First responders have almost been overwhelmed with the work needed on highways during the recent winter ice and snow storm. They are reminding motorists to slow down and watch for first responders.

On Tuesday evening, a Missouri State Highway Patrol officers patrol vehicle was struck while the Trooper was helping a stranded motorist on Interstate 270. Fortunately nobody was injured. 

"Please watch for emergency vehicles, tow trucks and department of transportation workers and move over when their emergency lights are activated."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736302023706.png" alt="Photo MSHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo MSHP</figcaption>
 </figure>First responders have almost been overwhelmed with the work needed on highways during the recent winter ice and snow storm. They are reminding motorists to slow down and watch for first responders.On Tuesday evening, a Missouri State Highway Patrol officers patrol vehicle was struck while the Trooper was helping a stranded motorist on Interstate 270. Fortunately nobody was injured. "Please watch for emergency vehicles, tow trucks and department of transportation workers and move over when their emergency lights are activated."

State Trooper's vehicle struck while helping stranded driver

&nbsp;President Jimmy Carter will continue to lie in state at the Capitol Rotunda Wednesday ahead of his state funeral.

The 39th president&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jimmy-carter-dies-18c198c20352c835bca3eec276020dd7">died Dec. 29 at the age of 100</a>.

Jimmy Carter's state funeral moved to Washington on Tuesday after observances in Georgia. The 39th president's remains will lie in state through Wednesday. President Joe Biden will deliver a eulogy at his funeral on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736283143560.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;President Jimmy Carter will continue to lie in state at the Capitol Rotunda Wednesday ahead of his state funeral.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Jimmy Carter&#39;s casket arrives in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda. <a href="https://t.co/t1YMjvbLHt">pic.twitter.com/t1YMjvbLHt</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876754969094758700?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The 39th president&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jimmy-carter-dies-18c198c20352c835bca3eec276020dd7">died Dec. 29 at the age of 100</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">U.S. <a href="https://twitter.com/NavalAcademy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NavalAcademy</a> Glee Club performs &#39;My Country, &#39;Tis of Thee&#39; at President Jimmy Carter Memorial Service. <a href="https://t.co/PVd51SHLwp">pic.twitter.com/PVd51SHLwp</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876762661955760293?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Carter served as president from 1977-81.-----------Jimmy Carter's state funeral moved to Washington on Tuesday after observances in Georgia. The 39th president's remains will lie in state through Wednesday. President Joe Biden will deliver a eulogy at his funeral on Thursday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Jimmy Carter arrival ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland (<a href="https://twitter.com/Andrews_JBA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Andrews_JBA</a>). <a href="https://t.co/iO2fnY7zvl">pic.twitter.com/iO2fnY7zvl</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876718862659465265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Jimmy Carter procession from the U.S. Naval Memorial to U.S. Capitol. <a href="https://t.co/sb2PkfYIcI">pic.twitter.com/sb2PkfYIcI</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876736917779169666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Jimmy Carter&#39;s casket arrives at the U.S. Capitol. <a href="https://t.co/hSc7alh0lj">pic.twitter.com/hSc7alh0lj</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876754915273441546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">U.S. <a href="https://twitter.com/NavalAcademy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NavalAcademy</a> Glee Club performs &#39;My Country, &#39;Tis of Thee&#39; at President Jimmy Carter Memorial Service. <a href="https://t.co/PVd51SHLwp">pic.twitter.com/PVd51SHLwp</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876762661955760293?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Jimmy Carter Continues to Lie in State at Capitol Rotunda Ahead of State Funeral

President-elect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;held a news conference at his Palm Beach, Florida resort on Tuesday.&nbsp; He discussed a variety of topics including the Panama Canal, Greenland, renaming the Gulf of Mexico and pardons for the January 6th defendants.

President-elect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;held a news conference at his Palm Beach, Florida resort on Tuesday.&nbsp; He discussed a variety of topics including the Panama Canal, Greenland, renaming the Gulf of Mexico and pardons for the January 6th defendants.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Question on Greenland and Panama Canal: &quot;Can you assure the world that as you try to get control of these areas you are not going to use military or economic coercion? President-Elect Trump: &quot;No...I can&#39;t assure you on either of those two. We need them for economic security...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/zJ8Fb67ZrX">pic.twitter.com/zJ8Fb67ZrX</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876678479053259091?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President-elect Trump: &quot;We&#39;re going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America...what a beautiful name. It&#39;s appropriate.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/ZspLXgkgcZ">pic.twitter.com/ZspLXgkgcZ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876674752741314677?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President-Elect Trump pardoning January 6th defendants: &quot;We&#39;re be looking at the whole thing, but yes I&#39;ll be making major pardons, yes.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/arHvANly7j">pic.twitter.com/arHvANly7j</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876679962188468655?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President-Elect Trump: &quot;If those hostages aren&#39;t back...If they&#39;re not back by the time I get into office all hell will break out in the Middle East. It will no be good for Hamas. It will not be good frankly for anyone.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/iz5yiATPA2">pic.twitter.com/iz5yiATPA2</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1876681429322445012?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Trump on Panama Canal, renaming Gulf of Mexico and pardons

KANSAS CITY—Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire at a waste disposal maintenance facility.

Just after 5:30a.m. Tuesday, crews responded to a reported fire in the 900 block of Blueridge in Kansas City, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

First responding crews reported a fully involved fire in the single-story building. Defensive operations were established using aerial ladder fly-pipe operations. The facility contained bulk oil storage for maintenance purposes. That oil leaked from the structure. KCFD Hazmat crews used diking procedures to contain the oil. The Missouri Department of Natural resources was working to determine the appropriate steps for cleanup.

KCFD had to stretch hydrant supply lines across the railroad tracks to the west of the property to establish water supply. This resulted in the rail lines needing to be shutdown for a couple of hours.&nbsp;No injuries were reported at this incident, according to Hopkins.

KANSAS CITY—Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire at a waste disposal maintenance facility.Just after 5:30a.m. Tuesday, crews responded to a reported fire in the 900 block of Blueridge in Kansas City, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.First responding crews reported a fully involved fire in the single-story building. Defensive operations were established using aerial ladder fly-pipe operations. The facility contained bulk oil storage for maintenance purposes. That oil leaked from the structure. KCFD Hazmat crews used diking procedures to contain the oil. The Missouri Department of Natural resources was working to determine the appropriate steps for cleanup.KCFD had to stretch hydrant supply lines across the railroad tracks to the west of the property to establish water supply. This resulted in the rail lines needing to be shutdown for a couple of hours.&nbsp;No injuries were reported at this incident, according to Hopkins.

Crews battle fire at bulk oil storage facility in Kansas City

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — A Kansas legislator renewed attempts to rid the state of daylight saving time under a bill filed ahead of the state’s 2025 legislative session, which begins later this month.

<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb1/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 1</a>, which was prefiled Friday, seeks to exempt Kansas from participating in the national practice of switching clocks back an hour every November and forward again every March.

Sen. Kenny Titus, a Wamego Republican who was elected to the Senate in November after serving a term in the House, is sponsoring the bill that would create year-round standard time beginning November 2025.

“Every year I get asked by constituents why the state doesn’t do something about switching clocks back and forth,” Titus said. “Most often I hear from folks that they don’t really care if we are on daylight saving or standard time, they just want to keep it consistent throughout the year.”

Recent attempts to put an end to the time changes at state and federal levels have failed. The last attempt in Kansas was in&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/02/14/clock-is-ticking-ditch-the-switch-for-year-round-standard-or-daylight-saving-time/">2021</a>&nbsp;when Rep. Shannon Francis, a Republican from Liberal, drafted a resolution asking Congress to eradicate standard time and stick with daylight time year-round.

Only Arizona, Hawaii and the U.S.’s unincorporated territories are exempt from the switch.

