By: Shirley Palmer, 4th District State Representative
Turn-Around
We spent most of this week on the House floor in an effort to push through bills before the halfway point of the session, referred to as TURNAROUND. At this point, House bills that were adopted by the chamber will go to the Senate and Senate bills will come to the House. These bills will now go through the committee process on the other side of the rotunda. With the exception of a few exempt committees, neither chamber will be able to introduce new legislation. However, it is possible that some proposals that did not pass out of committee before turnaround could be amended on to other pieces of germane legislation later in the session. Exceptions to turn around deadlines are made for legislation which has been touched by the Appropriations, Ways and Means, Tax or Federal and State Affairs committees.
Personal
185 4-H members and chaperones across Kansas came to the Capitol this week to participate in Kansas 4-H Citizenship in Action. This event is organized to encourage youth 13-18 to learn how the state legislative process works and how their voice and participation in decision making can make a difference in communities. 4-H members debated topics of Texting While Driving, 1% Sales Tax Increase and the State-Wide Smoking Ban.
The Kansas Pork Association hosted their annual legislative social and dinner Monday evening. Kansas Pork facts include: Kansas is the number ten state in hog and pig inventory producing about 2.6 percent of the nation’s total. There are 1,500 hog farms in Kansas. Of these operations, 310 produce over 95% of the state’s pork. Kansas pork operations consume the equivalent of over eight million bushels of soybean through soybean products and Kansas pork operations consume over 30 million bushels of grain, primarily in the form of Kansas-grown milo and corn.
The University of Kansas Hospital sponsored a state-wide “CHANGE OF HEART FOR KANSAS” launch awareness campaign to inspire and improve women’s heart health Tuesday evening in Topeka. Heart disease will affect one out of three women. As a comparison, breast cancer will affect one out of eight. This campaign focuses on raising awareness of the problem, encouraging a heart health assessment to determine risk and inspiring advocacy that evokes change. First Lady of Kansas Stacy Parkinson was a keynote speaker.
Budget Update
The rescission bill passed the House and was reconciled with the Senate version. The final product cuts $92 million from the current budget. The House voted to concur with the conference committee report and it will now head to the Governor for his signature or veto. It is likely that the FY 2010 budget will still be approximately $40 million short by July. If revenues continue to come in lower than expected, we will need to revisit the FY 2010 budget for a sixth time. If that becomes necessary, we will probably wait until the most updated revenue estimates become available in April to take any further action.
Public School Enrollment Up
Enrollment in public schools in Kansas increased by 6,100 students this year – a rate of growth more than twice what it has been in recent years. Dale Dennis, Deputy Education Commissioner, says state education officials were shocked by the rate of growth this year. Dennis and other education officials attribute the increase to the struggling economy. They say some families, due to loss of employment in other states, have moved back to Kansas and even moved in with extended family in order to save money. Also, some Kansans are having to pull their children out of private schools that they can no longer afford because of lost jobs or other economic stress. Principals at private schools say their enrollments are generally stable, although they are getting more requests for financial help.
Higher Education
This week student leaders from Regent Universities met with legislators to lobby for higher education funding as part of Higher Education Day. After cutting more than $100 million from higher education last year, tuition is rising, classes are larger, there are fewer courses to choose from, and the availability of campus jobs has decreased. Our higher education system has certainly shouldered its fair share of the state’s budget burden. At a time when enrollments continue to increase statewide, over 750 employees and positions have been laid off, held vacant, or eliminated, and over 450 academic programs and classes have been eliminated, producing increased class sizes and making it less likely students will be able to graduate on time. Some institutions are now considering enrollment caps. Higher Education is an engine for economic growth. Investing in higher education is important to lay the foundation for our future economic recovery.
Jana Mackey Bill
On Thursday, House Bill 2517 passed the House, which will help the justice system better track domestic violence cases. The bill was introduced in response to the 2008 murder of Lawrence resident Jana Mackey. Currently, many crimes related to an abusive relationship (such as harassment, damage to property or disorderly conduct) aren’t classified as domestic violence. House Bill 2517 would allow judges to determine whether crimes are linked to domestic violence and then tag them accordingly onto legal documents connected to any criminal act involving an intimate or domestic relationship. A tag will allow for better tracking of repeat offenders. This is especially important with domestic violence cases, as most offenders repeat their crimes (including Jana’s murderer). Additionally, the bill allows judges to require treatment for the offender, such as therapy. Ultimately, this legislation will help sanction domestic violence before it escalates. Mackey, originally from Hays, was a 25-year-old KU law student when she was murdered by her ex-boyfriend in 2008. Tragically, she had previously worked as a lobbyist in the State Capitol on behalf of women who were victims of domestic violence. Jana’s parents have carried on her passion for fighting domestic violence through the creation of “Jana’s Campaign to Stop Domestic Violence.” The campaign’s goal is to promote new and effective legislation to protect victims of domestic violence.
Bills Passed
Below is a list of some bills that have passed the House. Remember, bills must also pass the Senate and be signed by the Governor to actually become law.
HB 2160 requires a mortgage holder to release insurance claim money within 30 days after receiving a written request. There have been problems in delayed payments after storm damages have been repaired.
HB 2364 allows another business day for filing of a court case if the clerk of district court is not accessible due to the office being closed for some reason.
