KANSAS CITY— Law enforcement authorities continue searching for 21-year-old Jae’veon Marquice Mitchell-Locke, a suspect in the April 5, shooting of three Kansas police officers during an undercover fentanyl trafficking investigation, according&nbsp; to the Platte County Sheriff's office.

Officials at the Platte County, Missouri Detention Center released him inadvertently on April 20.

Mitchell-Locke and two other suspects in the gunfight are charged in Wyandotte County with attempted murder, aggravated battery against law enforcement, criminal discharge of a firearm at an occupied building or vehicle, aggravated endangering a child, aggravated assault of law enforcement officers and distribution or possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682111930463.png" alt="Mitchell-Locke-photo Platte County" />
 <figcaption>Mitchell-Locke-photo Platte County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY— Law enforcement authorities continue searching for 21-year-old Jae’veon Marquice Mitchell-Locke, a suspect in the April 5, shooting of three Kansas police officers during an undercover fentanyl trafficking investigation, according&nbsp; to the Platte County Sheriff's office.Officials at the Platte County, Missouri Detention Center released him inadvertently on April 20.Mitchell-Locke and two other suspects in the gunfight are charged in Wyandotte County with attempted murder, aggravated battery against law enforcement, criminal discharge of a firearm at an occupied building or vehicle, aggravated endangering a child, aggravated assault of law enforcement officers and distribution or possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, according to online jail records.

Still missing: Suspect in Kan. officer shooting released by mistake

DENVER (AP) — Sitting in front of a hulking red tractor, Democratic Gov. Jared Polis signed a bill Tuesday making Colorado the first state to ensure farmers can fix their own tractors and combines with a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/farm-equipment-repairs-d5ea466725328d965a85a62130503d49">“right to repair” law</a>&nbsp;— which compels manufacturers to provide the necessary manuals, tools, parts and software.

Colorado, home to high desert ranches and sweeping farms on the low-and-level plains, took the lead on the issue following a nationwide outcry from farmers that manufacturers, such as John Deere, blocked them from making fixes and forced them to wait precious days for an official servicer to arrive — waits that imperiled profits.

While their increasingly high-tech tractors or combines sit impotent, a hailstorm could decimate a crop or a farmer could miss the ideal planting window, farmers said.

“Farmers have had to wait three or four weeks to get repairs done to equipment when they can do repairs themselves. That’s just unfathomable,” said Bill Midcap, whose son is a fifth-generation rancher on Colorado's eastern plains.

Lawmakers in at least 10 other states have introduced similar legislation, including in Florida, Maryland, Missouri, New Jersey, Texas and Vermont.

Colorado has taken the lead, but Democratic Rep. Brianna Titone, the bill's sponsor, and Dan Waldvogle, director of the Rocky Mountain Farmers Union, said it's a potential launch pad for other states and even at the federal level where discussions about similar legislation are already underway.

At the signing ceremony Tuesday afternoon, under a light drizzle of rain, Polis said: “This bill will save farmers and ranchers time and money and support the free market in repair” before exclaiming, “first in the nation!”

Behind the governor and arrayed farmers and lawmakers sat a red Steiger 370 tractor owned by a farmer named Danny Wood. Wood's tractor has flown an American flag reading “Farmers First,” and it been one of two of his machines to break down, requiring long waits before servicers arrived to enter a few lines of computer code or make a fix Wood could have made himself.

Polis and Titone climbed inside the tractor for a photo as the ceremony ended.

Polis signed the bill after the legislation advanced through long committee hearings, having been propelled forward mostly by Democrats even though a Republican lawmaker co-sponsored the bill. The proposal left GOP lawmakers stuck between their farming constituents pleading for the ability to repair their equipment and the manufacturers who vehemently opposed it.

Manufacturers and dealerships raised concerns that providing tools and information to farmers would allow equipment owners to illegally crank up the horsepower and bypass emissions controls — putting operator safety and the environment at risk.

They also argued that the law would expose companies’ trade secrets. Republican Rep. Richard Holtorf, a farmer himself, further worried that it would push dealerships out of business, especially in rural parts of the state.

The bill’s proponents acknowledged that the legislation could make it easier for operators to modify horsepower and emissions controls. But they argued that farmers are already able to tinker with their machines, and doing so would remain illegal.

The law falls into the broader “right to repair” campaign, which has picked up steam across the country and applies to a range of products, from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-technology-business-apple-inc-smartphones-afb6e6603bdb5c0bb510de5b4c685f69">iPhones</a>&nbsp;to hospital ventilators. Independent mechanics and car owners have access to tools and parts because of a 2014 memorandum of understanding signed by the automotive industry.