In 2022, the U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/03/15/u-s-senate-backs-shift-to-permanent-daylight-saving-time/">Senate</a>&nbsp;passed a bill that would’ve made daylight saving time permanent, but the U.S. House declined to take it up.&nbsp;

Despite the U.S. House’s resistance, Titus said, “it shows there is popular support to at least talk about making a change.”

A 2021 AP-NORC&nbsp;<a href="https://apnorc.org/projects/dislike-for-changing-the-clocks-persists/" target="_blank">poll</a>&nbsp;found that 75% of Americans want to stop switching their clocks, and studies have shown switching clocks can be detrimental to sleep habits and overall&nbsp;<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7954020/" target="_blank">health</a>.&nbsp;

“When I compared the arguments for daylight saving time and standard time, the primary benefit of daylight saving time was increased consumer spending (because there is more daylight in the evening for shopping and activities) compared to the increased health benefits of standard time with more daylight in the morning

In comparing year-round daylight saving time to standard time, Titus found increased consumer spending was the primary benefit because of more daylight in the evening for shopping and activities. More daylight in the morning with year-round standard time, on the other hand, can lead to health benefits, he said.

“For me, it was a no-brainer to prioritize the health of Kansans,” Titus said.

President-elect Donald Trump vowed last month in a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1867686000711155989" target="_blank">post</a>&nbsp;to social media platform X that the Republican Party would attempt to eliminate daylight saving time, calling it “inconvenient” and “costly.” Titus’ bill provides for the possibility of Congress taking its own action.

His is the only Senate bill to be prefiled so far.&nbsp;

“The primary issue is fairly straightforward, so I thought it was best to get the conversation started before committee calendars are filled up with other topics,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736271143458.jpeg" alt=" Sen. Kenny Titus, a Wamego Republican, prefiled a bill that would eradicate daylight saving time in Kansas. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Sen. Kenny Titus, a Wamego Republican, prefiled a bill that would eradicate daylight saving time in Kansas. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — A Kansas legislator renewed attempts to rid the state of daylight saving time under a bill filed ahead of the state’s 2025 legislative session, which begins later this month.<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb1/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 1</a>, which was prefiled Friday, seeks to exempt Kansas from participating in the national practice of switching clocks back an hour every November and forward again every March.Sen. Kenny Titus, a Wamego Republican who was elected to the Senate in November after serving a term in the House, is sponsoring the bill that would create year-round standard time beginning November 2025.“Every year I get asked by constituents why the state doesn’t do something about switching clocks back and forth,” Titus said. “Most often I hear from folks that they don’t really care if we are on daylight saving or standard time, they just want to keep it consistent throughout the year.”Recent attempts to put an end to the time changes at state and federal levels have failed. The last attempt in Kansas was in&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/02/14/clock-is-ticking-ditch-the-switch-for-year-round-standard-or-daylight-saving-time/">2021</a>&nbsp;when Rep. Shannon Francis, a Republican from Liberal, drafted a resolution asking Congress to eradicate standard time and stick with daylight time year-round.Only Arizona, Hawaii and the U.S.’s unincorporated territories are exempt from the switch.In 2022, the U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/03/15/u-s-senate-backs-shift-to-permanent-daylight-saving-time/">Senate</a>&nbsp;passed a bill that would’ve made daylight saving time permanent, but the U.S. House declined to take it up.&nbsp;Despite the U.S. House’s resistance, Titus said, “it shows there is popular support to at least talk about making a change.”A 2021 AP-NORC&nbsp;<a href="https://apnorc.org/projects/dislike-for-changing-the-clocks-persists/" target="_blank">poll</a>&nbsp;found that 75% of Americans want to stop switching their clocks, and studies have shown switching clocks can be detrimental to sleep habits and overall&nbsp;<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7954020/" target="_blank">health</a>.&nbsp;“When I compared the arguments for daylight saving time and standard time, the primary benefit of daylight saving time was increased consumer spending (because there is more daylight in the evening for shopping and activities) compared to the increased health benefits of standard time with more daylight in the morningIn comparing year-round daylight saving time to standard time, Titus found increased consumer spending was the primary benefit because of more daylight in the evening for shopping and activities. More daylight in the morning with year-round standard time, on the other hand, can lead to health benefits, he said.“For me, it was a no-brainer to prioritize the health of Kansans,” Titus said.President-elect Donald Trump vowed last month in a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1867686000711155989" target="_blank">post</a>&nbsp;to social media platform X that the Republican Party would attempt to eliminate daylight saving time, calling it “inconvenient” and “costly.” Titus’ bill provides for the possibility of Congress taking its own action.His is the only Senate bill to be prefiled so far.&nbsp;“The primary issue is fairly straightforward, so I thought it was best to get the conversation started before committee calendars are filled up with other topics,” he said.

Daylight saving time would end in Kansas under senator’s prefiled bill

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

Just after 10a.m. January 4, police were executing a search warrant at 917 Lawrence Street in Emporia as part of a narcotics investigation, according to Police Captain Ray Matta.

&nbsp;While the officers were attempting to execute the search warrant an unknown person in the house barricaded themselves in the house.

Officers did not know if the person was armed at the time. Officers also noticed pedestrians in the area and asked for shelter-in-place for the safety of the citizens in the area. The barricade was handled without any injuries to any parties. The shelter-in-place was then canceled.

Police arrested 27-year-old Rafael Munuz Garcia on requested charges of&nbsp;Distribute opiate/narc/certain stim/heroin; distribution of methamphetamines;&nbsp; Interference with LEO; unknown circumstance; felony&nbsp;Possession of marijuana and&nbsp;Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736205999099.png" alt="Garcia photo Lyon Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Garcia photo Lyon Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.Just after 10a.m. January 4, police were executing a search warrant at 917 Lawrence Street in Emporia as part of a narcotics investigation, according to Police Captain Ray Matta.&nbsp;While the officers were attempting to execute the search warrant an unknown person in the house barricaded themselves in the house.Officers did not know if the person was armed at the time. Officers also noticed pedestrians in the area and asked for shelter-in-place for the safety of the citizens in the area. The barricade was handled without any injuries to any parties. The shelter-in-place was then canceled.Police arrested 27-year-old Rafael Munuz Garcia on requested charges of&nbsp;Distribute opiate/narc/certain stim/heroin; distribution of methamphetamines;&nbsp; Interference with LEO; unknown circumstance; felony&nbsp;Possession of marijuana and&nbsp;Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, according to online jail records.

Police jail alleged drug dealer after standoff at Kansas home

The legislation would apply to gas, water and sewer utilites

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/allison-kite/">ALLISON KITE</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>

Utility companies could base customers’ rates on projected expenses rather than actual costs under legislation critics worry would increase Missourians’ bills.&nbsp;

Several bills prefiled ahead of the Missouri General Assembly’s legislative session, which starts Wednesday, would apply the new ratemaking standard to gas, water and sewer —&nbsp;but not electric —&nbsp;utilities. Lawmakers considered similar bills last year, but they did not make it to final passage.&nbsp;

Currently, utilities rely on&nbsp;<a href="https://psc.mo.gov/General/Ratemaking_Process" target="_blank">audited past expenses</a>&nbsp;—&nbsp;called a “test year” to set rates. Supporters of the legislation say using a historic test year means the information used to set customers’ rates is dated. A future test year, they argue, uses more current information.&nbsp;

“Just as a business or even the state of Missouri plans with the budgeting looking ahead, this method allows regulators to set rates based on updated information,” Sen. Mike Cierpiot, a Lee’s Summit Republican, said in a committee hearing last year.

Cierpiot, who has again filed a bill mandating use of a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/bts_web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=66" target="_blank">future test year</a>, did not return requests for comment.

Critics say it would inflate Missouri utility bills.

“Essentially, it’s an accounting trick by monopoly utilities to take a little extra money out of your pocket,” John Coffman, an attorney for the Consumers Council of Missouri, said in an interview this week. Coffman estimated utility rates could climb by more than 10% under the legislation.&nbsp;

During the same hearing last year, Coffman called the legislation “anti-consumer” and said it amounted to a “rate increase piece of legislation.”

