-profit sports teams with a regressive sales tax that falls hardest on the poor, when Kansas Citians cannot find decent, affordable housing? This problem extends well into Kansas.

Few observers believe the defeat had anything to do with Arrowhead Stadium, or the Chiefs. Arrowhead will already be the&nbsp;site of renovations&nbsp;in advance of the 2026 World Cup, which will feature games played there. For additional improvements, the Chiefs and Royals now plan to&nbsp;seek support separately. The Chiefs have a stronger case, and they wish to remain at Arrowhead.

Of course, none of this kept the hype machine from springing into action.&nbsp; Proposals came from as far away as&nbsp;San Antonio, suggesting that the Chiefs move (they have a fiercely loyal fan base here and no plans to move).&nbsp; Ignoring the caution of Governor Kelly, Kansas Legislators also leapt into the act, suggesting an&nbsp;extravagant new Chiefs stadium in Wyandotte County,&nbsp;with a ludicrous plan to fund it with STAR bonds.&nbsp; Considering that the more modest Prairie Fire project in Overland Park recently&nbsp;defaulted&nbsp;on its STAR bonds, the idea that a multibillion dollar football stadium could be entirely financed this way is outrageous. Granted, Sporting Kansas City’s Children's Mercy soccer stadium in Wyandotte County was a successful STAR bonds project–but it is much smaller and only a fraction the cost of a new football stadium.&nbsp; When STAR bonds default, Kansas and/or local taxpayers are on the hook, as with Prairie Fire.

All this hype completely misses the point.&nbsp; The real story of that Jackson County vote is not about sports at all.&nbsp; It is about housing costs.

KC Tenants is a&nbsp;new group&nbsp;formed out of backlash against the KC area’s skyrocketing housing costs and substandard rental housing. Last year, they upset an establishment candidate to win a seat on the KCMO city council, and now this. The housing problem is also hitting hard in Kansas, and it is only a matter of time before KC Tenants or similar groups start popping up here. They secured a 58% “no” vote on the sports tax in Jackson County, despite being outspent by about 20 to 1.&nbsp;

Housing costs are shooting up all over Kansas.&nbsp; In the last year, they rose&nbsp;6.9% in KC,&nbsp;5.5% in Lawrence&nbsp;(where they were already high), and a&nbsp;whopping 10.9% in Wichita. In Topeka, a recent KSNT story found that housing costs have&nbsp;nearly doubled in the last two decades.&nbsp; In many places where affordable housing can still be found, it is in poor condition.&nbsp; This includes&nbsp;large swaths of rural Kansas.

Nationally, housing costs are rising&nbsp;twice as fast as wages.&nbsp; This drains money from other needs, lowers the quality of life, and worsens homelessness.&nbsp; Expect this new movement’s influence to keep spreading across both states, until policymakers start listening.

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Communications.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700168795368.png" alt="Michael Smith" />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHAEL SMITHInsight Kansas Kansas policymakers are abuzz about the recent defeat of a sports stadium tax in Jackson County, MO.&nbsp;&nbsp;Unfortunately, they’re saying all the wrong things.&nbsp; To paraphrase James Carville, “it’s affordable housing, stupid.” If the tax had been approved, the money would have gone to renovate Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Super Bowl-winning Chiefs.&nbsp; The three eights cent sales tax extension would also have partially financed a new, downtown stadium for the Royals. Before the vote, nearly all publicity was on the Royals, who confused voters by&nbsp;repeatedly changing plans and venues&nbsp;for months prior to the vote.&nbsp; The opposition was led by KC Tenants, who had a&nbsp;simple message– why subsidize billionaire-owned, for-profit sports teams with a regressive sales tax that falls hardest on the poor, when Kansas Citians cannot find decent, affordable housing? This problem extends well into Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Few observers believe the defeat had anything to do with Arrowhead Stadium, or the Chiefs. Arrowhead will already be the&nbsp;site of renovations&nbsp;in advance of the 2026 World Cup, which will feature games played there. For additional improvements, the Chiefs and Royals now plan to&nbsp;seek support separately. The Chiefs have a stronger case, and they wish to remain at Arrowhead.Of course, none of this kept the hype machine from springing into action.&nbsp; Proposals came from as far away as&nbsp;San Antonio, suggesting that the Chiefs move (they have a fiercely loyal fan base here and no plans to move).&nbsp; Ignoring the caution of Governor Kelly, Kansas Legislators also leapt into the act, suggesting an&nbsp;extravagant new Chiefs stadium in Wyandotte County,&nbsp;with a ludicrous plan to fund it with STAR bonds.&nbsp; Considering that the more modest Prairie Fire project in Overland Park recently&nbsp;defaulted&nbsp;on its STAR bonds, the idea that a multibillion dollar football stadium could be entirely financed this way is outrageous. Granted, Sporting Kansas City’s Children's Mercy soccer stadium in Wyandotte County was a successful STAR bonds project–but it is much smaller and only a fraction the cost of a new football stadium.&nbsp; When STAR bonds default, Kansas and/or local taxpayers are on the hook, as with Prairie Fire.All this hype completely misses the point.&nbsp; The real story of that Jackson County vote is not about sports at all.&nbsp; It is about housing costs.KC Tenants is a&nbsp;new group&nbsp;formed out of backlash against the KC area’s skyrocketing housing costs and substandard rental housing. Last year, they upset an establishment candidate to win a seat on the KCMO city council, and now this. The housing problem is also hitting hard in Kansas, and it is only a matter of time before KC Tenants or similar groups start popping up here. They secured a 58% “no” vote on the sports tax in Jackson County, despite being outspent by about 20 to 1.&nbsp;Housing costs are shooting up all over Kansas.&nbsp; In the last year, they rose&nbsp;6.9% in KC,&nbsp;5.5% in Lawrence&nbsp;(where they were already high), and a&nbsp;whopping 10.9% in Wichita. In Topeka, a recent KSNT story found that housing costs have&nbsp;nearly doubled in the last two decades.&nbsp; In many places where affordable housing can still be found, it is in poor condition.&nbsp; This includes&nbsp;large swaths of rural Kansas.Nationally, housing costs are rising&nbsp;twice as fast as wages.&nbsp; This drains money from other needs, lowers the quality of life, and worsens homelessness.&nbsp; Expect this new movement’s influence to keep spreading across both states, until policymakers start listening.The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Communications. The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Kansas needs affordable housing, not a football stadium

By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University

In November 2021, I wrote my second column for Insight Kansas as a guest contributor. I wrote on the prevalence of lead pipes in our state.

