TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas' governor has vetoed legislation that would mandate clinics to tell patients that a medication abortion can be interrupted using an unproven drug regimen.

Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly vetoed the bill Wednesday, again pushing back state GOP efforts to restrict abortion despite a decisive statewide vote affirming abortion rights last year.

The governor's action marked the second time this month that she vetoed an anti-abortion bill approved by the GOP-controlled Legislature.

Last week, she rejected a measure that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/born-alive-abortion-bill-kansas-legislature-45f8c977187656d8340eae5a44d87de0">could subject doctors to criminal charges and lawsuits</a>&nbsp;if they are accused of not providing enough care for infants delivered alive during certain abortion procedures, even if they are expected to die within seconds outside the womb because of a severe medical issue.

The vetoes mean that abortion access and providers in Kansas remain far less restricted for now compared to other states with GOP-controlled legislatures that have banned or severely restricted abortion procedures over the past year.

Abortion opponents in Kansas had the two-thirds majorities that will be necessary to override the veto of the bill on medical treatment for infants delivered alive during abortion procedures.

But Republican lawmakers may be able to override the bill vetoed on Wednesday in a vote later this month. If they do, patients asking for a medical abortion would get a state-mandated, written notice that they can interrupt their abortion, even though the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology says there is no scientific evidence that the “reversal” approach promoted by abortion opponents is safe or effective.

Abortion rights supporters contend both measures break faith with voters.

“We were told that we must listen to the people,” Kansas Senate Democratic Leader Dinah Sykes said before her chamber passed the bill earlier this month, recalling the campaign ahead of the statewide vote in August 2022. “Nearly 60% of Kansans — Democrats, Republicans and independents — voted ‘no’ on giving elected representatives and state senators more power to pass laws regarding abortion.”

Even if Kansas lawmakers override Kelly’s vetoes, providers could ask state courts to block the new laws. Lawsuits have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-restrictions-lawsuits-kansas-3eb09cbcdfb18e06aee024e557f9814c">prevented Kansas from enforcing</a>&nbsp;a 2015 ban on a common second-trimester abortion procedure and a 2011 law from imposing extra health and safety rules on abortion providers.

Kelly also vetoed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/19a1ecdbd47d440397a870b0d41abfcd">an abortion medication “reversal” measure</a>&nbsp;in 2019.

Supporters of the so-called “abortion reversal” notification requirement cite individual women's cases to bolster their claims, but Kelly told lawmakers in a message in 2019 that the notification mandate represented “a government mandate that is not adequately supported by medical science.”

“The practice of medicine should be left to licensed health professionals, not elected officials,” she said in&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2020/b2019_20/measures/documents/sb67_enrolled.pdf">her 2019 veto message.</a>

A least a dozen states enacted abortion “reversal” bans before the U.S. Supreme Court's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">decision in 2022</a>&nbsp;allowing states to prohibit abortion, though legal challenges put four states' laws on hold.

But in Kansas, the state Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/3f479b218a6140719e1694fcfcdb8036">ruled in 2019</a>&nbsp;that access to abortion is a matter of bodily autonomy and a “fundamental” right under the state constitution. The vote&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-abortion-vote-recount-e874f56806a9d63b473b24580ad7ea0c">last year</a>&nbsp;rejected stripping out that protection.

Republican lawmakers and anti-abortion groups contend the vote last year doesn’t preclude “reasonable” abortion restrictions or rules for providers like the “reversal” bill.

“Basically, it's saying if you are a woman, if you are seeking an abortion, you do have the right to know that the is such a thing as APR, abortion pill reversal," state Senate health committee Chair Beverly Gossage, a Kansas City-area Republican, said before her chamber approved the measure earlier this month.

A majority of U.S. patients terminating their pregnancies do so with abortion medications. Since the U.S. Supreme Court's decision last year, abortion opponents have sought to undercut access to the pills. The U.S. Supreme Court is considering&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-mifepristone-abortion-drug-3855bb5d5c791e4c0465958bae94519e">the legal status of mifepristone,</a>&nbsp;the first of two medications in the most common and most effective method.

The abortion “reversal” approach promoted by Kansas lawmakers involves giving women doses of the hormone progesterone after mifepristone is taken but before the second medication, misoprostol, is taken. Doctors use progesterone to try to prevent miscarriages.

Experts question the findings of the two anti-abortion doctors who began using the off-label “reversal” approach more than 15 years ago and see a 2018 study vouching for its effectiveness as seriously flawed. Republican lawmakers in Kansas have brushed aside the criticism.

