By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Department Chair of Political Science Wichita State University

Kansas has some of the most permissive gun laws in the country, and last week the state house began debate on a bill that, if passed, would put a constitutional amendment on the ballot to further enshrine gun rights in the state constitution.

The proposed amendment would change the language of Section 4 of the Kansas Bill of Rights to include possession and use of ammunition, firearm accessories, and firearm components as constitutionally protected rights. It would also add:

The right to keep and bear arms is a natural and fundamental right. This shall not be infringed. Any restriction of such right shall be subject to the strict scrutiny standard.

In 1905, the Kansas Supreme Court ruled in Salina v. Blaksley that the current language in Section 4 does not protect an individual right to bear arms. In more recent cases, the Court has also rejected arguments that use Section 4 to challenge state and local statutes regulating firearms.

Should the state constitution be amended, it would only allow the state legislature to regulate firearms if it furthered a “compelling governmental interest” and was narrowly tailored to achieve that interest.

Not to mention, federal regulations would still supersede state law — a relationship currently being reinforced as Missouri’s Second Amendment Preservation Act makes its way through the federal court system.

Importantly, this proposed amendment contradicts Kansans’ public opinion on gun regulation.

A vast majority of Kansans support restrictions beyond the state’s current regulations.

In fall 2022, the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University asked Kansans about ten gun regulation policies in their annual Kansas Speaks public opinion survey.

More than 70% of those surveyed favored six of the ten policies: requiring universal background checks; requiring a person to be 21 or older; mandatory three-day waiting period; preventing sales to people who have been reported as dangerous by mental health providers; preventing sales to people who have been convicted of violent misdemeanors; and allowing family members to ask the court to temporarily remove guns from people at risk of harming themselves or others.

64% of those surveyed favored authorizing law enforcement officers to temporarily remove guns from individuals who pose an immediate threat of harm to self or others.

And more than 50% of those surveyed favored: banning assault-style weapons; banning high-capacity ammunition clips; and having teachers with appropriate training carry guns at school.

Perhaps surprising to some, a majority of the state’s gun owners also favored nine of these ten policies. Banning assault style weapons was the only exception; supported by 45% of gun owners, opposed by 38%, and neither favored nor opposed by 17%. Note: nearly half (49%) of Kansans surveyed had a firearm in their home.

As is often the case, proposed gun laws contradict public opinion on the issue, and Kansas is no exception.

Political science research can help us understand why the state legislature has introduced an amendment that would make it harder to enact extremely popular gun regulations into law.

For nearly two decades, research has shown that energy has ebbed and flowed among pro-regulation groups while pro-gun groups have been able to sustain political activism.

However, new research found that gun policy has become a durable issue of public concern due to the increased mobilization among pro-regulation citizens in recent years; marking a fundamental shift in public engagement on the gun issue.

The disconnect between public opinion and legislative action in Kansas underscores the complex relationship between policy decisions and popular sentiment, especially in a changing political environment.

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is the Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University

"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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Department Chair of Political Science Wichita State University Kansas has some of the most permissive gun laws in the country, and last week the state house began debate on a bill that, if passed, would put a constitutional amendment on the ballot to further enshrine gun rights in the state constitution.The proposed amendment would change the language of Section 4 of the Kansas Bill of Rights to include possession and use of ammunition, firearm accessories, and firearm components as constitutionally protected rights. It would also add:The right to keep and bear arms is a natural and fundamental right. This shall not be infringed. Any restriction of such right shall be subject to the strict scrutiny standard.In 1905, the Kansas Supreme Court ruled in Salina v. Blaksley that the current language in Section 4 does not protect an individual right to bear arms. In more recent cases, the Court has also rejected arguments that use Section 4 to challenge state and local statutes regulating firearms.Should the state constitution be amended, it would only allow the state legislature to regulate firearms if it furthered a “compelling governmental interest” and was narrowly tailored to achieve that interest.Not to mention, federal regulations would still supersede state law — a relationship currently being reinforced as Missouri’s Second Amendment Preservation Act makes its way through the federal court system.Importantly, this proposed amendment contradicts Kansans’ public opinion on gun regulation.A vast majority of Kansans support restrictions beyond the state’s current regulations.In fall 2022, the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University asked Kansans about ten gun regulation policies in their annual Kansas Speaks public opinion survey.More than 70% of those surveyed favored six of the ten policies: requiring universal background checks; requiring a person to be 21 or older; mandatory three-day waiting period; preventing sales to people who have been reported as dangerous by mental health providers; preventing sales to people who have been convicted of violent misdemeanors; and allowing family members to ask the court to temporarily remove guns from people at risk of harming themselves or others.64% of those surveyed favored authorizing law enforcement officers to temporarily remove guns from individuals who pose an immediate threat of harm to self or others.And more than 50% of those surveyed favored: banning assault-style weapons; banning high-capacity ammunition clips; and having teachers with appropriate training carry guns at school.Perhaps surprising to some, a majority of the state’s gun owners also favored nine of these ten policies. Banning assault style weapons was the only exception; supported by 45% of gun owners, opposed by 38%, and neither favored nor opposed by 17%. Note: nearly half (49%) of Kansans surveyed had a firearm in their home.As is often the case, proposed gun laws contradict public opinion on the issue, and Kansas is no exception.Political science research can help us understand why the state legislature has introduced an amendment that would make it harder to enact extremely popular gun regulations into law.For nearly two decades, research has shown that energy has ebbed and flowed among pro-regulation groups while pro-gun groups have been able to sustain political activism.However, new research found that gun policy has become a durable issue of public concern due to the increased mobilization among pro-regulation citizens in recent years; marking a fundamental shift in public engagement on the gun issue.The disconnect between public opinion and legislative action in Kansas underscores the complex relationship between policy decisions and popular sentiment, especially in a changing political environment.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is the Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University"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;

Insight: Divide between lawmakers and citizens on Kansas gun policy

By CLAY WIRESTONE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/15/a-kansas-legislator-stands-against-trump-and-jan-6-violence-will-his-fellow-republicans-listen/">Kansas Reflector</a>

It shouldn’t take courage to do what Rep.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/members/rep_howe_steven_1/">Steven Howe</a>, R-Salina, did earlier this month.

Howe wrote a column about former President Donald Trump, the Jan. 6 insurrection and election denialism. He asked his fellow Republicans,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://salinapost.com/posts/33c904d2-daa4-4be1-9579-7144c08488a5">in plain language</a>, to take a different path while they still have time. With a full primary schedule ahead of us — and the Kansas presidential primary&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sos.ks.gov/elections/presidential-preference-primary.html">set for March 19</a>&nbsp;— the party could choose to look forward rather than backward, focus on attracting new voters rather than exacting revenge, and work together with Democrats for the good of our country.

Sure, I can hear you all out there saying,&nbsp;fat chance of that ever happening.

Yet Howe speaks with remarkable sincerity. As long as the GOP includes folks like him, we can’t abandon hope.

“For our republic to survive, it needs the peaceful transfer of power,” Howe told me during this week’s Kansas Reflector podcast. “And that is a bedrock foundational issue that has allowed us to survive as a democratic republic. And I feel like that is not something you toy with.”

Opinion writers and political pundits have spilled a lot of ink in recent years&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show/maddowblog/reactions-menendez-trump-indictments-offer-partisan-case-study-rcna119689">about party asymmetry</a>. In other words, Democrats and Republicans don’t always behave in the same way. Democrats encompass a wide variety of warring factions, while Republicans look for order imposed from above. This can be overstated, but you certainly don’t have to look far before finding Democrats&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2024/01/12/david-axelrod-obama-biden-2024-00135194">bad-mouthing</a>&nbsp;President Joe Biden or his reelection campaign.

Finding Republicans willing to speak out against Trump — a twice-impeached former president who lost reelection and was subsequently indicted on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2023/trump-charges-jan-6-classified-documents/">91 felony counts</a>&nbsp;— takes more effort.

Yes, Howe is conservative. Yes, his political beliefs and ideology likely differ from mine. He also respects reality.

“After I wrote this, I received a message from a neighbor, or someone in the neighborhood, and someone that I’ve known for a while,” Howe said. “And they said they still believe the election was stolen, three years since Jan. 6 has happened. And I don’t know if I can change the minds of fellow Republicans that still believe that, because people will believe what they want to believe. And I’m only one person, and that I’m trying to shine the light on some things here for our fellow Republicans to consider.”

He added: “I think Republicans need to know that there is a Republican at the state level that isn’t going to support the former president.”

The most recent polling data&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/polls/president-primary-r/2024/iowa/">aggregated by FiveThirtyEight.com</a>&nbsp;suggests that even in Iowa, only a smidge more than 50% of Republicans would support the former president in the caucus. But as happened in 2016, an array of other candidates split the opposition vote.

As we’ve seen repeatedly in Kansas, reliable Republican voters seldom feel comfortable straying from their party when the general election comes around. That means that the choice of voters in primaries and caucuses — even if they represent a fraction of a fraction — carry outsized weight. Kansas political operatives have used this fact over the years to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2012/08/the-great-kansas-republican-purge-of-2012.html">purge the Kansas Legislature</a>&nbsp;of moderate voices.

All this empowers an ideologue like Trump.

And it leaves normal people&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/12/19/kansans-have-picked-a-less-awful-license-plate-just-like-politics-we-deserved-better-choices/">out in the cold</a>, unrepresented by their party.

“I’ve received quite a few encouraging notes from constituents, people that I’ve never heard from before, or maybe I’ve never met in person, but have sent me notes by email, some phone calls,” Howe said. “And people were encouraged by me coming forward and in writing the piece. And I think there’s more Republicans still out there that perhaps don’t want to speak publicly. They don’t want to get the backlash or the retribution that the former president has talked about if he’s reelected.”

The representative craves, as do I, a return to a different kind of political discourse. As Kansas Reflector’s opinion editor, I would love to write more often about truly progressive topics. Throughout the past three years&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/12/22/as-bomb-cyclone-sends-kansas-into-deep-freeze-lets-answer-some-reader-questions/">I have instead</a>&nbsp;written repeatedly about basic facts. Science is real. Vaccines work. Widespread election fraud doesn’t happen.