For-profit utility companies in Missouri are highly regulated because of their status as a monopoly. Every few years, they propose new rates to the Missouri Public Service Commission, which must sign off before companies change prices. Staff of the Public Service Commission, along with consumer and environmental advocates, are allowed to analyze the requested change and voice their opinions. Public hearings are held before the new rates can go into effect.

The Public Service Commission’s counterpart, the Kansas Corporation Commission, said Kansas utilities are not permitted to use future test years and it was not aware of any effort in the Kansas Legislature to change that.&nbsp;

The rate-setting process, supporters of the future test year legislation argue, should look ahead to upcoming expenses, not to past costs.&nbsp;

Christine Page, director of government and external affairs for Missouri American Water, said in a committee hearing last year that using a future test year would make for a more “collaborative” process.&nbsp;

Page said if Missouri American Water, which provides water to 1.6 million Missouri residents, were planning to invest in its infrastructure, stakeholders would be able to give input ahead of construction about how much is appropriate for the utility to spend.

Of the 13 states where American Water operates, Page said, nine use a future test year in ratemaking.&nbsp;

In a statement Friday, the company’s spokeswoman, Christie Barnhart, called the legislation “vital to addressing the critical water and wastewater infrastructure needs of our state.”&nbsp;

“These bills would allow for a more aggressive replacement of aging infrastructure before it has outlived its useful life, which is both more efficient from a cost standpoint and reduces service interruptions to the customer,” Barnhart said.

Jason Merrill, a spokesman for Spire Missouri, which serves gas customers in both Kansas City and St. Louis, said the company supports the legislation.

“Rather than rates being set on dated financial information, this would allow utilities to plan budgets in real time and regulators to set rates based on more current data,” Merrill said.

But that regulatory lag, Coffman said, is good for consumers. He argues it’s an incentive for utilities to keep their costs down. With a future test year, Coffman said, the incentives flip.

“The incentives become like a government where they have a budget, and if you don’t spend it, you lose it…so it flips the incentives from one that encourages cost control and cost&nbsp; management to one where the incentives are to spend all the money you can,” he said.&nbsp;

Ameren Missouri, which provides both electricity and gas service to Missouri customers, said in a statement that it supported the idea of a future test year.&nbsp;

“Currently several large new users of electricity that could provide thousands of jobs and billions of dollars of investment are considering Missouri as a place to locate,” Ameren’s vice president of regulatory affairs, Warren Wood, said. “To seize on these economic development opportunities and to continue to be a leader in reliable and affordable electricity, new generation plants are critically needed.”

The bill is one of several introduced for the coming session that could affect utility rates. Another would allow utilities to start charging customers for new electric generation facilities that are still under construction.

Last year, Senate Majority Leader Cindy O’Laughlin&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/12/19/missouri-legislative-leader-files-bill-targeting-time-of-use-utility-pricing-plans/">filed legislation</a>&nbsp;meant to stop mandatory time-of-use pricing for electric utilities after Evergy rolled out new rates that quadrupled in price during times of peak power demand.&nbsp;

In a statement, O’Laughlin didn’t take a position on the test year legislation.

“Utility policy is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of both the needs of consumers and the challenges utilities face in providing reliable service,” she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1727977882596.png" alt="-Legislation in Missouri would allow gas, water and sewer companies to use future projections rather than past costs to set customers' rates.&nbsp;(Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)." />
 <figcaption>-Legislation in Missouri would allow gas, water and sewer companies to use future projections rather than past costs to set customers' rates.&nbsp;(Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The legislation would apply to gas, water and sewer utilites</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/allison-kite/">ALLISON KITE</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a> Utility companies could base customers’ rates on projected expenses rather than actual costs under legislation critics worry would increase Missourians’ bills.&nbsp;Several bills prefiled ahead of the Missouri General Assembly’s legislative session, which starts Wednesday, would apply the new ratemaking standard to gas, water and sewer —&nbsp;but not electric —&nbsp;utilities. Lawmakers considered similar bills last year, but they did not make it to final passage.&nbsp;Currently, utilities rely on&nbsp;<a href="https://psc.mo.gov/General/Ratemaking_Process" target="_blank">audited past expenses</a>&nbsp;—&nbsp;called a “test year” to set rates. Supporters of the legislation say using a historic test year means the information used to set customers’ rates is dated. A future test year, they argue, uses more current information.&nbsp;“Just as a business or even the state of Missouri plans with the budgeting looking ahead, this method allows regulators to set rates based on updated information,” Sen. Mike Cierpiot, a Lee’s Summit Republican, said in a committee hearing last year.Cierpiot, who has again filed a bill mandating use of a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/bts_web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=66" target="_blank">future test year</a>, did not return requests for comment.Critics say it would inflate Missouri utility bills.“Essentially, it’s an accounting trick by monopoly utilities to take a little extra money out of your pocket,” John Coffman, an attorney for the Consumers Council of Missouri, said in an interview this week. Coffman estimated utility rates could climb by more than 10% under the legislation.&nbsp;During the same hearing last year, Coffman called the legislation “anti-consumer” and said it amounted to a “rate increase piece of legislation.”For-profit utility companies in Missouri are highly regulated because of their status as a monopoly. Every few years, they propose new rates to the Missouri Public Service Commission, which must sign off before companies change prices. Staff of the Public Service Commission, along with consumer and environmental advocates, are allowed to analyze the requested change and voice their opinions. Public hearings are held before the new rates can go into effect.The Public Service Commission’s counterpart, the Kansas Corporation Commission, said Kansas utilities are not permitted to use future test years and it was not aware of any effort in the Kansas Legislature to change that.&nbsp;The rate-setting process, supporters of the future test year legislation argue, should look ahead to upcoming expenses, not to past costs.&nbsp;Christine Page, director of government and external affairs for Missouri American Water, said in a committee hearing last year that using a future test year would make for a more “collaborative” process.&nbsp;Page said if Missouri American Water, which provides water to 1.6 million Missouri residents, were planning to invest in its infrastructure, stakeholders would be able to give input ahead of construction about how much is appropriate for the utility to spend.Of the 13 states where American Water operates, Page said, nine use a future test year in ratemaking.&nbsp;In a statement Friday, the company’s spokeswoman, Christie Barnhart, called the legislation “vital to addressing the critical water and wastewater infrastructure needs of our state.”&nbsp;“These bills would allow for a more aggressive replacement of aging infrastructure before it has outlived its useful life, which is both more efficient from a cost standpoint and reduces service interruptions to the customer,” Barnhart said.Jason Merrill, a spokesman for Spire Missouri, which serves gas customers in both Kansas City and St. Louis, said the company supports the legislation.“Rather than rates being set on dated financial information, this would allow utilities to plan budgets in real time and regulators to set rates based on more current data,” Merrill said.But that regulatory lag, Coffman said, is good for consumers. He argues it’s an incentive for utilities to keep their costs down. With a future test year, Coffman said, the incentives flip.“The incentives become like a government where they have a budget, and if you don’t spend it, you lose it…so it flips the incentives from one that encourages cost control and cost&nbsp; management to one where the incentives are to spend all the money you can,” he said.&nbsp;Ameren Missouri, which provides both electricity and gas service to Missouri customers, said in a statement that it supported the idea of a future test year.&nbsp;“Currently several large new users of electricity that could provide thousands of jobs and billions of dollars of investment are considering Missouri as a place to locate,” Ameren’s vice president of regulatory affairs, Warren Wood, said. “To seize on these economic development opportunities and to continue to be a leader in reliable and affordable electricity, new generation plants are critically needed.”The bill is one of several introduced for the coming session that could affect utility rates. Another would allow utilities to start charging customers for new electric generation facilities that are still under construction.Last year, Senate Majority Leader Cindy O’Laughlin&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/12/19/missouri-legislative-leader-files-bill-targeting-time-of-use-utility-pricing-plans/">filed legislation</a>&nbsp;meant to stop mandatory time-of-use pricing for electric utilities after Evergy rolled out new rates that quadrupled in price during times of peak power demand.&nbsp;In a statement, O’Laughlin didn’t take a position on the test year legislation.“Utility policy is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of both the needs of consumers and the challenges utilities face in providing reliable service,” she said.