“Medical knowledge is passed within our profession very much like political knowledge is passed here, peer to peer,” Republican state Rep. Bill Clifford, a southwestern Kansas eye doctor, told his colleagues during one recent debate. “It isn't always about studies, and you have to trust your colleagues.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681940196591.png" alt="The governor's action marked the second time this month that she vetoed an anti-abortion bill approved by the GOP-controlled Legislature.-file photo" />
 <figcaption>The governor's action marked the second time this month that she vetoed an anti-abortion bill approved by the GOP-controlled Legislature.-file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas' governor has vetoed legislation that would mandate clinics to tell patients that a medication abortion can be interrupted using an unproven drug regimen.Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly vetoed the bill Wednesday, again pushing back state GOP efforts to restrict abortion despite a decisive statewide vote affirming abortion rights last year.The governor's action marked the second time this month that she vetoed an anti-abortion bill approved by the GOP-controlled Legislature.Last week, she rejected a measure that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/born-alive-abortion-bill-kansas-legislature-45f8c977187656d8340eae5a44d87de0">could subject doctors to criminal charges and lawsuits</a>&nbsp;if they are accused of not providing enough care for infants delivered alive during certain abortion procedures, even if they are expected to die within seconds outside the womb because of a severe medical issue.The vetoes mean that abortion access and providers in Kansas remain far less restricted for now compared to other states with GOP-controlled legislatures that have banned or severely restricted abortion procedures over the past year.Abortion opponents in Kansas had the two-thirds majorities that will be necessary to override the veto of the bill on medical treatment for infants delivered alive during abortion procedures.But Republican lawmakers may be able to override the bill vetoed on Wednesday in a vote later this month. If they do, patients asking for a medical abortion would get a state-mandated, written notice that they can interrupt their abortion, even though the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology says there is no scientific evidence that the “reversal” approach promoted by abortion opponents is safe or effective.Abortion rights supporters contend both measures break faith with voters.“We were told that we must listen to the people,” Kansas Senate Democratic Leader Dinah Sykes said before her chamber passed the bill earlier this month, recalling the campaign ahead of the statewide vote in August 2022. “Nearly 60% of Kansans — Democrats, Republicans and independents — voted ‘no’ on giving elected representatives and state senators more power to pass laws regarding abortion.”Even if Kansas lawmakers override Kelly’s vetoes, providers could ask state courts to block the new laws. Lawsuits have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-restrictions-lawsuits-kansas-3eb09cbcdfb18e06aee024e557f9814c">prevented Kansas from enforcing</a>&nbsp;a 2015 ban on a common second-trimester abortion procedure and a 2011 law from imposing extra health and safety rules on abortion providers.Kelly also vetoed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/19a1ecdbd47d440397a870b0d41abfcd">an abortion medication “reversal” measure</a>&nbsp;in 2019.Supporters of the so-called “abortion reversal” notification requirement cite individual women's cases to bolster their claims, but Kelly told lawmakers in a message in 2019 that the notification mandate represented “a government mandate that is not adequately supported by medical science.”“The practice of medicine should be left to licensed health professionals, not elected officials,” she said in&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2020/b2019_20/measures/documents/sb67_enrolled.pdf">her 2019 veto message.</a>A least a dozen states enacted abortion “reversal” bans before the U.S. Supreme Court's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">decision in 2022</a>&nbsp;allowing states to prohibit abortion, though legal challenges put four states' laws on hold.But in Kansas, the state Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/3f479b218a6140719e1694fcfcdb8036">ruled in 2019</a>&nbsp;that access to abortion is a matter of bodily autonomy and a “fundamental” right under the state constitution. The vote&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-abortion-vote-recount-e874f56806a9d63b473b24580ad7ea0c">last year</a>&nbsp;rejected stripping out that protection.Republican lawmakers and anti-abortion groups contend the vote last year doesn’t preclude “reasonable” abortion restrictions or rules for providers like the “reversal” bill.“Basically, it's saying if you are a woman, if you are seeking an abortion, you do have the right to know that the is such a thing as APR, abortion pill reversal," state Senate health committee Chair Beverly Gossage, a Kansas City-area Republican, said before her chamber approved the measure earlier this month.A majority of U.S. patients terminating their pregnancies do so with abortion medications. Since the U.S. Supreme Court's decision last year, abortion opponents have sought to undercut access to the pills. The U.S. Supreme Court is considering&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-mifepristone-abortion-drug-3855bb5d5c791e4c0465958bae94519e">the legal status of mifepristone,</a>&nbsp;the first of two medications in the most common and most effective method.The abortion “reversal” approach promoted by Kansas lawmakers involves giving women doses of the hormone progesterone after mifepristone is taken but before the second medication, misoprostol, is taken. Doctors use progesterone to try to prevent miscarriages.Experts question the findings of the two anti-abortion doctors who began using the off-label “reversal” approach more than 15 years ago and see a 2018 study vouching for its effectiveness as seriously flawed. Republican lawmakers in Kansas have brushed aside the criticism.“Medical knowledge is passed within our profession very much like political knowledge is passed here, peer to peer,” Republican state Rep. Bill Clifford, a southwestern Kansas eye doctor, told his colleagues during one recent debate. “It isn't always about studies, and you have to trust your colleagues.”___