HB 2412 would allow the Kansas Parole Board to grant release to offenders that are terminally ill and not likely to survive the current 30 day waiting period. The person must be too ill to be a danger to the community and have a family or person who will be responsible for him or her.
HB 2418 authorizes KDHE to regulate underground carbon dioxide storage.
HB 2440 requires victim and/or victim’s family and defendant’s family to be notified when the defendant has a change in status. Hopefully victim will feel a bit safer.
HB 2468 increases the registration time from 10 years to life for offenders convicted of attempt, conspiracy and solicitation of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, aggravated criminal sodomy, promoting prostitution if the prostitute is less than 14 and for sexual exploitation of a child.
HB 2482 allows an active duty member of the armed forces or a dependent who is stationed outside the U.S. to renew a driver’s license without examination. It also requires the License Division to mail only a notice of expiration and not the information booklet to persons whose license will be expiring. This will save about $110,000 a year in postage.
HB 2484 closes loopholes on DUI convictions for holders of commercial driver’s licenses.
HB 2486 allows school districts to keep school buses until they are 25 years old. Current law is 20 years. This will save replacement costs if older buses are still in good condition.
HB 2588 changes the cap on prepaid funeral contracts from $5,000 to $7,000. This makes contracts closer to current costs.
HB 2448 permits trained pharmacists to administer flu vaccine to those who are 6 years old or older. Current law allows them to administer vaccines to persons 18 or older.
Keep in Touch
I am honored to serve as your 4th District State Representative. Thank you for allowing me this opportunity. Please feel free to contact me with your comments or questions. My office telephone is 785-296-7646 and my state e-mail is shirley.palmer@house.ks.gov.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Small Businessman Tom Holland Announces Candidacy for Governor
My name is Tom Holland. I am a husband, father, State Senator and small business owner.
For the past 16 years, I’ve worked hard to keep my small business competitive and growing. There have been good times and lean times. I understand the challenges facing businesses across the state—making payroll, paying the bills and carving out a path for long-term growth.
I’ve lived my life focused on family, jobs and business.
Growing up, I learned entrepreneurship directly from my mother who started her own successful business doing what she loved. I learned about listening and being responsive to customers’ needs from my father who was a salesman for over 30 years. So, when I went to college, I studied business and started my career as a software engineer. I had a vision of starting my own company where finding business solutions was done through careful listening to customers. A business where innovative solutions to a customer’s problems were delivered on time and under-budget.
Nearly 20 years ago, my wife, Barbara, and I moved our family to Kansas because I had an interim job opportunity at the Santa Fe Railway right here in Topeka. And when that job was complete, we chose to stay here in Kansas.
We saw Kansas as a land of opportunity—as THE place to start and grow our business and realize our American dream. A place where our kids would be in the best public schools. A place where we knew hard work would reward those willing to seek it.
Kansas has been very good to me and my family. But now times have gotten harder. Kansans are facing problems of historic proportions. Our economy is the worst it has been in over two generations.
I've seen problems facing our state before, and I have answered the call for Kansans.
In 2002, I ran to represent my neighbors in the Kansas House of Representatives because our schools were facing severe funding shortages. Year after year, I watched my children’s class room sizes get bigger and important programs being cut.
- MORE -
I knew how to solve problems for businesses, and when I saw the problems facing my kids’ schools, I decided to lead. I set out to share my vision with other Kansans. The critics said I had no chance. But I went on to beat the established candidate, a four term incumbent and the chair of the House Education Committee.
In 2008, I again answered the call and ran for the State Senate. Again, the critics doubted me. Again, I beat the incumbent.
Now, our state faces an unprecedented budget crisis. Our businesses, schools, social services and public safety programs are in trouble.
Behind me is Lowman Hills Elementary School. It’s just like the hundreds of other neighborhood schools across Kansas, where dedicated men and women are teaching our children and looking to the future.
Like every school in Kansas, where parents, principals, teachers and kids are worried . . . worried what will happen if school funding is cut any further.
Because when we talk about the budget – we are talking about our schools.
When we talk about the budget – we’re talking about providing services to those who are most vulnerable.
When we talk about the budget – we’re talking about protecting public safety.
Every time we talk about the budget – we’re talking about real people, in real communities, in every corner of this state.
The next Kansas Governor must find solutions to these difficult problems, not repeat mistakes of the past.
And for the past 16 years, Sam Brownback has been part of the problem. While in Washington, Brownback presided over a 5 trillion dollar increase in our federal debt, voting against fiscal responsibility and in support of laws that created the recession we're currently facing.
Brownback had a front row seat in Washington while his failed policies made life worse for our families. Now, Sam Brownback wants to put his failed Washington politics and divisive agenda to work in our state.
Enough is enough. We've seen the Sam Brownback way. During his 16 years in Washington, we've seen nothing but more debt, more gridlock and more partisanship. We won't solve today's challenges by bringing Washington's problems to Kansas.
- MORE -
The people of Kansas deserve a leader who knows how to create jobs and rebuild our economy. Not dig us deeper into the debt, gridlock, and partisanship we’ve seen in Washington. I have a proven track record in running a successful business — doing more with less, meeting a payroll and delivering solutions on time and under-budget. I have a proven track record representing the people in my district; I lead through listening and I am the only candidate who can put politics aside and bring all people together, Republicans, Democrats and proud Independents.