Missouri bills would let utilities use projections to set rates, may increase prices

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating the death of a woman after finding her body on Monday.

Just before 10a.m. police and emergency crews&nbsp;responded to 2700 Clay Edwards Drive in North Kansas City, according to a media release.

First responders found a person who was pronounced deceased on the scene near North Kansas City Hospital. The victim was described as Black woman probably in her 60s. She did not appear to have any bodily trauma.

Police have not released the name of the victim or additional details.

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating the death of a woman after finding her body on Monday.Just before 10a.m. police and emergency crews&nbsp;responded to 2700 Clay Edwards Drive in North Kansas City, according to a media release.First responders found a person who was pronounced deceased on the scene near North Kansas City Hospital. The victim was described as Black woman probably in her 60s. She did not appear to have any bodily trauma.Police have not released the name of the victim or additional details.

Police: Body of woman found near Kansas City hospital

KANSAS CITY —Authorities have identified the Jackson County employee who died in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Sunday as 61-year-old Everett Carter, according to Jackson County Executive Frank White.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 International dump truck driven by a 37-year-old Blue Springs man stopped on Ashland Avenue north of 20th Street to let a passenger later identified as Carter out of the vehicle.

The truck began to slide and struck Carter and a parked Honda CRV.

Carter, a resident of Independence, Missouri was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported the truck driver to Centerpoint Hospital.

JACKSON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Sunday in Jackson County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 International dump truck driven by a 37-year-old Blue Springs man stopped on Ashland Avenue north of 20th Street to let a passenger out of the vehicle.

The truck began to slide and struck a 61-year-old pedestrian and a parked Honda CRV.

The male pedestrian from Independence, Missouri was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported the truck driver to Centerpoint Hospital.

KANSAS CITY —Authorities have identified the Jackson County employee who died in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Sunday as 61-year-old Everett Carter, according to Jackson County Executive Frank White.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are heartbroken to share the loss of Everett Carter, a 40-year <a href="https://twitter.com/JacksonCountyMO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JacksonCountyMO</a> associate &amp; valued Public Works team member. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues. Snow removal paused after the tragedy and resumed at 7am. Thank you for your patience. <a href="https://t.co/KT9PDne4En">pic.twitter.com/KT9PDne4En</a>&mdash; Frank White (@JCEFrankWhite) <a href="https://twitter.com/JCEFrankWhite/status/1876306078839054687?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 International dump truck driven by a 37-year-old Blue Springs man stopped on Ashland Avenue north of 20th Street to let a passenger later identified as Carter out of the vehicle.The truck began to slide and struck Carter and a parked Honda CRV.Carter, a resident of Independence, Missouri was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported the truck driver to Centerpoint Hospital.---------JACKSON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Sunday in Jackson County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 International dump truck driven by a 37-year-old Blue Springs man stopped on Ashland Avenue north of 20th Street to let a passenger out of the vehicle.The truck began to slide and struck a 61-year-old pedestrian and a parked Honda CRV.The male pedestrian from Independence, Missouri was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported the truck driver to Centerpoint Hospital.

County IDs snow removal employee struck, killed by dump truck

DAMASCUS —U.S. and partner forces conducted operations in Iraq and Syria over the past week in support of the ongoing Defeat ISIS (D-ISIS) campaign.

From December 30 to January 6, U.S. and Iraqi forces conducted multiple strikes in the Hamrin mountains of Iraq, targeting known ISIS locations, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.&nbsp; The operations served to disrupt and degrade ISIS’ ability to plan,  organize, and conduct attacks against civilians in the region, as well  as U.S. citizens, allies, and partners throughout the region and  beyond. 

 During the operations, ISIS fighters engaged Coalition forces  on several occasions, resulting in the employment of Coalition air  strikes, using F-16s, F-15s, and A-10s. The A-10s tasked to support ground forces in the area were successful in eliminating the ISIS fighters within a cave.

One Coalition member was killed and two were wounded from two different  nations. There were no injuries to U.S. personnel or damage to U.S.  equipment.

From January 2 to January 3, Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), enabled by CENTCOM forces, conducted  a D-ISIS operation near Dayr az-Zawr, Syria, resulting in the capture  of an ISIS attack cell leader. 

"The  U.S. and members of the multinational Combined Joint Task Force –  Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF – OIR) maintain our ongoing commitment  to the fight against ISIS."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736212305306.png" alt="U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolts photo U.S. Central Command&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolts photo U.S. Central Command&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>DAMASCUS —U.S. and partner forces conducted operations in Iraq and Syria over the past week in support of the ongoing Defeat ISIS (D-ISIS) campaign.From December 30 to January 6, U.S. and Iraqi forces conducted multiple strikes in the Hamrin mountains of Iraq, targeting known ISIS locations, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.&nbsp; The operations served to disrupt and degrade ISIS’ ability to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against civilians in the region, as well as U.S. citizens, allies, and partners throughout the region and beyond. During the operations, ISIS fighters engaged Coalition forces on several occasions, resulting in the employment of Coalition air strikes, using F-16s, F-15s, and A-10s. The A-10s tasked to support ground forces in the area were successful in eliminating the ISIS fighters within a cave.One Coalition member was killed and two were wounded from two different nations. There were no injuries to U.S. personnel or damage to U.S. equipment.From January 2 to January 3, Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), enabled by CENTCOM forces, conducted a D-ISIS operation near Dayr az-Zawr, Syria, resulting in the capture of an ISIS attack cell leader. "The U.S. and members of the multinational Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF – OIR) maintain our ongoing commitment to the fight against ISIS."

U.S. and task force attack in Syria captures ISIS cell leader 

ELLSWORTH COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 1p.m.&nbsp; Monday in Ellsworth County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a pedestrian identified as Rudolph Martinez, 65, Dodge City, was assisting Brandon Wade Adams, 44,&nbsp;Bonne Terre, Missouri navigate a 2018 Freightliner through a snowdrift covered parking lot at 216 Kansas 156 Highway at the I-70 Junction in Ellsworth. 

The semi backed over Martinez.&nbsp; He was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Parsons Funeral Home. Adams was not injured.

ELLSWORTH COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 1p.m.&nbsp; Monday in Ellsworth County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a pedestrian identified as Rudolph Martinez, 65, Dodge City, was assisting Brandon Wade Adams, 44,&nbsp;Bonne Terre, Missouri navigate a 2018 Freightliner through a snowdrift covered parking lot at 216 Kansas 156 Highway at the I-70 Junction in Ellsworth. The semi backed over Martinez.&nbsp; He was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Parsons Funeral Home. Adams was not injured.

Kansas man killed helping semi driver navigate snowdrift 

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a convicted felon on multiple allegations after an arrest.

Deputies were on the look-out last week for a vehicle that had fled from the scene of a burglary in Excelsior Springs, according to a social media report.

They saw the vehicle in downtown Liberty. The driver eventually came to a stop in a nearby neighborhood, where police took him into custody. K9 Argos sniffed the vehicle to determine whether there was probable cause to search it.

Argos kept sniffing the hood of the vehicle, near the windshield. Deputies opened the hood, and sure enough, where the air filter was supposed to be was a black mask, handgun and heroin.

 So far the suspect, identified in court documents as 40-year-old Rowdy Davis of Smithville, has been charged with unlawful use of a weapon. He is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm. Police released no additional details. Davis faces additional charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735580115376.png" alt="Photo Clay Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Clay Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a convicted felon on multiple allegations after an arrest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735580136258.png" alt="Photos Clay County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos Clay County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies were on the look-out last week for a vehicle that had fled from the scene of a burglary in Excelsior Springs, according to a social media report.They saw the vehicle in downtown Liberty. The driver eventually came to a stop in a nearby neighborhood, where police took him into custody. K9 Argos sniffed the vehicle to determine whether there was probable cause to search it.Argos kept sniffing the hood of the vehicle, near the windshield. Deputies opened the hood, and sure enough, where the air filter was supposed to be was a black mask, handgun and heroin. So far the suspect, identified in court documents as 40-year-old Rowdy Davis of Smithville, has been charged with unlawful use of a weapon. He is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm. Police released no additional details. Davis faces additional charges.