Kan. governor vetoes another abortion regulation bill 

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Walking with a cane and speaking too quietly to be heard throughout a Liberty, Missouri, courtroom, 84-year-old Andrew Lester pleaded not guilty Wednesday in the shooting of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ralph-yarl-shooting-kansas-city-black-teen-154c4e3275732b83bc9f0026a9981b81">Ralph Yarl</a>, a Black teenager who mistakenly knocked on Lester's front door looking for his younger brothers.

The shooting has attracted presidential attention and renewed national debate about gun policies as people react with shock to a 16-year-old honor student being shot first in the head, then in the arm while making a routine stop in a residential neighborhood.

The case is among&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wrong-place-shootings-3c6e5061adb30d889ac3d071893ef129">three in recent days</a>&nbsp;involving young people who were shot after mistakenly showing up in the wrong places. A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fatal-shooting-wrong-driveway-new-york-dd45b17e3a806abf11d1aaf5b235fb13">20-year-old woman was killed</a>&nbsp;in upstate New York when the car she was in pulled into the wrong driveway. In Texas,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-cheerleaders-shot-mistaken-location-4b5d0659a3768bc2a46b4756e6a5ee4a">two cheerleaders were shot</a>&nbsp;after one of them mistakenly got into a car thinking it was hers.

Yarl was shot at point-blank range in the head but&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pbs2tYWCXz4">miraculously survived</a>&nbsp;the bullet.

Some civil rights leaders and Yarl's family attorney, Lee Merritt, have urged prosecutors to charge Lester with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pbs2tYWCXz4">a hate crime</a>, with Merritt noting that "was armed only with his Black skin."

Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson said first-degree assault is a higher-level crime, allowing a sentence of up to life in prison, which is more than a hate-crime charge would carry. Though activists have called for the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate, it was unclear whether it would do so. Messages seeking comment from the department were not returned.

Lester remains free after posting $20,000 — 10% of his $200,000 bond — and agreeing to relinquish any weapons and have no contact with Yarl or his family. He also agreed to have his cellphone monitored.

Yarl’s relatives were not at Wedneday's hearing because they are emotionally exhausted, Merritt said. Lester’s attorney, Steve Salmon, did not come out of the courthouse to speak with reporters.

The shooting happened about 10 p.m. Thursday. Police Chief Stacey Graves said that Yarl’s mother asked him to pick up his twin brothers at a home on 115th Terrace.

Yarl, who is all-state band member as well as a top student, mistakenly went to 115th Street — a block away from where he meant to be. When he rang the bell, Lester came to the door and used a .32 caliber Smith and Wesson 1888 revolver to shoot the teenager.

Lester told police he lives alone and was “scared to death” when he saw Yarl on the porch because he thought someone was trying to break in, police said in court documents.

No words were exchanged before the shooting, but afterward, as Yarl got up to run, he heard Lester yell, “Don’t come around here,” the statement said.

Yarl ran to multiple homes asking for help before finding someone who would call the police, according to court documents.

Merritt said the teen is hardly an imposing figure.

“The question is, at 5-8 and 140 pounds, what did Andrew Lester look out and see?” Merritt asked at a downtown rally Tuesday. “And the answer is he saw a Black person. And for him, that was enough justification. And that would just be a tragedy except law enforcement agreed with him.”

Legal experts expect Lester to claim self-defense and cite Missouri's “Stand Your Ground” law, sometimes referred to as the “Castle Doctrine.” Missouri is among about 30 states with similar laws that say residents don’t have to retreat when threatened in their homes, but instead can respond with physical, even lethal force.

But Merritt said the law only applies if “someone’s on your property and they’re looking to do you harm .... We don’t have any evidence of that. The Castle Doctrine does not apply to this case.”