Now I know Sam Brownback has out-of-state money and Washington insiders supporting him. I know the road ahead will be difficult. But I care so deeply about Kansans and our future that I gladly accept the challenge.
I’m standing here today to let Kansans know they DO have a choice for Governor.
My name is Tom Holland, I’m a problem solver and a small businessman and I’m running to be the next Governor of Kansas!
Thank you.
For the past 16 years, I’ve worked hard to keep my small business competitive and growing. There have been good times and lean times. I understand the challenges facing businesses across the state—making payroll, paying the bills and carving out a path for long-term growth.
I’ve lived my life focused on family, jobs and business.
Growing up, I learned entrepreneurship directly from my mother who started her own successful business doing what she loved. I learned about listening and being responsive to customers’ needs from my father who was a salesman for over 30 years. So, when I went to college, I studied business and started my career as a software engineer. I had a vision of starting my own company where finding business solutions was done through careful listening to customers. A business where innovative solutions to a customer’s problems were delivered on time and under-budget.
Nearly 20 years ago, my wife, Barbara, and I moved our family to Kansas because I had an interim job opportunity at the Santa Fe Railway right here in Topeka. And when that job was complete, we chose to stay here in Kansas.
We saw Kansas as a land of opportunity—as THE place to start and grow our business and realize our American dream. A place where our kids would be in the best public schools. A place where we knew hard work would reward those willing to seek it.
Kansas has been very good to me and my family. But now times have gotten harder. Kansans are facing problems of historic proportions. Our economy is the worst it has been in over two generations.
I've seen problems facing our state before, and I have answered the call for Kansans.
In 2002, I ran to represent my neighbors in the Kansas House of Representatives because our schools were facing severe funding shortages. Year after year, I watched my children’s class room sizes get bigger and important programs being cut.
- MORE -
I knew how to solve problems for businesses, and when I saw the problems facing my kids’ schools, I decided to lead. I set out to share my vision with other Kansans. The critics said I had no chance. But I went on to beat the established candidate, a four term incumbent and the chair of the House Education Committee.
In 2008, I again answered the call and ran for the State Senate. Again, the critics doubted me. Again, I beat the incumbent.
Now, our state faces an unprecedented budget crisis. Our businesses, schools, social services and public safety programs are in trouble.
Behind me is Lowman Hills Elementary School. It’s just like the hundreds of other neighborhood schools across Kansas, where dedicated men and women are teaching our children and looking to the future.
Like every school in Kansas, where parents, principals, teachers and kids are worried . . . worried what will happen if school funding is cut any further.
Because when we talk about the budget – we are talking about our schools.
When we talk about the budget – we’re talking about providing services to those who are most vulnerable.
When we talk about the budget – we’re talking about protecting public safety.
Every time we talk about the budget – we’re talking about real people, in real communities, in every corner of this state.
The next Kansas Governor must find solutions to these difficult problems, not repeat mistakes of the past.
And for the past 16 years, Sam Brownback has been part of the problem. While in Washington, Brownback presided over a 5 trillion dollar increase in our federal debt, voting against fiscal responsibility and in support of laws that created the recession we're currently facing.
Brownback had a front row seat in Washington while his failed policies made life worse for our families. Now, Sam Brownback wants to put his failed Washington politics and divisive agenda to work in our state.
Enough is enough. We've seen the Sam Brownback way. During his 16 years in Washington, we've seen nothing but more debt, more gridlock and more partisanship. We won't solve today's challenges by bringing Washington's problems to Kansas.
- MORE -
The people of Kansas deserve a leader who knows how to create jobs and rebuild our economy. Not dig us deeper into the debt, gridlock, and partisanship we’ve seen in Washington. I have a proven track record in running a successful business — doing more with less, meeting a payroll and delivering solutions on time and under-budget. I have a proven track record representing the people in my district; I lead through listening and I am the only candidate who can put politics aside and bring all people together, Republicans, Democrats and proud Independents.
Now I know Sam Brownback has out-of-state money and Washington insiders supporting him. I know the road ahead will be difficult. But I care so deeply about Kansans and our future that I gladly accept the challenge.
I’m standing here today to let Kansans know they DO have a choice for Governor.
My name is Tom Holland, I’m a problem solver and a small businessman and I’m running to be the next Governor of Kansas!
Thank you.
Biography – Tom Holland for Kansas Governor
As a small business owner and entrepreneur, Tom Holland understands the challenges of running a business in a dynamic environment and the need to offer superior customer service. He founded Holland Technologies, Inc., an Information Technology consulting and professional services firm, in 1992 and serves as the company’s president. Holland Technologies, Inc. provides IT project management, software development and network engineering services for its customers.
A native Midwesterner, Tom Holland grew up in Indianapolis. He received a degree of Bachelor of Science in Business at Indiana University and subsequently received a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Minnesota. In 1991, Holland, his wife Barbara and their three young sons came to Kansas so that Tom could work on a major IT systems initiative at the ATSF railway. Tom and Barbara subsequently bought a home in southern Douglas County in 1993 because they saw Kansas as a land of long term opportunity – a place to start their new business and put their children in the best public schools.
As a parent of school-aged children, Holland watched his children’s classrooms become over-crowded. A problem solver by nature, Holland ran for the Kansas House in 2002 on a platform to properly fund K-12 education and was elected.