Two years ago, President Joe Biden directed the Federal Trade Commission to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-joe-biden-business-government-and-politics-7e5d6c82ee4f1b66fd4c3b78d1ddd18e">beef up its right-to-repair enforcement</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625596705829.png" alt="Lawmakers in at least 10 other states have introduced similar legislation-file photo" />
 <figcaption>Lawmakers in at least 10 other states have introduced similar legislation-file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>DENVER (AP) — Sitting in front of a hulking red tractor, Democratic Gov. Jared Polis signed a bill Tuesday making Colorado the first state to ensure farmers can fix their own tractors and combines with a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/farm-equipment-repairs-d5ea466725328d965a85a62130503d49">“right to repair” law</a>&nbsp;— which compels manufacturers to provide the necessary manuals, tools, parts and software.Colorado, home to high desert ranches and sweeping farms on the low-and-level plains, took the lead on the issue following a nationwide outcry from farmers that manufacturers, such as John Deere, blocked them from making fixes and forced them to wait precious days for an official servicer to arrive — waits that imperiled profits.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682461813370.png" alt="Gov. Jared Polis signed a bill Tuesday making Colorado the first state to ensure farmers can fix their own tractors and combines- courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Jared Polis signed a bill Tuesday making Colorado the first state to ensure farmers can fix their own tractors and combines- courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>While their increasingly high-tech tractors or combines sit impotent, a hailstorm could decimate a crop or a farmer could miss the ideal planting window, farmers said.“Farmers have had to wait three or four weeks to get repairs done to equipment when they can do repairs themselves. That’s just unfathomable,” said Bill Midcap, whose son is a fifth-generation rancher on Colorado's eastern plains.Lawmakers in at least 10 other states have introduced similar legislation, including in Florida, Maryland, Missouri, New Jersey, Texas and Vermont.Colorado has taken the lead, but Democratic Rep. Brianna Titone, the bill's sponsor, and Dan Waldvogle, director of the Rocky Mountain Farmers Union, said it's a potential launch pad for other states and even at the federal level where discussions about similar legislation are already underway.At the signing ceremony Tuesday afternoon, under a light drizzle of rain, Polis said: “This bill will save farmers and ranchers time and money and support the free market in repair” before exclaiming, “first in the nation!”Behind the governor and arrayed farmers and lawmakers sat a red Steiger 370 tractor owned by a farmer named Danny Wood. Wood's tractor has flown an American flag reading “Farmers First,” and it been one of two of his machines to break down, requiring long waits before servicers arrived to enter a few lines of computer code or make a fix Wood could have made himself.Polis and Titone climbed inside the tractor for a photo as the ceremony ended.Polis signed the bill after the legislation advanced through long committee hearings, having been propelled forward mostly by Democrats even though a Republican lawmaker co-sponsored the bill. The proposal left GOP lawmakers stuck between their farming constituents pleading for the ability to repair their equipment and the manufacturers who vehemently opposed it.Manufacturers and dealerships raised concerns that providing tools and information to farmers would allow equipment owners to illegally crank up the horsepower and bypass emissions controls — putting operator safety and the environment at risk.They also argued that the law would expose companies’ trade secrets. Republican Rep. Richard Holtorf, a farmer himself, further worried that it would push dealerships out of business, especially in rural parts of the state.The bill’s proponents acknowledged that the legislation could make it easier for operators to modify horsepower and emissions controls. But they argued that farmers are already able to tinker with their machines, and doing so would remain illegal.The law falls into the broader “right to repair” campaign, which has picked up steam across the country and applies to a range of products, from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-technology-business-apple-inc-smartphones-afb6e6603bdb5c0bb510de5b4c685f69">iPhones</a>&nbsp;to hospital ventilators. Independent mechanics and car owners have access to tools and parts because of a 2014 memorandum of understanding signed by the automotive industry.Two years ago, President Joe Biden directed the Federal Trade Commission to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-joe-biden-business-government-and-politics-7e5d6c82ee4f1b66fd4c3b78d1ddd18e">beef up its right-to-repair enforcement</a>.

State is 1st to pass ‘right to repair’ for farmers

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City-area teen has been charged in the fatal shoting last Thursday, April 20, 2023, of Nehemiah Newton outside a Raytown residence, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Jay'shaun D Jones, 18, faces Murder 2nd Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and two counts of Armed Criminal Action.*

According to court record filed over the weekend, on April 20, 2023, Raytown police were dispatched &nbsp;to a Raytown, MO, address on a reported shots fired call. Officers found the victim, Nehemiah Newton, in the driveway. He was deceased from mutliple gunshot wounds. Witnesses in the area told police they heard people arguing, then rapid gunfire before the victim fell to the ground. Witnesses also saw the defendant struggling with the victim and another man. They struggled over a gun, and the victim gained control of it and began to move away. Then the defendant shot him. The defendant told police he shot the victim as he was moving away but thought he might pivot.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682370823654.png" alt="Jones-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Jones-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City-area teen has been charged in the fatal shoting last Thursday, April 20, 2023, of Nehemiah Newton outside a Raytown residence, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Jay'shaun D Jones, 18, faces Murder 2nd Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and two counts of Armed Criminal Action.*According to court record filed over the weekend, on April 20, 2023, Raytown police were dispatched &nbsp;to a Raytown, MO, address on a reported shots fired call. Officers found the victim, Nehemiah Newton, in the driveway. He was deceased from mutliple gunshot wounds. Witnesses in the area told police they heard people arguing, then rapid gunfire before the victim fell to the ground. Witnesses also saw the defendant struggling with the victim and another man. They struggled over a gun, and the victim gained control of it and began to move away. Then the defendant shot him. The defendant told police he shot the victim as he was moving away but thought he might pivot.

KC-area teen charged with murder after struggle over a gun

BOONE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 4p.m. Tuesday in Boone County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Kia Soul driven by Joan C. Broxton, 79, Columbia, was westbound attempting to enter a media J-Turn on U.S. 63 at MO 124 East.

The Kia traveled into the path of a northbound 2017 Toyota Camry driven by Mary Jecusco, 70, Kirksville.&nbsp; The Camry struck the drivers side of the Kia.

Broxton was pronounced dead at the scene. Boone County ambulance transported a passenger in the Kia Robert D. Larson, 76, Columbia, and a passenger in the Camry Andela L. McMahan, 37, Kirksville, to University Hospital. A private vehicle transported Jecuso to University Hospital.

