KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire at a commercial building in Kansas City.

Just before 11p.m. Monday, Kansas City Fire Department companies were dispatched to a reported building fire in the 1100 block of West 8th Street in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan. 

On arrival, crews reported heavy smoke showing from a&nbsp;6-story commercial building and initiated an offensive fire attack.

The fire was found to be in an open elevator shaft and burning on the roof of the structure.&nbsp;

Crews advanced 3 hose lines to extinguish the fire, which was placed under control at 11:55 p.m.The cause of the fire is under investigation by KCFD. &nbsp;

Dangerous Buildings and City Planning were requested to the scene. No injuries have been reported from this incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769513239665.png" alt="Photos Kansas City Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photos Kansas City Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire at a commercial building in Kansas City.Just before 11p.m. Monday, Kansas City Fire Department companies were dispatched to a reported building fire in the 1100 block of West 8th Street in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769513216748.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On arrival, crews reported heavy smoke showing from a&nbsp;6-story commercial building and initiated an offensive fire attack.The fire was found to be in an open elevator shaft and burning on the roof of the structure.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769513283449.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Crews advanced 3 hose lines to extinguish the fire, which was placed under control at 11:55 p.m.The cause of the fire is under investigation by KCFD. &nbsp;Dangerous Buildings and City Planning were requested to the scene. No injuries have been reported from this incident.

Crews fight fire in elevator shaft of 6-story building in Kansas City

WASHINGTON —A federal officer on Saturday shot and killed a 37-year-old man in Minneapolis&nbsp;amid the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.&nbsp; &nbsp;Two Kansas lawmakers have finally broken their silence on what happened.

On his social media feed, Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran wrote, "I am deeply troubled by the shootings in Minneapolis involving federal agents. Our Constitution provides citizens protection from the government. We have a right to free speech, to peaceably assemble and to bear arms."

"We also expect government to protect us from lawless behavior. Enforcing immigration laws that remove dangerous criminals from our streets and neighborhoods makes us safer and increases our national security. This can only be accomplished if local, state and federal officials work together to uphold the law."

"Law enforcement must reflect our nation’s values, and citizens should obey the law. This tragic circumstance should be investigated to the fullest extent to ensure transparency and accountability."

Kansas 2nd District Congressman Derek Schmidt also used his social media account to sound off on the tragedy and give his opinion.

"America's immigration laws must be enforced, and many of the current difficulties are rooted in the prior administration's allowing at least 9 million people to enter and remain in our country illegally."

"At the same time, enforcing the law professionally and with clear focus and common sense is vital to public confidence in the rule of law. The events in Minnesota are distressing –both senior state officials' refusal to cooperate with federal authorities to enforce the law and the reported actions of some federal officials."

"In my view, there needs to be a transparent and thorough review and factfinding regarding the officer involved shootings in Minnesota – as there should be in every officer involved shooting anywhere." 

"I support Chairman Garbarino's decision to convene a House Homeland Security Committee oversight hearing to question ICE, CBP, and USCIS leaders."

"I have raised questions about the reported use of administrative, as opposed to judicial, warrants to enter homes and continue to do so. And I encourage swift enactment of the provisions I voted for last week in the Homeland Security appropriations bill to fund ICE and CBP body cameras and expand deescalation training."

On Sunday, Kansas 3rd District Congresswoman Sharice Davids shared her thoughts on the shooting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769276764745.png" alt="Photo of the weapon seized in shooting- photo DHS" />
 <figcaption>Photo of the weapon seized in shooting- photo DHS</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —A federal officer on Saturday shot and killed a 37-year-old man in Minneapolis&nbsp;amid the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.&nbsp; &nbsp;Two Kansas lawmakers have finally broken their silence on what happened.On his social media feed, Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran wrote, "I am deeply troubled by the shootings in Minneapolis involving federal agents. Our Constitution provides citizens protection from the government. We have a right to free speech, to peaceably assemble and to bear arms.""We also expect government to protect us from lawless behavior. Enforcing immigration laws that remove dangerous criminals from our streets and neighborhoods makes us safer and increases our national security. This can only be accomplished if local, state and federal officials work together to uphold the law.""Law enforcement must reflect our nation’s values, and citizens should obey the law. This tragic circumstance should be investigated to the fullest extent to ensure transparency and accountability."Kansas 2nd District Congressman Derek Schmidt also used his social media account to sound off on the tragedy and give his opinion."America's immigration laws must be enforced, and many of the current difficulties are rooted in the prior administration's allowing at least 9 million people to enter and remain in our country illegally.""At the same time, enforcing the law professionally and with clear focus and common sense is vital to public confidence in the rule of law. The events in Minnesota are distressing –both senior state officials' refusal to cooperate with federal authorities to enforce the law and the reported actions of some federal officials.""In my view, there needs to be a transparent and thorough review and factfinding regarding the officer involved shootings in Minnesota – as there should be in every officer involved shooting anywhere." "I support Chairman Garbarino's decision to convene a House Homeland Security Committee oversight hearing to question ICE, CBP, and USCIS leaders.""I have raised questions about the reported use of administrative, as opposed to judicial, warrants to enter homes and continue to do so. And I encourage swift enactment of the provisions I voted for last week in the Homeland Security appropriations bill to fund ICE and CBP body cameras and expand deescalation training."On Sunday, Kansas 3rd District Congresswoman Sharice Davids shared her thoughts on the shooting.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I am angry and heartbroken about the killing of Alex Pretti, a VA nurse in Minnesota. People should feel safe in their own communities, but right now families are afraid to leave their homes and communities are living in fear. Our local law enforcement should be allowed to…&mdash; Rep. Sharice Davids (@RepDavids) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDavids/status/2015530181310746764?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Kansas GOP lawmakers sound off on fatal Minneapolis shooting 

Judge Christopher Limbaugh has already dismissed one challenge to the law that also provided incentives professional sports stadiums. He has promised a decision by Feb. 10 on the question of whether the property tax caps violate the Missouri Constitution

BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

While the Kansas City Chiefs are&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/22/chiefs-kansas-stadium-deal/">leaving Missouri</a>&nbsp;and won’t use the incentives lawmakers created for them last summer, the question of whether other tax credits and property tax caps included in the legislation will be used by anyone remains undecided.

Cole County Circuit Judge Christopher Limbaugh after a hearing on Wednesday promised he would rule by Feb. 10 on whether to issue a preliminary injunction to block elections on property tax caps that must be held in April in 97 counties.

A second hearing in the case, originally filed by two taxpayers, six school districts and a fire district, will be held next week as attorneys for the plaintiffs seek a summary judgment in their favor.

And in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Judgment.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3782036" target="_blank">Jan. 16 decision</a>&nbsp;certain to be appealed, Limbaugh denied standing — the right to sue — and dismissed a case brought by&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-legislators-file-lawsuit-claiming-stadium-funding-for-chiefs-royals-is-unconstitutional/">two lawmakers and a conservative activist</a>&nbsp;arguing the wide-ranging legislation violated procedural rules for passing bills.

The bill approved by lawmakers in a June special session offered up to $1.5 billion in incentives to keep the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals in Missouri. It also expanded a program of tax credits as an incentive for major amateur sports competitions, offered tax credits for disaster relief and set the property tax caps in 97 of the state’s 114 counties.

In 75 counties, voter approval would limit future increases in tax property tax bills to 5% or the rate of inflation, whichever is greater. For 22 counties, voter approval would mean individual property tax bills could not increase.

The tax base would be reset when a property changes hands. The caps allow tax bills to increase when a new or increased tax is approved by voters.

Feb. 10 is a key date because that is when April ballots must be certified by local election authorities. Twenty-seven counties&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Amended%20Petition%20for%20Declaratory%20Judgment%20and%20Injunctive%20Relief.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3773977" target="_blank">joined the lawsuit</a>&nbsp;after it was filed, arguing that the cost of the election is an&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=X++++21&amp;bid=51537&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">unfunded mandate</a>&nbsp;that violates the Missouri Constitution.

Attorney Jim Layton, who represents several of the original plaintiffs, said Limbaugh must decide whether the property tax caps are improperly passed&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=III++++40&amp;bid=31796&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">special laws</a>&nbsp;or violate constitutional provisions requiring uniformity in taxation and equal rights.