The shooting outraged many in Kansas City and across the country. President Joe Biden spoke with Yarl on Monday, and on Tuesday invited him to the White House.

“No parent should have to worry that their kid will be shot after ringing the wrong doorbell,” Biden tweeted. “We’ve got to keep up the fight against gun violence.”

Republican Gov. Mike Parson, who had remained silent on the shooting until Wednesday, accused Biden of politicizing it.

"I don’t want some 16-year-old kid to be getting shot because he went to the wrong house — we just don’t want those kinds of things to happen. It’s a tragedy,” Parson told the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article274486986.html">Kansas City Star</a>. “When the president of the United States is trying to make a political statement over a very serious tragedy, it is very unfortunate.”

Thompson, the prosecutor, said Monday that there was a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-black-teen-shooting-9602deefd974b9b91220aaa8a94f25c7">“racial component”</a>&nbsp;to the shooting but did not elaborate. Merritt said the Yarl family met privately with Thompson. The prosecutor said he was “echoing the words from law enforcement that obviously there’s a racial dynamic at play in this case,” said Merritt, who called the answer “shallow.”

“From this point forward, the state will be pushing to move this case forward as swiftly as legally permitted,” Thompson said in a statement after Wednesday's hearing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681844207619.png" alt="Lester from his Tuesday booking photo in Clay County" />
 <figcaption>Lester from his Tuesday booking photo in Clay County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — Walking with a cane and speaking too quietly to be heard throughout a Liberty, Missouri, courtroom, 84-year-old Andrew Lester pleaded not guilty Wednesday in the shooting of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ralph-yarl-shooting-kansas-city-black-teen-154c4e3275732b83bc9f0026a9981b81">Ralph Yarl</a>, a Black teenager who mistakenly knocked on Lester's front door looking for his younger brothers.The shooting has attracted presidential attention and renewed national debate about gun policies as people react with shock to a 16-year-old honor student being shot first in the head, then in the arm while making a routine stop in a residential neighborhood.The case is among&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wrong-place-shootings-3c6e5061adb30d889ac3d071893ef129">three in recent days</a>&nbsp;involving young people who were shot after mistakenly showing up in the wrong places. A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fatal-shooting-wrong-driveway-new-york-dd45b17e3a806abf11d1aaf5b235fb13">20-year-old woman was killed</a>&nbsp;in upstate New York when the car she was in pulled into the wrong driveway. In Texas,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-cheerleaders-shot-mistaken-location-4b5d0659a3768bc2a46b4756e6a5ee4a">two cheerleaders were shot</a>&nbsp;after one of them mistakenly got into a car thinking it was hers.Yarl was shot at point-blank range in the head but&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pbs2tYWCXz4">miraculously survived</a>&nbsp;the bullet.Some civil rights leaders and Yarl's family attorney, Lee Merritt, have urged prosecutors to charge Lester with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pbs2tYWCXz4">a hate crime</a>, with Merritt noting that "was armed only with his Black skin."Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson said first-degree assault is a higher-level crime, allowing a sentence of up to life in prison, which is more than a hate-crime charge would carry. Though activists have called for the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate, it was unclear whether it would do so. Messages seeking comment from the department were not returned.Lester remains free after posting $20,000 — 10% of his $200,000 bond — and agreeing to relinquish any weapons and have no contact with Yarl or his family. He also agreed to have his cellphone monitored.Yarl’s relatives were not at Wedneday's hearing because they are emotionally exhausted, Merritt said. Lester’s attorney, Steve Salmon, did not come out of the courthouse to speak with reporters.The shooting happened about 10 p.m. Thursday. Police Chief Stacey Graves said that Yarl’s mother asked him to pick up his twin brothers at a home on 115th Terrace.Yarl, who is all-state band member as well as a top student, mistakenly went to 115th Street — a block away from where he meant to be. When he rang the bell, Lester came to the door and used a .32 caliber Smith and Wesson 1888 revolver to shoot the teenager.Lester told police he lives alone and was “scared to death” when he saw Yarl on the porch because he thought someone was trying to break in, police said in court documents.No words were exchanged before the shooting, but afterward, as Yarl got up to run, he heard Lester yell, “Don’t come around here,” the statement said.Yarl ran to multiple homes asking for help before finding someone who would call the police, according to court documents.Merritt said the teen is hardly an imposing figure.“The question is, at 5-8 and 140 pounds, what did Andrew Lester look out and see?” Merritt asked at a downtown rally Tuesday. “And the answer is he saw a Black person. And for him, that was enough justification. And that would just be a tragedy except law enforcement agreed with him.”Legal experts expect Lester to claim self-defense and cite Missouri's “Stand Your Ground” law, sometimes referred to as the “Castle Doctrine.” Missouri is among about 30 states with similar laws that say residents don’t have to retreat when threatened in their homes, but instead can respond with physical, even lethal force.But Merritt said the law only applies if “someone’s on your property and they’re looking to do you harm .... We don’t have any evidence of that. The Castle Doctrine does not apply to this case.”The shooting outraged many in Kansas City and across the country. President Joe Biden spoke with Yarl on Monday, and on Tuesday invited him to the White House.“No parent should have to worry that their kid will be shot after ringing the wrong doorbell,” Biden tweeted. “We’ve got to keep up the fight against gun violence.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It is a tragedy anytime a 16-year-old is shot, and Ralph Yarl is no exception. I trust law enforcement to continue conducting a thorough investigation and expect a fair and just result.&mdash; Governor Mike Parson (@GovParsonMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovParsonMO/status/1648738567764443148?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Republican Gov. Mike Parson, who had remained silent on the shooting until Wednesday, accused Biden of politicizing it."I don’t want some 16-year-old kid to be getting shot because he went to the wrong house — we just don’t want those kinds of things to happen. It’s a tragedy,” Parson told the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article274486986.html">Kansas City Star</a>. “When the president of the United States is trying to make a political statement over a very serious tragedy, it is very unfortunate.”Thompson, the prosecutor, said Monday that there was a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-black-teen-shooting-9602deefd974b9b91220aaa8a94f25c7">“racial component”</a>&nbsp;to the shooting but did not elaborate. Merritt said the Yarl family met privately with Thompson. The prosecutor said he was “echoing the words from law enforcement that obviously there’s a racial dynamic at play in this case,” said Merritt, who called the answer “shallow.”Lester’s next court date is June 1.“From this point forward, the state will be pushing to move this case forward as swiftly as legally permitted,” Thompson said in a statement after Wednesday's hearing.