All four were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BOONE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 4p.m. Tuesday in Boone County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Kia Soul driven by Joan C. Broxton, 79, Columbia, was westbound attempting to enter a media J-Turn on U.S. 63 at MO 124 East.The Kia traveled into the path of a northbound 2017 Toyota Camry driven by Mary Jecusco, 70, Kirksville.&nbsp; The Camry struck the drivers side of the Kia.Broxton was pronounced dead at the scene. Boone County ambulance transported a passenger in the Kia Robert D. Larson, 76, Columbia, and a passenger in the Camry Andela L. McMahan, 37, Kirksville, to University Hospital. A private vehicle transported Jecuso to University Hospital.All four were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman dead after attempt to enter median J-Turn

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are seeking information regarding an armed robbery that occurred in at Advance America in in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.

Just before 4:30 p.m. on April 13, police responded to a strong-arm robbery call at Advance America, 4100 East Harry in Wichita. A 911 caller reported that an unknown suspect entered the business, gave a note to the teller demanding money, and left the building with cash. 

Surveillance video captured the suspect, and now Crime Stoppers is asking for help identifying him.

Anyone with information regarding this crime or any crime in Sedgwick County is eligible to receive a reward by submitting a tip through Crime Stoppers by calling 316-267-2111 or online at www.stopcrime316.com. Tipsters are always anonymous – Crime Stoppers will never ask someone to identify themselves. If your information leads to an arrest in a felony case, you could be eligible to receive up to $2,500.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682092163735.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are seeking information regarding an armed robbery that occurred in at Advance America in in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qcoA4DkleiY?start=49" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Just before 4:30 p.m. on April 13, police responded to a strong-arm robbery call at Advance America, 4100 East Harry in Wichita. A 911 caller reported that an unknown suspect entered the business, gave a note to the teller demanding money, and left the building with cash. Surveillance video captured the suspect, and now Crime Stoppers is asking for help identifying him.Anyone with information regarding this crime or any crime in Sedgwick County is eligible to receive a reward by submitting a tip through Crime Stoppers by calling 316-267-2111 or online at www.stopcrime316.com. Tipsters are always anonymous – Crime Stoppers will never ask someone to identify themselves. If your information leads to an arrest in a felony case, you could be eligible to receive up to $2,500.

🎥Police ask for help to ID suspect in Kan. pay day loan robbery

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a domestic disturbance and asking the public for help to locate a suspect.&nbsp;

Just before 11a.m. Tuesday, deputies with the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to the 3800 block of SE Croco Road for a domestic disturbance, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

At the residence, deputies discovered a woman and an infant victim. Both were transported by American Medical Response (AMR) to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

At 1:15pm, law enforcement officers attempted to make contact with a male suspect, who was believed to still be inside the residence. 

Southbound SE Croco Road was shut down to one lane of travel during that time period. At 2pm, officers entered and cleared the residence. No person was located inside the residence.

The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office is asking the community’s assistance in locating Tanner J. Thompson, 27, of Topeka. Thompson has an active felony warrant for his arrest and is facing additional charges from Tuesday's domestic disturbance incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office (785)251-2200 immediately.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682456740394.png" alt="Law enforcement on the scene of the investigation Tuesday-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement on the scene of the investigation Tuesday-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a domestic disturbance and asking the public for help to locate a suspect.&nbsp;Just before 11a.m. Tuesday, deputies with the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to the 3800 block of SE Croco Road for a domestic disturbance, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.At the residence, deputies discovered a woman and an infant victim. Both were transported by American Medical Response (AMR) to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682456316629.png" alt="Thompson-photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Thompson-photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>At 1:15pm, law enforcement officers attempted to make contact with a male suspect, who was believed to still be inside the residence. Southbound SE Croco Road was shut down to one lane of travel during that time period. At 2pm, officers entered and cleared the residence. No person was located inside the residence.The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office is asking the community’s assistance in locating Tanner J. Thompson, 27, of Topeka. Thompson has an active felony warrant for his arrest and is facing additional charges from Tuesday's domestic disturbance incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office (785)251-2200 immediately.

Search underway for Kansas man who injured woman, infant 

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide in Wichita.

Just before 11:30 p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to the 1300 block of South Edwards in Wichita, according to Officer Chad Ditch. 

First responders found 44-year-old Shawn Lahman of Wichita in the front seat of a passenger van with a gunshot wound to the upper torso. 

EMS&nbsp; pronounced him deceased on the scene. Police released no suspect details Tuesday afternoon.

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide in Wichita.Just before 11:30 p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to the 1300 block of South Edwards in Wichita, according to Officer Chad Ditch. First responders found 44-year-old Shawn Lahman of Wichita in the front seat of a passenger van with a gunshot wound to the upper torso. EMS&nbsp; pronounced him deceased on the scene. Police released no suspect details Tuesday afternoon.

Homicide: Kan. man found in a van with fatal gunshot wound

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas officials won't be allowed to use&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-is-esg-investing-3a98b6f584357b8e10c31b1ff93ce4b6">environmental, social and governance</a>&nbsp;factors in investing public funds or deciding who receives government contracts because the state's Democratic governor is allowing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/esg-woke-investing-kansas-d1a050b7ff8ecc475217e1a5779e2091">a Republican measure</a>&nbsp;to become law without her signature.

Gov. Laura Kelly's decision Monday came after she vetoed more than a dozen other anti-transgender, anti-abortion and culture war measures approved by the Republican-controlled Legislature. She nixed a bill Monday that would have allowed parents&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-children-kansas-schools-b249b1eb36409931a75eab1fbc80c15d">to remove their public school students</a>&nbsp;from lessons or activities that offend them and another measure that Kelly said could have led to prison terms for some people helping immigrants living in the U.S. illegally.

The new anti-ESG law, taking effect July 1, is part of a larger push from conservatives across the U.S. against what they see as “woke” practices pushing liberal climate or diversity goals. At least nine states have enacted such laws; Montana's GOP governor signed a bill last week, and a measure&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/indiana-republicans-esg-investing-ban-a2f8bd032dcdc83a43cba2a422608058">cleared Indiana's GOP-controlled Legislature</a>&nbsp;on Monday.