Lawmakers opted their counties into the legislation during a late-night floor session, deciding what level of relief they wanted for their area. Many of the state’s largest counties were excluded, leaving Boone, Greene, Jackson, St. Louis County and the city of St. Louis out of the law.

“There’s no rational basis for the lines that it drew, or for designating some counties, particular counties, as 0% or 5% or unaffected counties,” Layton said in an interview with The Independent.

The state is defending the law by saying it will provide cover to local assessors who have been reluctant to bring property values up to the current market because of its impact on tax bills, Layton said.

Neither the original plaintiffs nor the intervening counties challenging the tax caps are asking Limbaugh to throw out the entire law. That was the goal of the lawsuit that was dismissed Jan. 16, filed by state Sen. Mike Moon, a Republican from Ash Grove, and state Rep. Bryant Wolfin, a Republican from Ste. Genevieve, and Ron Calzone, a conservative activist who has challenged several laws for violating procedural rules in the Missouri Constitution.&nbsp;

Moon and Wolfin “claim that they have legislative standing to challenge (the law, but) this court is unaware of any Missouri statute or case law conferring such standing upon petitioners Moon and Wolfin,” Limbaugh wrote.

Calzone, who claimed standing as a taxpayer who would be damaged by having public funds spent, failed in that argument, Limbaugh wrote. Tax credits to promote major amateur sporting events are not a “direct expenditure to be made by the state,” and payments for bonds on stadiums are subject to appropriation, which means they are not automatic.

“There is no ‘direct expenditure of funds generated through taxation’ that could confer taxpayer standing,” Limbaugh wrote.

Calzone, in an interview, said Limbaugh made a mistake because the tax credits for amateur sporting events are refundable — meaning the state will write a check if the credits exceed what the taxpayer owes the state.

The ruling also cited an incorrect version of the law on amateur sporting event tax credits, he said. The section cited is the one that existed, with lower credit amounts, before the special session law was enacted.

The options for the plaintiffs are to ask Limbaugh to reconsider based on what they believe are errors in the decision or take the case to higher courts on appeal, Calzone said.

“That is something we are still trying to determine,” he said. “But absolutely, one way or another, we will end up in the Missouri Supreme Court.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759143619646.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;The Cole County Courthouse in Jefferson City (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;The Cole County Courthouse in Jefferson City (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Judge Christopher Limbaugh has already dismissed one challenge to the law that also provided incentives professional sports stadiums. He has promised a decision by Feb. 10 on the question of whether the property tax caps violate the Missouri Constitution</h2>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>While the Kansas City Chiefs are&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/22/chiefs-kansas-stadium-deal/">leaving Missouri</a>&nbsp;and won’t use the incentives lawmakers created for them last summer, the question of whether other tax credits and property tax caps included in the legislation will be used by anyone remains undecided.Cole County Circuit Judge Christopher Limbaugh after a hearing on Wednesday promised he would rule by Feb. 10 on whether to issue a preliminary injunction to block elections on property tax caps that must be held in April in 97 counties.A second hearing in the case, originally filed by two taxpayers, six school districts and a fire district, will be held next week as attorneys for the plaintiffs seek a summary judgment in their favor.And in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Judgment.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3782036" target="_blank">Jan. 16 decision</a>&nbsp;certain to be appealed, Limbaugh denied standing — the right to sue — and dismissed a case brought by&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-legislators-file-lawsuit-claiming-stadium-funding-for-chiefs-royals-is-unconstitutional/">two lawmakers and a conservative activist</a>&nbsp;arguing the wide-ranging legislation violated procedural rules for passing bills.The bill approved by lawmakers in a June special session offered up to $1.5 billion in incentives to keep the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals in Missouri. It also expanded a program of tax credits as an incentive for major amateur sports competitions, offered tax credits for disaster relief and set the property tax caps in 97 of the state’s 114 counties.In 75 counties, voter approval would limit future increases in tax property tax bills to 5% or the rate of inflation, whichever is greater. For 22 counties, voter approval would mean individual property tax bills could not increase.The tax base would be reset when a property changes hands. The caps allow tax bills to increase when a new or increased tax is approved by voters.Feb. 10 is a key date because that is when April ballots must be certified by local election authorities. Twenty-seven counties&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Amended%20Petition%20for%20Declaratory%20Judgment%20and%20Injunctive%20Relief.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3773977" target="_blank">joined the lawsuit</a>&nbsp;after it was filed, arguing that the cost of the election is an&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=X++++21&amp;bid=51537&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">unfunded mandate</a>&nbsp;that violates the Missouri Constitution.Attorney Jim Layton, who represents several of the original plaintiffs, said Limbaugh must decide whether the property tax caps are improperly passed&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=III++++40&amp;bid=31796&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">special laws</a>&nbsp;or violate constitutional provisions requiring uniformity in taxation and equal rights.Lawmakers opted their counties into the legislation during a late-night floor session, deciding what level of relief they wanted for their area. Many of the state’s largest counties were excluded, leaving Boone, Greene, Jackson, St. Louis County and the city of St. Louis out of the law.“There’s no rational basis for the lines that it drew, or for designating some counties, particular counties, as 0% or 5% or unaffected counties,” Layton said in an interview with The Independent.The state is defending the law by saying it will provide cover to local assessors who have been reluctant to bring property values up to the current market because of its impact on tax bills, Layton said.Neither the original plaintiffs nor the intervening counties challenging the tax caps are asking Limbaugh to throw out the entire law. That was the goal of the lawsuit that was dismissed Jan. 16, filed by state Sen. Mike Moon, a Republican from Ash Grove, and state Rep. Bryant Wolfin, a Republican from Ste. Genevieve, and Ron Calzone, a conservative activist who has challenged several laws for violating procedural rules in the Missouri Constitution.&nbsp;Moon and Wolfin “claim that they have legislative standing to challenge (the law, but) this court is unaware of any Missouri statute or case law conferring such standing upon petitioners Moon and Wolfin,” Limbaugh wrote.Calzone, who claimed standing as a taxpayer who would be damaged by having public funds spent, failed in that argument, Limbaugh wrote. Tax credits to promote major amateur sporting events are not a “direct expenditure to be made by the state,” and payments for bonds on stadiums are subject to appropriation, which means they are not automatic.“There is no ‘direct expenditure of funds generated through taxation’ that could confer taxpayer standing,” Limbaugh wrote.Calzone, in an interview, said Limbaugh made a mistake because the tax credits for amateur sporting events are refundable — meaning the state will write a check if the credits exceed what the taxpayer owes the state.The ruling also cited an incorrect version of the law on amateur sporting event tax credits, he said. The section cited is the one that existed, with lower credit amounts, before the special session law was enacted.The options for the plaintiffs are to ask Limbaugh to reconsider based on what they believe are errors in the decision or take the case to higher courts on appeal, Calzone said.“That is something we are still trying to determine,” he said. “But absolutely, one way or another, we will end up in the Missouri Supreme Court.”

Judge weighing whether to allow April votes on new Missouri property tax caps

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a fatal crash that occurred just after 9p.m. January 22 have released the name of the victim as 36-year-old Jared Wilcox of Topeka, according to a media release from police.

The single vehicle accident occurred in the 500 block of SW 21st Street.&nbsp; First responders located Wilcox who was deceased at the scene.

The investigation is ongoing and no additional information has been provided.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769168708266.png" alt="Photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a fatal crash that occurred just after 9p.m. January 22 have released the name of the victim as 36-year-old Jared Wilcox of Topeka, according to a media release from police.The single vehicle accident occurred in the 500 block of SW 21st Street.&nbsp; First responders located Wilcox who was deceased at the scene.The investigation is ongoing and no additional information has been provided.