The number of lead pipes in Kansas is particularly high, comparatively, because lead mining was a major industry in southeast Kansas and southwest Missouri.

This issue is an important one to me as I grew up right outside of Flint, Michigan and the Flint Water Crisis had a major impact on my loved ones.

In that column I discussed a national study published by the American Medical Association that showed 65% of Kansas children (15 points higher than the national average) had elevated levels of lead in their blood. I also discussed the ability of the then-being-debated federal infrastructure bill to prevent exposing our children to even more lead.

Children are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects caused by lead exposure.

Per the National Resources Defense Council, Kansas has the third highest number of lead pipes per capita; an estimated 158,000 lead pipes are still in place across the state. These pipes carry potentially toxic water into our homes, businesses, and schools.

However, the US Environmental Protection Agency announced wonderful news this week for Kansas. The agency has allocated $28.6 million from the 2021 federal infrastructure bill to continue replacing our state’s lead water pipes.

This $28.6 million won’t replace all the remaining lead pipes in Kansas, but it will make a decent dent.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains that no amount of lead exposure is safe, so any amount of reduction in lead pipes is a win for Kansas’ kids

The EPA’s goal is to replace all remaining lead pipes nationwide by 2033.

As I stated in that previous column: if the past four years have shown us anything it’s that health crises are public problems and therefore require public solutions.

In these four years we have also learned that scientific truths are often dismissed for political reasons.

The 2021 bill that is providing the funding for the EPA to replace our state’s lead pipes was passed with bipartisan support. However, only Rep. Sharice Davids of Kansas’ Third Congressional District voted in support of the bill; the other five members of Kansas’ congressional delegation voted opposed.

It’s very unlikely that the Republican members of our congressional delegation were specifically opposed to the funds earmarked for lead pipe replacement.

However, as I wrote over two years ago, government’s ability to protect rights, promote equality, and prevent historic injustice is reliant on their willingness to use their governing power preventatively.

A lead crisis, like the one in Flint, Michigan, would be too late for Kansas’ kids. No amount of lead exposure is safe.

The $28.6 million in federal infrastructure funds is our chance to protect the health and wellbeing of Kansas’ kids. Additional allocations in future infrastructure bills could get us even closer to this goal.

With the current funding allocations for lead pipe replacement, the federal government strides towards safeguarding Kansas’ children from lead exposure. While not a complete solution, it signifies progress in a crucial battle for public health. As we continue this fight, let’s remember: every step counts in securing a safer future for our kids.

______________________________________________________________________

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt="Alexandra Middlewood&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University In November 2021, I wrote my second column for Insight Kansas as a guest contributor. I wrote on the prevalence of lead pipes in our state.The number of lead pipes in Kansas is particularly high, comparatively, because lead mining was a major industry in southeast Kansas and southwest Missouri.This issue is an important one to me as I grew up right outside of Flint, Michigan and the Flint Water Crisis had a major impact on my loved ones.In that column I discussed a national study published by the American Medical Association that showed 65% of Kansas children (15 points higher than the national average) had elevated levels of lead in their blood. I also discussed the ability of the then-being-debated federal infrastructure bill to prevent exposing our children to even more lead.Children are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects caused by lead exposure.Per the National Resources Defense Council, Kansas has the third highest number of lead pipes per capita; an estimated 158,000 lead pipes are still in place across the state. These pipes carry potentially toxic water into our homes, businesses, and schools.However, the US Environmental Protection Agency announced wonderful news this week for Kansas. The agency has allocated $28.6 million from the 2021 federal infrastructure bill to continue replacing our state’s lead water pipes.This $28.6 million won’t replace all the remaining lead pipes in Kansas, but it will make a decent dent.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains that no amount of lead exposure is safe, so any amount of reduction in lead pipes is a win for Kansas’ kidsThe EPA’s goal is to replace all remaining lead pipes nationwide by 2033.As I stated in that previous column: if the past four years have shown us anything it’s that health crises are public problems and therefore require public solutions.In these four years we have also learned that scientific truths are often dismissed for political reasons.The 2021 bill that is providing the funding for the EPA to replace our state’s lead pipes was passed with bipartisan support. However, only Rep. Sharice Davids of Kansas’ Third Congressional District voted in support of the bill; the other five members of Kansas’ congressional delegation voted opposed.It’s very unlikely that the Republican members of our congressional delegation were specifically opposed to the funds earmarked for lead pipe replacement.However, as I wrote over two years ago, government’s ability to protect rights, promote equality, and prevent historic injustice is reliant on their willingness to use their governing power preventatively.A lead crisis, like the one in Flint, Michigan, would be too late for Kansas’ kids. No amount of lead exposure is safe.The $28.6 million in federal infrastructure funds is our chance to protect the health and wellbeing of Kansas’ kids. Additional allocations in future infrastructure bills could get us even closer to this goal.With the current funding allocations for lead pipe replacement, the federal government strides towards safeguarding Kansas’ children from lead exposure. While not a complete solution, it signifies progress in a crucial battle for public health. As we continue this fight, let’s remember: every step counts in securing a safer future for our kids.______________________________________________________________________Alexandra Middlewood,.