Both Republicans and Democrats used to agree, if nothing else,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://theconversation.com/our-shared-reality-is-fraying-103065">on a shared basis</a>&nbsp;of real-world experience.

“To continue as a civil society, we need to allow each other space to be heard, and to listen,” Howe said. “And just because someone disagrees with your opinion, on a policy matter, or something like that, doesn’t mean they’re a bad person. And so I think a lot of times these days, people take things so personally, or they make it personal, when it doesn’t have to be. And I think that’s the way we move forward is being civil, allowing for discourse, especially discourse from the other side. And we can find common ground.”

I sure hope so. But we all have to make it through the next act of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/elections/2024/01/14/donald-trump-says-its-worth-it-to-vote-in-iowa-caucus/72226921007/">Donald Trump show</a>&nbsp;first.

Read Rep. Steven Howe’s full column&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://salinapost.com/posts/33c904d2-daa4-4be1-9579-7144c08488a5">in the Salina Post</a>.

Clay Wirestone is Kansas Reflector opinion editor. Through its opinion section, Kansas Reflector works to amplify the voices of people who are affected by public policies or excluded from public debate. Find information, including how to submit your own commentary,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/submit-opinion/">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705337212570.jpeg" alt="Rep. Steven Howe, R-Salina, wrote an op-ed about former president Donald Trump, the Jan. 6 insurrection and election denialism. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Steven Howe, R-Salina, wrote an op-ed about former president Donald Trump, the Jan. 6 insurrection and election denialism. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By CLAY WIRESTONE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/15/a-kansas-legislator-stands-against-trump-and-jan-6-violence-will-his-fellow-republicans-listen/">Kansas Reflector</a>It shouldn’t take courage to do what Rep.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/members/rep_howe_steven_1/">Steven Howe</a>, R-Salina, did earlier this month.But it did.Howe wrote a column about former President Donald Trump, the Jan. 6 insurrection and election denialism. He asked his fellow Republicans,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://salinapost.com/posts/33c904d2-daa4-4be1-9579-7144c08488a5">in plain language</a>, to take a different path while they still have time. With a full primary schedule ahead of us — and the Kansas presidential primary&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sos.ks.gov/elections/presidential-preference-primary.html">set for March 19</a>&nbsp;— the party could choose to look forward rather than backward, focus on attracting new voters rather than exacting revenge, and work together with Democrats for the good of our country.Sure, I can hear you all out there saying,&nbsp;fat chance of that ever happening.Yet Howe speaks with remarkable sincerity. As long as the GOP includes folks like him, we can’t abandon hope.“For our republic to survive, it needs the peaceful transfer of power,” Howe told me during this week’s Kansas Reflector podcast. “And that is a bedrock foundational issue that has allowed us to survive as a democratic republic. And I feel like that is not something you toy with.”Opinion writers and political pundits have spilled a lot of ink in recent years&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show/maddowblog/reactions-menendez-trump-indictments-offer-partisan-case-study-rcna119689">about party asymmetry</a>. In other words, Democrats and Republicans don’t always behave in the same way. Democrats encompass a wide variety of warring factions, while Republicans look for order imposed from above. This can be overstated, but you certainly don’t have to look far before finding Democrats&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2024/01/12/david-axelrod-obama-biden-2024-00135194">bad-mouthing</a>&nbsp;President Joe Biden or his reelection campaign.Finding Republicans willing to speak out against Trump — a twice-impeached former president who lost reelection and was subsequently indicted on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2023/trump-charges-jan-6-classified-documents/">91 felony counts</a>&nbsp;— takes more effort.Yes, Howe is conservative. Yes, his political beliefs and ideology likely differ from mine. He also respects reality.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705337084588.jpeg" alt="Thousands of President Donald Trump’s supporters storm the U.S. Capitol building following a “Stop the Steal” rally on Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington, D.C. The protesters stormed the historic building, breaking windows and clashing with police. Trump supporters had gathered in the nation’s capital to protest the ratification of President-elect Joe Biden’s Electoral College victory over Trump in the 2020 election. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)" />
 <figcaption>Thousands of President Donald Trump’s supporters storm the U.S. Capitol building following a “Stop the Steal” rally on Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington, D.C. The protesters stormed the historic building, breaking windows and clashing with police. Trump supporters had gathered in the nation’s capital to protest the ratification of President-elect Joe Biden’s Electoral College victory over Trump in the 2020 election. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)</figcaption>
 </figure>“After I wrote this, I received a message from a neighbor, or someone in the neighborhood, and someone that I’ve known for a while,” Howe said. “And they said they still believe the election was stolen, three years since Jan. 6 has happened. And I don’t know if I can change the minds of fellow Republicans that still believe that, because people will believe what they want to believe. And I’m only one person, and that I’m trying to shine the light on some things here for our fellow Republicans to consider.”He added: “I think Republicans need to know that there is a Republican at the state level that isn’t going to support the former president.”The most recent polling data&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/polls/president-primary-r/2024/iowa/">aggregated by FiveThirtyEight.com</a>&nbsp;suggests that even in Iowa, only a smidge more than 50% of Republicans would support the former president in the caucus. But as happened in 2016, an array of other candidates split the opposition vote.As we’ve seen repeatedly in Kansas, reliable Republican voters seldom feel comfortable straying from their party when the general election comes around. That means that the choice of voters in primaries and caucuses — even if they represent a fraction of a fraction — carry outsized weight. Kansas political operatives have used this fact over the years to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2012/08/the-great-kansas-republican-purge-of-2012.html">purge the Kansas Legislature</a>&nbsp;of moderate voices.All this empowers an ideologue like Trump.And it leaves normal people&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/12/19/kansans-have-picked-a-less-awful-license-plate-just-like-politics-we-deserved-better-choices/">out in the cold</a>, unrepresented by their party.“I’ve received quite a few encouraging notes from constituents, people that I’ve never heard from before, or maybe I’ve never met in person, but have sent me notes by email, some phone calls,” Howe said. “And people were encouraged by me coming forward and in writing the piece. And I think there’s more Republicans still out there that perhaps don’t want to speak publicly. They don’t want to get the backlash or the retribution that the former president has talked about if he’s reelected.”The representative craves, as do I, a return to a different kind of political discourse. As Kansas Reflector’s opinion editor, I would love to write more often about truly progressive topics. Throughout the past three years&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/12/22/as-bomb-cyclone-sends-kansas-into-deep-freeze-lets-answer-some-reader-questions/">I have instead</a>&nbsp;written repeatedly about basic facts. Science is real. Vaccines work. Widespread election fraud doesn’t happen.Both Republicans and Democrats used to agree, if nothing else,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://theconversation.com/our-shared-reality-is-fraying-103065">on a shared basis</a>&nbsp;of real-world experience.Not so much today.“To continue as a civil society, we need to allow each other space to be heard, and to listen,” Howe said. “And just because someone disagrees with your opinion, on a policy matter, or something like that, doesn’t mean they’re a bad person. And so I think a lot of times these days, people take things so personally, or they make it personal, when it doesn’t have to be. And I think that’s the way we move forward is being civil, allowing for discourse, especially discourse from the other side. And we can find common ground.”I sure hope so. But we all have to make it through the next act of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/elections/2024/01/14/donald-trump-says-its-worth-it-to-vote-in-iowa-caucus/72226921007/">Donald Trump show</a>&nbsp;first.Read Rep. Steven Howe’s full column&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://salinapost.com/posts/33c904d2-daa4-4be1-9579-7144c08488a5">in the Salina Post</a>.Clay Wirestone is Kansas Reflector opinion editor. Through its opinion section, Kansas Reflector works to amplify the voices of people who are affected by public policies or excluded from public debate. Find information, including how to submit your own commentary,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/submit-opinion/">here</a>.

OPINION: Kansas legislator stands against Trump and Jan. 6 violence. Will his fellow Republicans listen?

As 2023 comes to a close Kansans are celebrating the end of another year and looking forward to a new beginning in 2024.

Come January 8th, the state legislature will assemble to embark on its new agenda for the year.

Already, numerous bills and resolutions have been pre-filed for the upcoming session, providing us with a preliminary but incomplete insight into the legislative agenda.

In the House, the chamber will hear pre-filed bills on changing the start of the K-12 school year, amending the definition of “healthcare provider”, allowing direct vehicle sales from manufacturers (such as Tesla), and a proposition to amend Article 9 of the Kansas Constitution concerning counties’ home rule, just to name a few. A full list can be found on the state legislature’s website.

In the Senate, the pre-filed bills were all filed by Senator Holland and focus mostly on fiscal intricacies such as reconfiguring or discontinuing various tax credits. Though one of the bills would prohibit state legislators from accepting any state employment and the lieutenant governor from employment as the head of a state agency.

However, there are many other issues we should expect the legislature to address this session. As always, there will be a big push for Medicaid expansion and marijuana legalization. There inevitably will be some “culture war” bills to restrict access to abortion care and further marginalize gender and sexual minorities. And of course, we can expect lots of disagreement on education funding — both K-12 and higher ed.

Examining the pre-filed bills and the inescapable discussions of these high-profile issues, I find myself compelled to contemplate the fundamental question of the government's role — what it currently is and what it ought to be.

In 1966, political scientist Daniel Elazar wrote his seminal work American Federalism: A View From the States, which focused on state political culture in the United States.

According to Elazar’s framework, Kansas has a moralistic political culture. This means that Kansans view government as a means to better society and promote the general welfare.

States with a moralistic political culture generally advocate for an expanded government role. Such states are inclined to endorse the idea that the government should actively contribute to the public good by allocating resources towards programs aimed at assisting the less fortunate.

Moreover, these states perceive it as a responsibility of public officials to champion the development of new initiatives benefiting marginalized individuals or addressing public policy challenges, even in the absence of significant public demand for such actions.

Even as national polarization has changed the attitudes of Kansas’ Republican majority over the past decade, putting this tradition under tension, the state's moralistic political culture persists. Underscoring the widespread belief that government serves as a vehicle for societal improvement and the advancement of the common welfare.

As legislators embark on the upcoming session, they carry the responsibility of upholding the state’s moralistic tradition. Whether grappling with issues of healthcare, education funding, or constitutional amendments, the overarching theme should be a commitment to the betterment of society, including initiatives that contribute positively to the public good.