“This bill will ensure that public dollars — particularly our state pension fund — are invested in ways that produce the highest possible returns with the lowest acceptable risk, and that public contracts are awarded to the entities best-qualified to fulfill them," Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson, a Republican elected last year, said in a statement.

Republicans across the U.S. have pushed back as the use of ESG principles has become more prevalent and visible.

Last month, 19 GOP governors issued a statement calling ESG a “direct threat to the American economy, individual economic freedom, and our way of life.” Utah’s Republican state treasurer told a GOP gathering that ESG “opens the door to authoritarianism” and is “Satan’s plan.”

About one-eighth of U.S. assets being professionally managed, or $8.4 trillion, are being managed in line with ESG principles, according to a report in December from US SIF, which promotes sustainable investing.

ESG supporters argued that it represents a better assessment of risk for investors by addressing questions such as whether a worldwide shift toward green energy makes investments in fossil fuels less financially sound.

There also was research released earlier this month by Bain &amp; Company, a global management consulting firm, and EcoVadis, which provides sustainability ratings for 110,000 companies worldwide, including 10,000 in the U.S. It showed evidence that having more women in management, greater employee satisfaction and sustainable supply chains all correlate with stronger revenue growth and higher profitability.

Researchers were careful to note that many factors can influence a company's financial results, but Sylvain Guyoton, EcoVadis' chief rating officer, said the study suggests a company's use of ESG is worth considering.

“Some of those ESG activities are good old management practices that have been rebranded into ESG,” Guyoton said in a recent interview from Paris.

In announcing that the Kansas measure was becoming law, Kelly didn't touch on how investment managers for the state and its pension system for teachers and government workers will be required to “consider only financial factors” when making investment decisions.

The governor acknowledged having reservations about “potential unforeseen consequences” over how the state and cities, counties and local school districts will not be able to favor bidders on contracts based on ESG principles.

The measure had little support from Democratic lawmakers. Conservatives dropped proposals for new rules for private money managers following&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/esg-woke-investing-big-business-backlash-be6dac7d7d25d823645525597b6f1782">strong backlash</a>&nbsp;from influential business and banking groups.

Meanwhile, Kelly scotched Republicans' proposed “parents' bill of rights,” which would have allowed parents to demand an alternative when a public school lesson or activity “impairs the parent’s sincerely held beliefs, values or principles.” The governor said such a measure “distracts” from fully funding education.

House Speaker Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican, said Kelly was opposing parents’ right “to direct their own children’s education, upbringing and moral or religious training.” The bill's supporters did not appear to have the two-thirds majorities necessary to override a veto.

Republicans said the immigration bill would have combatted human smuggling.

It would have made it a felony to transport, harbor or conceal another person, applying when someone knows or should have known that a person is in the U.S. illegally and “is likely to be exploited” for another's financial gain, if the person dealing with the immigrant "benefits financially or receives anything of value.” A first-time offender could be sentenced to almost three years in prison.

Kelly argued that the bill could send “a good Samaritan” to prison for accepting gas money for driving an immigrant neighbor to work.

“That overcriminalization is unnecessary and shows that lawmakers haven’t considered the full impact of this bill,” Kelly said.

The measure cleared the Legislature with large, bipartisan supermajorities.