Insight Kansas — A $28.6M lifeline: progress in Kansas’ lead pipe problem

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher

For many, these next few days and weeks consist of&nbsp;a lot of&nbsp;events that will generally take place outside. For my community, that involves city-wide garage sales, student field days and a&nbsp;huge&nbsp;multiday&nbsp;countywide&nbsp;celebration that includes outdoor performances, student competitions at the park, a carnival and&nbsp;a fantastically&nbsp;impressive&nbsp;parade that attracts residents of our county and beyond to attend.&nbsp;

The talk has already begun about how&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;looking like&nbsp;this&nbsp;year’s&nbsp;county-wide&nbsp;events are gearing up&nbsp;to have&nbsp;“perfect weather".&nbsp;&nbsp;

My husband says he stopped praying for rain a long time ago.&nbsp;It’s&nbsp;not that he&nbsp;doesn’t&nbsp;believe his prayers for&nbsp;rain are heard;&nbsp;it's&nbsp;just that&nbsp;there’s&nbsp;more folks wanting&nbsp;to go to that outdoor concert or the widely anticipated&nbsp;county-wide&nbsp;parade&nbsp;not&nbsp;in the rain.

I have a tab&nbsp;open&nbsp;on my computer that leads me straight to a website containing the current Kansas drought maps. While the maps are full of vivid colors&nbsp;including&nbsp;deep reds and oranges, the colors on display are not&nbsp;the ones&nbsp;we want to see.&nbsp;

The most concerning statistic I&nbsp;can’t&nbsp;help but continually check on is a map&nbsp;shows&nbsp;the soil moisture conditions based on the soil moisture content of the top 20 centimeters&nbsp;of soil.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Those top 20 centimeters of soil&nbsp;is&nbsp;the lifeblood for the start of our crops.&nbsp;It’s&nbsp;where the seeds germinate and take root. And in our area,&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;dry — as in deep red, not the color you want to see on the map, dry.

While our corn and popcorn seeds are&nbsp;now&nbsp;in the ground,&nbsp;we’ve&nbsp;decided to hold off planting the soybeans until we catch a rain.&nbsp;We’re&nbsp;waiting for a different kind of&nbsp;“perfect weather”&nbsp;compared to&nbsp;so many other folks right now.&nbsp;

It is my hope&nbsp;that before&nbsp;this piece goes to print, the rain will have arrived for Kansas farmers and ranchers.&nbsp;It is my&nbsp;hope that the drought monitor maps I have been continually checking to see any signs of change&nbsp;begin showing change&nbsp;for the better.&nbsp;

And while my husband may not ask for the rain specifically, I ask others to join me in prayer:

Lord, we cherish the times&nbsp;with our loved ones&nbsp;when we can share a meal&nbsp;together&nbsp;outside.&nbsp;We know&nbsp;for many&nbsp;a&nbsp;lot of planning has to be done to make that happen, but please, Lord, we ask you to help those families enjoy their time together as they move their picnic indoors.

Lord, we know&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;near the end of the school year, and children need to be outside, but provide the teachers with enough strength and patience to keep the kids inside for recess to avoid soggy shoes and socks, wet hair and muddy floors.

Lord, we know that it will be&nbsp;an inconvenience&nbsp;for&nbsp;many,&nbsp;and&nbsp;that&nbsp;there may be less seating and frustrated families, but please move that graduation ceremony from the football field into the&nbsp;school's&nbsp;gym.

And Lord, we know that a lot of work&nbsp;is put into the building of&nbsp;those floats&nbsp;and a lot of&nbsp;people travel many miles to attend, but please, Lord, we ask you to help those parade-goers embrace their celebratory spirit under open umbrellas.&nbsp;Please, Lord, rain on our parade.

"Insight"&nbsp;is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the&nbsp;state's&nbsp;largest farm organization&nbsp;whose&nbsp;mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="Kim-Baldwin Insight.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Kim-Baldwin Insight.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancherFor many, these next few days and weeks consist of&nbsp;a lot of&nbsp;events that will generally take place outside. For my community, that involves city-wide garage sales, student field days and a&nbsp;huge&nbsp;multiday&nbsp;countywide&nbsp;celebration that includes outdoor performances, student competitions at the park, a carnival and&nbsp;a fantastically&nbsp;impressive&nbsp;parade that attracts residents of our county and beyond to attend.&nbsp;The talk has already begun about how&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;looking like&nbsp;this&nbsp;year’s&nbsp;county-wide&nbsp;events are gearing up&nbsp;to have&nbsp;“perfect weather".&nbsp;&nbsp;My husband says he stopped praying for rain a long time ago.&nbsp;It’s&nbsp;not that he&nbsp;doesn’t&nbsp;believe his prayers for&nbsp;rain are heard;&nbsp;it's&nbsp;just that&nbsp;there’s&nbsp;more folks wanting&nbsp;to go to that outdoor concert or the widely anticipated&nbsp;county-wide&nbsp;parade&nbsp;not&nbsp;in the rain.I have a tab&nbsp;open&nbsp;on my computer that leads me straight to a website containing the current Kansas drought maps. While the maps are full of vivid colors&nbsp;including&nbsp;deep reds and oranges, the colors on display are not&nbsp;the ones&nbsp;we want to see.&nbsp;The most concerning statistic I&nbsp;can’t&nbsp;help but continually check on is a map&nbsp;shows&nbsp;the soil moisture conditions based on the soil moisture content of the top 20 centimeters&nbsp;of soil.&nbsp;&nbsp;Those top 20 centimeters of soil&nbsp;is&nbsp;the lifeblood for the start of our crops.&nbsp;It’s&nbsp;where the seeds germinate and take root. And in our area,&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;dry — as in deep red, not the color you want to see on the map, dry.While our corn and popcorn seeds are&nbsp;now&nbsp;in the ground,&nbsp;we’ve&nbsp;decided to hold off planting the soybeans until we catch a rain.&nbsp;We’re&nbsp;waiting for a different kind of&nbsp;“perfect weather”&nbsp;compared to&nbsp;so many other folks right now.&nbsp;It is my hope&nbsp;that before&nbsp;this piece goes to print, the rain will have arrived for Kansas farmers and ranchers.&nbsp;It is my&nbsp;hope that the drought monitor maps I have been continually checking to see any signs of change&nbsp;begin showing change&nbsp;for the better.&nbsp;And while my husband may not ask for the rain specifically, I ask others to join me in prayer:Lord, we cherish the times&nbsp;with our loved ones&nbsp;when we can share a meal&nbsp;together&nbsp;outside.&nbsp;We know&nbsp;for many&nbsp;a&nbsp;lot of planning has to be done to make that happen, but please, Lord, we ask you to help those families enjoy their time together as they move their picnic indoors.Lord, we know&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;near the end of the school year, and children need to be outside, but provide the teachers with enough strength and patience to keep the kids inside for recess to avoid soggy shoes and socks, wet hair and muddy floors.Lord, we know that it will be&nbsp;an inconvenience&nbsp;for&nbsp;many,&nbsp;and&nbsp;that&nbsp;there may be less seating and frustrated families, but please move that graduation ceremony from the football field into the&nbsp;school's&nbsp;gym.And Lord, we know that a lot of work&nbsp;is put into the building of&nbsp;those floats&nbsp;and a lot of&nbsp;people travel many miles to attend, but please, Lord, we ask you to help those parade-goers embrace their celebratory spirit under open umbrellas.&nbsp;Please, Lord, rain on our parade."Insight"&nbsp;is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the&nbsp;state's&nbsp;largest farm organization&nbsp;whose&nbsp;mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Insight Kansas — Rain on our parade