Holland served the families of Kansas’ 10th House District from 2003-2009. In 2009, he became a State Senator representing the 3rd District in rural Douglas, Leavenworth and Jefferson Counties. He presently serves as the ranking minority member on the Senate Assessment and Taxation, Business & Labor and Commerce committees and also serves on the Financial Institutions and Insurance committee.
As a State Representative, Tom received recognition in 2003 from the Kansas Disability Caucus for leadership in addressing the need to fund programs for people with disabilities. He presently serves as the Vice Chair of the Kansas Small Business Development Center Advisory Board and also serves on the board of directors for both Kansas, Inc. and KTEC.
Tom is an active member of Plymouth Congregational Church in Lawrence, KS where he previously served as the Annual Appeal chairman, chairman of the Stewardship Committee and music director of the alternative worship service. He currently plays upright bass with the Plymouth Strings group.
An active community leader and parent, Tom has coached youth baseball teams for several years in Lawrence and also served as a Cub Scouts den leader. Tom and his wife of nearly 29 years, Barbara, have four children: Thomas (University of Kansas graduate), Derek (Baker University graduate), Brandon (University of Kansas Junior), and Louisa (eighth grader).
- MORE -
Holland has over 27 years of experience in the Information Technology industry and is a certified Project Management Professional. His organization received Deloitte & Touche’s Technology “Fast Fifty” Award for Kansas and Western Missouri for both 1999 and 2000. Before starting his business, Holland was an Executive Account Systems Engineer for IBM and later served as a manager for Price Waterhouse Management Consulting Services.
A native Midwesterner, Tom Holland grew up in Indianapolis. He received a degree of Bachelor of Science in Business at Indiana University and subsequently received a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Minnesota. In 1991, Holland, his wife Barbara and their three young sons came to Kansas so that Tom could work on a major IT systems initiative at the ATSF railway. Tom and Barbara subsequently bought a home in southern Douglas County in 1993 because they saw Kansas as a land of long term opportunity – a place to start their new business and put their children in the best public schools.
As a parent of school-aged children, Holland watched his children’s classrooms become over-crowded. A problem solver by nature, Holland ran for the Kansas House in 2002 on a platform to properly fund K-12 education and was elected.
Holland served the families of Kansas’ 10th House District from 2003-2009. In 2009, he became a State Senator representing the 3rd District in rural Douglas, Leavenworth and Jefferson Counties. He presently serves as the ranking minority member on the Senate Assessment and Taxation, Business & Labor and Commerce committees and also serves on the Financial Institutions and Insurance committee.
As a State Representative, Tom received recognition in 2003 from the Kansas Disability Caucus for leadership in addressing the need to fund programs for people with disabilities. He presently serves as the Vice Chair of the Kansas Small Business Development Center Advisory Board and also serves on the board of directors for both Kansas, Inc. and KTEC.
Tom is an active member of Plymouth Congregational Church in Lawrence, KS where he previously served as the Annual Appeal chairman, chairman of the Stewardship Committee and music director of the alternative worship service. He currently plays upright bass with the Plymouth Strings group.
An active community leader and parent, Tom has coached youth baseball teams for several years in Lawrence and also served as a Cub Scouts den leader. Tom and his wife of nearly 29 years, Barbara, have four children: Thomas (University of Kansas graduate), Derek (Baker University graduate), Brandon (University of Kansas Junior), and Louisa (eighth grader).
- MORE -
Holland has over 27 years of experience in the Information Technology industry and is a certified Project Management Professional. His organization received Deloitte & Touche’s Technology “Fast Fifty” Award for Kansas and Western Missouri for both 1999 and 2000. Before starting his business, Holland was an Executive Account Systems Engineer for IBM and later served as a manager for Price Waterhouse Management Consulting Services.
Monday, February 15, 2010
April 10, 2010 Party Meeting
During our April meeting, attendees will welcome Doug Barlet, Linn County Fire Chief and Emergency Management Coordinator. Doug has a Master's Degree in Engineering. Serving over a decade with the Kansas Highway Patrol, Doug instructed officers in numerous training courses, including Forensic Mapping and Accident Investigations. Doug has worked to bring several safety implements to Linn County; including the NOAA all weather radio tower notification system for severe weather, city, and county mutual-aid agreements, and the reverse 911 system.
Firefighters are working around the clock to provide services to our citizens, their work ethics and dedication should be recognized.
Doug will share information about services the department handles, how they are dealing with severe budget cuts, and discuss details about the current Burn Resolution and how our citizens are affected by it.
Our short agenda meeting will begin at 2 p.m. at the Labette Bank in La Cygne, followed by a non-partisan discussion beginning at 2:30.
Firefighters are working around the clock to provide services to our citizens, their work ethics and dedication should be recognized.
Doug will share information about services the department handles, how they are dealing with severe budget cuts, and discuss details about the current Burn Resolution and how our citizens are affected by it.
Our short agenda meeting will begin at 2 p.m. at the Labette Bank in La Cygne, followed by a non-partisan discussion beginning at 2:30.
LEGISLATIVE INSIGHT Number 5, 2010
By: Shirley Palmer, 4th District State Representative
Week 5
I’m happy to report that the pace has picked up significantly in the Statehouse. Most committees had a full schedule on a variety of high profile issues, including: the FY 2010 rescission bill, tax policy, school funding lawsuits, health care, smoking bans, and liquor sales.