But as the year draws to a close and we stand on the cusp of a new chapter, citizens, just as much as legislators, are responsible for steering Kansas toward a future that reflects the collective vision of a state committed to the well-being of all its citizens.

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is the Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Alexandra MiddlewoodAs 2023 comes to a close Kansans are celebrating the end of another year and looking forward to a new beginning in 2024.Come January 8th, the state legislature will assemble to embark on its new agenda for the year.Already, numerous bills and resolutions have been pre-filed for the upcoming session, providing us with a preliminary but incomplete insight into the legislative agenda.In the House, the chamber will hear pre-filed bills on changing the start of the K-12 school year, amending the definition of “healthcare provider”, allowing direct vehicle sales from manufacturers (such as Tesla), and a proposition to amend Article 9 of the Kansas Constitution concerning counties’ home rule, just to name a few. A full list can be found on the state legislature’s website.In the Senate, the pre-filed bills were all filed by Senator Holland and focus mostly on fiscal intricacies such as reconfiguring or discontinuing various tax credits. Though one of the bills would prohibit state legislators from accepting any state employment and the lieutenant governor from employment as the head of a state agency.However, there are many other issues we should expect the legislature to address this session. As always, there will be a big push for Medicaid expansion and marijuana legalization. There inevitably will be some “culture war” bills to restrict access to abortion care and further marginalize gender and sexual minorities. And of course, we can expect lots of disagreement on education funding — both K-12 and higher ed.Examining the pre-filed bills and the inescapable discussions of these high-profile issues, I find myself compelled to contemplate the fundamental question of the government's role — what it currently is and what it ought to be.In 1966, political scientist Daniel Elazar wrote his seminal work American Federalism: A View From the States, which focused on state political culture in the United States.According to Elazar’s framework, Kansas has a moralistic political culture. This means that Kansans view government as a means to better society and promote the general welfare.States with a moralistic political culture generally advocate for an expanded government role. Such states are inclined to endorse the idea that the government should actively contribute to the public good by allocating resources towards programs aimed at assisting the less fortunate.Moreover, these states perceive it as a responsibility of public officials to champion the development of new initiatives benefiting marginalized individuals or addressing public policy challenges, even in the absence of significant public demand for such actions.Even as national polarization has changed the attitudes of Kansas’ Republican majority over the past decade, putting this tradition under tension, the state's moralistic political culture persists. Underscoring the widespread belief that government serves as a vehicle for societal improvement and the advancement of the common welfare.As legislators embark on the upcoming session, they carry the responsibility of upholding the state’s moralistic tradition. Whether grappling with issues of healthcare, education funding, or constitutional amendments, the overarching theme should be a commitment to the betterment of society, including initiatives that contribute positively to the public good.But as the year draws to a close and we stand on the cusp of a new chapter, citizens, just as much as legislators, are responsible for steering Kansas toward a future that reflects the collective vision of a state committed to the well-being of all its citizens.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is the Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: The Heart of Kansas' Political Culture and 2024 Legislative Priorities

The Kansas Legislature is teeing up to review campaign finance laws in 2024.&nbsp; It should come as no surprise that such proposals occur against a backdrop of strong public skepticism about their motives.

A recent Pew Charitable Trust poll found that 80% of Americans believe that “the people who donated a lot of money to their political campaigns” have too much influence over members of Congress, while 70% agreed that “the people in their districts” have too little.&nbsp; These supermajorities cut across party lines, and may help explain the rise of “outsider” candidates such as former President Donald Trump and Senator Bernie Sanders. To quote the classic 1976 film&nbsp;Network, the American people are “mad as hell, and we’re not going to take this anymore.”

Congressional campaigns are regulated by federal, not state finance law.&nbsp; However, most Americans do not care about the finer differences between federal and state laws–they simply believe that money has too much influence on politics. Also, Kansans do not have a particularly high opinion of the Kansas Legislature, either.&nbsp; In the 2023&nbsp;Kansas Speaks&nbsp;poll, only 2.8% of Kansans reported being “very satisfied” with the Legislature, and an additional 28.3% reported being “somewhat satisfied.” This total of 31.3% satisfied means that the Legislature’s approval ranks lower than that of Governor Laura Kelly, the Kansas Supreme Court, and Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall.&nbsp;

The current push to change the law stems from a 2022 dustup in Overland Park. Led by Mark Skoglund, the Kansas Ethics Commission investigated Fresh Vision OP, a group that sent out mailers advocating for a mayoral candidate.&nbsp; Fresh Vision OP’s leaders insist that it is a 501(c)(4), a type of nonprofit, but Skoglund suspected that it was actually a political committee.&nbsp; Shortly after that, some members of the Legislature began criticizing Skoglund for letting his law license lapse.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier this year, the Legislature considered HB (House Bill) 2391, which would have rewritten campaign finance law.&nbsp; It did not pass, but they will be back at it this coming year.&nbsp; Unfortunately, HB 2391 contained several provisions which would weaken transparency.

For example, current law requires independent groups to disclose whenever there is a finding of “cooperation or consent” with a political campaign. HB 2391 would have required it only when there is “coordination,” which is defined as “express advocacy.”&nbsp; This is not necessary: the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in&nbsp;Citizens United v FEC&nbsp;that campaign finance law may go beyond express advocacy.&nbsp; Narrowing the requirements would create a loophole allowing independent groups to advocate for candidates without disclosing the sources of their funds.&nbsp; HB 2391 would also have removed the Kansas Ethics Commission’s subpoena power, greatly weakening their ability to investigate.&nbsp; Finally, the bill would have created a disclaimer, ““No solicitation shall be considered a violation of this act if such solicitation is accompanied with a disclaimer that it is not intended for lobbyists, political committees or persons other than individuals.”

The simple appearance of this disclaimer, plus the loss of subpoena power, could block the ability of the Kansas Ethics Commission to take any further action.

There are legitimate reasons to re-visit Kansas’ campaign finance laws.&nbsp; Current laws may ensnare a well-meaning candidate whose communication accidentally falls into the hands of lobbyists, when that was not their intention.&nbsp; That said, HB 2391 was a bad bill and should not be revived.&nbsp; Skepticism toward campaign finance is running high.&nbsp; This is no time to make disclosure requirements even easier to evade.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700168795368.png" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Legislature is teeing up to review campaign finance laws in 2024.&nbsp; It should come as no surprise that such proposals occur against a backdrop of strong public skepticism about their motives.A recent Pew Charitable Trust poll found that 80% of Americans believe that “the people who donated a lot of money to their political campaigns” have too much influence over members of Congress, while 70% agreed that “the people in their districts” have too little.&nbsp; These supermajorities cut across party lines, and may help explain the rise of “outsider” candidates such as former President Donald Trump and Senator Bernie Sanders. To quote the classic 1976 film&nbsp;Network, the American people are “mad as hell, and we’re not going to take this anymore.”Congressional campaigns are regulated by federal, not state finance law.&nbsp; However, most Americans do not care about the finer differences between federal and state laws–they simply believe that money has too much influence on politics. Also, Kansans do not have a particularly high opinion of the Kansas Legislature, either.&nbsp; In the 2023&nbsp;Kansas Speaks&nbsp;poll, only 2.8% of Kansans reported being “very satisfied” with the Legislature, and an additional 28.3% reported being “somewhat satisfied.” This total of 31.3% satisfied means that the Legislature’s approval ranks lower than that of Governor Laura Kelly, the Kansas Supreme Court, and Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall.&nbsp;The current push to change the law stems from a 2022 dustup in Overland Park. Led by Mark Skoglund, the Kansas Ethics Commission investigated Fresh Vision OP, a group that sent out mailers advocating for a mayoral candidate.&nbsp; Fresh Vision OP’s leaders insist that it is a 501(c)(4), a type of nonprofit, but Skoglund suspected that it was actually a political committee.&nbsp; Shortly after that, some members of the Legislature began criticizing Skoglund for letting his law license lapse.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier this year, the Legislature considered HB (House Bill) 2391, which would have rewritten campaign finance law.&nbsp; It did not pass, but they will be back at it this coming year.&nbsp; Unfortunately, HB 2391 contained several provisions which would weaken transparency.For example, current law requires independent groups to disclose whenever there is a finding of “cooperation or consent” with a political campaign. HB 2391 would have required it only when there is “coordination,” which is defined as “express advocacy.”&nbsp; This is not necessary: the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in&nbsp;Citizens United v FEC&nbsp;that campaign finance law may go beyond express advocacy.&nbsp; Narrowing the requirements would create a loophole allowing independent groups to advocate for candidates without disclosing the sources of their funds.&nbsp; HB 2391 would also have removed the Kansas Ethics Commission’s subpoena power, greatly weakening their ability to investigate.&nbsp; Finally, the bill would have created a disclaimer, ““No solicitation shall be considered a violation of this act if such solicitation is accompanied with a disclaimer that it is not intended for lobbyists, political committees or persons other than individuals.”The simple appearance of this disclaimer, plus the loss of subpoena power, could block the ability of the Kansas Ethics Commission to take any further action.There are legitimate reasons to re-visit Kansas’ campaign finance laws.&nbsp; Current laws may ensnare a well-meaning candidate whose communication accidentally falls into the hands of lobbyists, when that was not their intention.&nbsp; That said, HB 2391 was a bad bill and should not be revived.&nbsp; Skepticism toward campaign finance is running high.&nbsp; This is no time to make disclosure requirements even easier to evade.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Ethics laws must emphasize transparency

By RAYMOND WARREN Concerned Salina Parent

I'd like to bring attention to an issue that touches the heart of our city's future: the richness of our educational content and our approach to what constitutes meaningful learning.

In our schools, it seems there's a hesitation to fully explore a wide range of perspectives and cultural experiences. This hesitancy not only narrows the educational journey of our students but also limits their understanding of the world's diverse tapestry. As someone who values the depth and breadth of human understanding, I find this concerning.

Often, the term "indoctrination" is thrown around in discussions about education, used as a blanket term to dismiss any material that challenges certain established norms. However, education, in its most effective form, is about opening doors to various viewpoints, not closing them. It's about nurturing the ability of our youth to analyze, question, and form well-rounded opinions.