By&nbsp;BILL FIANDER Former planning and development director City of Topeka

Recently as I drove my Silent Generation father-in-law on an out-of-town trip along I-70, he made a peculiar observation. “I never noticed this before but there’s plastic bags everywhere. My gosh. It looks terrible!”

Peculiar because he’s typically not a passenger seat guy. Peculiar because he’s the last person I expect to hear pseudo-environmentally conscious commentary from. But knowing he’s a person who takes seriously where his local tax dollars go and his community’s appearance, combined with a newfound passenger seat status, I took heed of a lesson in local self-determination enshrined in the Kansas Constitution otherwise known as “home rule.”

Put simply: his right to solve a local problem locally.

This session, the Kansas Legislature attempted another end run on home rule with House Bill 2446: a wide-ranging, but straightforward, one-page bill designed to prohibit cities and counties from regulating “auxiliary containers” — plastic straws, bags, cups, packages, bottles, etc. for the transportation, consumption, or protection of food, beverage, or merchandise.

Two weeks ago, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly vetoed the “plastic bag” bill, stunningly without a single reference to preserving the environment, spoiling waterways, toxicity of microplastics in our bloodstream, emitting greenhouse gases, or the Great Pacific garbage patch that’s grown bigger than Kansas itself.

Instead, she reserved her 45-word veto to extoll the virtues of local control and accountability enshrined in the 1961 home rule amendment to the Kansas Constitution where “powers and authority granted cities pursuant to this section shall be liberally construed for the purpose of giving cities the largest amount of self-government.”

Cities no longer had to gain approval from the state for their laws. Local government was given power to reflect their citizens’ needs and values free from state interference.

The logic of home rule presupposes a municipality is unique — what makes sense for Dodge City may not make sense for Manhattan — and will ultimately act in its own best interest lest people vote with their feet or for new representation.

The challenge of home rule is abiding by it.

Effective March 1, the City of Lawrence is determining their best interest as they implement a ban on single-use plastic bags, the first of its kind in the state. They affirmed their desire to think globally and act locally about the 29–36 million discarded plastic bags proliferating annually in the nooks and crannies of their city.

Conversely, passage of HB 2446 would have nullified their residents’ wishes and the wishes of any other city’s residents to self-govern.

Slopes are slippery. If the Legislature begins to assert their voice for local issues in one city, it becomes easier the next day to assert their voice on a local issue important to your city. Previous or current slippage into local control includes smoking in public places, age of tobacco purchasers, political sign regulations, zoning to increase housing supply, solar roof panels, homeless camping, and controlling pet populations.

Maybe some of this is dawning on legislators. For being the only Great Plains state not banning plastic bag bans, the bill had a surprisingly comfortable veto-override proof margin in the House (72-51) and Senate (24-16)

Maybe they’re realizing a statewide ban eliminates enough discarded bags annually in Kansas to circle the earth six times.

Or that it’s harder to escape the irony of condemning federal intrusion into state affairs when you do the same to local affairs.

Bill Fiander is a lecturer of university courses specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka and holds a master's degree in urban and regional planning from George Washington University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713976057142.jpeg" alt="bill fiander" />
 <figcaption>bill fiander</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;BILL FIANDER Former planning and development director City of Topeka Recently as I drove my Silent Generation father-in-law on an out-of-town trip along I-70, he made a peculiar observation. “I never noticed this before but there’s plastic bags everywhere. My gosh. It looks terrible!”Peculiar because he’s typically not a passenger seat guy. Peculiar because he’s the last person I expect to hear pseudo-environmentally conscious commentary from. But knowing he’s a person who takes seriously where his local tax dollars go and his community’s appearance, combined with a newfound passenger seat status, I took heed of a lesson in local self-determination enshrined in the Kansas Constitution otherwise known as “home rule.”Put simply: his right to solve a local problem locally.This session, the Kansas Legislature attempted another end run on home rule with House Bill 2446: a wide-ranging, but straightforward, one-page bill designed to prohibit cities and counties from regulating “auxiliary containers” — plastic straws, bags, cups, packages, bottles, etc. for the transportation, consumption, or protection of food, beverage, or merchandise.Two weeks ago, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly vetoed the “plastic bag” bill, stunningly without a single reference to preserving the environment, spoiling waterways, toxicity of microplastics in our bloodstream, emitting greenhouse gases, or the Great Pacific garbage patch that’s grown bigger than Kansas itself.Instead, she reserved her 45-word veto to extoll the virtues of local control and accountability enshrined in the 1961 home rule amendment to the Kansas Constitution where “powers and authority granted cities pursuant to this section shall be liberally construed for the purpose of giving cities the largest amount of self-government.”Cities no longer had to gain approval from the state for their laws. Local government was given power to reflect their citizens’ needs and values free from state interference.The logic of home rule presupposes a municipality is unique — what makes sense for Dodge City may not make sense for Manhattan — and will ultimately act in its own best interest lest people vote with their feet or for new representation.The challenge of home rule is abiding by it.Effective March 1, the City of Lawrence is determining their best interest as they implement a ban on single-use plastic bags, the first of its kind in the state. They affirmed their desire to think globally and act locally about the 29–36 million discarded plastic bags proliferating annually in the nooks and crannies of their city.Conversely, passage of HB 2446 would have nullified their residents’ wishes and the wishes of any other city’s residents to self-govern.Slopes are slippery. If the Legislature begins to assert their voice for local issues in one city, it becomes easier the next day to assert their voice on a local issue important to your city. Previous or current slippage into local control includes smoking in public places, age of tobacco purchasers, political sign regulations, zoning to increase housing supply, solar roof panels, homeless camping, and controlling pet populations.Maybe some of this is dawning on legislators. For being the only Great Plains state not banning plastic bag bans, the bill had a surprisingly comfortable veto-override proof margin in the House (72-51) and Senate (24-16)Maybe they’re realizing a statewide ban eliminates enough discarded bags annually in Kansas to circle the earth six times.Or that it’s harder to escape the irony of condemning federal intrusion into state affairs when you do the same to local affairs.Bill Fiander is a lecturer of university courses specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka and holds a master's degree in urban and regional planning from George Washington University.