My Husband Ron
I’m sure many of you know my husband, Ron, has been very ill and in the hospital with pneumonia and other health issues. We have been to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota for further evaluation. We are happy to report he is doing well and full recovery is expected soon. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
Secretary of State Resigns
Kansas Secretary of State Ron Thornburg announced this week that he planned to resign in order to take a position in the private sector. Thornburgh said his last day in the state office will be Feb. 15th. Governor Mark Parkinson will appoint a replacement to serve out the remainder of Secretary Thornburgh’s term, which is set to expire on January 10th, 2011. The Secretary of State is one of four state-wide officers elected by voters every four years. The Secretary’s primary responsibility is to ensure the safe and fair administration of statewide elections. The office also oversees business entities and the uniform commercial code.
K2 Bill Passes Both House and Senate
This week, the House followed suit with the Senate by passing a bill that will add three chemicals to the state’s list of illegal drugs. Two of the chemicals, called “K2” or “Spice”, are added to herbs and smoked like marijuana. The substance is typically sold as incense. The third is a form of the drug Ecstasy. Under this legislation, it will become illegal to possess or sell those chemicals, just as it is for marijuana. No other state has banned this substance. (If K2 is a synthetic version of marijuana, making it illegal eliminates one possible option for easing the discomfort of cancer patients without exposing them to THC.) There are some differences between the House and Senate versions, so the two chambers must reconcile those differences before the legislation can go to the Governor for his signature or veto. A ban would take effect within two weeks of the Governor’s signature.
Budget Update
Because state revenues have been consistently lower than expected, it was necessary to make additional cuts to the FY 2010 budget that will ensure we end the fiscal year with a positive ending balance (referred to as a rescission bill). Most of the necessary cuts were made in November by Governor Parkinson, but some required statutory action. The Appropriations Committee voted the rescission bill out of committee last week and we took it up on the House floor this week.
For the most part, the Legislature accepted Governor Parkinson’s proposal, with only a few amendments. Specifically, a floor amendment was adopted that will reduce the salary of every elected official by 5 percent (this includes all public officials who are paid with state monies: statewide offices, state legislators, district judges, etc). Some Medicaid cuts were also shifted that will enable health care providers to receive more in matching funds. The total state cut remains 10 percent, but by making a few changes we were able to lessen the loss of federal dollars.
We probably aren’t finished with FY 2010 budget. Revenues were lower than expected again in January, and the state will likely be short approximately $40 million by July even with the additional cuts we approved this week. I expect we will revisit this again in April when the most updated round of revenue estimates are released and we have a more accurate picture of the shortfall. In the interest of the legislative calendar, it is best to turn our attention to FY 2011 for now.
School Finance
The Kansas Supreme Court has denied a petition by the school districts to reopen the 2006 MONTOY school finance case. Friday’s ruling from the court means that any new challenge to the state’s school finance system must start over at the district court level.
Taxation
After five rounds of budget cuts and a $400 million budget deficit still looming – revenue proposals have been a major component of the budget debate. The House Committee on Taxation began a series on various proposals. HCR 5028 would establish a three-year moratorium on the granting of new tax exemptions, tax credits or economic development incentive programs involving employer withholding taxes. This idea in addition to rolling back some tax exemptions has been widely floated throughout the interim as an alternative to a sales tax increase. This proposal is a nonbinding resolution and would not affect exemptions already in place (a repeal of any tax exemptions already on the books would require additional legislation). The Kansas Advisory Council on Intergovernmental Relations testified that the number of tax credits has increased exponentially in recent years, putting a significant dent in the state’s revenue stream. As we work through massive cuts in Medicaid and public schools, it is critical to protect what revenue we have until the economy stabilizes.
Opponents came forth from the business community who testified that a moratorium would prevent Kansas from being open to new business investments. For years, the Legislature has arbitrarily granted or denied tax exemptions with no set criteria on which to base its decision. If nothing else, this proposal highlights the need for clearly defined and consistent guidelines for granting exemptions in the future.
There are several other proposals out there and will discussed this week.
Unemployment
The Secretary of Labor talked to us Thursday about the surge in unemployment claims. If you are having trouble filing for your unemployment benefits consider going on line to: Kansas Benefits. This process is fast, simple and secure. You simply click, claim and collect! Kansas is working hard to reduce the congestion in the call center to better serve claimants. (Kansas has paid out over $766 million in unemployment benefits. Kansas processes nearly $14 million a week in benefits.) We will have to borrow from the Federal Government by the end of February. 38 other states will be borrowing by the end of the year. This is a program that has been in existence for 75 years and was created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Keep In Touch
It is a special honor to serve as your state representative. I value and need your input on the various issues facing state government. My office telephone number is 785-296-7646 and my home number is 620-223-4105. You may e-mail me at Shirley.Palmer@house.ks.gov. or rspalmer1862@sbcglobal.net.
Week 5
I’m happy to report that the pace has picked up significantly in the Statehouse. Most committees had a full schedule on a variety of high profile issues, including: the FY 2010 rescission bill, tax policy, school funding lawsuits, health care, smoking bans, and liquor sales.