We must consider what we're truly trying to protect by limiting educational content. Is it about maintaining a comfortable status quo, or is it a matter of fearing that diverse knowledge might inspire independent thought and empathy among our young people? In my study of psychology, I've learned that engaging with a broad spectrum of ideas is not only beneficial but critical for comprehensive mental and social growth.

Salina has an opportunity to lead the way in creating an educational environment that truly values diverse content and critical thinking. Let's encourage our educational institutions to be places where varied and sometimes challenging subjects are not shunned but welcomed with intellectual curiosity.

By embracing a curriculum that reflects a wide array of perspectives, we not only enrich the learning experience of our students but also prepare them to be thoughtful, adaptable, and informed individuals in an increasingly interconnected world.

Here's to building a future that values depth, inclusivity, and understanding, starting in our classrooms.

The opinions expressed in letters to the editor are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Salina Post or Eagle Communications. 

We welcome diverse perspectives and encourage constructive dialogue within our community. All letters are subject to editing for clarity, length, and factual accuracy. Salina Post reserves the right to decide which letters to publish and may not be able to acknowledge or respond to all submissions. 

By submitting a letter to the editor, you grant Salina Post the right to publish, distribute, and archive your submission in electronic and other formats.

Please note that all letters to the editor should adhere to our community guidelines and should not contain personal attacks, offensive language, or unsubstantiated claims. No anonymous letters will be published. Please include your name and city you are from with your letter.

 We reserve the right to reject letters that violate these guidelines or our editorial standards.&nbsp;

Thank you for your contributions to our public discourse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582312931775.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RAYMOND WARREN Concerned Salina ParentI'd like to bring attention to an issue that touches the heart of our city's future: the richness of our educational content and our approach to what constitutes meaningful learning.In our schools, it seems there's a hesitation to fully explore a wide range of perspectives and cultural experiences. This hesitancy not only narrows the educational journey of our students but also limits their understanding of the world's diverse tapestry. As someone who values the depth and breadth of human understanding, I find this concerning.Often, the term "indoctrination" is thrown around in discussions about education, used as a blanket term to dismiss any material that challenges certain established norms. However, education, in its most effective form, is about opening doors to various viewpoints, not closing them. It's about nurturing the ability of our youth to analyze, question, and form well-rounded opinions.We must consider what we're truly trying to protect by limiting educational content. Is it about maintaining a comfortable status quo, or is it a matter of fearing that diverse knowledge might inspire independent thought and empathy among our young people? In my study of psychology, I've learned that engaging with a broad spectrum of ideas is not only beneficial but critical for comprehensive mental and social growth.Salina has an opportunity to lead the way in creating an educational environment that truly values diverse content and critical thinking. Let's encourage our educational institutions to be places where varied and sometimes challenging subjects are not shunned but welcomed with intellectual curiosity.By embracing a curriculum that reflects a wide array of perspectives, we not only enrich the learning experience of our students but also prepare them to be thoughtful, adaptable, and informed individuals in an increasingly interconnected world.Here's to building a future that values depth, inclusivity, and understanding, starting in our classrooms.<h2>Disclaimer</h2>The opinions expressed in letters to the editor are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Salina Post or Eagle Communications. We welcome diverse perspectives and encourage constructive dialogue within our community. All letters are subject to editing for clarity, length, and factual accuracy. Salina Post reserves the right to decide which letters to publish and may not be able to acknowledge or respond to all submissions. By submitting a letter to the editor, you grant Salina Post the right to publish, distribute, and archive your submission in electronic and other formats.Please note that all letters to the editor should adhere to our community guidelines and should not contain personal attacks, offensive language, or unsubstantiated claims. No anonymous letters will be published. Please include your name and city you are from with your letter. We reserve the right to reject letters that violate these guidelines or our editorial standards.&nbsp;Thank you for your contributions to our public discourse.-SALINA POST NEWSROOM

Letter to the Editor: Meaningful cultural learning- not 'indoctrination'

Russell Arben Fox's insightful <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5044e38b-4d59-4805-9474-786c9a04bbf1">editorial on the dynamics of local governance in Kansas</a> rightly underscores the pivotal role played by city managers in shaping our communities.

While his article delves into the complexities of the relationship between elected officials and appointed professionals, it is equally important to acknowledge the empowering nature of constitutional home-rule authority granted to Kansas citizens, the cornerstone of self-determination. 

Home­ rule authority allows cities to choose the form of government that aligns with the community's specific needs and goals. This flexibility is instrumental in ensuring that local governments can effectively address the challenges they face while operating within the framework of our great state.

In Kansas, the council-manager system has predominantly been embraced, which, as Fox aptly points out, fosters pragmatic governance and guards against the polarization often observed in state and national politics. 

City managers, as nonpartisan professionals, bring expertise and experience to the decision-making process, ensuring that choices are made based on sound judgment and technical knowledge rather than political agendas.

It is important to recognize that appointing city managers by elected officials creates a synergy between professional expertise and the community's values and priorities. Elected officials representing their constituents are well-suited to select city managers who share their vision for the community and possess the necessary skills to execute it effectively. 

While city managers play a vital role in day-to-day decision-making, they are held accountable to the elected officials who appoint them. City managers serve at the pleasure of the governing body, and their performance is continually evaluated based on their ability to implement the council's decisions and achieve the community's goals.

The balance between elected officials and professionals in local government is crucial. Elected officials provide the vision and direction, while professional managers ensure those goals are translated into effective action. This collaborative approach allows for the best of both worlds: the democratic representation of citizens' interests and the expertise needed to navigate complex administrative tasks.

In summary, Fox's column serves as a valuable reminder of the critical role played by city managers and their staff in shaping our local communities. Home-rule authority empowers cities to choose a form of government - a council-manager system, a strong mayor system, or a hybrid model - that is effective and responsive to community values. 

By striking a balance&nbsp;between elected officials and professional managers and fostering transparency and citizen engagement, Kansas cities can continue to thrive under strong leadership and professional expertise.

Jon Quinday, ICMA-CM Russell City Manager

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698091063975.png" alt="Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Russell Arben Fox's insightful <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5044e38b-4d59-4805-9474-786c9a04bbf1">editorial on the dynamics of local governance in Kansas</a> rightly underscores the pivotal role played by city managers in shaping our communities. While his article delves into the complexities of the relationship between elected officials and appointed professionals, it is equally important to acknowledge the empowering nature of constitutional home-rule authority granted to Kansas citizens, the cornerstone of self-determination. Home­ rule authority allows cities to choose the form of government that aligns with the community's specific needs and goals. This flexibility is instrumental in ensuring that local governments can effectively address the challenges they face while operating within the framework of our great state.In Kansas, the council-manager system has predominantly been embraced, which, as Fox aptly points out, fosters pragmatic governance and guards against the polarization often observed in state and national politics. City managers, as nonpartisan professionals, bring expertise and experience to the decision-making process, ensuring that choices are made based on sound judgment and technical knowledge rather than political agendas.It is important to recognize that appointing city managers by elected officials creates a synergy between professional expertise and the community's values and priorities. Elected officials representing their constituents are well-suited to select city managers who share their vision for the community and possess the necessary skills to execute it effectively. While city managers play a vital role in day-to-day decision-making, they are held accountable to the elected officials who appoint them. City managers serve at the pleasure of the governing body, and their performance is continually evaluated based on their ability to implement the council's decisions and achieve the community's goals.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The balance between elected officials and professionals in local government is crucial. Elected officials provide the vision and direction, while professional managers ensure those goals are translated into effective action. This collaborative approach allows for the best of both worlds: the democratic representation of citizens' interests and the expertise needed to navigate complex administrative tasks.In summary, Fox's column serves as a valuable reminder of the critical role played by city managers and their staff in shaping our local communities. Home-rule authority empowers cities to choose a form of government - a council-manager system, a strong mayor system, or a hybrid model - that is effective and responsive to community values. By striking a balance&nbsp;between elected officials and professional managers and fostering transparency and citizen engagement, Kansas cities can continue to thrive under strong leadership and professional expertise.Jon Quinday, ICMA-CM Russell City Manager

LETTER: The role of city managers and home-rule authority in local governance

According to data published by the Pew Charitable Trusts, an affiliate of the Pew Research Center, Kansas ranks dead last in the country on the share of state revenue that comes from federal funds.

Across the country, the percentage of state revenue from federal funds ranges from about a quarter to more than half of state revenue and according to Pew, a higher or lower percentage does not necessarily indicate a problem for state budgets.

The highest and lowest ranked states vary greatly — and perhaps challenge some partisan stereotypes about federal spending. Alaska, Louisiana, Montana and Rhode Island make up the top four, while New Jersey, California, Utah, and Kansas fall at the bottom of the list.

To some, this may not seem like a bad thing; Kansas’ politics has strong libertarian undertones after all.

However, the federal share of state revenue does reflect how much funding states receive from the federal government to help pay for public services — healthcare, education and training, transportation, infrastructure, etc.

In Kansas in particular, our ranking shows that federal dollars are left on the table rather than being used on public goods that benefit citizens.

The latest Kansas Speaks public opinion survey — conducted by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University from September 20 to October 10 of this year — shows that nearly 70% of respondents support Medicaid expansion.

Ninety-percent of the cost of expanding KanCare, the state’s Medicaid program, would come from federal dollars under the 2010 Affordable Care Act. Forty states and Washington, D.C. have enacted expansion, including all of our neighboring states — three of which expanded Medicaid via initiative petition.

Studies estimate that 150,000 Kansans would gain coverage under KanCare expansion. Sixty-six percent of Kansas Speaks respondents indicated that these Kansans deserve healthcare from the state.

Furthermore, expanding KanCare would also keep rural hospitals open — which is critically important to our rural communities.

In an investigation by Wichita’s KWCH Factfinder 12 team earlier this year, over half of the state’s rural hospitals are at risk of closing. Of 104 rural hospitals, 60 are at risk of closing, including 29 facing immediate risk.

Just over 64% of Kansas Speaks respondents agree that keeping rural hospitals open is an important benefit of expanding KanCare.

In the face of Kansas' unique position as the lowest-ranked state in terms of federal funds contributing to our state revenue, it becomes evident that there is untapped potential for improving the well-being of citizens.