Sheriff's K9 finds heroin, handgun and mask in air filter housing

Ice, snow and wind blasted Kansas and Missouri over the weekend.&nbsp;&nbsp;The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings for Kansas and Missouri, where blizzard conditions brought wind gusts of up to 45 mph and made driving almost impossible. Despite that, State Troopers, police and other emergency crews braved the conditions to help travelers. Below are a few of the images from a stormy weekend.

Ice, snow and wind blasted Kansas and Missouri over the weekend.&nbsp;&nbsp;The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings for Kansas and Missouri, where blizzard conditions brought wind gusts of up to 45 mph and made driving almost impossible. Despite that, State Troopers, police and other emergency crews braved the conditions to help travelers. Below are a few of the images from a stormy weekend.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736018668931.png" alt="Photo KHP Trooper Tod Heilman" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP Trooper Tod Heilman</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736183374307.png" alt="Snow plow overturned photo Missouri State Highway Patrol" />
 <figcaption>Snow plow overturned photo Missouri State Highway Patrol</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736031471529.png" alt="Photo KHP Trooper Ben Gardner" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP Trooper Ben Gardner</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736183095212.png" alt="Photo Sedgwick County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sedgwick County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736183150012.png" alt="Photo Lawrence Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Lawrence Police</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736183221742.png" alt="Troopers always doing more than expected -photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Troopers always doing more than expected -photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736079620018.png" alt="Fire truck on responding to a call overturns on icy I-70 in central Kansas-&nbsp; Photo by Brett Neuman courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Fire truck on responding to a call overturns on icy I-70 in central Kansas-&nbsp; Photo by Brett Neuman courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736183330374.png" alt="Photo Missouri State Highway Patrol" />
 <figcaption>Photo Missouri State Highway Patrol</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">KHP ASU rescued 5 stranded motorists today from north central KS. <a href="https://t.co/G2WcNXP53D">pic.twitter.com/G2WcNXP53D</a>&mdash; KHP Air Support Unit (@KHPAircraft) <a href="https://twitter.com/KHPAircraft/status/1876392894594212177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736199521034.png" alt="Trucks sliding off the roads on Monday north of Kansas City -photo MSHP" />
 <figcaption>Trucks sliding off the roads on Monday north of Kansas City -photo MSHP</figcaption>
 </figure>

Photo gallery from weekend ice, snow storm

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>&nbsp;

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden has expanded Social Security benefits for more than 2 million Americans by signing broadly bipartisan legislation that Congress approved late last year.

The ceremony on Sunday marked one of the last times Biden is expected to sign major legislation as president, since Congress is now controlled by Republicans and his term is set to end on Jan. 20, when President-elect Donald Trump takes the oath of office.

“By signing this bill, we’re extending Social Security benefits for millions of teachers … and other public employees, and their spouses and survivors,” Biden said. “That means an estimated average of $360 per month increase. That’s a big deal.”

The nearly 2.5 million people covered under the new law, he said, would “receive a lump sum payment of thousands of dollars to make up for the shortfall in benefits they should have gotten in 2024.”

The House&nbsp;<a href="https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/2024456" target="_blank">voted 327-75</a>&nbsp;in November to pass the bill and the Senate&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1182/vote_118_2_00338.htm" target="_blank">voted 76-20</a>&nbsp;in December to send the bill to Biden.

The new law&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/social-security-benefits-boosted-millions-bill-headed-bidens-desk-1" target="_blank">eliminates the windfall elimination provision and government pension offset</a>&nbsp;that for decades had reduced the amount some Americans receive in Social Security benefits.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins, who attended the signing ceremony at the White House, released a written statement saying she was “pleased” that “these unfair provisions in our Social Security system have finally been repealed.”

“This is a victory for thousands of teachers, first responders, public servants, and the countless advocates who fought for years to correct this unfairness,” Collins wrote. “For too long, the WEP and GPO have denied retirees and their spouses the Social Security benefits they earned through years of work and contributions to the system. This law ensures that public service will no longer come at the expense of one’s earned retirement benefits.”

Former U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger, a Democrat who chose not to seek reelection to Congress to pursue a run for the Virginia governor’s office, wrote on social media that eliminating the two provisions had been a long time coming.

“Our retired police officers, firefighters, teachers, and public employees worked for DECADES to right this wrong,” wrote Spanberger, who co-sponsored the House version of the bill last Congress.

The expansion of benefits is expected to cost $195.65 billion during the next 10 years and move up the program’s insolvency date by about six months,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbo.gov/publication/60690" target="_blank">according to&nbsp;</a>the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.

“If H.R. 82 was enacted, the balance of the (Old-Age and Survivors Insurance) trust fund would, CBO projects, be exhausted roughly half a year earlier than it would be under current law,” CBO Director Phillip L. Swagel wrote in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbo.gov/system/files/2024-11/60876-HR82.pdf" target="_blank">letter</a>&nbsp;to Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley. “The agency estimates that under current law, the balance of the OASI trust fund would be exhausted during fiscal year 2033.”

Other members of Congress attending the signing ceremony included Louisiana Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy, Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, Oregon Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden, Minnesota Democratic Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, Ohio Republican Rep. Mike Carey, Louisiana Democratic Rep. Troy Carter, Louisiana Republican Reps. Clay Higgins and Julia Letlow, Ohio Democratic Reps. Marcy Kaptur and Greg Landsman and Virginia Democratic Rep. Bobby Scott, according to a list provided by the White House.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736114570429.png" alt="photo White House" />
 <figcaption>photo White House</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>&nbsp;WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden has expanded Social Security benefits for more than 2 million Americans by signing broadly bipartisan legislation that Congress approved late last year.The ceremony on Sunday marked one of the last times Biden is expected to sign major legislation as president, since Congress is now controlled by Republicans and his term is set to end on Jan. 20, when President-elect Donald Trump takes the oath of office.“By signing this bill, we’re extending Social Security benefits for millions of teachers … and other public employees, and their spouses and survivors,” Biden said. “That means an estimated average of $360 per month increase. That’s a big deal.”The nearly 2.5 million people covered under the new law, he said, would “receive a lump sum payment of thousands of dollars to make up for the shortfall in benefits they should have gotten in 2024.”The House&nbsp;<a href="https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/2024456" target="_blank">voted 327-75</a>&nbsp;in November to pass the bill and the Senate&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1182/vote_118_2_00338.htm" target="_blank">voted 76-20</a>&nbsp;in December to send the bill to Biden.The new law&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/social-security-benefits-boosted-millions-bill-headed-bidens-desk-1" target="_blank">eliminates the windfall elimination provision and government pension offset</a>&nbsp;that for decades had reduced the amount some Americans receive in Social Security benefits.Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins, who attended the signing ceremony at the White House, released a written statement saying she was “pleased” that “these unfair provisions in our Social Security system have finally been repealed.”“This is a victory for thousands of teachers, first responders, public servants, and the countless advocates who fought for years to correct this unfairness,” Collins wrote. “For too long, the WEP and GPO have denied retirees and their spouses the Social Security benefits they earned through years of work and contributions to the system. This law ensures that public service will no longer come at the expense of one’s earned retirement benefits.”Former U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger, a Democrat who chose not to seek reelection to Congress to pursue a run for the Virginia governor’s office, wrote on social media that eliminating the two provisions had been a long time coming.“Our retired police officers, firefighters, teachers, and public employees worked for DECADES to right this wrong,” wrote Spanberger, who co-sponsored the House version of the bill last Congress.<h2>Insolvency date moves up</h2>The expansion of benefits is expected to cost $195.65 billion during the next 10 years and move up the program’s insolvency date by about six months,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbo.gov/publication/60690" target="_blank">according to&nbsp;</a>the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.“If H.R. 82 was enacted, the balance of the (Old-Age and Survivors Insurance) trust fund would, CBO projects, be exhausted roughly half a year earlier than it would be under current law,” CBO Director Phillip L. Swagel wrote in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbo.gov/system/files/2024-11/60876-HR82.pdf" target="_blank">letter</a>&nbsp;to Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley. “The agency estimates that under current law, the balance of the OASI trust fund would be exhausted during fiscal year 2033.”Other members of Congress attending the signing ceremony included Louisiana Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy, Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, Oregon Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden, Minnesota Democratic Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, Ohio Republican Rep. Mike Carey, Louisiana Democratic Rep. Troy Carter, Louisiana Republican Reps. Clay Higgins and Julia Letlow, Ohio Democratic Reps. Marcy Kaptur and Greg Landsman and Virginia Democratic Rep. Bobby Scott, according to a list provided by the White House.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Biden signs bill expanding Social Security benefits for retired teachers, public employees