Police release name of victim in fatal Kansas crash

KANSAS CITY —Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson announced charges against a Kansas City man for allegedly selling vehicles to unsuspecting buyers and then stealing them back.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2802/Afterhours-Complaint-Packet--M-Diallo-compressed-1">Mamadou Diallo</a>, 25,&nbsp;faces six counts of 1st Degree Tampering with a Motor Vehicle and eight counts of Forgery.&nbsp; Each count carries a maximum sentence of seven years in prison. &nbsp;

According to court records, Kansas City police received eight stolen vehicle reports between May and June last year, all following a similar pattern. In each case, the victim purchased a vehicle through Facebook Marketplace from the same seller who used an alias online and was later identified as the defendant.&nbsp;

After completing each sale in person, the defendant provided what appeared to victims to be a legitimate title and bill of sale. But shortly after the transactions, each buyer reported their newly purchased vehicle stolen.&nbsp;

In an interview with detectives, Diallo denied buying and selling vehicles on Facebook Marketplace.&nbsp; The victims’ combined losses totaled more than $24,000.&nbsp;

A Jackson County judge set the defendant’s bond at $30,000 cash only.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769270873531.png" alt="Diallo photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Diallo photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson announced charges against a Kansas City man for allegedly selling vehicles to unsuspecting buyers and then stealing them back.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2802/Afterhours-Complaint-Packet--M-Diallo-compressed-1">Mamadou Diallo</a>, 25,&nbsp;faces six counts of 1st Degree Tampering with a Motor Vehicle and eight counts of Forgery.&nbsp; Each count carries a maximum sentence of seven years in prison. &nbsp;According to court records, Kansas City police received eight stolen vehicle reports between May and June last year, all following a similar pattern. In each case, the victim purchased a vehicle through Facebook Marketplace from the same seller who used an alias online and was later identified as the defendant.&nbsp;After completing each sale in person, the defendant provided what appeared to victims to be a legitimate title and bill of sale. But shortly after the transactions, each buyer reported their newly purchased vehicle stolen.&nbsp;In an interview with detectives, Diallo denied buying and selling vehicles on Facebook Marketplace.&nbsp; The victims’ combined losses totaled more than $24,000.&nbsp;A Jackson County judge set the defendant’s bond at $30,000 cash only.&nbsp;

KC man accused of selling cars on Facebook, stealing them back

RILEY COUNTY–&nbsp;Law enforcement in Manhattan are investigating an alleged sex crime in Manhattan.

Just after 3p.m. on Friday, police arrested 24-year-old Griffin Day of Manhattan for an alleged rape that was reported to have occurred on Thursday night, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

A 54-year-old woman was listed as the victim, according to the RCPD activity report. Day and the victim are known to each other according to police. Day is being held on a bond of $200, 000 bond.

RILEY COUNTY–&nbsp;Law enforcement in Manhattan are investigating an alleged sex crime in Manhattan.Just after 3p.m. on Friday, police arrested 24-year-old Griffin Day of Manhattan for an alleged rape that was reported to have occurred on Thursday night, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.A 54-year-old woman was listed as the victim, according to the RCPD activity report. Day and the victim are known to each other according to police. Day is being held on a bond of $200, 000 bond.

Police: Kan. man accused of sex crime involving 54-year-old

Wichita State University announced a transformative $1 million gift from an anonymous 1958 graduate of the University of Wichita to support need-based scholarships in the W. Frank Barton School of Business, according to a media release from the University.

This gift will directly benefit students who face financial challenges — particularly first-generation students — who make up nearly half of Wichita State’s enrollment. On average, first-generation students receive less financial support from their families and are more likely to rely on private loans to fund their education. Currently, 46% of Wichita State’s undergraduate student population are first-generation college students, highlighting the importance of private financial support.

“Ensuring access and affordability is a promise to our students,” said WSU President Rick Muma. “This gift, alongside the generosity of countless alumni and donors, is a profound reminder that our students’ success goes further with the support of Shocker Nation behind them.”

Private support is critical to realizing Wichita State’s priority to make education accessible and affordable for all Kansans and helps bridge the gap between available public funding and the financial need of students, which averages about $5,600 per undergraduate student.

“In connecting with this individual, the passion to support students who are seeking pathways for stability and opportunity was clear,” said Telly McGaha, president and CEO of the WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement. “When higher education becomes financially out of reach, talented individuals are inadvertently shut out, and I am very grateful for the individuals in the Shocker community opening doors and expanding opportunity for students now and into the future.”

Daily, students share stories of how scholarship support has facilitated their educational ambitions. These life-changing gifts ease the financial pressures of higher education, freeing students to focus on their studies and get engaged on campus. For many students, that support is the difference between finishing their degree and dropping out.&nbsp;

Scholarships based on financial need are awarded using a formula that compares a student’s Expected Family Contribution (EFC) to the cost of attendance at Wichita State. If the EFC is less than the total cost, the student qualifies for need-based aid.

“Our goal is to prepare students for a business world that values vision, collaboration and innovative problem-solving,” said Dr. Larisa Genin, dean of the Barton School of Business. “By easing financial burdens through scholarships, we empower students to fully engage in transformative experiences that build confidence and critical skills for success beyond their time at Wichita State. We are deeply grateful for this generous gift that will provide many opportunities for Barton School students.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769470864970.png" alt="google image" />
 <figcaption>google image</figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita State University announced a transformative $1 million gift from an anonymous 1958 graduate of the University of Wichita to support need-based scholarships in the W. Frank Barton School of Business, according to a media release from the University.This gift will directly benefit students who face financial challenges — particularly first-generation students — who make up nearly half of Wichita State’s enrollment. On average, first-generation students receive less financial support from their families and are more likely to rely on private loans to fund their education. Currently, 46% of Wichita State’s undergraduate student population are first-generation college students, highlighting the importance of private financial support.“Ensuring access and affordability is a promise to our students,” said WSU President Rick Muma. “This gift, alongside the generosity of countless alumni and donors, is a profound reminder that our students’ success goes further with the support of Shocker Nation behind them.”Private support is critical to realizing Wichita State’s priority to make education accessible and affordable for all Kansans and helps bridge the gap between available public funding and the financial need of students, which averages about $5,600 per undergraduate student.“In connecting with this individual, the passion to support students who are seeking pathways for stability and opportunity was clear,” said Telly McGaha, president and CEO of the WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement. “When higher education becomes financially out of reach, talented individuals are inadvertently shut out, and I am very grateful for the individuals in the Shocker community opening doors and expanding opportunity for students now and into the future.”Daily, students share stories of how scholarship support has facilitated their educational ambitions. These life-changing gifts ease the financial pressures of higher education, freeing students to focus on their studies and get engaged on campus. For many students, that support is the difference between finishing their degree and dropping out.&nbsp;Scholarships based on financial need are awarded using a formula that compares a student’s Expected Family Contribution (EFC) to the cost of attendance at Wichita State. If the EFC is less than the total cost, the student qualifies for need-based aid.“Our goal is to prepare students for a business world that values vision, collaboration and innovative problem-solving,” said Dr. Larisa Genin, dean of the Barton School of Business. “By easing financial burdens through scholarships, we empower students to fully engage in transformative experiences that build confidence and critical skills for success beyond their time at Wichita State. We are deeply grateful for this generous gift that will provide many opportunities for Barton School students.”

Wichita State receives anonymous $1 million gift for scholarships

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/scouthudson/">Scout Hudson</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

A Missouri House bill aims to increase the physical education requirements for K-12 students.

Introduced by Rep. Bishop Davidson, a Republican from Republic, the legislation would require all students to participate in a minimum of 60 minutes of physical activity each school day. PE classes, additional recesses and other supervised physical activities could fulfill the new requirement, as outlined by the bill.

The bill does include caveats for students with disabilities.

Student-athletes, who are occasionally excused from physical education requirements, would not be exempt from the required 60 minutes of daily activity under the bill.

Legislators expressed concerns over the bill’s logistics — an additional hour of required learning could disrupt or extend the current school schedule. Davidson told a House committee Wednesday that he does not intend for the bill to add more time to the school day or detract from other Common Core curriculum requirements.

Haley Edwards, a senior at Republic High School in Greene County, testified in favor of the bill.

“We see the signs that tie (exercise) back to physical well-being and mental well-being, and I think that this bill really opens doors to be able to see those effects,” Edwards said.

The National Education Association has not yet determined whether legislative action is necessary to enact the proposed requirement, but a spokesman said the organization believes that increased physical activity would benefit students.

Otto Fajan, who testified on behalf of the NEA, said that the role of physical education has shrunk over the past century in American public schools.

“There’s a flow against (P.E.) caused by the structure of accountability,” Fagen said, “and standardized testing in areas that do not include physical literacy.”