Insight Kansas — Plastic bags test home rule more than environment

By MARK R. JOSLYN Professor of Political Science University of Kansas

The presidential primaries are unfolding quietly.&nbsp; Having&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.com/2024-election/results/president/" target="_blank">clinched</a>&nbsp;their party nominations early, Biden and Trump have shifted focus toward the general election.&nbsp; &nbsp;

From the start, a stubborn and sizeable percentage of Democrat and Republican primary voters have refused to endorse the front runners.&nbsp; Instead, they have voted for the alternatives.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The significance of these votes becomes clear in battleground states where lingering inter-party divisions could determine the general election outcome.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the two crucial swing states of Georgia and Wisconsin, nearly 15 percent of Republican primary voters supported Nikki Haley.&nbsp;

This&nbsp;after&nbsp;she had quit the race.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Prior to that, Haley won 43 percent in New Hampshire, 27 percent in Michigan, and defeated Trump in Vermont.

Haley’s success was credited to open primaries where Independents and Democrats can participate.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

However, in Arizona’s closed primary Haley still captured nearly 18 percent.&nbsp; And in the Florida and&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;closed primaries, she locked up 14 and 16 percent, respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

In four of the five most populous&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;counties, Haley’s percentages increased.&nbsp; She won 22 percent in Johnson, 18 percent in Sedgwick, 22 percent in Shawnee, and 26 percent in Douglas.

Adding in “none of the names shown” category, the statewide anti-Trump&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;vote reached 21 percent or just over 20,000 GOP voters.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a parallel trend is taking place among Democrats.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Biden’s decision to skip New Hampshire and award South Carolina the first primary spot disappointed many Granite State voters.&nbsp; As a result, Dean Phillips secured nearly 20 percent of the vote.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

A few weeks later, over 100,000 Michigan Democrats casted uncommitted ballots protesting Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

In North Carolina the “no preference” option garnered nearly 90,000 votes.&nbsp; And in&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;the “none of the names shown” option came in second place at 10 percent.&nbsp; The tally included almost 15 percent in solidly blue Douglas County, and 8 percent in Johnson and Sedgwick counties.&nbsp; &nbsp;

More recently, in pivotal swing state Wisconsin, 48,000 Democrats voted “<a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/wisconsin-uninstructed-vote-shows-democratic-frustration-with-joe-biden/ar-BB1l1P41" target="_blank">uninstructed</a>”, twice the goal of the grassroots group&nbsp;<a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/wisconsin-uninstructed-vote-shows-democratic-frustration-with-joe-biden/ar-BB1l1P41" target="_blank">Listen to Wisconsin</a>&nbsp;that demanded policy changes over the war in Gaza.&nbsp; Another 17,000 voted for Phillips, who ended his campaign weeks before.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Clearly, thousands of Democrats and Republicans are using presidential primaries to express their dissatisfaction.&nbsp;

Yet neither nominee appears eager to reach out to the disaffected.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Trump remains steadfast in his unapologetic style that does not sit well with moderate Republicans but resonates with some Democrat leaning groups including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2023/11/04/new-republican-party-working-class-coalition-00122822" target="_blank">working-class whites</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.realclearpolling.com/stories/analysis/will-blacks-vote-republican-a-political-science-perspective" target="_blank">Blacks</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.axios.com/2024/04/09/biden-approval-drops-democrat-popularity-rises-latino-voters" target="_blank">Latinos</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Biden campaign seems focused on capturing the Haley block, investing in ads that showcase Trump’s offensive comments directed at Haley.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The reality is few disaffected primary voters will cross party lines.&nbsp; In matters of ideology and policy they are still closer to their party nominee than the opposition.&nbsp;

However, it’s possible they stay home on election day or continue to protest by other means.&nbsp;

If protests occur&nbsp; during the summer – possibility at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/democratic-tensions-over-israel-threaten-to-boil-over-at-chicago-convention/ar-BB1ld4K9" target="_blank">party conventions</a>, it could spell real trouble.&nbsp;&nbsp;