The data from Pew and Kansas Speaks paint a clear picture: Kansas has an opportunity to leverage federal funding to enhance public services, especially in the crucial areas of healthcare and rural hospital sustainability.

Accepting federal funds does not compromise our values but rather presents an avenue to improve the lives of our fellow Kansans. It's not just about numbers; it's about providing a lifeline to those who need it and ensuring the stability of our rural hospitals.

Kansas stands at a crossroads, with the opportunity to harness federal resources for the betterment of our citizens and communities.

Expanding KanCare is not just an investment in healthcare; it is an investment in the future of our state, where every individual's well-being and the vitality of our rural communities matter.

Kansas can rise above its ranking by embracing practical solutions that reflect our deeply held values of compassion, community, and care for one another.

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD, is the Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt="Alexandra Middlewood (Courtesy photo)" />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood (Courtesy photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>According to data published by the Pew Charitable Trusts, an affiliate of the Pew Research Center, Kansas ranks dead last in the country on the share of state revenue that comes from federal funds.Across the country, the percentage of state revenue from federal funds ranges from about a quarter to more than half of state revenue and according to Pew, a higher or lower percentage does not necessarily indicate a problem for state budgets.The highest and lowest ranked states vary greatly — and perhaps challenge some partisan stereotypes about federal spending. Alaska, Louisiana, Montana and Rhode Island make up the top four, while New Jersey, California, Utah, and Kansas fall at the bottom of the list.To some, this may not seem like a bad thing; Kansas’ politics has strong libertarian undertones after all.However, the federal share of state revenue does reflect how much funding states receive from the federal government to help pay for public services — healthcare, education and training, transportation, infrastructure, etc.In Kansas in particular, our ranking shows that federal dollars are left on the table rather than being used on public goods that benefit citizens.The latest Kansas Speaks public opinion survey — conducted by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University from September 20 to October 10 of this year — shows that nearly 70% of respondents support Medicaid expansion.Ninety-percent of the cost of expanding KanCare, the state’s Medicaid program, would come from federal dollars under the 2010 Affordable Care Act. Forty states and Washington, D.C. have enacted expansion, including all of our neighboring states — three of which expanded Medicaid via initiative petition.Studies estimate that 150,000 Kansans would gain coverage under KanCare expansion. Sixty-six percent of Kansas Speaks respondents indicated that these Kansans deserve healthcare from the state.Furthermore, expanding KanCare would also keep rural hospitals open — which is critically important to our rural communities.In an investigation by Wichita’s KWCH Factfinder 12 team earlier this year, over half of the state’s rural hospitals are at risk of closing. Of 104 rural hospitals, 60 are at risk of closing, including 29 facing immediate risk.Just over 64% of Kansas Speaks respondents agree that keeping rural hospitals open is an important benefit of expanding KanCare.In the face of Kansas' unique position as the lowest-ranked state in terms of federal funds contributing to our state revenue, it becomes evident that there is untapped potential for improving the well-being of citizens.The data from Pew and Kansas Speaks paint a clear picture: Kansas has an opportunity to leverage federal funding to enhance public services, especially in the crucial areas of healthcare and rural hospital sustainability.Accepting federal funds does not compromise our values but rather presents an avenue to improve the lives of our fellow Kansans. It's not just about numbers; it's about providing a lifeline to those who need it and ensuring the stability of our rural hospitals.Kansas stands at a crossroads, with the opportunity to harness federal resources for the betterment of our citizens and communities.Expanding KanCare is not just an investment in healthcare; it is an investment in the future of our state, where every individual's well-being and the vitality of our rural communities matter.Kansas can rise above its ranking by embracing practical solutions that reflect our deeply held values of compassion, community, and care for one another.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD, is the Department Chair of Political Science at Wichita State University.

Insight Kansas: Kansas’ dilemma: Embracing federal dollars for a brighter, healthier future

July 26 marks the 33rd anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act by President George H.W. Bush, a day recognized as National Disability Independence Day. 

This landmark piece of legislation requires that people with disabilities be treated with equal dignity and prohibited discrimination against individuals with disabilities in schools, the workplace, transportation and all other public accommodations.

Appropriately, just a few days ago, we celebrated what would have been Bob Dole’s 100th birthday. 

Senator Dole lived for more than 76 years with the injuries he sustained while serving in Italy during World War II. His ability to empathize with others living with disabilities led him to help pass the ADA while serving as the Republican Leader in the U.S. Senate. 

Dole often listed passage of the ADA among his proudest accomplishments during his 27 years representing Kansas in the U.S. Senate.

While the ADA was groundbreaking for its progress toward disability independence, the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act, passed a little less than a decade ago, built on the ADA by opening up the opportunity for financial independence for Americans living with a disability. 

Under the ABLE Act, the Kansas State Treasurer’s Office offers people with disabilities ABLE accounts that they can use to save and invest their own funds. Money in an ABLE account is generally not counted as assets when determining eligibility for benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid.

Before the ABLE Act passed in 2014, people receiving SSI, Medicaid and many other federal benefits could only save up to $2,000 to remain qualified; this limit made reaching independence virtually impossible. 

The establishment of ABLE accounts provides a way around this limit. By using an ABLE account, people with disabilities can save up to $100,000 without losing their benefits. Like the ADA, the ABLE Act helps break down barriers restricting Americans living with disabilities.

Any interest earned on ABLE accounts is tax-deferred and withdrawals are tax-free if used for qualified disability expenses. Qualified expenses encompass a wide range of categories, including education, housing, transportation, health and wellness, basic living expenses, and many others.

To be eligible to open an ABLE account, the person’s disability must have onset before the age of 26. 

However, thanks to the recent passage of the ABLE Age Adjustment Act, that will increase to age 46 beginning January 1, 2026, making even more people eligible to save through an ABLE account.

Learn more about ABLE accounts or get started saving today at&nbsp;<a href="https://ks.savewithable.com/" target="_blank">https://KS.SaveWithABLE.com</a>.

Steven Johnson is the Kansas State Treasurer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690316416258.jpeg" alt="Steven Johnson is the Kansas State Treasurer." />
 <figcaption>Steven Johnson is the Kansas State Treasurer.</figcaption>
 </figure>July 26 marks the 33rd anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act by President George H.W. Bush, a day recognized as National Disability Independence Day. This landmark piece of legislation requires that people with disabilities be treated with equal dignity and prohibited discrimination against individuals with disabilities in schools, the workplace, transportation and all other public accommodations.Appropriately, just a few days ago, we celebrated what would have been Bob Dole’s 100th birthday. Senator Dole lived for more than 76 years with the injuries he sustained while serving in Italy during World War II. His ability to empathize with others living with disabilities led him to help pass the ADA while serving as the Republican Leader in the U.S. Senate. Dole often listed passage of the ADA among his proudest accomplishments during his 27 years representing Kansas in the U.S. Senate.While the ADA was groundbreaking for its progress toward disability independence, the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act, passed a little less than a decade ago, built on the ADA by opening up the opportunity for financial independence for Americans living with a disability. Under the ABLE Act, the Kansas State Treasurer’s Office offers people with disabilities ABLE accounts that they can use to save and invest their own funds. Money in an ABLE account is generally not counted as assets when determining eligibility for benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid.Before the ABLE Act passed in 2014, people receiving SSI, Medicaid and many other federal benefits could only save up to $2,000 to remain qualified; this limit made reaching independence virtually impossible. The establishment of ABLE accounts provides a way around this limit. By using an ABLE account, people with disabilities can save up to $100,000 without losing their benefits. Like the ADA, the ABLE Act helps break down barriers restricting Americans living with disabilities.Any interest earned on ABLE accounts is tax-deferred and withdrawals are tax-free if used for qualified disability expenses. Qualified expenses encompass a wide range of categories, including education, housing, transportation, health and wellness, basic living expenses, and many others.To be eligible to open an ABLE account, the person’s disability must have onset before the age of 26. However, thanks to the recent passage of the ABLE Age Adjustment Act, that will increase to age 46 beginning January 1, 2026, making even more people eligible to save through an ABLE account.Learn more about ABLE accounts or get started saving today at&nbsp;<a href="https://ks.savewithable.com/" target="_blank">https://KS.SaveWithABLE.com</a>.Steven Johnson is the Kansas State Treasurer.

JOHNSON: ABLE accounts offer financial independence for those with disability

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recently offered tips as the weather heats up this summer. With fair week upon us, here are some reminders.

•Stay Cool! •Wear Appropriate Clothing: Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. •Stay Cool Indoors: Stay in an air-conditioned place as much as possible. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library—even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.&nbsp;Use your stove and oven less to maintain a cooler temperature in your home. •Schedule Outdoor Activities Carefully:&nbsp;Try to limit your outdoor activity to when it’s coolest, like morning and evening hours. Rest often in shady areas so that your body has a chance to recover.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Pace Yourself:&nbsp;Cut down on exercise during the heat. If you’re not accustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and pick up the pace gradually. If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP all activity. Get into a cool area or into the shade, and rest, especially if you become lightheaded, confused, weak, or faint.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Wear Sunscreen:&nbsp;Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down and can make you dehydrated. If you must go outdoors, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to going out. Continue to reapply it according to the package directions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tip: Look for sunscreens that say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels- these products work best. •Do Not Leave Children in Cars: Cars can quickly heat up to dangerous temperatures, even with a window cracked open. While anyone left in a parked car is at risk, children are especially at risk of getting a heat stroke or dying.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Avoid Hot and Heavy Meals: They add heat to your body!&nbsp;&nbsp; •Stay Hydrated:&nbsp;Drink Plenty of Fluids: Drink more fluids, regardless of how active you are. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.&nbsp;Warning: If your doctor limits the amount you drink or has you on water pills, ask how much you should drink while the weather is hot.&nbsp;Stay away from very sugary or alcoholic drinks—these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps. •Replace Salt and Minerals: Heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from the body that need to be replaced. A sports drink can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat. If you are on a low-salt diet, have diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic conditions, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage or taking salt tablets. •Keep Your Pets Hydrated: Provide plenty of fresh water for your pets, and leave the water in a shady area.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Stay Informed:&nbsp;Check your local news for extreme heat alerts and safety tips and to learn about any cooling shelters in your area.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; •Know the Signs: Learn the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to treat them.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Use a Buddy System:&nbsp;When working in the heat, monitor the condition of your co-workers and have someone do the same for you. Heat-induced illness can cause a person to become confused or lose consciousness. If you are 65 years of age or older, have a friend or relative call to check on you twice a day during a heat wave. If you know someone in this age group, check on them at least twice a day. •Monitor Those at High Risk: Although anyone at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others: &nbsp;· Infants and young children · People 65 years of age or older · People who are overweight · People who overexert during work or exercise · People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation.