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/physical-education-requirements-could-rise-under-proposed-bill/article_de91e1b4-3884-4188-9978-7476f436a04d.html" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1709137347896.jpg" alt="Image Pixaby" />
 <figcaption>Image Pixaby</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/scouthudson/">Scout Hudson</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>A Missouri House bill aims to increase the physical education requirements for K-12 students.Introduced by Rep. Bishop Davidson, a Republican from Republic, the legislation would require all students to participate in a minimum of 60 minutes of physical activity each school day. PE classes, additional recesses and other supervised physical activities could fulfill the new requirement, as outlined by the bill.The bill does include caveats for students with disabilities.Student-athletes, who are occasionally excused from physical education requirements, would not be exempt from the required 60 minutes of daily activity under the bill.Legislators expressed concerns over the bill’s logistics — an additional hour of required learning could disrupt or extend the current school schedule. Davidson told a House committee Wednesday that he does not intend for the bill to add more time to the school day or detract from other Common Core curriculum requirements.Haley Edwards, a senior at Republic High School in Greene County, testified in favor of the bill.“We see the signs that tie (exercise) back to physical well-being and mental well-being, and I think that this bill really opens doors to be able to see those effects,” Edwards said.The National Education Association has not yet determined whether legislative action is necessary to enact the proposed requirement, but a spokesman said the organization believes that increased physical activity would benefit students.Otto Fajan, who testified on behalf of the NEA, said that the role of physical education has shrunk over the past century in American public schools.“There’s a flow against (P.E.) caused by the structure of accountability,” Fagen said, “and standardized testing in areas that do not include physical literacy.”This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/physical-education-requirements-could-rise-under-proposed-bill/article_de91e1b4-3884-4188-9978-7476f436a04d.html" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

Physical education requirements in Missouri schools could increase under proposed bill

SALINE COUNTY—A home is uninhabitable after a fire at a rural Kansas home.

Just after noon January 23, firefighters from Saline County Rural Fire District #5 were sent to a report of a fire at a home home in the 1400 block of N. Marymount Road, according to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan.

The 65-year-old owner told investigators she was using space heaters, had a television on and heard a popping sound. Then she smelled smoke. She was able to escape with her pet without injury. The home may be a total loss.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769459058012.png" alt="Photos Saline Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos Saline Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—A home is uninhabitable after a fire at a rural Kansas home.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769446925719.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Just after noon January 23, firefighters from Saline County Rural Fire District #5 were sent to a report of a fire at a home home in the 1400 block of N. Marymount Road, according to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan.The 65-year-old owner told investigators she was using space heaters, had a television on and heard a popping sound. Then she smelled smoke. She was able to escape with her pet without injury. The home may be a total loss.

Rural Kansas home near total loss after fire

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Real estate investors buying residential buildings in Kansas could be charged a penalty for paying off their mortgages early under proposed changes to the Kansas Contracts and Promises statute.&nbsp;

The statute currently bars lenders from charging prepayment penalties on “any home loan” paid off after six months from the day the loan was taken out, the House Financial Institutions and Pensions Committee heard Monday.&nbsp;It doesn’t specify whether those loans are for individual homeowners or for real estate investors buying properties to rent or lease.&nbsp;

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2497/" target="_blank">House Bill 2497</a>&nbsp;would add language that allows lenders to charge prepayment penalties for investment properties but leave the ban in place for consumer personal loans.

Michael Stidham testified for Rocket Mortgage in favor of the bill, which he said would give investors more financing options.&nbsp;

Rocket sets lower interest rates for loans that have a penalty for paying off early versus loans with no prepayment penalties, Stidham said.&nbsp;

“A higher interest rate is always going to be required to offset the potential returns if that loan is paid off earlier than anticipated by the investor,” he said.

Allowing lenders to offer lower interest rates and include a prepayment penalty gives real estate investors flexibility to determine the best option for their financial situations, Stidham said.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769453683134.png" alt=" Rep. Carolyn Caiharr, an Edwardsville Republican, questioned a proponent of a bill that would allow lenders to charge a prepayment penalty to real estate investors. (Screen capture from the House Financial Institutes and Pensions Committee)" />
 <figcaption> Rep. Carolyn Caiharr, an Edwardsville Republican, questioned a proponent of a bill that would allow lenders to charge a prepayment penalty to real estate investors. (Screen capture from the House Financial Institutes and Pensions Committee)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Real estate investors buying residential buildings in Kansas could be charged a penalty for paying off their mortgages early under proposed changes to the Kansas Contracts and Promises statute.&nbsp;The statute currently bars lenders from charging prepayment penalties on “any home loan” paid off after six months from the day the loan was taken out, the House Financial Institutions and Pensions Committee heard Monday.&nbsp;It doesn’t specify whether those loans are for individual homeowners or for real estate investors buying properties to rent or lease.&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2497/" target="_blank">House Bill 2497</a>&nbsp;would add language that allows lenders to charge prepayment penalties for investment properties but leave the ban in place for consumer personal loans.Michael Stidham testified for Rocket Mortgage in favor of the bill, which he said would give investors more financing options.&nbsp;Rocket sets lower interest rates for loans that have a penalty for paying off early versus loans with no prepayment penalties, Stidham said.&nbsp;“A higher interest rate is always going to be required to offset the potential returns if that loan is paid off earlier than anticipated by the investor,” he said.Allowing lenders to offer lower interest rates and include a prepayment penalty gives real estate investors flexibility to determine the best option for their financial situations, Stidham said.&nbsp;

Bill would allow early payoff penalties for Kansas real estate investment loans

CRAWFORD COUNTY, Mo. —Authorities are investigating a drowning on a farm pond in rural Missouri.

Just before 5p.m. January 20, a 5-year-old Steeleville girl identified as<a href="https://www.mizellfh.com/obituaries/ruby-korte"> Ruby Kay Korte, </a>walked out onto a pond at a private residence off Highway M in rural Crawford County, according to a report from he Missouri State Highway Patrol. She fell through the ice.

&nbsp;Steeleville EMS transported Ruby to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan where she was pronounced deceased just before 7p.m. The patrol reported no additional details.&nbsp; A funeral mass for Ruby is scheduled for Tuesday, according to Mizell Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769448840377.png" alt="Ruby Kay Korte-photo courtesy MIzell Funeral Home" />
 <figcaption>Ruby Kay Korte-photo courtesy MIzell Funeral Home</figcaption>
 </figure>CRAWFORD COUNTY, Mo. —Authorities are investigating a drowning on a farm pond in rural Missouri.Just before 5p.m. January 20, a 5-year-old Steeleville girl identified as<a href="https://www.mizellfh.com/obituaries/ruby-korte"> Ruby Kay Korte, </a>walked out onto a pond at a private residence off Highway M in rural Crawford County, according to a report from he Missouri State Highway Patrol. She fell through the ice.&nbsp;Steeleville EMS transported Ruby to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan where she was pronounced deceased just before 7p.m. The patrol reported no additional details.&nbsp; A funeral mass for Ruby is scheduled for Tuesday, according to Mizell Funeral Home.

5-year-old Missouri girl drowns after falling through ice on a pond

President Trump announced on Monday he received a phone call with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768610962226.png" alt="File photo Minnesota Gov. Walz-from his social media page" />
 <figcaption>File photo Minnesota Gov. Walz-from his social media page</figcaption>
 </figure>President Trump announced on Monday he received a phone call with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;Governor Tim Walz called me with the request to work together with respect to Minnesota. It was a very good call, and we, actually, seemed to be on a similar wavelength... Crime is way down, but both Governor Walz and I want to make it better!&quot; - President Donald J. Trump 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/ZjrSDU8uAz">pic.twitter.com/ZjrSDU8uAz</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/2015831102095491330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I spoke to the President earlier. We had a productive conversation and I explained to him that his staff doesn’t have their facts straight about Minnesota. My thoughts in the Wall Street Journal:<a href="https://t.co/Prlt2mu8Bx">https://t.co/Prlt2mu8Bx</a> <a href="https://t.co/XFJyv6V1yH">pic.twitter.com/XFJyv6V1yH</a>&mdash; Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovTimWalz/status/2015853141661454605?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/1INsSU22rR">pic.twitter.com/1INsSU22rR</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2015780108733235225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

President Trump shares details of phone call from Gov. Tim Walz

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://georgiarecorder.com/author/jacob-fischler/">Jacob Fischler</a> <a href="https://stateline.org/">Stateline</a>

A partial federal government shutdown appeared Sunday to unexpectedly be on the horizon, after another fatal shooting by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis led key U.S. Senate Democrats to say they will oppose a spending package that includes immigration enforcement funds.