So as the primaries near their conclusion, let’s see whether Biden and Trump take the necessary steps to unify their parties.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695215697316.png" alt="Dr. Mark Joslyn" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Mark Joslyn</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARK R. JOSLYN Professor of Political Science University of KansasThe presidential primaries are unfolding quietly.&nbsp; Having&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.com/2024-election/results/president/" target="_blank">clinched</a>&nbsp;their party nominations early, Biden and Trump have shifted focus toward the general election.&nbsp; &nbsp;Yet all is not well.&nbsp;From the start, a stubborn and sizeable percentage of Democrat and Republican primary voters have refused to endorse the front runners.&nbsp; Instead, they have voted for the alternatives.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The significance of these votes becomes clear in battleground states where lingering inter-party divisions could determine the general election outcome.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the two crucial swing states of Georgia and Wisconsin, nearly 15 percent of Republican primary voters supported Nikki Haley.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This&nbsp;after&nbsp;she had quit the race.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Prior to that, Haley won 43 percent in New Hampshire, 27 percent in Michigan, and defeated Trump in Vermont.Haley’s success was credited to open primaries where Independents and Democrats can participate.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;However, in Arizona’s closed primary Haley still captured nearly 18 percent.&nbsp; And in the Florida and&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;closed primaries, she locked up 14 and 16 percent, respectively.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In four of the five most populous&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;counties, Haley’s percentages increased.&nbsp; She won 22 percent in Johnson, 18 percent in Sedgwick, 22 percent in Shawnee, and 26 percent in Douglas.Adding in “none of the names shown” category, the statewide anti-Trump&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;vote reached 21 percent or just over 20,000 GOP voters.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, a parallel trend is taking place among Democrats.&nbsp; &nbsp;Biden’s decision to skip New Hampshire and award South Carolina the first primary spot disappointed many Granite State voters.&nbsp; As a result, Dean Phillips secured nearly 20 percent of the vote.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;A few weeks later, over 100,000 Michigan Democrats casted uncommitted ballots protesting Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;In North Carolina the “no preference” option garnered nearly 90,000 votes.&nbsp; And in&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;the “none of the names shown” option came in second place at 10 percent.&nbsp; The tally included almost 15 percent in solidly blue Douglas County, and 8 percent in Johnson and Sedgwick counties.&nbsp; &nbsp;More recently, in pivotal swing state Wisconsin, 48,000 Democrats voted “<a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/wisconsin-uninstructed-vote-shows-democratic-frustration-with-joe-biden/ar-BB1l1P41" target="_blank">uninstructed</a>”, twice the goal of the grassroots group&nbsp;<a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/wisconsin-uninstructed-vote-shows-democratic-frustration-with-joe-biden/ar-BB1l1P41" target="_blank">Listen to Wisconsin</a>&nbsp;that demanded policy changes over the war in Gaza.&nbsp; Another 17,000 voted for Phillips, who ended his campaign weeks before.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Clearly, thousands of Democrats and Republicans are using presidential primaries to express their dissatisfaction.&nbsp;Yet neither nominee appears eager to reach out to the disaffected.&nbsp; &nbsp;Trump remains steadfast in his unapologetic style that does not sit well with moderate Republicans but resonates with some Democrat leaning groups including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2023/11/04/new-republican-party-working-class-coalition-00122822" target="_blank">working-class whites</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.realclearpolling.com/stories/analysis/will-blacks-vote-republican-a-political-science-perspective" target="_blank">Blacks</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.axios.com/2024/04/09/biden-approval-drops-democrat-popularity-rises-latino-voters" target="_blank">Latinos</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Biden campaign seems focused on capturing the Haley block, investing in ads that showcase Trump’s offensive comments directed at Haley.&nbsp; &nbsp;The reality is few disaffected primary voters will cross party lines.&nbsp; In matters of ideology and policy they are still closer to their party nominee than the opposition.&nbsp;However, it’s possible they stay home on election day or continue to protest by other means.&nbsp;If protests occur&nbsp; during the summer – possibility at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/democratic-tensions-over-israel-threaten-to-boil-over-at-chicago-convention/ar-BB1ld4K9" target="_blank">party conventions</a>, it could spell real trouble.&nbsp;&nbsp;So as the primaries near their conclusion, let’s see whether Biden and Trump take the necessary steps to unify their parties.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2024 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight Kansas — Protest votes signal troubles for Biden and Trump

By STACIE SCHMIDT Executive Director, Grow Ellsworth County

In response to a<a href="https://www.newsbreak.com/news/3391197506017-7-kansas-towns-people-are-fleeing-as-soon-as-possible?_f=app_share&amp;s=a4&amp;share_destination_id=MjU0OTI0MTE3LTE3MTIyNjIwNzIzMTU%3D&amp;pd=0HFdPJY8&amp;hl=en_US&amp;send_time=1712262072&amp;actBtn=floatShareButton&amp;trans_data=%7B%22platform%22%3A1%2C%22cv%22%3A%2224.12.2%22%2C%22languages%22%3A%22en%22%7D"> recent article published on NewsBreak.com</a> titled "7 Kansas Towns People Are Fleeing As Soon As Possible," <a href="https://www.growellsworthcounty.com/">Grow Ellsworth County</a> is taking a stand against false and damaging reporting that misrepresents our community and its economic vitality.

The article, authored by journalist Dorothy Canelas, a journalist from Dallas, Texas whose profile reads, “Dorothy is dedicated to providing accurate and timely information to keep the community informed,” falsely claims that Ellsworth is experiencing an economic downturn due to the closure of the correctional facility. 

This assertion is not only inaccurate but also undermines the efforts and successes of our community, including a recent annual meeting celebrating the many successes of Ellsworth County, and a milestone achievement of financing $1.3 million in gap funding for start-up businesses and expansions in the last 3 years.

Contrary to the article's claims, the Ellsworth Correctional Facility remains operational, housing 749 residents and employing 296 people. Far from experiencing a downturn, Ellsworth County is thriving, with ongoing discussions about the need for additional housing to accommodate our growing population.

The article failed to adhere to fundamental journalistic principles of accuracy, fairness, and transparency. Neither our office nor the Ellsworth Correctional Facility's Public Information Officers were contacted for verification, demonstrating a blatant disregard for ethical reporting practices.

The Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics outlines the importance of seeking truth, minimizing harm, acting independently, and being accountable and transparent. Journalist Dorothy Canelas's reporting falls short of these ethical standards, particularly in the minimization of harm to our community, as Grow Ellsworth County’s efforts to market the community as a community of the future and a community of choice has been a part of its integral initiatives.

As a leading local news app with a purported 45+ million of monthly active users, NewsBreak has a responsibility to provide accurate and trustworthy information to its audience. 

We call upon NewsBreak and Dorothy Canelas to retract the false article and issue a public apology for the harm caused to Ellsworth and its residents.