Homeowner who shot Black Kansas City teen pleads not guilty

NEW YORK (AP) — Democrat&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/robert-f-kennedy-jr">Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>, an anti-vaccine activist and scion of one of the country’s most famous political families, is running for president.

(click below to watch the announcement courtesy Kennedy campaign )

Kennedy filed a statement of candidacy earlier this month with the Federal Election Commission.

The 69-year-old’s campaign to challenge incumbent President Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination is a long shot.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marianne-williamson-president-2024-biden-democratic-primary-14e59754bed9e0c54dad4fdfbbc1fa6b">Self-help author Marianne Williamson</a>&nbsp;is also running in the Democratic race.

Kennedy, a nephew of President John F. Kennedy and the son of his slain brother Robert F. Kennedy, was once a bestselling author and environmental lawyer who worked on issues such as clean water.

But more than 15 years ago, he became fixated on a belief that vaccines are not safe.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-rfk-jr-built-anti-vaccine-juggernaut-amid-covid-4997be1bcf591fe8b7f1f90d16c9321e">He emerged as one of the leading voices in</a>&nbsp;the anti-vaccine movement, and his work has been described by public health experts and even members of his own family as misleading and dangerous.

Kennedy had been long involved in the anti-vaccine movement, but the effort intensified after the COVID-19 pandemic and development of the COVID-19 vaccine.

His anti-vaccine charity, Children’s Health Defense, prospered during the pandemic, with revenues more than doubling in 2020 to $6.8 million, according to filings made with charity regulators.

His organization has targeted false claims at groups that may be more prone to distrust the vaccine, including mothers and Black Americans, experts have said, which could have resulted in deaths during the pandemic.

Kennedy released a book in 2021, “The Real Anthony Fauci,” in which he accused the U.S.’s top infectious disease doctor of assisting in “a historic coup d’etat against Western democracy” and promoted unproven COVID-19 treatments such as ivermectin, which is meant to treat parasites, and the anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine.

His push against the COVID-19 vaccine has linked him at times with anti-democratic figures and groups. Kennedy has appeared at events pushing the lie that the 2020 presidential election was stolen and with people who cheered or downplayed the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

A photo posted on Instagram showed Kennedy backstage at a July 2021 Reawaken America event with former President Donald Trump’s ally Roger Stone, former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn and anti-vaccine profiteer Charlene Bollinger. All three have promoted the lie about the 2020 election being stolen.