The Ellis County Fair does have air-conditioned buildings so please come in and get out of the heat if you need to. We also have sunscreen available donated by the Ellis County Cancer Council. We will have a mother’s room available if you want a private space to get out of the heat to feed your baby in the Unrein building! 

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recently offered tips as the weather heats up this summer. With fair week upon us, here are some reminders.•Stay Cool! •Wear Appropriate Clothing: Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. •Stay Cool Indoors: Stay in an air-conditioned place as much as possible. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library—even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.&nbsp;Use your stove and oven less to maintain a cooler temperature in your home. •Schedule Outdoor Activities Carefully:&nbsp;Try to limit your outdoor activity to when it’s coolest, like morning and evening hours. Rest often in shady areas so that your body has a chance to recover.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Pace Yourself:&nbsp;Cut down on exercise during the heat. If you’re not accustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and pick up the pace gradually. If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP all activity. Get into a cool area or into the shade, and rest, especially if you become lightheaded, confused, weak, or faint.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Wear Sunscreen:&nbsp;Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down and can make you dehydrated. If you must go outdoors, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to going out. Continue to reapply it according to the package directions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tip: Look for sunscreens that say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels- these products work best. •Do Not Leave Children in Cars: Cars can quickly heat up to dangerous temperatures, even with a window cracked open. While anyone left in a parked car is at risk, children are especially at risk of getting a heat stroke or dying.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Avoid Hot and Heavy Meals: They add heat to your body!&nbsp;&nbsp; •Stay Hydrated:&nbsp;Drink Plenty of Fluids: Drink more fluids, regardless of how active you are. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.&nbsp;Warning: If your doctor limits the amount you drink or has you on water pills, ask how much you should drink while the weather is hot.&nbsp;Stay away from very sugary or alcoholic drinks—these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps. •Replace Salt and Minerals: Heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from the body that need to be replaced. A sports drink can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat. If you are on a low-salt diet, have diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic conditions, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage or taking salt tablets. •Keep Your Pets Hydrated: Provide plenty of fresh water for your pets, and leave the water in a shady area.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Stay Informed:&nbsp;Check your local news for extreme heat alerts and safety tips and to learn about any cooling shelters in your area.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; •Know the Signs: Learn the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to treat them.&nbsp;&nbsp; •Use a Buddy System:&nbsp;When working in the heat, monitor the condition of your co-workers and have someone do the same for you. Heat-induced illness can cause a person to become confused or lose consciousness. If you are 65 years of age or older, have a friend or relative call to check on you twice a day during a heat wave. If you know someone in this age group, check on them at least twice a day. •Monitor Those at High Risk: Although anyone at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others: &nbsp;· Infants and young children · People 65 years of age or older · People who are overweight · People who overexert during work or exercise · People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation. The Ellis County Fair does have air-conditioned buildings so please come in and get out of the heat if you need to. We also have sunscreen available donated by the Ellis County Cancer Council. We will have a mother’s room available if you want a private space to get out of the heat to feed your baby in the Unrein building! Have a great week.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Stay cool, stay hydrated, stay informed

LAWRENCE — Any parent can tell you that work doesn’t stop when you leave the office and go home. Yet national and international economic statistics only consider the work that happens “at the market,” or outside the home — not caring for children, cooking, cleaning or caring for elders, tasks largely handled by women, in calculating economic statistics like gross domestic product. 

A new study from the University of Kansas argues for including such work, or “girly economics,” for a full understanding of work happening in the country to produce better labor statistics and equitable public policy.

Misty Heggeness saw firsthand how data often overlooked work in the home during her time with the U.S. Census Bureau. Now an associate professor of public affairs &amp; administration and associate research scientist with KU’s Institute for Policy &amp; Social Research, she has written a study about how care work at home has been traditionally overlooked, how it leads to incomplete economic statistics and how such numbers are necessary for good public policy. Heggeness presented the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aeaweb.org/articles?id=10.1257/pandp.20231108">paper</a>, titled “The Girly Economics of Care Work: Implications for Economic Statistics,” at the American Economic Association annual meeting in January, and it was published in the association’s Papers and Proceedings.

“Women are and have always been economic agents. If we were to collect information about economic activity in a broader sense, what we would find is women are more active than men,” Heggeness said. “The total amount of paid and unpaid economic activity show for people working full-time jobs, women engage in about one additional hour of economic activity per day.”

The study is linked to a&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/2023/04/17/ku-researcher-leading-project-quantify-care-economy-make-stats-available-central-location">project</a>&nbsp;Heggeness has launched with funding from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. The Care Board is an effort to gather existing data and statistics on the care economy and make them available in one online location with a dashboard to help researchers, policymakers and others find useful information. The project will generate new statistics on such economic data as well.&nbsp;

Heggeness cites an Institute for Women’s Policy Research study that found among working adults, women average one extra hour per day on unpaid household chores and care work than men. And while an hour per day may not seem significant, over the course of a year, that adds up to 249 additional hours, or 31 days of additional work by women. The consequences of excluding such data have been in place for decades. Heggeness points out that in 1953, the United Nations standardized a system of measurements to determine gross domestic product. One of the most widely used economic statistics in the world, GDP does not include work done inside the home.

The United States does, however, collect data on care work outside the home. Such data shows that roughly 14% of the U.S. labor force is engaged in teaching, janitorial and cleaning services, and child care. That represents 23.4 million people, more than the state of Florida. But with unpaid care work in the home, such as caring for children or other family members, confusion can reign during times of economic crisis.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the additional stress on parents was widely reported. In addition to their full-time jobs, parents had to ensure kids could take part in online learning from home and saw other domestic tasks increase dramatically as well. 

The concern was that the additional stress would drive many parents, especially mothers, to leave the labor force. But a lack of reliable statistics on unpaid care work left both journalists and economists scrambling to determine just how much additional work was done and carried implications that women’s work in the formal sector of the economy was less important than men’s, Heggeness said.

“There are components about global and national history, whether intentional or not, that have been driven historically by men and that are determined by a monetized wage or price,” Heggeness said. “If we limit ourselves to that, we are blinding ourselves to the realities women contribute to the economy and keeping it going.”

After pointing out how unpaid care activities — what she calls the underbelly of the economy — are not included in official statistics, Heggeness wrote about the urgency of including such data, as the economy would not function without it. 

As a result, researchers, statisticians and economists cannot accurately track economic phenomena like a pandemic, growth or recessions without including all economic activity in primary measures. Similarly, it is difficult to measure how overworked or stressed care workers might be, and policymakers cannot develop effective policy to address such problems without a full slate of information, she wrote.

“To not generate statistics with depth and nuance now is an egregious flaw in the profession. We owe it to society and the generations that come after us to use the rich depth of cumulating administrative and real-time data on our economic lives both within and outside of our homes to generate a more complete picture of the modern caregiver and more accurately estimate their economic contributions to society,” Heggeness wrote.

 “With urgency, we must update national accounting systems and leading economic statistics to capture the modern realities of work, care and the economy and incorporate these statistics into mainstream views of our economy.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685723197207.png" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KU News ServiceLAWRENCE — Any parent can tell you that work doesn’t stop when you leave the office and go home. Yet national and international economic statistics only consider the work that happens “at the market,” or outside the home — not caring for children, cooking, cleaning or caring for elders, tasks largely handled by women, in calculating economic statistics like gross domestic product. A new study from the University of Kansas argues for including such work, or “girly economics,” for a full understanding of work happening in the country to produce better labor statistics and equitable public policy.Misty Heggeness saw firsthand how data often overlooked work in the home during her time with the U.S. Census Bureau. Now an associate professor of public affairs &amp; administration and associate research scientist with KU’s Institute for Policy &amp; Social Research, she has written a study about how care work at home has been traditionally overlooked, how it leads to incomplete economic statistics and how such numbers are necessary for good public policy. Heggeness presented the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aeaweb.org/articles?id=10.1257/pandp.20231108">paper</a>, titled “The Girly Economics of Care Work: Implications for Economic Statistics,” at the American Economic Association annual meeting in January, and it was published in the association’s Papers and Proceedings.“Women are and have always been economic agents. If we were to collect information about economic activity in a broader sense, what we would find is women are more active than men,” Heggeness said. “The total amount of paid and unpaid economic activity show for people working full-time jobs, women engage in about one additional hour of economic activity per day.”The study is linked to a&nbsp;<a href="https://news.ku.edu/2023/04/17/ku-researcher-leading-project-quantify-care-economy-make-stats-available-central-location">project</a>&nbsp;Heggeness has launched with funding from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. The Care Board is an effort to gather existing data and statistics on the care economy and make them available in one online location with a dashboard to help researchers, policymakers and others find useful information. The project will generate new statistics on such economic data as well.&nbsp;Heggeness cites an Institute for Women’s Policy Research study that found among working adults, women average one extra hour per day on unpaid household chores and care work than men. And while an hour per day may not seem significant, over the course of a year, that adds up to 249 additional hours, or 31 days of additional work by women. The consequences of excluding such data have been in place for decades. Heggeness points out that in 1953, the United Nations standardized a system of measurements to determine gross domestic product. One of the most widely used economic statistics in the world, GDP does not include work done inside the home.The United States does, however, collect data on care work outside the home. Such data shows that roughly 14% of the U.S. labor force is engaged in teaching, janitorial and cleaning services, and child care. That represents 23.4 million people, more than the state of Florida. But with unpaid care work in the home, such as caring for children or other family members, confusion can reign during times of economic crisis.During the COVID-19 pandemic, the additional stress on parents was widely reported. In addition to their full-time jobs, parents had to ensure kids could take part in online learning from home and saw other domestic tasks increase dramatically as well. The concern was that the additional stress would drive many parents, especially mothers, to leave the labor force. But a lack of reliable statistics on unpaid care work left both journalists and economists scrambling to determine just how much additional work was done and carried implications that women’s work in the formal sector of the economy was less important than men’s, Heggeness said.“There are components about global and national history, whether intentional or not, that have been driven historically by men and that are determined by a monetized wage or price,” Heggeness said. “If we limit ourselves to that, we are blinding ourselves to the realities women contribute to the economy and keeping it going.”After pointing out how unpaid care activities — what she calls the underbelly of the economy — are not included in official statistics, Heggeness wrote about the urgency of including such data, as the economy would not function without it. As a result, researchers, statisticians and economists cannot accurately track economic phenomena like a pandemic, growth or recessions without including all economic activity in primary measures. Similarly, it is difficult to measure how overworked or stressed care workers might be, and policymakers cannot develop effective policy to address such problems without a full slate of information, she wrote.“To not generate statistics with depth and nuance now is an egregious flaw in the profession. We owe it to society and the generations that come after us to use the rich depth of cumulating administrative and real-time data on our economic lives both within and outside of our homes to generate a more complete picture of the modern caregiver and more accurately estimate their economic contributions to society,” Heggeness wrote. “With urgency, we must update national accounting systems and leading economic statistics to capture the modern realities of work, care and the economy and incorporate these statistics into mainstream views of our economy.”