My Husband Ron
I’m sure many of you know my husband, Ron, has been very ill and in the hospital with pneumonia and other health issues. We have been to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota for further evaluation. We are happy to report he is doing well and full recovery is expected soon. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
Secretary of State Resigns
Kansas Secretary of State Ron Thornburg announced this week that he planned to resign in order to take a position in the private sector. Thornburgh said his last day in the state office will be Feb. 15th. Governor Mark Parkinson will appoint a replacement to serve out the remainder of Secretary Thornburgh’s term, which is set to expire on January 10th, 2011. The Secretary of State is one of four state-wide officers elected by voters every four years. The Secretary’s primary responsibility is to ensure the safe and fair administration of statewide elections. The office also oversees business entities and the uniform commercial code.
K2 Bill Passes Both House and Senate
This week, the House followed suit with the Senate by passing a bill that will add three chemicals to the state’s list of illegal drugs. Two of the chemicals, called “K2” or “Spice”, are added to herbs and smoked like marijuana. The substance is typically sold as incense. The third is a form of the drug Ecstasy. Under this legislation, it will become illegal to possess or sell those chemicals, just as it is for marijuana. No other state has banned this substance. (If K2 is a synthetic version of marijuana, making it illegal eliminates one possible option for easing the discomfort of cancer patients without exposing them to THC.) There are some differences between the House and Senate versions, so the two chambers must reconcile those differences before the legislation can go to the Governor for his signature or veto. A ban would take effect within two weeks of the Governor’s signature.
Budget Update
Because state revenues have been consistently lower than expected, it was necessary to make additional cuts to the FY 2010 budget that will ensure we end the fiscal year with a positive ending balance (referred to as a rescission bill). Most of the necessary cuts were made in November by Governor Parkinson, but some required statutory action. The Appropriations Committee voted the rescission bill out of committee last week and we took it up on the House floor this week.
For the most part, the Legislature accepted Governor Parkinson’s proposal, with only a few amendments. Specifically, a floor amendment was adopted that will reduce the salary of every elected official by 5 percent (this includes all public officials who are paid with state monies: statewide offices, state legislators, district judges, etc). Some Medicaid cuts were also shifted that will enable health care providers to receive more in matching funds. The total state cut remains 10 percent, but by making a few changes we were able to lessen the loss of federal dollars.
We probably aren’t finished with FY 2010 budget. Revenues were lower than expected again in January, and the state will likely be short approximately $40 million by July even with the additional cuts we approved this week. I expect we will revisit this again in April when the most updated round of revenue estimates are released and we have a more accurate picture of the shortfall. In the interest of the legislative calendar, it is best to turn our attention to FY 2011 for now.
School Finance
The Kansas Supreme Court has denied a petition by the school districts to reopen the 2006 MONTOY school finance case. Friday’s ruling from the court means that any new challenge to the state’s school finance system must start over at the district court level.
Taxation
After five rounds of budget cuts and a $400 million budget deficit still looming – revenue proposals have been a major component of the budget debate. The House Committee on Taxation began a series on various proposals. HCR 5028 would establish a three-year moratorium on the granting of new tax exemptions, tax credits or economic development incentive programs involving employer withholding taxes. This idea in addition to rolling back some tax exemptions has been widely floated throughout the interim as an alternative to a sales tax increase. This proposal is a nonbinding resolution and would not affect exemptions already in place (a repeal of any tax exemptions already on the books would require additional legislation). The Kansas Advisory Council on Intergovernmental Relations testified that the number of tax credits has increased exponentially in recent years, putting a significant dent in the state’s revenue stream. As we work through massive cuts in Medicaid and public schools, it is critical to protect what revenue we have until the economy stabilizes.
Opponents came forth from the business community who testified that a moratorium would prevent Kansas from being open to new business investments. For years, the Legislature has arbitrarily granted or denied tax exemptions with no set criteria on which to base its decision. If nothing else, this proposal highlights the need for clearly defined and consistent guidelines for granting exemptions in the future.
There are several other proposals out there and will discussed this week.
Unemployment
The Secretary of Labor talked to us Thursday about the surge in unemployment claims. If you are having trouble filing for your unemployment benefits consider going on line to: Kansas Benefits. This process is fast, simple and secure. You simply click, claim and collect! Kansas is working hard to reduce the congestion in the call center to better serve claimants. (Kansas has paid out over $766 million in unemployment benefits. Kansas processes nearly $14 million a week in benefits.) We will have to borrow from the Federal Government by the end of February. 38 other states will be borrowing by the end of the year. This is a program that has been in existence for 75 years and was created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Keep In Touch
It is a special honor to serve as your state representative. I value and need your input on the various issues facing state government. My office telephone number is 785-296-7646 and my home number is 620-223-4105. You may e-mail me at Shirley.Palmer@house.ks.gov. or rspalmer1862@sbcglobal.net.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Quick Update
Washington Days reservations will be opening this week for registration. If you are interested in attending the events please log on to www.kansasdems.org.
Events will be held at the Topeka Ramada Inn on Feb. 26 – 27. Please use Kansas Democratic Party reference to receive hotel room special rates.
The State Party has asked Crawford County Chair Beth Bradrick to submit the names of individuals in the Democratic Party locally who have served the Party well over time. Beth is asking that names be submitted to her, along with a couple of lines about that individual's service. The award will be announced Friday, February 26 during the Washington Days banquet. Suggestions should be submitted to Beth by February 16, as the State Party will have to review those nominations and make a decision. If you would like to nominate someone you feel is worthy of recognition for their work and commitment to the party please e-mail Beth at: bbradrick@cox.net.