Bollinger has appeared with Kennedy at multiple events. She and her husband sponsored an anti-vaccine, pro-Trump rally near the Capitol on Jan. 6. Bollinger celebrated the attack and her husband tried to enter the Capitol. Kennedy later appeared in a video for their Super PAC.

Kennedy has repeatedly invoked Nazis and the Holocaust when talking about measures aimed at mitigating the spread of COVID-19, such as mask requirements and vaccine mandates.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-apology-anne-frank-comments-9a6855403b91f5debf98f23c6db90551">He has sometimes apologized for those comments</a>, including when he suggested that people in 2022 had it worse than Anne Frank, the teenager who died in a Nazi concentration camp after hiding with her family in a secret annex in an Amsterdam house for two years.

Kennedy has at times invoked his family’s legacy in his anti-vaccine work, including sometimes using images of President Kennedy.

His sister Kerry Kennedy, who runs Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, the international rights group founded by their mother, Ethel, said her brother has at times removed some of the content at her request.

She&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-rfk-jr-built-anti-vaccine-juggernaut-amid-covid-4997be1bcf591fe8b7f1f90d16c9321e">told the Associated Press in a 2021 interview</a>&nbsp;her brother is “completely wrong on this issue and very dangerous.”

NEW YORK (AP) — Democrat&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/robert-f-kennedy-jr">Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>, an anti-vaccine activist and scion of one of the country’s most famous political families, is running for president.(click below to watch the announcement courtesy Kennedy campaign )<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EsuLBPjdt-w?start=160" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Kennedy filed a statement of candidacy earlier this month with the Federal Election Commission.The 69-year-old’s campaign to challenge incumbent President Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination is a long shot.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marianne-williamson-president-2024-biden-democratic-primary-14e59754bed9e0c54dad4fdfbbc1fa6b">Self-help author Marianne Williamson</a>&nbsp;is also running in the Democratic race.Kennedy, a nephew of President John F. Kennedy and the son of his slain brother Robert F. Kennedy, was once a bestselling author and environmental lawyer who worked on issues such as clean water.But more than 15 years ago, he became fixated on a belief that vaccines are not safe.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-rfk-jr-built-anti-vaccine-juggernaut-amid-covid-4997be1bcf591fe8b7f1f90d16c9321e">He emerged as one of the leading voices in</a>&nbsp;the anti-vaccine movement, and his work has been described by public health experts and even members of his own family as misleading and dangerous.Kennedy had been long involved in the anti-vaccine movement, but the effort intensified after the COVID-19 pandemic and development of the COVID-19 vaccine.His anti-vaccine charity, Children’s Health Defense, prospered during the pandemic, with revenues more than doubling in 2020 to $6.8 million, according to filings made with charity regulators.His organization has targeted false claims at groups that may be more prone to distrust the vaccine, including mothers and Black Americans, experts have said, which could have resulted in deaths during the pandemic.Kennedy released a book in 2021, “The Real Anthony Fauci,” in which he accused the U.S.’s top infectious disease doctor of assisting in “a historic coup d’etat against Western democracy” and promoted unproven COVID-19 treatments such as ivermectin, which is meant to treat parasites, and the anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine.His push against the COVID-19 vaccine has linked him at times with anti-democratic figures and groups. Kennedy has appeared at events pushing the lie that the 2020 presidential election was stolen and with people who cheered or downplayed the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.A photo posted on Instagram showed Kennedy backstage at a July 2021 Reawaken America event with former President Donald Trump’s ally Roger Stone, former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn and anti-vaccine profiteer Charlene Bollinger. All three have promoted the lie about the 2020 election being stolen.Bollinger has appeared with Kennedy at multiple events. She and her husband sponsored an anti-vaccine, pro-Trump rally near the Capitol on Jan. 6. Bollinger celebrated the attack and her husband tried to enter the Capitol. Kennedy later appeared in a video for their Super PAC.Kennedy has repeatedly invoked Nazis and the Holocaust when talking about measures aimed at mitigating the spread of COVID-19, such as mask requirements and vaccine mandates.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-apology-anne-frank-comments-9a6855403b91f5debf98f23c6db90551">He has sometimes apologized for those comments</a>, including when he suggested that people in 2022 had it worse than Anne Frank, the teenager who died in a Nazi concentration camp after hiding with her family in a secret annex in an Amsterdam house for two years.Kennedy has at times invoked his family’s legacy in his anti-vaccine work, including sometimes using images of President Kennedy.His sister Kerry Kennedy, who runs Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, the international rights group founded by their mother, Ethel, said her brother has at times removed some of the content at her request.She&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-rfk-jr-built-anti-vaccine-juggernaut-amid-covid-4997be1bcf591fe8b7f1f90d16c9321e">told the Associated Press in a 2021 interview</a>&nbsp;her brother is “completely wrong on this issue and very dangerous.”