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement investigating a double-fatal shooting in Kansas City have identified the victims as 37-year-old Samuel J. Hughes and 34-year-old Jeffery J. Hughes, according to KCPD Sergeant&nbsp; Phil DiMartino.

Just after 7:30p.m. Thursday patrol officers were dispatched to the 8700 block of Blue Ridge in Kansas City on a reported shooting.

The call indicated two individuals were possibly shot in a parking lot. Upon arrival the officers located two men suffering from gunshot wounds. 

Emergency medical personnel responded and pronounced both victims deceased. This is being investigated as a homicide. Preliminary investigation revealed there was an interaction in the parking lot that led to the victims being shot. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735915570511.png" alt="Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement investigating a double-fatal shooting in Kansas City have identified the victims as 37-year-old Samuel J. Hughes and 34-year-old Jeffery J. Hughes, according to KCPD Sergeant&nbsp; Phil DiMartino.Just after 7:30p.m. Thursday patrol officers were dispatched to the 8700 block of Blue Ridge in Kansas City on a reported shooting.The call indicated two individuals were possibly shot in a parking lot. Upon arrival the officers located two men suffering from gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel responded and pronounced both victims deceased. This is being investigated as a homicide. Preliminary investigation revealed there was an interaction in the parking lot that led to the victims being shot.

Homicide: Police ID victims found dead in KC parking lot

On Monday afternoon, Vice President&nbsp;Kamala Harris will preside over the&nbsp;certification of her defeat&nbsp;to Donald Trump.

In a video message, Harris described her role as a “sacred obligation” to ensure the peaceful transfer of power.

On Monday afternoon, Vice President&nbsp;Kamala Harris will preside over the&nbsp;certification of her defeat&nbsp;to Donald Trump.In a video message, Harris described her role as a “sacred obligation” to ensure the peaceful transfer of power.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Today, I will perform my constitutional duty as Vice President to certify the results of the 2024 election. This duty is a sacred obligation — one I will uphold guided by love of country, loyalty to our Constitution, and unwavering faith in the American people. <a href="https://t.co/w21HzdNxGs">pic.twitter.com/w21HzdNxGs</a>&mdash; Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) <a href="https://twitter.com/VP/status/1876260143509192977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734727872762.png" alt="-Theahogany boxes that will hold the electoral votes are on display on Capitol Hill, Thursday, Dec. 19,CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>-Theahogany boxes that will hold the electoral votes are on display on Capitol Hill, Thursday, Dec. 19,CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎥VP Harris issues statement on Electoral College certification

Founder says a lack of future funds led to plans to cease operations

BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>

Quality Schools Coalition, a Missouri education advocacy organization that backs charter school expansion, ceased operations at the end of 2024.

The nonprofit’s executive director, Dean Johnson, told The Independent that the closure was spurred after a top donor did not renew Quality Schools Coalition’s funding for 2025.

“It was enough of an impact on us that it made more sense to sunset than try to move forward on what would have been very, very limited funding,” he said.

Quality Schools Coalition spent $5.9 million over its four years of work, largely in contributions to candidates on both sides of the aisle that share its views on education policy. During the 2024 primary election, the group&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/09/03/gop-incumbents-faced-opposition-from-school-choice-pacs-in-missouri-legislative-primaries/">spent over $100,000</a>&nbsp;on campaign ads.

“​​It really was depending on what issue we were working on, we found our supporters and allies in different places,” Johnson said.

He described the organization’s priorities as a three-pronged approach with pushes for adequate funding, accountability and “public school choice.” This includes legislation that boosted funding for public schools, expanded charter schools and proposals to open public school boundaries to neighboring students.

Passing charter school funding reforms is the pinnacle achievement in Quality School Coalition’s&nbsp;<a href="https://qualityschoolscoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/QSC-Final-Impact-Report-2021-2024.pdf" target="_blank">final impact report</a>. The law, which altered the formula for state aid to charter schools,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/06/29/missouri-charter-schools-will-receive-millions-in-state-funds-with-governors-signature/">added over $60 million to charters statewide</a>.

Johnson first advocated for the bill as co-founder and executive director of Crossroads Charter Schools, a network of charter schools in Kansas City. He also served as the board chair for the Missouri charter Public School Association.

Johnson doesn’t have “definitive plans” but looks to stay engaged in education advocacy.

“I’ve learned a lot, so I’m looking at different opportunities to stay involved in trying to improve education and other other areas in the nonprofit sector,” he said.

State Rep. Marlene Terry, a Democrat from Bellefontaine Neighbors in St. Louis County, said the Quality Schools Coalition had “the best interest of education and children in mind.”

“They were very knowledgeable about educational issues, and they had a passion for education and children,” she told The Independent. “It has nothing to do with Democrat or Republican or anything like that. They had everything to do with children and education.”

Quality Schools Coalition spent about $28,000 campaigning for Terry in August’s primary election. In the final impact report, the nonprofit praised Terry’s decision to support a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-governor-signs-468m-education-bill-that-boosts-teacher-pay-expands-charters/">large education package</a>&nbsp;that gave more funding to public schools, expanded charters and opened up eligibility for a program that gives state funds for private school tuition.

According to its latest tax filing, the group gave most generously to political action committees supporting Republicans. In 2023, the coalition contributed its largest donation, $35,000, to a PAC supporting state Sen. Curtis Trent, a Republican from Springfield.

Johnson said the Quality Schools Coalition supported Trent’s bill proposing a new method of school accountability, based largely on performance and growth.

In 2022, its top donation was to Catalyst PAC, a committee largely contributing to Republicans but with some Democratic contributions. Quality Schools Coalition’s revenue reached over $2.1 million that year.