“Governor Kelly has sided against law and order and put radical politics above the safety and human rights of victims,” Hawkins said in a statement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675711326975.png" alt="“This bill will ensure that public dollars — particularly our state pension fund — are invested in ways that produce the highest possible returns with the lowest acceptable risk, and that public contracts are awarded to the entities best-qualified to fulfill them," Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson, a Republican elected last year, said in a statement. photo by Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>“This bill will ensure that public dollars — particularly our state pension fund — are invested in ways that produce the highest possible returns with the lowest acceptable risk, and that public contracts are awarded to the entities best-qualified to fulfill them," Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson, a Republican elected last year, said in a statement. photo by Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas officials won't be allowed to use&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-is-esg-investing-3a98b6f584357b8e10c31b1ff93ce4b6">environmental, social and governance</a>&nbsp;factors in investing public funds or deciding who receives government contracts because the state's Democratic governor is allowing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/esg-woke-investing-kansas-d1a050b7ff8ecc475217e1a5779e2091">a Republican measure</a>&nbsp;to become law without her signature.Gov. Laura Kelly's decision Monday came after she vetoed more than a dozen other anti-transgender, anti-abortion and culture war measures approved by the Republican-controlled Legislature. She nixed a bill Monday that would have allowed parents&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-children-kansas-schools-b249b1eb36409931a75eab1fbc80c15d">to remove their public school students</a>&nbsp;from lessons or activities that offend them and another measure that Kelly said could have led to prison terms for some people helping immigrants living in the U.S. illegally.The new anti-ESG law, taking effect July 1, is part of a larger push from conservatives across the U.S. against what they see as “woke” practices pushing liberal climate or diversity goals. At least nine states have enacted such laws; Montana's GOP governor signed a bill last week, and a measure&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/indiana-republicans-esg-investing-ban-a2f8bd032dcdc83a43cba2a422608058">cleared Indiana's GOP-controlled Legislature</a>&nbsp;on Monday.“This bill will ensure that public dollars — particularly our state pension fund — are invested in ways that produce the highest possible returns with the lowest acceptable risk, and that public contracts are awarded to the entities best-qualified to fulfill them," Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson, a Republican elected last year, said in a statement.Republicans across the U.S. have pushed back as the use of ESG principles has become more prevalent and visible.Last month, 19 GOP governors issued a statement calling ESG a “direct threat to the American economy, individual economic freedom, and our way of life.” Utah’s Republican state treasurer told a GOP gathering that ESG “opens the door to authoritarianism” and is “Satan’s plan.”About one-eighth of U.S. assets being professionally managed, or $8.4 trillion, are being managed in line with ESG principles, according to a report in December from US SIF, which promotes sustainable investing.ESG supporters argued that it represents a better assessment of risk for investors by addressing questions such as whether a worldwide shift toward green energy makes investments in fossil fuels less financially sound.There also was research released earlier this month by Bain &amp; Company, a global management consulting firm, and EcoVadis, which provides sustainability ratings for 110,000 companies worldwide, including 10,000 in the U.S. It showed evidence that having more women in management, greater employee satisfaction and sustainable supply chains all correlate with stronger revenue growth and higher profitability.Researchers were careful to note that many factors can influence a company's financial results, but Sylvain Guyoton, EcoVadis' chief rating officer, said the study suggests a company's use of ESG is worth considering.“Some of those ESG activities are good old management practices that have been rebranded into ESG,” Guyoton said in a recent interview from Paris.In announcing that the Kansas measure was becoming law, Kelly didn't touch on how investment managers for the state and its pension system for teachers and government workers will be required to “consider only financial factors” when making investment decisions.The governor acknowledged having reservations about “potential unforeseen consequences” over how the state and cities, counties and local school districts will not be able to favor bidders on contracts based on ESG principles.The measure had little support from Democratic lawmakers. Conservatives dropped proposals for new rules for private money managers following&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/esg-woke-investing-big-business-backlash-be6dac7d7d25d823645525597b6f1782">strong backlash</a>&nbsp;from influential business and banking groups.Meanwhile, Kelly scotched Republicans' proposed “parents' bill of rights,” which would have allowed parents to demand an alternative when a public school lesson or activity “impairs the parent’s sincerely held beliefs, values or principles.” The governor said such a measure “distracts” from fully funding education.House Speaker Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican, said Kelly was opposing parents’ right “to direct their own children’s education, upbringing and moral or religious training.” The bill's supporters did not appear to have the two-thirds majorities necessary to override a veto.Republicans said the immigration bill would have combatted human smuggling.It would have made it a felony to transport, harbor or conceal another person, applying when someone knows or should have known that a person is in the U.S. illegally and “is likely to be exploited” for another's financial gain, if the person dealing with the immigrant "benefits financially or receives anything of value.” A first-time offender could be sentenced to almost three years in prison.Kelly argued that the bill could send “a good Samaritan” to prison for accepting gas money for driving an immigrant neighbor to work.“That overcriminalization is unnecessary and shows that lawmakers haven’t considered the full impact of this bill,” Kelly said.The measure cleared the Legislature with large, bipartisan supermajorities.“Governor Kelly has sided against law and order and put radical politics above the safety and human rights of victims,” Hawkins said in a statement.

Kansas has new anti-ESG law amid raft of culture war vetoes

SEDGWICK COUNTY—The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and Kansas State Fire Marshall continue investigating the cause of a house fire Easter Sunday in Wichita that left&nbsp; 48-year-old Kendal James dead."

The explosion appears to have been caused by the illegal manufacturing of improvised explosives devices, according to  ATF spokesman John Ham. Evidence recovered at the scene has been sent to ATF’s forensics laboratory for analysis. That forensic testing will play a critical role in formulating a definitive cause, according to Ham.

Just after 5:30p.m. April 9. crews responded to a house fire near South Parkridge Street and West Blake Street,&nbsp;according to Wichita Fire Department Battalion Chief Jose Ocadiz.

While traveling to the scene, additional callers were reporting an explosion in the home. As crews were beginning to attack the blaze, another explosion occurred. This forced fire crews into a defensive mode before they could attempt to make entry into the residence.&nbsp;

When firefighters did get inside the home, investigators found James and several pets that had died.&nbsp; A second resident was not at home when the fire started, according to Ocadiz.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, according to Ocadiz. Due to the number of explosions, possibly three. One from the initial explosion, another as fire crews arrived and one later during the incident.&nbsp;

There have been initial reports from neighbors and a second resident of the home that fireworks were being manufactured, according to Ocadiz.

Wichita Police Explosive Ordinance team did remove some fireworks from the home, according to Ocadiz. However, investigators have not reported the specific type and the amount of fireworks discovered. Ocadiz did not release a damage estimate Monday morning.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682099876998.png" alt="Wichita Police Explosive Ordinance team removed some fireworks from the home, according to Battalion Chief Jose Ocadiz-photo Wichita Fire Dept." />
 <figcaption>Wichita Police Explosive Ordinance team removed some fireworks from the home, according to Battalion Chief Jose Ocadiz-photo Wichita Fire Dept.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and Kansas State Fire Marshall continue investigating the cause of a house fire Easter Sunday in Wichita that left&nbsp; 48-year-old Kendal James dead."The explosion appears to have been caused by the illegal manufacturing of improvised explosives devices, according to ATF spokesman John Ham. Evidence recovered at the scene has been sent to ATF’s forensics laboratory for analysis. That forensic testing will play a critical role in formulating a definitive cause, according to Ham.Just after 5:30p.m. April 9. crews responded to a house fire near South Parkridge Street and West Blake Street,&nbsp;according to Wichita Fire Department Battalion Chief Jose Ocadiz.While traveling to the scene, additional callers were reporting an explosion in the home. As crews were beginning to attack the blaze, another explosion occurred. This forced fire crews into a defensive mode before they could attempt to make entry into the residence.&nbsp;When firefighters did get inside the home, investigators found James and several pets that had died.&nbsp; A second resident was not at home when the fire started, according to Ocadiz.The cause of the fire remains under investigation, according to Ocadiz. Due to the number of explosions, possibly three. One from the initial explosion, another as fire crews arrived and one later during the incident.&nbsp;There have been initial reports from neighbors and a second resident of the home that fireworks were being manufactured, according to Ocadiz.Wichita Police Explosive Ordinance team did remove some fireworks from the home, according to Ocadiz. However, investigators have not reported the specific type and the amount of fireworks discovered. Ocadiz did not release a damage estimate Monday morning.