Senators have until a Friday deadline to clear a package of six House-passed funding measures, including the $64.4 billion Homeland Security appropriations bill that includes funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the U.S. Border Patrol.

Republicans hold a majority in the chamber but would need at least seven Democrats to join them in voting for the package in order to clear the chamber’s 60-vote threshold to advance legislation.&nbsp;

The agreement had appeared to be on track for easy passage by the Senate by Friday, when a stopgap spending law expires.&nbsp;

But after&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-agents-shoot-and-kill-man-minneapolis-rousing-more-demonstrations" target="_blank">Saturday’s killing of 37-year-old Alex Jeffrey Pretti,</a>&nbsp;the second by Homeland Security Department officers in Minneapolis this month, key moderate Democrats, appropriators and leaders said they would not support the package if it includes the Homeland Security legislation in its current form.&nbsp;

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer also said his caucus would not provide the votes needed, citing the killings of Pretti and Renee Good in Minneapolis on Jan. 7, and called for the DHS bill to be split from the five spending bills with broad bipartisan support.

“Senate Democrats will not allow the current DHS funding bill to move forward,” Schumer said in a Sunday statement. “The appalling murders of Renee Good and Alex Pretti on the streets of Minneapolis must lead Republicans to join Democrats in overhauling ICE and CBP to protect the public. People should be safe from abuse by their own government.

“Senate Republicans must work with Democrats to advance the other five funding bills while we work to rewrite the DHS bill,” he added. “This is (the) best course of action, and the American people are on our side.”

A complicating factor is the DHS bill also includes funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, even as a major winter storm swept through a large swath of the nation Saturday and Sunday, triggering disaster declarations in multiple states.

President Donald Trump and key administration officials committed to a robust media strategy over the weekend, defending the officers involved and smearing Pretti, despite contradictory evidence in available video.

Some elected Republicans backed the administration’s account, but an unusual number of GOP members of Congress and at least one governor called for accountability.

Five of the eight Democrats and independents who voted with Republicans to end a shutdown in November have said they will not support the package if it includes DHS funding.

Maine independent Angus King, who caucuses with Democrats, said on CBS News’ “Face the Nation” that he would vote against the package.

“I hate shutdowns,” King said in a video interview on the Sunday morning show. “I’m one of the people that helped negotiate the solution to the end of the last shutdown, but I can’t vote for a bill that includes ICE funding under these circumstances.”

Nevada Democrat Catherine Cortez Masto, a former federal prosecutor, criticized Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and called for blocking the funding package.

“The Trump administration and Kristi Noem are putting undertrained, combative federal agents on the streets with no accountability,” she said. “They are oppressing Americans and are at odds with local law enforcement. This is clearly not about keeping Americans safe, it’s brutalizing U.S. citizens and law-abiding immigrants. I will not support the current Homeland Security funding bill.”

Cortez Masto called for the DHS bill to be split off from the rest of the package.&nbsp;

“We have bipartisan agreement on 96% of the budget. We’ve already passed six funding bills,” she said. “Let’s pass the remaining five bipartisan bills and fund essential agencies while we continue to fight for a Department of Homeland Security that respects Americans’ constitutional rights and preserves federal law enforcement’s essential role to keep us safe.”&nbsp;

Fellow Nevada Democrat Jacky Rosen, who also voted to end the shutdown in November, said “enough is enough” and that she would oppose a funding package that did not “rein in ICE’s out-of-control conduct.”

“As a member of the U.S. Senate, I have the responsibility to hold the Trump Administration accountable when I see abuses of power — like we are seeing from ICE right now,” she said. “That is why I’ll be voting against any government funding package that contains the bill that funds this agency, until we have guardrails in place to curtail these abuses of power and ensure more accountability and transparency.

“My personal guiding principle has always been ‘agree where you can and fight where you must,’” she added. “And I believe this is a time when we must fight back.”

Virginia’s Tim Kaine said in a Friday statement — before Pretti’s killing — that he would oppose the package for several reasons, including as a check on ICE.

“We are not living in normal times,” he said. “The President is acting chaotically and unlawfully and we shouldn’t give his deranged decisions the imprimatur of congressional approval by passing this legislation without significant amendment.”

Democratic Whip Dick Durbin of Illinois also said after Pretti’s killing early Saturday — the third shooting by immigration officers in Minneapolis in three weeks — that he would vote against the package. Durbin is a senior member of the Appropriations Committee.

The House last week&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/many-dems-refuse-vote-fund-ice-us-house-passes-4-spending-bills" target="_blank">passed the DHS funding bill</a>, with seven Democrats voting to approve it, and a separate package of three other appropriations bills that passed with broad bipartisan support. House members passed two other funding bills the week before.

The fiscal 2026 Homeland Security spending bill cuts funding for Customs and Border Protection by $1.3 billion, and maintains flat funding for ICE at $10 billion.

The bill attempts to put guardrails around immigration enforcement by allocating $20 million for body cameras for ICE and CBP officers.&nbsp;

But even if the funding bill doesn’t pass or gets held up, the immigration enforcement agencies are still flush with cash after the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that Republicans passed last year allocated $190 billion for DHS. ICE is slated to receive about $75 billion over four years, or $18.7 billion a year.

Any Senate amendment to the House-passed package would require another House vote. The House is scheduled to be out this week and the chamber, narrowly controlled by Republicans, may be unwilling to cooperate with Senate changes.

Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins, a Maine Republican up for reelection this year in one of the nation’s most closely watched races, did not dismiss the possibility of changes in the spending bill package, telling The New York Times on Saturday she was “exploring all options” for passage.

The major winter storm also hit Washington, D.C., and could further complicate the Senate vote or potential House consideration. All flights into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport were canceled Sunday as snow and sleet covered the region.&nbsp;

A handful of GOP officials, including Sens. Thom Tillis of North Carolina, Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska called for more scrutiny into Pretti’s killing and ICE’s conduct more generally.&nbsp;

“There must be a thorough and impartial investigation into yesterday’s Minneapolis shooting, which is the basic standard that law enforcement and the American people expect following any officer-involved shooting,” Tillis<a href="https://x.com/SenThomTillis/status/2015435983316189686" target="_blank">&nbsp;said on social media.</a>

“For this specific incident, that requires cooperation and transparency between federal, state, and local law enforcement. Any administration official who rushes to judgment and tries to shut down an investigation before it begins are doing an incredible disservice to the nation and to President Trump’s legacy.”

Cassidy&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SenBillCassidy/status/2015247523003162922" target="_blank">posted on social media</a>: “The events in Minneapolis are incredibly disturbing. The credibility of ICE and DHS are at stake. There must be a full joint federal and state investigation. We can trust the American people with the truth.”

Rep. Michael McCaul, a Texas Republican who is a former chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, said on social media he was “troubled by the events that have unfolded in Minneapolis.”

“As an attorney and former federal prosecutor, I believe a thorough investigation is necessary—both to get to the bottom of these incidents and to maintain Americans’ confidence in our justice system,” he said.

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, a Republican, was among those who said he was troubled by the shooting.

“I think the death of Americans, what we’re seeing on TV, it’s causing deep concerns over federal tactics and accountability,” Stitt said on CNN’s “State of the Union.” “Americans don’t like what they’re seeing right now.”

Administration, some allies defend shooting&nbsp;

Many others, including Republican senators and Trump administration officials speaking on Sunday talk shows — Noem, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche — defended the agents involved and blamed Pretti and state and local Democrats in Minneapolis.&nbsp;

“Democrats are now backing out of a bipartisan agreement to fund DHS, which makes sure our border is secure and our immigration laws are enforced,” Senate Budget Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/LindseyGrahamSC/status/2015428526829133864" target="_blank">wrote on social media.</a>

“This is reckless and quite frankly, very disappointing. It appears that Democrats are so wedded to supporting people carrying guns trying to interfere with a lawful arrest that they will shut down the government.”