In addition to Johnson, who founded the nonprofit, the Quality Schools Coalition included former mayor of Kansas City Sly James and education consulting company founder Kathy Smith.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704725547111.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Founder says a lack of future funds led to plans to cease operations</h2>BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>Quality Schools Coalition, a Missouri education advocacy organization that backs charter school expansion, ceased operations at the end of 2024.The nonprofit’s executive director, Dean Johnson, told The Independent that the closure was spurred after a top donor did not renew Quality Schools Coalition’s funding for 2025.“It was enough of an impact on us that it made more sense to sunset than try to move forward on what would have been very, very limited funding,” he said.Quality Schools Coalition spent $5.9 million over its four years of work, largely in contributions to candidates on both sides of the aisle that share its views on education policy. During the 2024 primary election, the group&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/09/03/gop-incumbents-faced-opposition-from-school-choice-pacs-in-missouri-legislative-primaries/">spent over $100,000</a>&nbsp;on campaign ads.“​​It really was depending on what issue we were working on, we found our supporters and allies in different places,” Johnson said.He described the organization’s priorities as a three-pronged approach with pushes for adequate funding, accountability and “public school choice.” This includes legislation that boosted funding for public schools, expanded charter schools and proposals to open public school boundaries to neighboring students.Passing charter school funding reforms is the pinnacle achievement in Quality School Coalition’s&nbsp;<a href="https://qualityschoolscoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/QSC-Final-Impact-Report-2021-2024.pdf" target="_blank">final impact report</a>. The law, which altered the formula for state aid to charter schools,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/06/29/missouri-charter-schools-will-receive-millions-in-state-funds-with-governors-signature/">added over $60 million to charters statewide</a>.Johnson first advocated for the bill as co-founder and executive director of Crossroads Charter Schools, a network of charter schools in Kansas City. He also served as the board chair for the Missouri charter Public School Association.Johnson doesn’t have “definitive plans” but looks to stay engaged in education advocacy.“I’ve learned a lot, so I’m looking at different opportunities to stay involved in trying to improve education and other other areas in the nonprofit sector,” he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736172237790.png" alt="Rep. Marlene Terry, D-St. Louis County, listens in 2023 as the Missouri House debates a bill that would open some school districts’ borders (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>Rep. Marlene Terry, D-St. Louis County, listens in 2023 as the Missouri House debates a bill that would open some school districts’ borders (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>State Rep. Marlene Terry, a Democrat from Bellefontaine Neighbors in St. Louis County, said the Quality Schools Coalition had “the best interest of education and children in mind.”“They were very knowledgeable about educational issues, and they had a passion for education and children,” she told The Independent. “It has nothing to do with Democrat or Republican or anything like that. They had everything to do with children and education.”Quality Schools Coalition spent about $28,000 campaigning for Terry in August’s primary election. In the final impact report, the nonprofit praised Terry’s decision to support a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-governor-signs-468m-education-bill-that-boosts-teacher-pay-expands-charters/">large education package</a>&nbsp;that gave more funding to public schools, expanded charters and opened up eligibility for a program that gives state funds for private school tuition.According to its latest tax filing, the group gave most generously to political action committees supporting Republicans. In 2023, the coalition contributed its largest donation, $35,000, to a PAC supporting state Sen. Curtis Trent, a Republican from Springfield.Johnson said the Quality Schools Coalition supported Trent’s bill proposing a new method of school accountability, based largely on performance and growth.In 2022, its top donation was to Catalyst PAC, a committee largely contributing to Republicans but with some Democratic contributions. Quality Schools Coalition’s revenue reached over $2.1 million that year.As a 501(c)(4), its funders are private.In addition to Johnson, who founded the nonprofit, the Quality Schools Coalition included former mayor of Kansas City Sly James and education consulting company founder Kathy Smith.

Quality Schools Coalition closes after four years of Missouri education advocacy

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating the death of a woman on the river in Kansas City.

Just before 6:30p.m Saturday, the police requested the Kansas City Fire Department responded to the Missouri River Bond Bridge for a suspected jumper, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

KCFD's rescue division launched their drones along with the department's rescue boats. 

At 8:12p.m., after searching the river for approximately an hour and a half a person was recovered from the river approximately a half mile from the Bond bridge.

KCFD cold water drowning protocols were initiated and the patient, identified as a woman approximately 40-year-old was transported to North Kansas City Hospital where she as pronounced deceased.

&nbsp;On Saturday afternoon, the Kansas City Police Department reported 42-year-old Amanda Switzer was last spoken with at 3:30p.m. Saturday. She was believed to be without her vehicle or phone. She was known to be in the area of the Kit Bond Bridge in Kansas City. The family was worried for her well-being.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Sunday, KCPD Sgt. Phil DiMartino confirmed Switzer had been found and was dead.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736125400574.png" alt="Amanda Switzer photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Amanda Switzer photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating the death of a woman on the river in Kansas City.Just before 6:30p.m Saturday, the police requested the Kansas City Fire Department responded to the Missouri River Bond Bridge for a suspected jumper, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.KCFD's rescue division launched their drones along with the department's rescue boats. At 8:12p.m., after searching the river for approximately an hour and a half a person was recovered from the river approximately a half mile from the Bond bridge.KCFD cold water drowning protocols were initiated and the patient, identified as a woman approximately 40-year-old was transported to North Kansas City Hospital where she as pronounced deceased.&nbsp;On Saturday afternoon, the Kansas City Police Department reported 42-year-old Amanda Switzer was last spoken with at 3:30p.m. Saturday. She was believed to be without her vehicle or phone. She was known to be in the area of the Kit Bond Bridge in Kansas City. The family was worried for her well-being.&nbsp;&nbsp;On Sunday, KCPD Sgt. Phil DiMartino confirmed Switzer had been found and was dead.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KC rescue crews found  body of missing woman in river

The State of Kansas sent an emergency alert Sunday evening asking the public to please not drive on Kansas Roads.

A blast of snow, ice, wind and plunging temperatures stirred up dangerous travel conditions in most of Kansas on Sunday. The disruptive winter storm brought the possibility of the “heaviest snowfall in a decade” to some areas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736122387739.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The State of Kansas sent an emergency alert Sunday evening asking the public to please not drive on Kansas Roads.A blast of snow, ice, wind and plunging temperatures stirred up dangerous travel conditions in most of Kansas on Sunday. The disruptive winter storm brought the possibility of the “heaviest snowfall in a decade” to some areas.

State sends Emergency Alert: Do not drive on Kansas roads

OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an Arizona man on drug allegations after a traffic stop.

Just before 1:30p.m. on New Year's Eve, a sheriff's K-9 unit conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 35 in Osage County for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.

 During the stop, the K9 unit located illegal narcotics

Jeremy T. Luce, 47, of Mesa, AZ was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of Distribution of methamphetamine, Possession of drug paraphernalia, No drug tax stamp and Illegal vehicle registration

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735746849484.png" alt="Luce-photo Osage County" />
 <figcaption>Luce-photo Osage County</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an Arizona man on drug allegations after a traffic stop.Just before 1:30p.m. on New Year's Eve, a sheriff's K-9 unit conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 35 in Osage County for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, the K9 unit located illegal narcoticsJeremy T. Luce, 47, of Mesa, AZ was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of Distribution of methamphetamine, Possession of drug paraphernalia, No drug tax stamp and Illegal vehicle registration

Arizona man accused of selling meth in Kansas

JOHNSON COUNTY —In the days leading up to Christmas, police&nbsp; conducted a coordinated operation to address retail theft in Lenexa.

&nbsp; Multiple units within the Lenexa police department collaborated on this effort, including the K9 Unit, Bike Unit, Directed Patrol Unit, Uniform Patrol, and Dispatch. The operation utilized both uniformed and undercover officers, focusing on high-traffic shopping areas near W. 95th Street and Quivira, according to a media release.

This proactive approach resulted in 33 arrests on various charges, including theft, felony theft, possession of stolen property, possession of narcotics including cocaine, fentanyl, and meth, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of a stolen vehicle. 

Among those arrested was a group suspected of involvement in an organized retail crime ring, with over $13,000 worth of stolen merchandise found in their vehicle. Additionally, several individuals with outstanding warrants were taken into custody.

JOHNSON COUNTY —In the days leading up to Christmas, police&nbsp; conducted a coordinated operation to address retail theft in Lenexa.&nbsp; Multiple units within the Lenexa police department collaborated on this effort, including the K9 Unit, Bike Unit, Directed Patrol Unit, Uniform Patrol, and Dispatch. The operation utilized both uniformed and undercover officers, focusing on high-traffic shopping areas near W. 95th Street and Quivira, according to a media release.This proactive approach resulted in 33 arrests on various charges, including theft, felony theft, possession of stolen property, possession of narcotics including cocaine, fentanyl, and meth, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of a stolen vehicle. Among those arrested was a group suspected of involvement in an organized retail crime ring, with over $13,000 worth of stolen merchandise found in their vehicle. Additionally, several individuals with outstanding warrants were taken into custody.