Linn County Democratic Party will be showing off our new county banner. It will hang in Parlor B where you will find the best hospitality suite food and beverages on Friday evening. We have also extended an offer to co-sponsor the event with Crawford County and are awaiting further information on costs.
We hope to see many Linn County residents attend this year’s events. You will not be disappointed.
If you have any questions please contact Denise Cassells.
Events will be held at the Topeka Ramada Inn on Feb. 26 – 27. Please use Kansas Democratic Party reference to receive hotel room special rates.
The State Party has asked Crawford County Chair Beth Bradrick to submit the names of individuals in the Democratic Party locally who have served the Party well over time. Beth is asking that names be submitted to her, along with a couple of lines about that individual's service. The award will be announced Friday, February 26 during the Washington Days banquet. Suggestions should be submitted to Beth by February 16, as the State Party will have to review those nominations and make a decision. If you would like to nominate someone you feel is worthy of recognition for their work and commitment to the party please e-mail Beth at: bbradrick@cox.net.
Linn County Democratic Party will be showing off our new county banner. It will hang in Parlor B where you will find the best hospitality suite food and beverages on Friday evening. We have also extended an offer to co-sponsor the event with Crawford County and are awaiting further information on costs.
We hope to see many Linn County residents attend this year’s events. You will not be disappointed.
If you have any questions please contact Denise Cassells.
LEGISLATIVE INSIGHT Number 3, 2010
By: Shirley Palmer, 4th District State Representative
New State Library -
I attended the State Library Open House in its new location in the capitol on Wednesday. The new state librarian is from Ohio. The new location is Room 169 W., State Capitol, while the renovation is taking place. Public computers, newspapers, periodicals, audio books, legislative bills and statue books can be located there.
Kansas Day -
Kansas celebrated its 149th birthday January 29th. Hundreds of local elementary students joined Governor Mark Parkinson at the Kansas State Historical Society for the celebration. As we reflect on the history of our state, I am reminded of all the things that make Kansas the best place to live, work, and raise a family. I hope we will protect all of those priorities as we work our way through our budget crisis.
Budget Shortfall -
Budgets, Cuts, and Unemployment have been the topic for lots of discussion since the legislature reconvened in January. I have been hearing from lots of constituents with concerns and comments. Thank you for contacting me and I appreciate your input.
Every state in the union is experiencing budget shortfall issues due to the national recession. In the last 50 years, Kansas has not experienced two consecutive years of declining revenues more than one time. We are now in our third consecutive year, with a fourth year of declining revenue predicted.
As a result of this unprecedented decline in state revenues, the Kansas Legislature and Governor have cut the state budget by almost ONE BILLION DOLLARS in the past two years. Within our state, these cuts have closed 18 national guard armories, laid off over 4,000 K-12 employees, cut much needed at-risk, tutoring and after school programs at public schools, closed correctional institutions, eliminated supervised parole for former inmates, caused tuition increases at institutions of higher learning, swept funds from the state highway plan, caused a waiting list for services for the disabled that exceeds 5,000 people, cut services for the elderly and disabled on Medicaid and cut the pay or eliminated the jobs of countless workers employed in the above fields. I could add another 5 pages delineating what damage the cuts have done, but I think you get the picture.
According to Kansas Tax Facts, a non-partisan publication put forth by the Kansas Legislative Research Dept., Kansas taxes (both state and local) as a percent of personal income have remained fairly constant.
TAXES as PERCENT of PERSONAL INCOME
State Local Both
FY 2004 6.52% 4.59% 11.11%
FY 2005 6.76% 4.73% 11.48%
FY 2006 7.18% 4.92% 12.10%
FY 2007 7.12% 4.87% 11.98%
FY 2008 6.94% 4.82% 11.76%
FY 2009 6.11% 4.72% 10.82%
In addition, the Kansas tax burden continues to be at or below the national average, depending on which sources you choose to reference.
As legislators, we are hearing from our constituents, and the overwhelming majority do NOT want to see further cuts to already devastated programs that serve Kansans well. H.B. 2475 may not be the answer we are looking for to solve our budget crisis. However, further cuts alone will not be the answer either. In order to move our state forward, we will need to put all options on the table and come up with a multifaceted approach to solving this budget shortfall.
After hearing testimony last week in support of Governor Parkinson’s proposed sales tax increase, opponents got their say on Tuesday. Overall, opponents argue that a sales tax increase would have a negative impact on small businesses in the state and decrease economic activity. Discussion also focused on maintaining competitiveness with our border states, especially Missouri, noting that some business owners may consider moving their business out of the state if the sales tax increased.
Some suggested that the problem was with excessive spending and that deeper cuts are the solution to the budget crisis. Others emphasized that an increase in sales tax would be regressive, harming those on the lowest end of the income scale the most because they have the least disposable income to spend, especially on consumable goods like groceries.
The committee passed the bill out of committee unfavorably on Wednesday. It has not been heard on the house floor. I felt the move was both premature and irresponsible. Given the inactivity of the House Appropriations Committee, it is nonsensical to vote on possible revenue streams until we know how much money we need or what that money will pay for.
I am interested in your honest feedback on these discussions. Should we maintain state services or should we seriously consider a revenue package of some kind? Please contact me and tell me what you think.