KU study argues 'girly economics' data necessary for full picture of economy

Clinical trials can benefit you, no matter what stage of cancer you have. Here, Tara Lin, M.D., professor of hematologic malignancies and cellular therapeutics at KU Medical Center and medical director of the Clinical Trials Office at The University of Kansas Cancer Center, explains five reasons to consider participating in the testing of a novel cancer treatment.

Advances in cancer medicine come through rigorous testing in clinical trials. A clinical trial is how we develop new treatments — by testing a new drug alone, by testing a new drug in combination with already approved medications or by testing a new combination of older medicines used together. There are also clinical trials to learn about new techniques in surgery or radiation therapy for people with cancer.&nbsp;

By the time the treatment reaches an individual, scientists have already spent years developing it. Nearly all tried-and-true cancer drugs available to you today exist because past patients participated in clinical trials.

Despite the advantages of joining a clinical trial, few people with cancer actually&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kucancercenter.org/cancer-clinical-trials/why-participate" target="_blank">participate</a>. With all the advances in our understanding of cancer biology and new options for treatment, today is an ideal time to consider joining a clinical trial.

Below are five reasons you should consider participating in a clinical trial:

1. You gain access to innovative treatments before they become widely available.

As a participant in a clinical trial, you may receive the latest leading-edge cancer treatment.

2. You receive frequent, attentive medical care.&nbsp;

Some people are nervous that once in a clinical trial, their standard of care will stop. Placebos are rarely used for active cancer treatment. Most studies compare the standard treatment with a new investigational drug or treatment. As a clinical trial participant, in addition to the care you would receive as part of your standard treatment, you will also have visits to the clinic with the trial team. Team members will track your side effects as well as the effectiveness of the new therapy. In essence, you are receiving “Standard of Care Plus.”

3. You play an active role in important treatment decisions that can affect your care.&nbsp;

If you qualify for a clinical trial, you are the advocate in your care and can choose to take part. Participating in a clinical trial may make you feel as if you have more control over your health, which can lead to a more positive outlook on life.

4. Clinical trials aren’t just for people who have exhausted all treatment options.&nbsp;

There are more clinical trials testing new medications in combination with the current standard of care for people with newly diagnosed cancers, too. Clinical trials can be an important part of your cancer care when you are first diagnosed or if the cancer comes back.

5. You are contributing to improving the health of others.&nbsp;

Clinical trials are the only way researchers can continue to develop new cancer treatments. By participating in a clinical trial, you are helping to advance cancer research and offering hope and opportunity for future patients.

If you’re interested in participating in a clinical trial, ask your doctor about your options.

To search KU Cancer Center clinical trials that may be a good fit for you, download the KUCC Clinical Trial Finder app. The app is currently available for iOS and Android users. To download, go to the App Store or Google Play Store and search for “KUCC Clinical Trial Finder.” From there, download the app to your personal device.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675778031892.jpeg" alt="Tara L. Lin, M.D., is a professor in the Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapeutics in the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Kansas School of Medicine. She also is the medical director of the Clinical Trials Office at The University of Kansas Cancer Center." />
 <figcaption>Tara L. Lin, M.D., is a professor in the Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapeutics in the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Kansas School of Medicine. She also is the medical director of the Clinical Trials Office at The University of Kansas Cancer Center.</figcaption>
 </figure>Clinical trials can benefit you, no matter what stage of cancer you have. Here, Tara Lin, M.D., professor of hematologic malignancies and cellular therapeutics at KU Medical Center and medical director of the Clinical Trials Office at The University of Kansas Cancer Center, explains five reasons to consider participating in the testing of a novel cancer treatment.Advances in cancer medicine come through rigorous testing in clinical trials. A clinical trial is how we develop new treatments — by testing a new drug alone, by testing a new drug in combination with already approved medications or by testing a new combination of older medicines used together. There are also clinical trials to learn about new techniques in surgery or radiation therapy for people with cancer.&nbsp;By the time the treatment reaches an individual, scientists have already spent years developing it. Nearly all tried-and-true cancer drugs available to you today exist because past patients participated in clinical trials.Despite the advantages of joining a clinical trial, few people with cancer actually&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kucancercenter.org/cancer-clinical-trials/why-participate" target="_blank">participate</a>. With all the advances in our understanding of cancer biology and new options for treatment, today is an ideal time to consider joining a clinical trial.Below are five reasons you should consider participating in a clinical trial:<h2>1. You gain access to innovative treatments before they become widely available.</h2>As a participant in a clinical trial, you may receive the latest leading-edge cancer treatment.<h2>2. You receive frequent, attentive medical care.&nbsp;</h2>Some people are nervous that once in a clinical trial, their standard of care will stop. Placebos are rarely used for active cancer treatment. Most studies compare the standard treatment with a new investigational drug or treatment. As a clinical trial participant, in addition to the care you would receive as part of your standard treatment, you will also have visits to the clinic with the trial team. Team members will track your side effects as well as the effectiveness of the new therapy. In essence, you are receiving “Standard of Care Plus.”<h2>3. You play an active role in important treatment decisions that can affect your care.&nbsp;</h2>If you qualify for a clinical trial, you are the advocate in your care and can choose to take part. Participating in a clinical trial may make you feel as if you have more control over your health, which can lead to a more positive outlook on life.<h2>4. Clinical trials aren’t just for people who have exhausted all treatment options.&nbsp;</h2>There are more clinical trials testing new medications in combination with the current standard of care for people with newly diagnosed cancers, too. Clinical trials can be an important part of your cancer care when you are first diagnosed or if the cancer comes back.<h2>5. You are contributing to improving the health of others.&nbsp;</h2>Clinical trials are the only way researchers can continue to develop new cancer treatments. By participating in a clinical trial, you are helping to advance cancer research and offering hope and opportunity for future patients.If you’re interested in participating in a clinical trial, ask your doctor about your options.To search KU Cancer Center clinical trials that may be a good fit for you, download the KUCC Clinical Trial Finder app. The app is currently available for iOS and Android users. To download, go to the App Store or Google Play Store and search for “KUCC Clinical Trial Finder.” From there, download the app to your personal device.

LIN: Five reasons to consider participating in a clinical trial for cancer treatment

By ERIC THOMAS <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/01/06/january-ushers-in-covid-19-turning-points-year-after-year-in-kansas/">Courtesy Kansas Reflector</a>

The COVID-19 pandemic has crafted 
many of its dark landmarks during recent Januarys. The last three 
installments have brought perhaps the most significant events related to
 the virus: the month that introduced COVID-19 to Kansas, two months 
that contained the two most deadly and contagious surges, and also a 
month that introduced widespread vaccination.

Three years into the pandemic, it’s 
tempting to think that we know everything about this cataclysm that 
interrupted our lives — and then gave our lives back to us. Looking 
back, as my history teachers have instructed me, revealed what I 
couldn’t remember, and what I never knew.

In writing this column, some of what I
 learned (or relearned) came from scrolling back through the YouTube 
channel of the University of Kansas Health System, featuring chief 
medical officer Steven Stites. The updates that he, his colleagues and 
his staff posted so dutifully are like dispatches from the pandemic 
past, complete with the emotions of the moment and vital statistics from
 people who worked the front lines.

The last three years tested us as Kansans in dramatic ways. January provided the decisive moments.

Many of us think of March 2020 as the
 beginning of the pandemic in Kansas, because that is when we heard 
about the first cases of COVID-19 in the state, followed rapidly by the 
dramatic closures of almost all public institutions, notably schools.

However, two months earlier, in January 2020, the first Kansan died from COVID-19, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/08/24/first-covid-19-death-in-kansas-now-believed-to-be-from-early-january-2020/">a death certificate that was publicized more than a year later.</a>

As reported by the San Jose Mercury 
News, Lovell “Cookie” Brown, a grandmother from Leavenworth County, was 
the first Kansan whose death was attributed to the virus. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/09/02/exclusive-how-did-a-kansas-grandmother-just-become-the-first-u-s-covid-death-not-even-her-family-knew-until-this-week/">The Mercury News also reported</a>
 how Brown’s death appeared “to turn the clock back on the virus’ 
arrival in the U.S. but also suggest that it had surfaced much sooner in
 America’s heartland, far beyond the country’s early coastal hotspots.”

Anecdotally, many of us knew this to 
be true: The virus was present long before medical experts could prove 
it. For instance, one of my friends was devastated by fever, chills and 
coughing fits after traveling with me in January 2020. Months later, he 
tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies, with no other sickness to 
explain them. He likely had COVID-19 during that first January.

COVID-19 was lurking, undetected, in Kansas well before we were aware.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/museum/timeline/covid19.html">Also during January 2020</a>:
 The Chinese city of Wuhan was locked down by the Chinese government. 
The virus was confirmed — for the first time contemporaneously — in the 
United States.&nbsp;

The deadliest time for Kansans 
fighting the COVID-19 virus ran right through January two years ago. 
Buttressed by a surge in December on one side and a frantic peak in 
February on the other, four weeks in January witnessed the death of 949 
Kansans, according to the CDC. A deadly January fed an even more lethal 
February.