Patel, on “Sunday Morning Futures” on Fox News, said DHS is investigating the shooting but the FBI is processing physical evidence. “No one who wants to be peaceful shows up in a protest with a firearm that is loaded with two full magazines,” Patel said, referring to reports that Pretti was carrying a handgun for which he had a concealed carry license, according to Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara.

Spokespeople for Collins, Schumer and Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota did not return messages seeking comment Sunday. Senate Democrats were set to meet virtually on Sunday night, according to multiple media reports.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769276764745.png" alt="Photo of the weapon seized in shooting- photo DHS" />
 <figcaption>Photo of the weapon seized in shooting- photo DHS</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://georgiarecorder.com/author/jacob-fischler/">Jacob Fischler</a> <a href="https://stateline.org/">Stateline</a>A partial federal government shutdown appeared Sunday to unexpectedly be on the horizon, after another fatal shooting by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis led key U.S. Senate Democrats to say they will oppose a spending package that includes immigration enforcement funds.Senators have until a Friday deadline to clear a package of six House-passed funding measures, including the $64.4 billion Homeland Security appropriations bill that includes funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the U.S. Border Patrol.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">What’s happening in Minnesota is appalling—and unacceptable in any American city. Democrats sought common sense reforms in the Department of Homeland Security spending bill, but because of Republicans’ refusal to stand up to President Trump, the DHS bill is woefully inadequate to…&mdash; Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenSchumer/status/2015211069493350505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Republicans hold a majority in the chamber but would need at least seven Democrats to join them in voting for the package in order to clear the chamber’s 60-vote threshold to advance legislation.&nbsp;The agreement had appeared to be on track for easy passage by the Senate by Friday, when a stopgap spending law expires.&nbsp;But after&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-agents-shoot-and-kill-man-minneapolis-rousing-more-demonstrations" target="_blank">Saturday’s killing of 37-year-old Alex Jeffrey Pretti,</a>&nbsp;the second by Homeland Security Department officers in Minneapolis this month, key moderate Democrats, appropriators and leaders said they would not support the package if it includes the Homeland Security legislation in its current form.&nbsp;Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer also said his caucus would not provide the votes needed, citing the killings of Pretti and Renee Good in Minneapolis on Jan. 7, and called for the DHS bill to be split from the five spending bills with broad bipartisan support.“Senate Democrats will not allow the current DHS funding bill to move forward,” Schumer said in a Sunday statement. “The appalling murders of Renee Good and Alex Pretti on the streets of Minneapolis must lead Republicans to join Democrats in overhauling ICE and CBP to protect the public. People should be safe from abuse by their own government.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695393380394.jpeg" alt=" The U.S. Capitol. (Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)" />
 <figcaption> The U.S. Capitol. (Jennifer Shutt/States Newsroom)</figcaption>
 </figure>“Senate Republicans must work with Democrats to advance the other five funding bills while we work to rewrite the DHS bill,” he added. “This is (the) best course of action, and the American people are on our side.”A complicating factor is the DHS bill also includes funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, even as a major winter storm swept through a large swath of the nation Saturday and Sunday, triggering disaster declarations in multiple states.President Donald Trump and key administration officials committed to a robust media strategy over the weekend, defending the officers involved and smearing Pretti, despite contradictory evidence in available video.Some elected Republicans backed the administration’s account, but an unusual number of GOP members of Congress and at least one governor called for accountability.<h2>Latest shooting a turning point</h2>Five of the eight Democrats and independents who voted with Republicans to end a shutdown in November have said they will not support the package if it includes DHS funding.Maine independent Angus King, who caucuses with Democrats, said on CBS News’ “Face the Nation” that he would vote against the package.“I hate shutdowns,” King said in a video interview on the Sunday morning show. “I’m one of the people that helped negotiate the solution to the end of the last shutdown, but I can’t vote for a bill that includes ICE funding under these circumstances.”Nevada Democrat Catherine Cortez Masto, a former federal prosecutor, criticized Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and called for blocking the funding package.“The Trump administration and Kristi Noem are putting undertrained, combative federal agents on the streets with no accountability,” she said. “They are oppressing Americans and are at odds with local law enforcement. This is clearly not about keeping Americans safe, it’s brutalizing U.S. citizens and law-abiding immigrants. I will not support the current Homeland Security funding bill.”Cortez Masto called for the DHS bill to be split off from the rest of the package.&nbsp;“We have bipartisan agreement on 96% of the budget. We’ve already passed six funding bills,” she said. “Let’s pass the remaining five bipartisan bills and fund essential agencies while we continue to fight for a Department of Homeland Security that respects Americans’ constitutional rights and preserves federal law enforcement’s essential role to keep us safe.”&nbsp;Fellow Nevada Democrat Jacky Rosen, who also voted to end the shutdown in November, said “enough is enough” and that she would oppose a funding package that did not “rein in ICE’s out-of-control conduct.”“As a member of the U.S. Senate, I have the responsibility to hold the Trump Administration accountable when I see abuses of power — like we are seeing from ICE right now,” she said. “That is why I’ll be voting against any government funding package that contains the bill that funds this agency, until we have guardrails in place to curtail these abuses of power and ensure more accountability and transparency.“My personal guiding principle has always been ‘agree where you can and fight where you must,’” she added. “And I believe this is a time when we must fight back.”Virginia’s Tim Kaine said in a Friday statement — before Pretti’s killing — that he would oppose the package for several reasons, including as a check on ICE.“We are not living in normal times,” he said. “The President is acting chaotically and unlawfully and we shouldn’t give his deranged decisions the imprimatur of congressional approval by passing this legislation without significant amendment.”Democratic Whip Dick Durbin of Illinois also said after Pretti’s killing early Saturday — the third shooting by immigration officers in Minneapolis in three weeks — that he would vote against the package. Durbin is a senior member of the Appropriations Committee.<h2>DHS funding</h2>The House last week&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/many-dems-refuse-vote-fund-ice-us-house-passes-4-spending-bills" target="_blank">passed the DHS funding bill</a>, with seven Democrats voting to approve it, and a separate package of three other appropriations bills that passed with broad bipartisan support. House members passed two other funding bills the week before.The fiscal 2026 Homeland Security spending bill cuts funding for Customs and Border Protection by $1.3 billion, and maintains flat funding for ICE at $10 billion.The bill attempts to put guardrails around immigration enforcement by allocating $20 million for body cameras for ICE and CBP officers.&nbsp;But even if the funding bill doesn’t pass or gets held up, the immigration enforcement agencies are still flush with cash after the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that Republicans passed last year allocated $190 billion for DHS. ICE is slated to receive about $75 billion over four years, or $18.7 billion a year.<h2>Path forward</h2>Any Senate amendment to the House-passed package would require another House vote. The House is scheduled to be out this week and the chamber, narrowly controlled by Republicans, may be unwilling to cooperate with Senate changes.Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins, a Maine Republican up for reelection this year in one of the nation’s most closely watched races, did not dismiss the possibility of changes in the spending bill package, telling The New York Times on Saturday she was “exploring all options” for passage.The major winter storm also hit Washington, D.C., and could further complicate the Senate vote or potential House consideration. All flights into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport were canceled Sunday as snow and sleet covered the region.&nbsp;A handful of GOP officials, including Sens. Thom Tillis of North Carolina, Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska called for more scrutiny into Pretti’s killing and ICE’s conduct more generally.&nbsp;“There must be a thorough and impartial investigation into yesterday’s Minneapolis shooting, which is the basic standard that law enforcement and the American people expect following any officer-involved shooting,” Tillis<a href="https://x.com/SenThomTillis/status/2015435983316189686" target="_blank">&nbsp;said on social media.</a>“For this specific incident, that requires cooperation and transparency between federal, state, and local law enforcement. Any administration official who rushes to judgment and tries to shut down an investigation before it begins are doing an incredible disservice to the nation and to President Trump’s legacy.”Cassidy&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SenBillCassidy/status/2015247523003162922" target="_blank">posted on social media</a>: “The events in Minneapolis are incredibly disturbing. The credibility of ICE and DHS are at stake. There must be a full joint federal and state investigation. We can trust the American people with the truth.”Rep. Michael McCaul, a Texas Republican who is a former chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, said on social media he was “troubled by the events that have unfolded in Minneapolis.”“As an attorney and former federal prosecutor, I believe a thorough investigation is necessary—both to get to the bottom of these incidents and to maintain Americans’ confidence in our justice system,” he said.Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, a Republican, was among those who said he was troubled by the shooting.“I think the death of Americans, what we’re seeing on TV, it’s causing deep concerns over federal tactics and accountability,” Stitt said on CNN’s “State of the Union.” “Americans don’t like what they’re seeing right now.”<h2>Administration, some allies defend shooting&nbsp;</h2>Many others, including Republican senators and Trump administration officials speaking on Sunday talk shows — Noem, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche — defended the agents involved and blamed Pretti and state and local Democrats in Minneapolis.&nbsp;“Democrats are now backing out of a bipartisan agreement to fund DHS, which makes sure our border is secure and our immigration laws are enforced,” Senate Budget Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/LindseyGrahamSC/status/2015428526829133864" target="_blank">wrote on social media.</a>“This is reckless and quite frankly, very disappointing. It appears that Democrats are so wedded to supporting people carrying guns trying to interfere with a lawful arrest that they will shut down the government.”Patel, on “Sunday Morning Futures” on Fox News, said DHS is investigating the shooting but the FBI is processing physical evidence. “No one who wants to be peaceful shows up in a protest with a firearm that is loaded with two full magazines,” Patel said, referring to reports that Pretti was carrying a handgun for which he had a concealed carry license, according to Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara.Spokespeople for Collins, Schumer and Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota did not return messages seeking comment Sunday. Senate Democrats were set to meet virtually on Sunday night, according to multiple media reports.