ATF still investigating fatal Easter Sunday Kan. home explosion

DICKINSON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just just before 6a.m. Tuesday in Dickinson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a Ford F150 driven by Eric Kenneth Skilling, 43, of Abilene, was northbound on K-15 one mile north of Kansas Highway 4.

The pickup crossed the center line at a slight bend in the roadway and struck a 2016 Peterbilt truck driven by Stanton Neal Uffman, 54, Greanleaf, Kansas head-on.

Skilling was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Uffman to Abilene Memorial Hospital. The drivers were not wearing seal belts, according to the KHP.

DICKINSON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just just before 6a.m. Tuesday in Dickinson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a Ford F150 driven by Eric Kenneth Skilling, 43, of Abilene, was northbound on K-15 one mile north of Kansas Highway 4.The pickup crossed the center line at a slight bend in the roadway and struck a 2016 Peterbilt truck driven by Stanton Neal Uffman, 54, Greanleaf, Kansas head-on.Skilling was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Uffman to Abilene Memorial Hospital. The drivers were not wearing seal belts, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after head-on pickup, semi crash

DOUGLAS COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple requested charges after a standoff in Douglas County.

On April 23, police stopped a vehicle in the 100 Bock of North Michigan Street in Lawrence, according to a social media report.

The 32-year-old suspect, a passenger in the vehicle, has frequently been armed in the past and has caused several significant injuries to officers during arrests, was wanted on multiple outstanding warrants. He refused to get out of the vehicle.

Officers limited the threat to the public by ensuring the car could not be mobilized, utilizing the armored rescue vehicle and stop sticks under the tires. Officers attempted to use de-escalation techniques to talk the subject out of the car for almost an hour.

After deploying OC gas into the car, an arrest team converged on the car and forcibly removed the suspect, taking him into custody without further incident. The suspect was booked into the Douglas County Correctional Facility on the warrants as well as new requested charges related to this incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682354394598.png" alt="Photo Lawrence Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Lawrence Police</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple requested charges after a standoff in Douglas County.On April 23, police stopped a vehicle in the 100 Bock of North Michigan Street in Lawrence, according to a social media report.The 32-year-old suspect, a passenger in the vehicle, has frequently been armed in the past and has caused several significant injuries to officers during arrests, was wanted on multiple outstanding warrants. He refused to get out of the vehicle.Officers limited the threat to the public by ensuring the car could not be mobilized, utilizing the armored rescue vehicle and stop sticks under the tires. Officers attempted to use de-escalation techniques to talk the subject out of the car for almost an hour.After deploying OC gas into the car, an arrest team converged on the car and forcibly removed the suspect, taking him into custody without further incident. The suspect was booked into the Douglas County Correctional Facility on the warrants as well as new requested charges related to this incident.Officers limited the threat to the public by ensuring the car could not be mobilized, utilizing the armored rescue vehicle and stop sticks under the tires. Officers attempted to use de-escalation techniques to talk the subject out of the car for almost an hour.

Police use pepper spray to end standoff with wanted Kan. suspect

WOOODSON COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Monday in Woodson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Freightliner semi driven by Gregory Lewis, 63, Leon, was eastbound on 80th Road a half mile east of Navajo Road southeast of Yates Center in southeast Kansas.

The driver failed to yield at a stop sign before crossing the railroad tracks. 

A Union Pacific train split the semi truck and trailer.&nbsp; The accident caused the derailment of approximately two dozen rail cars and five locomotives, according to Union Pacific spokesman Mike Jaixen. Most of the derailed cars were empty, but some were carrying cottonseed, plastic pellets, tall oil and fertilizer. 

EMS transported Lewis to Allen County Regional Hospital in Iola. The Union Pacific employees on board the train were not injured. Lewis was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Pacific crews are clearing the derailed cars and preparing to repair and reopen the tracks. The incident is still under investigation, according to Union Pacific.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682436884774.png" alt="Photo Woodson Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Woodson Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>WOOODSON COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Monday in Woodson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Freightliner semi driven by Gregory Lewis, 63, Leon, was eastbound on 80th Road a half mile east of Navajo Road southeast of Yates Center in southeast Kansas.The driver failed to yield at a stop sign before crossing the railroad tracks. A Union Pacific train split the semi truck and trailer.&nbsp; The accident caused the derailment of approximately two dozen rail cars and five locomotives, according to Union Pacific spokesman Mike Jaixen. Most of the derailed cars were empty, but some were carrying cottonseed, plastic pellets, tall oil and fertilizer. EMS transported Lewis to Allen County Regional Hospital in Iola. The Union Pacific employees on board the train were not injured. Lewis was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.Pacific crews are clearing the derailed cars and preparing to repair and reopen the tracks. The incident is still under investigation, according to Union Pacific.

Cars, locomotives derailed after train, semi crash in Kansas

WASHINGTON —On Monday at the White House, the Bidens honored the 2023 Teachers of the Year including&nbsp; Christina Andrade Melly, an English teacher at Ritenour High School, for their excellence in teaching and commitment to students’ learning. 

Below are remarks by President Biden and the First Lady at the 2023 National State Teachers of the Year Celebration.

You know, it meant so much to me getting some time with all of you today. And I loved hearing about the moments that bring you joy and laughter and about your challenges as well. Because, hey, we’ve all been there, haven’t we?