“Ellsworth Correctional Facility works very hard to promote our fine facility, our excellent staff, and our amazing community. The inaccuracy within this article is damaging to all. We can be contacted at any time to discuss facts for future articles at 785-472-6209, or Carolyn.graves@ks.gov,” said Public Information Officer for Ellsworth Correctional Facility, Carolyn Graves.&nbsp;

Ellsworth County remains committed to fostering an environment of growth, opportunity, and prosperity for all its residents. 

We will continue to celebrate our successes and confront misinformation that seeks to undermine our progress.

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Communications.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACIE SCHMIDT Executive Director, Grow Ellsworth CountyIn response to a<a href="https://www.newsbreak.com/news/3391197506017-7-kansas-towns-people-are-fleeing-as-soon-as-possible?_f=app_share&amp;s=a4&amp;share_destination_id=MjU0OTI0MTE3LTE3MTIyNjIwNzIzMTU%3D&amp;pd=0HFdPJY8&amp;hl=en_US&amp;send_time=1712262072&amp;actBtn=floatShareButton&amp;trans_data=%7B%22platform%22%3A1%2C%22cv%22%3A%2224.12.2%22%2C%22languages%22%3A%22en%22%7D"> recent article published on NewsBreak.com</a> titled "7 Kansas Towns People Are Fleeing As Soon As Possible," <a href="https://www.growellsworthcounty.com/">Grow Ellsworth County</a> is taking a stand against false and damaging reporting that misrepresents our community and its economic vitality.The article, authored by journalist Dorothy Canelas, a journalist from Dallas, Texas whose profile reads, “Dorothy is dedicated to providing accurate and timely information to keep the community informed,” falsely claims that Ellsworth is experiencing an economic downturn due to the closure of the correctional facility. This assertion is not only inaccurate but also undermines the efforts and successes of our community, including a recent annual meeting celebrating the many successes of Ellsworth County, and a milestone achievement of financing $1.3 million in gap funding for start-up businesses and expansions in the last 3 years.Contrary to the article's claims, the Ellsworth Correctional Facility remains operational, housing 749 residents and employing 296 people. Far from experiencing a downturn, Ellsworth County is thriving, with ongoing discussions about the need for additional housing to accommodate our growing population.The article failed to adhere to fundamental journalistic principles of accuracy, fairness, and transparency. Neither our office nor the Ellsworth Correctional Facility's Public Information Officers were contacted for verification, demonstrating a blatant disregard for ethical reporting practices.The Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics outlines the importance of seeking truth, minimizing harm, acting independently, and being accountable and transparent. Journalist Dorothy Canelas's reporting falls short of these ethical standards, particularly in the minimization of harm to our community, as Grow Ellsworth County’s efforts to market the community as a community of the future and a community of choice has been a part of its integral initiatives.As a leading local news app with a purported 45+ million of monthly active users, NewsBreak has a responsibility to provide accurate and trustworthy information to its audience. We call upon NewsBreak and Dorothy Canelas to retract the false article and issue a public apology for the harm caused to Ellsworth and its residents.“Ellsworth Correctional Facility works very hard to promote our fine facility, our excellent staff, and our amazing community. The inaccuracy within this article is damaging to all. We can be contacted at any time to discuss facts for future articles at 785-472-6209, or Carolyn.graves@ks.gov,” said Public Information Officer for Ellsworth Correctional Facility, Carolyn Graves.&nbsp;Ellsworth County remains committed to fostering an environment of growth, opportunity, and prosperity for all its residents. We will continue to celebrate our successes and confront misinformation that seeks to undermine our progress.The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Communications. The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.

OPINION: Grow Ellsworth County responds to false and damaging article

By BRIANNE HEIDBREDER Insight Kansas

The debate over implementing a flat income tax in Kansas appears to have reached its conclusion, at least in this legislative session. Earlier this year, Kansas Republicans proposed a single income tax rate of 5.25% for all Kansans earning more than $6,160 as an individual or $12,300 as a couple.&nbsp;

Republicans argued that a simple tax code with a single tax rate applied uniformly to all income levels could reduce the complexity and administrative burdens of our current system. Governor Kelly and Kansas Democrats countered that the cuts associated with a flat tax would be financially irresponsible and inherently regressive, disproportionately burdening low-income earners compared to high-income earners&nbsp;

As expected, Governor Kelly immediately vetoed the flat tax plan. Having failed to override Kelly’s veto, Republicans recently announced their support for a dual rate plan. This plan would exempt up to $7,000 in income from taxation. The state would then tax annual income up to $30,000 at a rate of 5.2% and annual income over $30,000 at a rate of 5.65%.&nbsp;

This new proposal is a departure from the current income tax policy, which taxes 3.10% on the first $15,000 of taxable income, 5.25% on the next $15,000, and 5.70% on all income above $30,000.&nbsp;

While Kelly has indicated her preference to provide tax relief while keep the current three-tier rate system, the introduction of the dual-rate plan proposal represents a new phase in tax discussions, where both sides have indicated that they want tax relief for Kansans.&nbsp;

All this discussion may lead Kansans to ask how their tax burden compares to residents of other states. Like many states, Kansas has a graduated or progressive income tax rate system. A graduated tax rate simply means that high income earners pay a higher tax rate than lower income works. Most of Kansas’ neighboring states also have a graduated systems with more than two tiers.&nbsp;

For example, Nebraska has four tiers in their state income tax program, with rates that range from 2.46% for Nebraska’s lowest earners to 6.64% for those making more than $35,730 annually. Similarly, Missouri and Oklahoma also have multi-tier graduated systems with rates ranging from 2% to 4.95% and 0% to 4.75%, respectively.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Colorado has a flat income tax rate of 4.55% for all taxable income, regardless of filing status or income level.&nbsp;

While the Kansas income tax plan is in line with neighboring states, Republicans are hoping their new plan will draw in additional legislative supporters, giving them the veto-proof majority needed to pass the plan with or without Kelly’s support.&nbsp;