Deadly shooting in Minneapolis could lead to partial government shutdown over ICE funding

BUTLER COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 12 midnight Monday morning in Butler County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Ford F150 driven by a 61-year-old Poplar Bluff man was backing the vehicle on Mo 53 three miles south of Poplar Bluff. The pickup struck a pedestrian identified as a 57-year-old Portageville man. After impact, the pedestrian struck a 2012 Chevy Silverado.

EMS transported Poplar Bluff Regional&nbsp; Hospital were he was pronounced dead. The Ford F150 driver was not wearing a seat belt and not injured, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

BUTLER COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 12 midnight Monday morning in Butler County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Ford F150 driven by a 61-year-old Poplar Bluff man was backing the vehicle on Mo 53 three miles south of Poplar Bluff. The pickup struck a pedestrian identified as a 57-year-old Portageville man. After impact, the pedestrian struck a 2012 Chevy Silverado.EMS transported Poplar Bluff Regional&nbsp; Hospital were he was pronounced dead. The Ford F150 driver was not wearing a seat belt and not injured, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Pickup backing up struck and killed Missouri man

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Detectives with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department are investigating the death of a juvenile in the 700 block of Pacific Avenue.

Just before 5p.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to a home on a report of an unresponsive juvenile. The juvenile was transported to the University of Kansas Medical&nbsp; Center where they were pronounced deceased. 

&nbsp;The KCKPD Major Case Unit is in charge of the investigation. Police released no additional details including the age and name of the child.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Detectives with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department are investigating the death of a juvenile in the 700 block of Pacific Avenue.Just before 5p.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to a home on a report of an unresponsive juvenile. The juvenile was transported to the University of Kansas Medical&nbsp; Center where they were pronounced deceased. &nbsp;The KCKPD Major Case Unit is in charge of the investigation. Police released no additional details including the age and name of the child.

Police investigate death of child at Kansas home

While Department of Homeland Security officials and others investigate after a&nbsp;U.S. Border Patrol agent&nbsp;fatally&nbsp;shot a man on Saturday in Minneapolis, two former Presidents of the United States have shared their thoughts on the tragedy and accountability.

Meanwhile President Donald Trump is calling on Democrat governors to enforce the nation's laws rather than resist.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769276717280.png" alt="Photo of the weapon seized in shooting- photo DHS" />
 <figcaption>Photo of the weapon seized in shooting- photo DHS</figcaption>
 </figure>While Department of Homeland Security officials and others investigate after a&nbsp;U.S. Border Patrol agent&nbsp;fatally&nbsp;shot a man on Saturday in Minneapolis, two former Presidents of the United States have shared their thoughts on the tragedy and accountability.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The killing of Alex Pretti is a heartbreaking tragedy. It should also be a wake-up call to every American, regardless of party, that many of our core values as a nation are increasingly under assault. <a href="https://t.co/0JmEsJ1QFW">pic.twitter.com/0JmEsJ1QFW</a>&mdash; Barack Obama (@BarackObama) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama/status/2015479691147149747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Over the course of a lifetime, we face only a few moments where the decisions we make and the actions we take will shape our history for years to come. This is one of them. <a href="https://t.co/fr4TclLBZd">pic.twitter.com/fr4TclLBZd</a>&mdash; Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) <a href="https://twitter.com/BillClinton/status/2015562744993350135?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Meanwhile President Donald Trump is calling on Democrat governors to enforce the nation's laws rather than resist.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/IOdPh1oPtL">pic.twitter.com/IOdPh1oPtL</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2015555047447236872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

2 former U.S. Presidents speak out on fatal Minneapolis shooting

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

In the early morning Saturday before the snow started to fall, troopers initiated a traffic stop for a traffic violation, and the driver fled, according to a social media report from the Kansas Highway Patrol. 

After a short pursuit, the vehicle came to a stop. The driver was arrested, and troopers located drugs inside the vehicle. The Patrol did not report the name of the suspect or possible charges involved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769396371290.png" alt="Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769381029087.png" alt="Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>In the early morning Saturday before the snow started to fall, troopers initiated a traffic stop for a traffic violation, and the driver fled, according to a social media report from the Kansas Highway Patrol. After a short pursuit, the vehicle came to a stop. The driver was arrested, and troopers located drugs inside the vehicle. The Patrol did not report the name of the suspect or possible charges involved.

KHP: Drug suspect captured after running from traffic stop

LYON COUNTY —The Emporia Police Department, with the assistance of K9 Daisy and her team from Search &amp; Rescue of Kansas, have recovered the body of a missing woman approximately 300 yards from the area 28-year-old Rebecca Rauber was last seen on video, according to a statement from Emporia Police Captain Lisa Hayes.

Just after 1a.m. Saturday, Emporia Police received a report of a missing woman identified as&nbsp;

The report indicated that Rebecca Rauber, a school teacher from Emporia, had left the Town Royal bar in the 400 block of Commercial Street, on foot without her purse, phone, or jacket.

Officers began searching for Rebecca immediately and utilized business surveillance cameras in the area. Rebecca was observed walking alone westbound on West 5th Avenue. Video footage from a residence showed Rebecca walking north on Neosho Street from West 5th Avenue at approximately 11:37 p.m. on Friday, January 22.

Several additional videos from the intersection of 6th Avenue and Neosho Street were reviewed; however, Rebecca did not appear to cross 6th Avenue at that location.

 During the investigation on Sunday, an additional video showed Rebecca in the 700 block of W. 4th Ave. at approximately 11:44 p.m on January 23rd.  Rebecca's body was found approximately 300 yards south of West 4th Avenue, where she was last seen on video.  Rebecca was located in a wooded area. At this time, it appears, Rebecca may have succumbed to hypothermia early on in her disappearance as she was covered in snow due to the snowstorm that became heavy on Saturday.

Police detectives were processing the scene and the investigation is still continuing, according to Hayes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769383202081.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY —The Emporia Police Department, with the assistance of K9 Daisy and her team from Search &amp; Rescue of Kansas, have recovered the body of a missing woman approximately 300 yards from the area 28-year-old Rebecca Rauber was last seen on video, according to a statement from Emporia Police Captain Lisa Hayes.Just after 1a.m. Saturday, Emporia Police received a report of a missing woman identified as&nbsp;The report indicated that Rebecca Rauber, a school teacher from Emporia, had left the Town Royal bar in the 400 block of Commercial Street, on foot without her purse, phone, or jacket.Officers began searching for Rebecca immediately and utilized business surveillance cameras in the area. Rebecca was observed walking alone westbound on West 5th Avenue. Video footage from a residence showed Rebecca walking north on Neosho Street from West 5th Avenue at approximately 11:37 p.m. on Friday, January 22.Several additional videos from the intersection of 6th Avenue and Neosho Street were reviewed; however, Rebecca did not appear to cross 6th Avenue at that location. During the investigation on Sunday, an additional video showed Rebecca in the 700 block of W. 4th Ave. at approximately 11:44 p.m on January 23rd. Rebecca's body was found approximately 300 yards south of West 4th Avenue, where she was last seen on video. Rebecca was located in a wooded area. At this time, it appears, Rebecca may have succumbed to hypothermia early on in her disappearance as she was covered in snow due to the snowstorm that became heavy on Saturday.Police detectives were processing the scene and the investigation is still continuing, according to Hayes.