It is a special honor to serve as your State Representative. You may e-mail me at Shirley.Palmer@house.ks.gov in Topeka or rspalmer1862@sbcglobal.net at home. My office telephone number is 785-296-4676 while my home number is 620-223-4105. You may also call the legislative hotline at 1-800-432-3924 to leave a message for me.
New State Library -
I attended the State Library Open House in its new location in the capitol on Wednesday. The new state librarian is from Ohio. The new location is Room 169 W., State Capitol, while the renovation is taking place. Public computers, newspapers, periodicals, audio books, legislative bills and statue books can be located there.
Kansas Day -
Kansas celebrated its 149th birthday January 29th. Hundreds of local elementary students joined Governor Mark Parkinson at the Kansas State Historical Society for the celebration. As we reflect on the history of our state, I am reminded of all the things that make Kansas the best place to live, work, and raise a family. I hope we will protect all of those priorities as we work our way through our budget crisis.
Budget Shortfall -
Budgets, Cuts, and Unemployment have been the topic for lots of discussion since the legislature reconvened in January. I have been hearing from lots of constituents with concerns and comments. Thank you for contacting me and I appreciate your input.
Every state in the union is experiencing budget shortfall issues due to the national recession. In the last 50 years, Kansas has not experienced two consecutive years of declining revenues more than one time. We are now in our third consecutive year, with a fourth year of declining revenue predicted.
As a result of this unprecedented decline in state revenues, the Kansas Legislature and Governor have cut the state budget by almost ONE BILLION DOLLARS in the past two years. Within our state, these cuts have closed 18 national guard armories, laid off over 4,000 K-12 employees, cut much needed at-risk, tutoring and after school programs at public schools, closed correctional institutions, eliminated supervised parole for former inmates, caused tuition increases at institutions of higher learning, swept funds from the state highway plan, caused a waiting list for services for the disabled that exceeds 5,000 people, cut services for the elderly and disabled on Medicaid and cut the pay or eliminated the jobs of countless workers employed in the above fields. I could add another 5 pages delineating what damage the cuts have done, but I think you get the picture.
According to Kansas Tax Facts, a non-partisan publication put forth by the Kansas Legislative Research Dept., Kansas taxes (both state and local) as a percent of personal income have remained fairly constant.
TAXES as PERCENT of PERSONAL INCOME
State Local Both
FY 2004 6.52% 4.59% 11.11%
FY 2005 6.76% 4.73% 11.48%
FY 2006 7.18% 4.92% 12.10%
FY 2007 7.12% 4.87% 11.98%
FY 2008 6.94% 4.82% 11.76%
FY 2009 6.11% 4.72% 10.82%
In addition, the Kansas tax burden continues to be at or below the national average, depending on which sources you choose to reference.
As legislators, we are hearing from our constituents, and the overwhelming majority do NOT want to see further cuts to already devastated programs that serve Kansans well. H.B. 2475 may not be the answer we are looking for to solve our budget crisis. However, further cuts alone will not be the answer either. In order to move our state forward, we will need to put all options on the table and come up with a multifaceted approach to solving this budget shortfall.
After hearing testimony last week in support of Governor Parkinson’s proposed sales tax increase, opponents got their say on Tuesday. Overall, opponents argue that a sales tax increase would have a negative impact on small businesses in the state and decrease economic activity. Discussion also focused on maintaining competitiveness with our border states, especially Missouri, noting that some business owners may consider moving their business out of the state if the sales tax increased.
Some suggested that the problem was with excessive spending and that deeper cuts are the solution to the budget crisis. Others emphasized that an increase in sales tax would be regressive, harming those on the lowest end of the income scale the most because they have the least disposable income to spend, especially on consumable goods like groceries.
The committee passed the bill out of committee unfavorably on Wednesday. It has not been heard on the house floor. I felt the move was both premature and irresponsible. Given the inactivity of the House Appropriations Committee, it is nonsensical to vote on possible revenue streams until we know how much money we need or what that money will pay for.
I am interested in your honest feedback on these discussions. Should we maintain state services or should we seriously consider a revenue package of some kind? Please contact me and tell me what you think.
It is a special honor to serve as your State Representative. You may e-mail me at Shirley.Palmer@house.ks.gov in Topeka or rspalmer1862@sbcglobal.net at home. My office telephone number is 785-296-4676 while my home number is 620-223-4105. You may also call the legislative hotline at 1-800-432-3924 to leave a message for me.
Legislative Forum Update
The Legislative Forum will be March 13,10 a.m. to Noon.
Please plan to attend in place of our regularly scheduled March meeting.
This event will be held at the F & M Community Building in Mound City, located on the south side of Main St.
Also: Our February meeting will feature guest speaker, Kansas State Democratic Party Executive Director Kenny Johnston. Saturday, Feb. 13, at 2 p.m. in La Cygne at the Labette Bank Hall located on Market St.
Refreshments will be available at both of the meetings.
Please remember to make calls to extend invitations.
Thanks!
Please plan to attend in place of our regularly scheduled March meeting.
This event will be held at the F & M Community Building in Mound City, located on the south side of Main St.
Also: Our February meeting will feature guest speaker, Kansas State Democratic Party Executive Director Kenny Johnston. Saturday, Feb. 13, at 2 p.m. in La Cygne at the Labette Bank Hall located on Market St.
Refreshments will be available at both of the meetings.
Please remember to make calls to extend invitations.
Thanks!
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