🎥RFK Jr. launches 2024 presidential challenge to Biden

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court has temporarily extended women's access to an abortion pill until Friday while the justices consider whether to allow restrictions on mifepristone to take effect as a legal challenge to the medication's Food and Drug Administration approval continues.

<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/041923zr1_kjfm.pdf">In an order</a>&nbsp;signed by Justice Samuel Alito on Wednesday, the court indicated it will act by Friday night. Alito provided no explanation for why the court put off a more lasting decision.

The justices had given themselves a deadline on Wednesday in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-judge-matthew-kacsmaryk-abortion-pill-fda-75964b777ef09593a1ad948c6cfc0237">a fast-moving case from Texas</a>&nbsp;in which abortion opponents are seeking to roll back FDA approval mifepristone. used in the most common method of abortion in the United States

The drug first won FDA approval in 2000, and conditions on its use have been loosened in recent years, including making it available by mail in states that allow access.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-pill-mifepristone-ff152a443d8439e8fa5d9376070822b2">The Biden administration and New York-based Danco Laboratories</a>, the maker of the drug, want the nation’s highest court to reject limits on mifepristone’s use imposed by lower courts, at least as long as the legal case makes it way through the courts. They say women who want the drug and providers who dispense it will face chaos if limits on the drug take effect. Depending on what the justices decide, that could include requiring women to take a higher dosage of the drug than the FDA says is necessary.

Alliance Defending Freedom, representing anti-abortion doctors and medical groups in a challenge to the drug, is defending the rulings in calling on the Supreme Court to let the restrictions take effect now.

The legal fight over abortion comes less than a year after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">conservative justices reversed Roe v. Wade</a>&nbsp;and allowed more than a dozen states to effectively ban abortion outright.

Even as the abortion landscape changed dramatically in several states,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-mifepristone-abortion-drug-3855bb5d5c791e4c0465958bae94519e">abortion opponents</a>&nbsp;set their sights on medication abortions, which make up more than half of all abortions in the United States.

The abortion opponents filed suit in November in Amarillo, Texas. The legal challenge quickly reached the Supreme Court after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-pill-lawsuit-mifepristone-misoprostol-kacsmaryk-74cb1c4cfab2c04f6cf2696151bc86ef">a federal judge issued a ruling</a>&nbsp;on April 7 that would revoke FDA approval of mifepristone, one of two drugs used in medication abortions.

Less than a week later, a federal appeals court modified the ruling so that mifepristone would remain available while the case continues, but with limits. The appeals court said that the drug can’t be mailed or dispensed as a generic and that patients who seek it need to make three in-person visits with a doctor, among other things.

The generic version of mifepristone makes up two-thirds of the supply in the United States, its manufacturer, Las Vegas-based GenBioPro Inc., wrote in a court filing that underscored the perils of allowing the restrictions to be put into effect.

The court also said the drug should only be approved through seven weeks of pregnancy for now, even though the FDA since 2016 has endorsed its use through 10 weeks of pregnancy.

Complicating the situation, a federal judge in Washington has ordered the FDA to preserve access to mifepristone under the current rules in 17 Democratic-led states and the District of Columbia that filed a separate lawsuit.

The Biden administration has said the rulings conflict and create an untenable situation for the FDA.

In an order issued last Friday by Alito, the court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-pill-mifepristone-ff152a443d8439e8fa5d9376070822b2">put the restrictions on hold</a>&nbsp;through Wednesday to give the court time to consider the emergency appeal.

If the justices aren't inclined to block the ruling from taking effect for now, the Democratic administration and Danco have a fallback argument, asking the court to take up the challenge to mifepristone, hear arguments and decide the case by early summer.

The court only rarely takes such a step before at least one appeals court has thoroughly examined the legal issues involved.

The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans already has ordered an accelerated schedule for hearing the case, with arguments set for May 17.