Police: Body of missing Kansas teacher found in wooded area

DOUGAS COUNTY —It was supposed to be a traffic stop, but the driver didn’t – and ended up crashing into five parked cars and narrowly escaping serious injury of his own and that of his passenger, according to a social media report from police in Lawrence.

Just after 1:30a.m. Jan. 21, a&nbsp; patrol officer noticed a car run through a red light at a high rate of speed at 11th and Tennessee in Lawrence. The officer activated his lights, but the driver didn’t stop.  The car continued south on Tennessee at more than 50 miles per hour until he wasn’t able to navigate the lanes and swiped through five parked cars.

He crashed near 19th Street, got out, and ran. Officers caught up with him between nearby houses.  His passenger was trapped in the wreckage.  Lawrence-Douglas County Fire Medical responded to get the passenger out of the crumpled metal.  Both the driver and the passenger refused further medical treatment.

The 22-year-old driver, whose name was not released, was booked into the Douglas County Correctional Facility suspected of several crimes including Possession of Drugs, Possession of a Firearm under the Influence, Driving Under the Influence, Flee and Elude, and additional traffic violations.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769382286563.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGAS COUNTY —It was supposed to be a traffic stop, but the driver didn’t – and ended up crashing into five parked cars and narrowly escaping serious injury of his own and that of his passenger, according to a social media report from police in Lawrence.Just after 1:30a.m. Jan. 21, a&nbsp; patrol officer noticed a car run through a red light at a high rate of speed at 11th and Tennessee in Lawrence. The officer activated his lights, but the driver didn’t stop. The car continued south on Tennessee at more than 50 miles per hour until he wasn’t able to navigate the lanes and swiped through five parked cars.He crashed near 19th Street, got out, and ran. Officers caught up with him between nearby houses. His passenger was trapped in the wreckage. Lawrence-Douglas County Fire Medical responded to get the passenger out of the crumpled metal. Both the driver and the passenger refused further medical treatment.The 22-year-old driver, whose name was not released, was booked into the Douglas County Correctional Facility suspected of several crimes including Possession of Drugs, Possession of a Firearm under the Influence, Driving Under the Influence, Flee and Elude, and additional traffic violations.&nbsp;

Kan. driver left passenger in wreckage after police chase, crash

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a chase and arrest with a stolen vehicle.

Just before&nbsp;&nbsp;1:30 a.m. Jan. 22, a sheriff's deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a gray 2025 Ford SUV, that was recently reported stolen through the City of Topeka, near Interstate 70&nbsp; and SE Adams Street, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

 The driver refused to stop and initiated a pursuit. The vehicle pursuit ended in the 1900 block of South Kansas Avenue and the driver fled the scene on foot. A K-9 Unit located the suspect exiting a nearby creek and wooded area. He was taken into custody without further incident.

Joshua S. Bessette, 45, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Jail on requested charges of Flee or attempt to elude; operate a stolen vehicle, Possession of stolen property; value $25,000 to $100,000 and Interference with LEO; knowingly flee by means other than motor vehicle for felony case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768950010459.png" alt="Bessette-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Bessette-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a chase and arrest with a stolen vehicle.Just before&nbsp;&nbsp;1:30 a.m. Jan. 22, a sheriff's deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a gray 2025 Ford SUV, that was recently reported stolen through the City of Topeka, near Interstate 70&nbsp; and SE Adams Street, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. The driver refused to stop and initiated a pursuit. The vehicle pursuit ended in the 1900 block of South Kansas Avenue and the driver fled the scene on foot. A K-9 Unit located the suspect exiting a nearby creek and wooded area. He was taken into custody without further incident.Joshua S. Bessette, 45, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Jail on requested charges of Flee or attempt to elude; operate a stolen vehicle, Possession of stolen property; value $25,000 to $100,000 and Interference with LEO; knowingly flee by means other than motor vehicle for felony case.

Sheriff's K9 helps track down Kansas stolen car suspect 

By:<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/cami-koons/">Cami Koons</a> <a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2026/01/22/house-bill-would-lead-iowa-to-explore-wildlife-overpasses/" target="_blank">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>

An Iowa House subcommittee advanced a bill Thursday that would initiate a state committee to study the feasibility of adding wildlife crossings on certain highways.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ba=HSB562" target="_blank">House Study Bill 562</a>&nbsp;calls for an analysis of animal-vehicle collisions along highways, a ranking of high-crash corridors and suggestions for animal crossing solutions, which could include wildlife overpasses, underpasses or improved fencing along a highway corridor.

By:<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/cami-koons/">Cami Koons</a> <a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2026/01/22/house-bill-would-lead-iowa-to-explore-wildlife-overpasses/" target="_blank">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>An Iowa House subcommittee advanced a bill Thursday that would initiate a state committee to study the feasibility of adding wildlife crossings on certain highways.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ba=HSB562" target="_blank">House Study Bill 562</a>&nbsp;calls for an analysis of animal-vehicle collisions along highways, a ranking of high-crash corridors and suggestions for animal crossing solutions, which could include wildlife overpasses, underpasses or improved fencing along a highway corridor.Wildlife overpasses are popular in some&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nina.no/english/About-NINA/News/article/wildlife-overpass-in-trondheim-norway-enhances-habitat-connectivity" target="_blank">European</a>&nbsp;countries and have been adopted in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/world-s-largest-wildlife-crossing-set-to-open-this-fall-price-tag-climbs/ar-AA1Ueapq" target="_blank">handful</a>&nbsp;of U.S. states.&nbsp;At the end of 2025, Colorado completed a wildlife overpass across a stretch of Interstate 25 between Denver and Colorado Springs. According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.codot.gov/projects/archives/i25greenlandwildlifeoverpass" target="_blank">state transportation department</a>, the $15 million project was completed within a year and it, combined with wildlife underpasses and other crossing systems, is expected to reduce animal collisions along the stretch of interstate by 90%.&nbsp;Several environmental and wildlife conservation groups, including the Sierra Club Iowa Chapter, Humane World for Animals and Animal Rescue League Iowa, registered in support of the bill.&nbsp;Humane World for Animals’ Iowa State Director Preston Moore said in an emailed statement that as human development continues to expand, wildlife are left with fewer “wild and open spaces.”&nbsp;“Developing safe wildlife road crossings as well as restoring and conserving critical habitat and wildlife corridors are essential to ensure wildlife are protected from increased human development and climate change,” Moore said. “Road development and vehicle collisions with wildlife can be quite damaging to populations, especially those that are already small and fragile.”&nbsp;According to a 2024 population density&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/publications/DF/1462727.pdf" target="_blank">survey</a>&nbsp;conducted by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources,&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/10/11/iowa-dnr-releases-first-county-level-deer-density-report/" target="_blank">deer cause at least $129 million&nbsp;</a>in vehicle collision costs in Iowa annually.Moore said while deer account for the vast majority of animal-vehicle collisions, “many other species are struck on roadways.”&nbsp;The bill also calls for the development of a grant request strategy aligned with the federal department of transportation’s&nbsp;<a href="https://highways.dot.gov/federal-lands/wildlife-crossings" target="_blank">wildlife crossing program</a>.&nbsp;State natural resources and transportation department directors would be asked to serve on the study committee. Rep. Norlin Mommsen, R-DeWitt, chaired the House subcommittee and asked if lower-level staff from the departments should instead sit on the committee.&nbsp;“We’re pulling in all the directors for – I’m not trying to minimize – but is this the best use of state resources?” Mommsen asked.&nbsp;Subcommittee members asked for additional information about animal-vehicle collisions in the state and on the success of wildlife overpasses. Mommsen advanced the bill, but said he would speak with additional stakeholders about it.&nbsp;This story was originally produced by&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2026/01/22/house-bill-would-lead-iowa-to-explore-wildlife-overpasses/" target="_blank">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Nebraska Examiner, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.