This job isn’t always easy, but it matters. And the Biden-Harris administration understands that.

I always knew that Joe would be a great education President. (Applause.) Because he’s seen how hard you work and how much you help our students. And that’s why he’s done so much to support better pay and loan forgiveness. (Applause.)

AUDIENCE MEMBER: Thank you, Joe! Thank you!

THE FIRST LADY: (Laughs.) It’s why he put a public-school educator in charge of the Department of Education. (Applause.)

So we’re here to take a moment on one of the biggest stages in the world, the White House, to say that teachers change lives. (Applause.)

And I think that message matters more than ever. Because lately, when I turn on the TV, I see pundits and politicians talking about our profession. I hear them attacking our public schools, distorting the truth about what we do, and saying that parents and teachers are at odds.

But that’s not what I’ve seen. As I’ve traveled this country, I’ve visited some pretty amazing programs where parents and teachers are working hand in hand to help kids overcome challenges and make our schools better for everyone.

There’s no divide between those who love our students and those who teach them — because we all do both. (Applause.)

Parents know that we are our children’s first teachers. And educators know that this isn’t just a job that we walk away from at 3:15. (Laughter and applause.) When we’re caring for our own kids, we’re thinking about someone else’s children too.

We chose this path out of love for what we do and who we teach.

Parents and educators are partners. And we, together — we know what our students need.

They need kindness and respect. They need grace and the chance to make mistakes. They need room to explore this world, to be curious and surprised and disappointed and triumphant. They need to know that they are valued and safe.

And parents can’t always do that alone. Parents don’t want to do that alone.

Every day, they put a piece of their hearts on that school bus, send their kids to school, trusting, hoping that someone will listen when they can’t; answer questions and ignite imaginations; and Band-Aid scrapes when, you know, they aren’t there to do it themselves.

You fulfill that hope every single day. (Applause.) Yes, thank you. (Applause.)

And with their parents’ love and your guidance, with the faith and the fortitude of their community behind them, students grow into the people they dream of becoming. Together, you shape and shepherd their lives.

My grandmother was a teacher in a small town in New Jersey.

THE FIRST LADY: (Laughs.) Over th- — there she is, New Jers- — (laughter) —

And she loved her work, and her students loved her in return. And just like you might see in the movies, she used to call her students to class with a big brass bell. And when she died, she didn’t leave behind a big, giant estate. But what I inherited from her, what I still have to this day, is that bell.

And I sometimes think about how her legacy resonated into the world like waves of sound, changing those who heard its ring.

And I think of every student who she taught, you know, and wonder what amazing things they grew up to do. Perhaps they are doctors or architects or scientists. And, of course, there’s at least one teacher.

Today, all of you ring your own bell, pulling each person you teach into a harmony that never ends.

Right now, someone out there is a better thinker because of you. Someone is standing a little taller because you helped her find the confidence that she needed. Someone is working a little harder because you pushed him to try. Someone is kinder because you showed her what that meant. And someone is braver because you helped him find his courage.

Never stop ringing that bell. Never forget that, student by student, the lives you change go on to change the world.

Thank you. (Applause.) (Audience stands up.) Oh, thank you. Thank you. (Applause.) Thank you very much. Thank you.

And now, I’m proud to introduce someone who has answered her call with passion, persistence, and pride: the 2023 National Teacher of the Year, Rebecka Peterson. (Applause.)

MS. PETERSON: Thank you, Dr. Biden. It’s such a tremendous honor to be recognized by a First Lady who champions the profession as one of us. You exhibit for the nation the dedication we all feel for this profession.

And thank you, Secretary Cardona, for keeping teachers at the center of your work.

Thank you to my family. Without your support, I couldn’t be here today.

Well, today I stand in front of you with the name Rebecka Peterson, yet the name I was given at birth is Rebecka Mozdeh Kermashahi, a beautiful intersection of my two family cultures — Rebecka from my mother’s Swedish heritage, Kermashahi and Mozdeh from my father’s Iranian heritage.

My parents and I immigrated to the United States when I was young. And at 20, I finally became a U.S. citizen. I may not have been born here, but I consider myself a daughter of this country.

I’ve been lucky to witness the beauty of our nation from a, perhaps, different lens — a lens that pays special attention to those people who wrap their arms around those of us who may be a little bit different.

Often, those people who held me, literally and figuratively, were my teachers. They channeled their influence for good. And I was always in awe of the power that they held.

“Bearer of good news,” the meaning of my Iranian name, is the phrase I’ve spent my career leaning into. Just like my own teachers, my fellow state teachers of the year, and the millions of other teachers in this country, I want to bring the good news of joy and hope to my students, and to reciprocate that gift of education that my teachers gave me.

As educators, we stand with one foot firmly grounded in the reality of what is while the other stands in the promise of what can be. We are fueled by the equalizing power of public education to dismantle marginalization, eliminate systemic inequities, and end generational poverty. (Applause.)

I teach because of Reeya, Meghana, and Kushi to show that immigrant and first-generation women do have a place in STEM. (Applause.)

I teach because of Danny, one of seven family members who lived in a one-bedroom apartment but who will be attending an Ivy League college this fall in the hopes of making a better life for his and his family — him and his family. (Applause.)

And I teach because of Morgan and Alyssa — once my students, now my colleagues — who are impacting lives in their very own classrooms.

I teach because it gives me life to offer the American Dream to the next generation.

Teachers, you hold our democracy. You create spaces that insist we belong to each other.

May we continue to reach inward and outward.

May we be an example of creativity and service, modeling the importance of curiosity in both the big and the small moments.

May we learn how to belong to ourselves so we can belong to each other.

