The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Media. The editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.
By: SCOTT HILL
Senator 24th District
The winter storm that shut down many schools last Monday did not slow down the Legislature. The short duration of the legislative session made it important to continue the introduction of the bills, committee hearings, and legislative sessions that result in modifications to our state’s laws. The cold weather has hampered many outdoor activities and made life a little more difficult for those who are out in the weather. I can assure you that the weather and the pace inside the Capital was more heated than the outdoor clime.
The Senate judiciary committee has had hearings on modifying the lockup of juveniles arrested for a crime. Some of the discussion involves increasing the length of time that a juvenile can be in detention and increasing the severity of punishment when the juvenile is in possession of a firearm.
Hearings related to Pharmacy Benefit Managers have been held in the Senate Financial Institutions and Insurance committee. These hearings have attracted significant amounts of testimony, often with contradictory statements between opponents and proponents.
Legislation that was passed this week and my vote:
· Senate Bill 244: This bill contained language to address two issues related to an individual’s birth sex. The first was to clarify that the legislature expects accurate reporting of the birth sex on the birth certificate and all other government documents that use the birth certificate as a source document. The second issue expressed the legislature’s requirement that an individual’s birth sex determines which restroom they will use in government owned buildings. This bill passed the Senate 30 to 9. I voted aye on SB244.
· Senate Concurrent Resolution 1615: This resolution honored the life of slain leader Charlie Kirk by recognizing his birthday as “Charlie Kirk Day.” Significant debate was held before the Resolution passed 30 to 9. I voted aye on SCR1615.
· Senate Bill 254: State and local benefits including in-state college tuition have been enjoyed by individuals in Kansas illegally. This legislation prohibits illegal
aliens from receiving state and local benefits. I support legal immigration; however, we should not be incentivizing any illegal behavior including illegal immigration. The bill passed 30 to 9. I voted aye on SB254.
· Senate Bill 184: We have a fund to help clean up dry cleaning chemical spills. Due to inflation, the fund was insufficient to cover clean-up costs. This legislation increased the assessment on dry cleaning. The bill passed 37 to 2. I voted yes for this statute, which is designed to fund the cost of these chemical spills.
A big thank you to each of you who contacted me either by distance or in person. The volume of mail during session makes it difficult to respond in a timely manner, however I read all mail sent and encourage you to continue with your communications.
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