33 arrests after Kansas police effort to address retail theft

The ACLU warns CoreCivic’s Leavenworth facility and others could play a role in President-elect Donald Trump’s mass deportation plans

By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

CoreCivic inquired with federal officials in June about turning its shuttered Leavenworth jail into an immigration detention center, according to documents recently obtained by the American Civil Liberties Union.

The facility, the ACLU warns, could be used as a hub for mass deportation efforts under President-elect Donald Trump’s administration.

CoreCivic Inc., the nation’s largest private prison operator, responded in June to a request by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to help identify potential detention facilities in the Midwest and other regions, according to the ACLU’s documents. The company offered information on several of its facilities across the country.

Among them was the Midwest Regional Reception Center, which was previously operated as the Leavenworth Detention Center, a pre-trial detention facility for detainees charged with — but not convicted of —&nbsp;federal crimes in Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa and western Missouri.

During its time as a pre-trial detention facility, the Leavenworth Detention Center grappled with persistent violence.

Micah Kubic, executive director of the ACLU of Kansas, said in a statement that an expanded ICE presence “will deeply harm our fellow Kansans.”

“The community of Leavenworth has made it clear multiple times that ICE and CoreCivic are not welcome to wreak the havoc of federal immigration enforcement here,” Kubic said, “and local and state leaders do not have to give in.”

In a statement, Ryan Gustin, director of public affairs for CoreCivic, said the company’s immigration facilities “operate with a significant amount of oversight and accountability” and are monitored and audited by ICE officials.

“The services we provide help the government solve problems in ways it could not do alone —&nbsp;to manage unprecedented humanitarian crises, dramatically improve the standard of care for vulnerable people and meet other critical needs efficiently and innovatively,” Gustin said. “These are problems the American public has made clear they want fixed.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aclu.org/documents/multi-state-detention-facility-support-foia-documents-request-for-information" target="_blank">ACLU obtained documentation of CoreCivic’s response</a>&nbsp;to ICE’s request for potential detention space through a lawsuit accusing ICE of failing to comply with the Freedom of Information Act. It also obtained documentation of responses to ICE from owners of potential detention sites in Texas, Nevada, New Mexico and California.

Kansas Reflector also sought information on responses to ICE’s request for detention space under the Freedom of Information Act in September, but has not received any documents.

The revelations come as Trump has promised to deport immigrants quickly after he takes office in January.

Eunice Cho, a senior staff attorney for the ACLU’s National Prison Project, said in a press release that President Joe Biden’s administration is “paving the way for … Trump to make good on his cruel and inhumane mass deportation proposals.”

“You cannot have mass deportations without significant expansion of ICE detention capacity in states across the country,” Cho said, “and that’s exactly what the incoming Trump administration is preparing to do.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574019674964.png" alt="&nbsp;CoreCivic’s Leavenworth Detention Center could serve as a detention center for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;CoreCivic’s Leavenworth Detention Center could serve as a detention center for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The ACLU warns CoreCivic’s Leavenworth facility and others could play a role in President-elect Donald Trump’s mass deportation plans</h2>By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>CoreCivic inquired with federal officials in June about turning its shuttered Leavenworth jail into an immigration detention center, according to documents recently obtained by the American Civil Liberties Union.The facility, the ACLU warns, could be used as a hub for mass deportation efforts under President-elect Donald Trump’s administration.CoreCivic Inc., the nation’s largest private prison operator, responded in June to a request by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to help identify potential detention facilities in the Midwest and other regions, according to the ACLU’s documents. The company offered information on several of its facilities across the country.Among them was the Midwest Regional Reception Center, which was previously operated as the Leavenworth Detention Center, a pre-trial detention facility for detainees charged with — but not convicted of —&nbsp;federal crimes in Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa and western Missouri.During its time as a pre-trial detention facility, the Leavenworth Detention Center grappled with persistent violence.Micah Kubic, executive director of the ACLU of Kansas, said in a statement that an expanded ICE presence “will deeply harm our fellow Kansans.”“The community of Leavenworth has made it clear multiple times that ICE and CoreCivic are not welcome to wreak the havoc of federal immigration enforcement here,” Kubic said, “and local and state leaders do not have to give in.”In a statement, Ryan Gustin, director of public affairs for CoreCivic, said the company’s immigration facilities “operate with a significant amount of oversight and accountability” and are monitored and audited by ICE officials.“The services we provide help the government solve problems in ways it could not do alone —&nbsp;to manage unprecedented humanitarian crises, dramatically improve the standard of care for vulnerable people and meet other critical needs efficiently and innovatively,” Gustin said. “These are problems the American public has made clear they want fixed.”The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aclu.org/documents/multi-state-detention-facility-support-foia-documents-request-for-information" target="_blank">ACLU obtained documentation of CoreCivic’s response</a>&nbsp;to ICE’s request for potential detention space through a lawsuit accusing ICE of failing to comply with the Freedom of Information Act. It also obtained documentation of responses to ICE from owners of potential detention sites in Texas, Nevada, New Mexico and California.Kansas Reflector also sought information on responses to ICE’s request for detention space under the Freedom of Information Act in September, but has not received any documents.The revelations come as Trump has promised to deport immigrants quickly after he takes office in January.Eunice Cho, a senior staff attorney for the ACLU’s National Prison Project, said in a press release that President Joe Biden’s administration is “paving the way for … Trump to make good on his cruel and inhumane mass deportation proposals.”“You cannot have mass deportations without significant expansion of ICE detention capacity in states across the country,” Cho said, “and that’s exactly what the incoming Trump administration is preparing to do.”Gustin said CoreCivic does not advocate for or against legislation “that serves as the basis for —&nbsp;or determines the duration of —&nbsp;an individual’s detention.”“Our responsibility is to care for each person respectfully and humanely while they receive the legal due process that they are entitled to,” Gustin said.For years, CoreCivic operated the Leavenworth Detention Center through a contract with the U.S. Marshals Service, but it closed at the end of 2021 under an executive order signed by Biden banning renewal of U.S. Department of Justice contracts with private prisons.As of June 2020, the facility could hold about 1,000 detainees.The CoreCivic jail’s closure brought persistent speculation about what the company might do with the building, including whether it might become an ICE detention center. Just ahead of the closure in 2021,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-12-06/leavenworth-prison-beset-by-reports-of-violence-and-mismanagement-faces-uncertain-future" target="_blank">ICE told KCUR it was not pursuing</a>&nbsp;a contract with CoreCivic to use the facility.But in the years that followed, Leavenworth County discussed with CoreCivic the possibility of converting the facility to house immigration detainees. The county would have served as an intermediary in a contract with CoreCivic and ICE.Commissioners&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-county-scuttles-talk-of-converting-leavenworth-jail-to-ice-detention-center/" target="_blank">voted in September 2023 to halt negotiations</a>&nbsp;over the arrangement. Opposition to the proposal ranged from anti-immigration sentiments about releasing detainees into Leavenworth to immigration and civil rights advocates’ concerns about the facility’s history of violence and safety issues.<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/10/07/for-profit-kansas-prison-an-understaffed-hell-hole-of-violence-death-and-drugs/" target="_blank">An investigation by Kansas Reflector in 2021</a>&nbsp;found the Leavenworth Detention Center was often understaffed and beset with rampant drug use and violence. The company faces a&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/07/25/former-detainee-sues-defunct-for-profit-jail-in-leavenworth-over-2021-stabbing/" target="_blank">lawsuit from a former detainee</a>&nbsp;who was stabbed in that year. The lawsuit, filed by Joshua Braddy, alleges at least 10 stabbings in 2021 and two suicides.In a sentencing hearing in the fall of 2021, U.S. District Judge Julie Robinson called the facility a “hell hole.” Earlier this year, CoreCivic reached a settlement in a wrongful death case with the widow of a former inmate killed in 2021.CoreCivic settled in 2019 with more than 500 detainees for $1.45 million for illegally recording phone calls with their defense attorneys and providing the information to prosecutors.