May we walk this life together with open hearts and open hands, because I slutändan, kanske vi alla bara går hem till varandra. “In the end, maybe we’re all — all of us — just walking each other home.”

And now I’m pleased to introduce a President who honors the good news that teachers bring. He knows we can belong to each other and be different, we can belong to each other and disagree.

This is a President who knows we can belong to each other the way our students have taught us we can.

It’s now my honor to introduce the proud husband of an educator, President Biden. (Laughter and applause.)

THE PRESIDENT: Well, she’s pretty good, isn’t she? (Laughter.) Holy mackerel.

Good afternoon, everybody. I’m glad it’s a lovely day.

I’m Joe Biden, Jill Biden’s husband. (Laughter.)

Secretary Cardona, thank you for fighting so hard for our nation’s children and our teachers.

And thank you for the members of Congress who are here today, including two outstanding educating congresswomen: Johnna [Jahana] — and, by the way, Johnna [Jahana] Hayes is — Johnna [Jahana], where are you? There you are, Johnna [Jahana]. Right in front of me. Stand up, Johnna [Jahana]. Johnna [Jahana] happens to be a teacher — happens to be the 2016 National Teacher of the Year. (Applause.)

By the way, she’s pretty good, isn’t she? (Laughter.) I think she could run. (Laughter.)

Folks, you all know what a big deal that is. And — and Congressman Jamaal Bowman. Congressman, where are you? Jamaal, good to see you, pal. (Applause.) A teacher who went on to establish a middle school.

And most of all, I want to welcome our guests of honor, the 2023 Teachers of the Year. Again, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you. (Applause.)

Folks, if you didn’t know it before, we hope you know now: Teachers have several champions in the White House. (Laughter.) Jill and I and Kamala and Doug.

Jill is the country’s first First Lady to work full time — full time teaching while doing her duties as First Lady, as a community college professor in Virginia. (Applause.)

And I tell you what: She is a proud member of her union as well. (Applause.)

Jill reminds me all the time that teaching is not just what you do, it’s who you are. It’s who you are.

So I want to stand by saying to every teacher here today and every teacher across the country: Thank you, thank you, thank you. And I mean it.

But as we’ve seen the past few years, a difficult profession has gotten even harder.

And we ask so much of our nation’s teachers: early mornings greeting students, late nights grading papers.

By the way, if you ever see me getting off of Air Force One in another country with Jill carrying a big bag — (laughter) — she’s correcting papers. (Laughter.) Oh, you think I’m kidding? I’m not — I’m not joking.

And so, folks, there’s no [the] math league or basketball team you coach after school.

They call you to make parents — meet them during — you call parents during the lunch hour if they’re child is having a little bit of difficulty. Your child you pull aside during the planning period because they need extra help.

And, folks, and teaching over Zoom during the pandemic.

And, by the way, a sidelight here: A lot of parents had to drive up to McDonald’s to be able to get online. We’re changing that. Everybody is going have access. Everybody. (Applause.)

But at any rate — to bringing extra snacks when your students, because they can’t learn when they’re hungry, and spending your own money — your own money — on school supplies.

You’re explaining the unexplainable, from banned books to duck-and-cover drills. How do you explain that to a child in the year 2023?

We ask so much of you. And each and every time, you all step up and say yes. And the impact you have on our students is profound.

As Jill just mentioned, every single one of us here is at least in part here because of somewhere along the way we had a teacher who believed in us. And I bet you can name your teacher. I can name the one who believed in me. I can name her in grade school and in college. Helped me believe in ourselves: That’s what you do.

That’s the power of a great teacher. And the teachers represented here today, you’re the best of the best of the best. Thank you. (Applause.)

Congratulations to each and every one of you.

As they say in the United States Senate, in which I served a long time, if you’ll please excuse a point of personal privilege, I want to give a special mention to Ashley Lockwood from the state of Delaware. Ashley, stand up. (Applause.) And besides, our daughter’s name is Ashley as well. (Laughter.)

Ash, thanks for what you do, kiddo. You make us proud.

THE PRESIDENT: And of course, a huge congratulations to Rebecka Peterson from Oklahoma, our Teacher of the Year. (Applause.)

Rebecka moved to the United States as a little girl, the daughter of medical missionaries.

She spoke Swedish at first, knew only two words in English, two words her parents were most — thought were the most important for her to learn: “Thank you.” “Thank you.”

Soon, Rebecka’s teachers here in America changed everything about her. All the teachers we had here, they changed — they gave her a chance — she’s — I’m not even — I don’t know what she thought at the time.

Instead of making her feel self-conscious that she didn’t speak English, they told her she was — she was “linguistically gifted” and taught her how to read.

They saw how much she loved math and said she was a “superpower.”

One day, a teacher told her, “I think you should be a teacher.” And Rebecka says, “Those words were a song to my heart.” A song to my heart. Well, you’re still singing, kid. (Laughter.)

And so, Rebecka put her superpower to work, and she became a calculus teacher.

Oh, God, do I remember calculus. (Laughter.) (Makes sign of the cross.) (Laughter.) I went to a school — it was prep school. It was very heavy on — on mathematics. Anyway — (laugher) — that’s why, when I got to college, I majored in history and pollical science. (Laughter.)

God bless the calculus teachers, and that is no joke. (Laughter.)

And what’s more, Rebecka’s school district is full of students who were a lot like she was.

The students in her district speak 62 different languages — 62. Many feel like they don’t quite belong. As you can imagine, Rebecka makes sure that they know that they do belong and they can achieve great things.

With Rebecka leading the way, the pass rate in her class went from 50 percent to 87 percent, nearly double the state average. (Applause.)

More of her students became National Merit Finalists than the entire rest of the district combined.