According to the CDC, about 100,000 
tests were being performed each week, one of the most active times of 
testing for the entire pandemic.

However, January 2021 was distinct 
because of the battle beginning between virus and vaccine. More than 
four times as many Kansans were vaccinated during that month (more than 
214,000) than had been vaccinated during the previous month. The 
recovery had already begun.

Those January days were a clear 
turning point. The virus would kill almost 6,000 additional Kansans (and
 counting) in the following years, but vaccination slowed the 
infections. It was dazzling how much happened in 12 months.

“A year ago, we were just hearing the
 rumblings about what was going on across the ocean, and now look where 
we are at,” Stites said on a January episode of his YouTube series. That
 month, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsPHedUF9g4">Stites happily rolled up his sleeve</a> for a vaccination.

Seeing that reminded me of the 
urgency of those vaccinations. At that point, we asked ourselves, “Can I
 continue social distancing, masking and quarantine for just a bit 
longer, until I get the vaccine? Can I stay safe for a few more weeks?”

I recall how eager I was to get the 
vaccine, both to safeguard myself and to feel like I was helping slow 
the infection rate that was so deadly and so steadily climbing.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/museum/timeline/covid19.html">Also in January 2021</a>: The CDC required face masks on public transportation and inside transportation hubs.

After Omicron was <a target="_blank" href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-health-kansas-f539218dc9d3c0500691c74a09c00b25">confirmed in Kansas in December 2021</a>,
 the new year was a viral extravaganza. During the week that started 
Jan. 19, 2022, more than 79,000 people in Kansas tested positive. The 
state had not seen that many positive cases — in total — during the 
first six months of the pandemic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673024619311.png" alt="Steven Stites, chief medical officer of the University of Kansas Health System, said January 2022 was the most difficult moment in the COVID-19 pandemic for medical care providers. (Screen capture by Kansas Reflector from University of Kansas Health System video)" />
 <figcaption>Steven Stites, chief medical officer of the University of Kansas Health System, said January 2022 was the most difficult moment in the COVID-19 pandemic for medical care providers. (Screen capture by Kansas Reflector from University of Kansas Health System video)</figcaption>
 </figure>By ERIC THOMAS <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/01/06/january-ushers-in-covid-19-turning-points-year-after-year-in-kansas/">Courtesy Kansas Reflector</a>The COVID-19 pandemic has crafted 
many of its dark landmarks during recent Januarys. The last three 
installments have brought perhaps the most significant events related to
 the virus: the month that introduced COVID-19 to Kansas, two months 
that contained the two most deadly and contagious surges, and also a 
month that introduced widespread vaccination.So it is that we arrive in January 2023.Three years into the pandemic, it’s 
tempting to think that we know everything about this cataclysm that 
interrupted our lives — and then gave our lives back to us. Looking 
back, as my history teachers have instructed me, revealed what I 
couldn’t remember, and what I never knew.In writing this column, some of what I
 learned (or relearned) came from scrolling back through the YouTube 
channel of the University of Kansas Health System, featuring chief 
medical officer Steven Stites. The updates that he, his colleagues and 
his staff posted so dutifully are like dispatches from the pandemic 
past, complete with the emotions of the moment and vital statistics from
 people who worked the front lines.The last three years tested us as Kansans in dramatic ways. January provided the decisive moments.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673024693260.png" alt="A Jayhawk statue at the University of Kansas in Lawrence sports a face mask in the later months of 2020. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>A Jayhawk statue at the University of Kansas in Lawrence sports a face mask in the later months of 2020. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>January 2020: The start</h2>Many of us think of March 2020 as the
 beginning of the pandemic in Kansas, because that is when we heard 
about the first cases of COVID-19 in the state, followed rapidly by the 
dramatic closures of almost all public institutions, notably schools.However, two months earlier, in January 2020, the first Kansan died from COVID-19, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/08/24/first-covid-19-death-in-kansas-now-believed-to-be-from-early-january-2020/">a death certificate that was publicized more than a year later.</a>As reported by the San Jose Mercury 
News, Lovell “Cookie” Brown, a grandmother from Leavenworth County, was 
the first Kansan whose death was attributed to the virus. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/09/02/exclusive-how-did-a-kansas-grandmother-just-become-the-first-u-s-covid-death-not-even-her-family-knew-until-this-week/">The Mercury News also reported</a>
 how Brown’s death appeared “to turn the clock back on the virus’ 
arrival in the U.S. but also suggest that it had surfaced much sooner in
 America’s heartland, far beyond the country’s early coastal hotspots.”Anecdotally, many of us knew this to 
be true: The virus was present long before medical experts could prove 
it. For instance, one of my friends was devastated by fever, chills and 
coughing fits after traveling with me in January 2020. Months later, he 
tested positive for COVID-19 antibodies, with no other sickness to 
explain them. He likely had COVID-19 during that first January.COVID-19 was lurking, undetected, in Kansas well before we were aware.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/museum/timeline/covid19.html">Also during January 2020</a>:
 The Chinese city of Wuhan was locked down by the Chinese government. 
The virus was confirmed — for the first time contemporaneously — in the 
United States.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673024735476.png" alt="A participant looks away at the moment a COVID-19 vaccine needle makes contact during a temporary clinic at Topeka High School in 2021. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>A participant looks away at the moment a COVID-19 vaccine needle makes contact during a temporary clinic at Topeka High School in 2021. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>January 2021: The battle</h2>The deadliest time for Kansans 
fighting the COVID-19 virus ran right through January two years ago. 
Buttressed by a surge in December on one side and a frantic peak in 
February on the other, four weeks in January witnessed the death of 949 
Kansans, according to the CDC. A deadly January fed an even more lethal 
February.According to the CDC, about 100,000 
tests were being performed each week, one of the most active times of 
testing for the entire pandemic.However, January 2021 was distinct 
because of the battle beginning between virus and vaccine. More than 
four times as many Kansans were vaccinated during that month (more than 
214,000) than had been vaccinated during the previous month. The 
recovery had already begun.Those January days were a clear 
turning point. The virus would kill almost 6,000 additional Kansans (and
 counting) in the following years, but vaccination slowed the 
infections. It was dazzling how much happened in 12 months.“A year ago, we were just hearing the
 rumblings about what was going on across the ocean, and now look where 
we are at,” Stites said on a January episode of his YouTube series. That
 month, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsPHedUF9g4">Stites happily rolled up his sleeve</a> for a vaccination.Seeing that reminded me of the 
urgency of those vaccinations. At that point, we asked ourselves, “Can I
 continue social distancing, masking and quarantine for just a bit 
longer, until I get the vaccine? Can I stay safe for a few more weeks?”I recall how eager I was to get the 
vaccine, both to safeguard myself and to feel like I was helping slow 
the infection rate that was so deadly and so steadily climbing.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/museum/timeline/covid19.html">Also in January 2021</a>: The CDC required face masks on public transportation and inside transportation hubs.<h2>January 2022: The peak</h2>After Omicron was <a target="_blank" href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-health-kansas-f539218dc9d3c0500691c74a09c00b25">confirmed in Kansas in December 2021</a>,
 the new year was a viral extravaganza. During the week that started 
Jan. 19, 2022, more than 79,000 people in Kansas tested positive. The 
state had not seen that many positive cases — in total — during the 
first six months of the pandemic.If you search for the top four weeks 
of positive infections in Kansas, three of those weeks were in January 
2022. We struggled to locate enough tests, staking out pharmacies and 
trading tips with friends about where to get tested.The number of resulting deaths was 
both infuriating and heartbreaking. Many Kansans died in hospital ICUs 
after refusing vaccination out of stubbornness or misinformation. Others
 died from underlying conditions that doomed them, once combined with 
the virus.The conference call of regional medical experts that month was partially and ominously titled, “From Bad to Worse.”Stites’ guests sighed and dispatched 
the latest news from their hospitals, where blood supplies were low, 
morgues were full and ventilators were tenuous.“I would start by saying that the COVID blizzard continues.”“This has been a difficult time.”“I wish we could paint a different picture, but it’s not here.”“Even when we try to prepare, it hits us pretty hard, and that’s where we are right now.”Reacting to 17 recent deaths at the 
Kansas Medical Center and staring at a nationwide map of COVID-19 cases,
 Stites observed: “This is really a difficult map to see right now. I’ve
 never seen the country all be so purple at the same time. If you look 
at Kansas and Missouri, that’s really difficult.”<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cdc.gov/museum/timeline/covid19.html">Also in January 2022</a>: Nationwide, the news was similar; the U.S. had almost 1 million new infections, more than any other nation.<h2>January 2023: The hope</h2>This January, however, we Kansans 
largely find ourselves less wondering what will happen next and more 
confident that the pandemic is simply over. That’s not to say that we 
are free from risk.On his most recent COVID-19 update, 
Stites said: “I think that surge that we are going to see with everyone 
inside, with the Christmas and New Year’s Eve parties and get togethers,
 we will see how that plays out.”Jennifer Schrimsher of Lawrence Memorial Hospital and Douglas County said: “COVID is still here. It still kills people.”&nbsp;&nbsp;However, the conversations between 
the medical officers on Stites’ conference call sound more reflective 
than their previous urgency.“I’m brought to a focus on how 
chronic this disease has become,” said Kevin Dishman, chief medical and 
quality officer at Stormont Vail Health in Topeka. “And we are all 
starting to use that word, which I think we are hearing both from 
doctors at academic centers and also across the state, and also now 
nationally, that the chronicity of this disease is going to be a 
challenge going forward.”Dishman said on the conference call that the Topeka media center had consistently cared for 15 to 17 COVID-19 patients recently.“If you think that, a few years ago 
we didn’t have anyone in the hospital like this,” Stites added. “And now
 10 to 15 percent of our hospital beds are taken up with one disease 
entity — one viral entity.”Eric Thomas directs the Kansas Scholastic Press Association, a nonprofit that supports student journalism throughout the state. He also teaches visual journalism and photojournalism at the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Kansas in Lawrence.&nbsp;<figure>
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