It is important to remember that although no one particularly likes paying income taxes, they play a crucial role in funding essential government services, including support for public schools.&nbsp;

As Kansas continues to debate over its state income tax system, the path forward remains uncertain in the current political environment. Ultimately, the outcome of these discussions will shape the fiscal health of the state for years to come.&nbsp;

Brianne Heidbreder, PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678375940173.jpeg" alt="Brianne Heidbreder (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Brianne Heidbreder (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRIANNE HEIDBREDER Insight KansasThe debate over implementing a flat income tax in Kansas appears to have reached its conclusion, at least in this legislative session. Earlier this year, Kansas Republicans proposed a single income tax rate of 5.25% for all Kansans earning more than $6,160 as an individual or $12,300 as a couple.&nbsp;Republicans argued that a simple tax code with a single tax rate applied uniformly to all income levels could reduce the complexity and administrative burdens of our current system. Governor Kelly and Kansas Democrats countered that the cuts associated with a flat tax would be financially irresponsible and inherently regressive, disproportionately burdening low-income earners compared to high-income earners&nbsp;As expected, Governor Kelly immediately vetoed the flat tax plan. Having failed to override Kelly’s veto, Republicans recently announced their support for a dual rate plan. This plan would exempt up to $7,000 in income from taxation. The state would then tax annual income up to $30,000 at a rate of 5.2% and annual income over $30,000 at a rate of 5.65%.&nbsp;This new proposal is a departure from the current income tax policy, which taxes 3.10% on the first $15,000 of taxable income, 5.25% on the next $15,000, and 5.70% on all income above $30,000.&nbsp;While Kelly has indicated her preference to provide tax relief while keep the current three-tier rate system, the introduction of the dual-rate plan proposal represents a new phase in tax discussions, where both sides have indicated that they want tax relief for Kansans.&nbsp;All this discussion may lead Kansans to ask how their tax burden compares to residents of other states. Like many states, Kansas has a graduated or progressive income tax rate system. A graduated tax rate simply means that high income earners pay a higher tax rate than lower income works. Most of Kansas’ neighboring states also have a graduated systems with more than two tiers.&nbsp;For example, Nebraska has four tiers in their state income tax program, with rates that range from 2.46% for Nebraska’s lowest earners to 6.64% for those making more than $35,730 annually. Similarly, Missouri and Oklahoma also have multi-tier graduated systems with rates ranging from 2% to 4.95% and 0% to 4.75%, respectively.&nbsp;On the other hand, Colorado has a flat income tax rate of 4.55% for all taxable income, regardless of filing status or income level.&nbsp;While the Kansas income tax plan is in line with neighboring states, Republicans are hoping their new plan will draw in additional legislative supporters, giving them the veto-proof majority needed to pass the plan with or without Kelly’s support.&nbsp;It is important to remember that although no one particularly likes paying income taxes, they play a crucial role in funding essential government services, including support for public schools.&nbsp;As Kansas continues to debate over its state income tax system, the path forward remains uncertain in the current political environment. Ultimately, the outcome of these discussions will shape the fiscal health of the state for years to come.&nbsp;Brianne Heidbreder, PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: Kansas grapples with income tax dilemma 

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau

A gust of wind sent a blizzard of white flakes past the picture window last weekend. The wall of white wasn’t snow, rather the fluttering petals from the blooming Callery pear tree in the front yard. Also known as a Bradford pear, it’s about as welcome today as a spring snowstorm.

The flowers are beautiful and Callery trees provide good shade in the summer, and it grows relatively quickly, which are all reasons it was planted in yards, parks and along roads throughout the eastern United States. Its blossoms can also emit a foul odor, and its fruit can stain whatever it happens to fall on, but neither is the reason why the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) has taken the first step preventing the sale of the tree beginning in 2027. The hope is to eventually eliminate the tree from the state’s landscape.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687183475033.png" alt="Greg Doering" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering</figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm BureauA gust of wind sent a blizzard of white flakes past the picture window last weekend. The wall of white wasn’t snow, rather the fluttering petals from the blooming Callery pear tree in the front yard. Also known as a Bradford pear, it’s about as welcome today as a spring snowstorm.The flowers are beautiful and Callery trees provide good shade in the summer, and it grows relatively quickly, which are all reasons it was planted in yards, parks and along roads throughout the eastern United States. Its blossoms can also emit a foul odor, and its fruit can stain whatever it happens to fall on, but neither is the reason why the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) has taken the first step preventing the sale of the tree beginning in 2027. The hope is to eventually eliminate the tree from the state’s landscape.At least its urban landscape. It turns out the qualities that made the Callery pear a good landscape tree also make it tough to keep it confined to where it’s planted. The white flowers it puts off in spring are a beacon to see just how far it’s spread. You can spot them easily along fence rows as you drive down the highway. They’ve become an invasive species that outcompete native species, especially in grasslands.I’ve already spotted a couple of other plumes of white smoke on the horizon, and I know there will be many more on the calmer days ahead as ranchers burn their pastures ahead of grazing season. These fires speed the breakdown of dead plant material releasing essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. Removing this blanket of vegetation also helps warm the soil, promoting new growth. And, perhaps most importantly, the periodic burning of grasslands controls the encroachment of invasive species like Callery pears or eastern red cedars.Prairies have evolved to need fire, and without it the landscape would quickly be transformed into a scrub forest of low-value shrubs and trees. Initially sparked by lightning strikes, mankind soon discovered the value of fire. Native Americans were the first to use prescribed burns to attract bison.Prescribed burns, like the ones ranchers use every spring, are an example of using a tool provided by Mother Nature to preserve a vital ecosystem quickly and efficiently. Burning also helps create more high-quality growth that allows grazing cattle to add weight faster, making it an environmentally friendly practice that also boosts the bottom line.Black patches will soon dot the prairies, followed by a carpet of green grass reaching out through the ash and soot. There will be fewer Callery pears and other invasive species because of purposely set fires. Smoke billowing on the horizon is yet another sign of spring in Kansas. We can look forward to increasing warmth, new growth and, hopefully, ridding ourselves of the things that just don’t belong."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

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