Mifepristone has been available for use in medication abortions in the United States since the FDA granted approval in 2000. Since then, more than 5 million women have used it, along with another drug, misoprostol, to induce abortions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681934229833.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MARK SHERMAN Associated PressWASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court has temporarily extended women's access to an abortion pill until Friday while the justices consider whether to allow restrictions on mifepristone to take effect as a legal challenge to the medication's Food and Drug Administration approval continues.<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/041923zr1_kjfm.pdf">In an order</a>&nbsp;signed by Justice Samuel Alito on Wednesday, the court indicated it will act by Friday night. Alito provided no explanation for why the court put off a more lasting decision.The justices had given themselves a deadline on Wednesday in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-judge-matthew-kacsmaryk-abortion-pill-fda-75964b777ef09593a1ad948c6cfc0237">a fast-moving case from Texas</a>&nbsp;in which abortion opponents are seeking to roll back FDA approval mifepristone. used in the most common method of abortion in the United StatesThe drug first won FDA approval in 2000, and conditions on its use have been loosened in recent years, including making it available by mail in states that allow access.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-pill-mifepristone-ff152a443d8439e8fa5d9376070822b2">The Biden administration and New York-based Danco Laboratories</a>, the maker of the drug, want the nation’s highest court to reject limits on mifepristone’s use imposed by lower courts, at least as long as the legal case makes it way through the courts. They say women who want the drug and providers who dispense it will face chaos if limits on the drug take effect. Depending on what the justices decide, that could include requiring women to take a higher dosage of the drug than the FDA says is necessary.Alliance Defending Freedom, representing anti-abortion doctors and medical groups in a challenge to the drug, is defending the rulings in calling on the Supreme Court to let the restrictions take effect now.The legal fight over abortion comes less than a year after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">conservative justices reversed Roe v. Wade</a>&nbsp;and allowed more than a dozen states to effectively ban abortion outright.Even as the abortion landscape changed dramatically in several states,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-mifepristone-abortion-drug-3855bb5d5c791e4c0465958bae94519e">abortion opponents</a>&nbsp;set their sights on medication abortions, which make up more than half of all abortions in the United States.The abortion opponents filed suit in November in Amarillo, Texas. The legal challenge quickly reached the Supreme Court after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-pill-lawsuit-mifepristone-misoprostol-kacsmaryk-74cb1c4cfab2c04f6cf2696151bc86ef">a federal judge issued a ruling</a>&nbsp;on April 7 that would revoke FDA approval of mifepristone, one of two drugs used in medication abortions.Less than a week later, a federal appeals court modified the ruling so that mifepristone would remain available while the case continues, but with limits. The appeals court said that the drug can’t be mailed or dispensed as a generic and that patients who seek it need to make three in-person visits with a doctor, among other things.The generic version of mifepristone makes up two-thirds of the supply in the United States, its manufacturer, Las Vegas-based GenBioPro Inc., wrote in a court filing that underscored the perils of allowing the restrictions to be put into effect.The court also said the drug should only be approved through seven weeks of pregnancy for now, even though the FDA since 2016 has endorsed its use through 10 weeks of pregnancy.Complicating the situation, a federal judge in Washington has ordered the FDA to preserve access to mifepristone under the current rules in 17 Democratic-led states and the District of Columbia that filed a separate lawsuit.The Biden administration has said the rulings conflict and create an untenable situation for the FDA.In an order issued last Friday by Alito, the court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-pill-mifepristone-ff152a443d8439e8fa5d9376070822b2">put the restrictions on hold</a>&nbsp;through Wednesday to give the court time to consider the emergency appeal.If the justices aren't inclined to block the ruling from taking effect for now, the Democratic administration and Danco have a fallback argument, asking the court to take up the challenge to mifepristone, hear arguments and decide the case by early summer.The court only rarely takes such a step before at least one appeals court has thoroughly examined the legal issues involved.The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans already has ordered an accelerated schedule for hearing the case, with arguments set for May 17.Mifepristone has been available for use in medication abortions in the United States since the FDA granted approval in 2000. Since then, more than 5 million women have used it, along with another drug, misoprostol, to induce abortions.

Supreme Court delays ruling on abortion pill restrictions

Washington&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Roger&nbsp;Marshall on Tuesday introduced a new resolution calling for a vote of no confidence in Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for his failed leadership of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

(Click below to watch Marshall and Sec. Mayorka's during the hearing)

The resolution was announced during Secretary Mayorkas’s appearance before the committee Tuesday. When announcing the resolution, Senator&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;said:&nbsp;

“The Secure Fence Act mandated that the Secretary of DHS achieve operational control of our borders. Mr. Secretary, our borders are not under control. Mr. Secretary, you are derelict in your duties. I would be derelict to not do something about this. That’s why I have a draft resolution here that I intend to introduce in the coming days that would require the Senate to take a vote of no confidence on Secretary Mayorkas.&nbsp;As I’ve stated on the record before, I stand at the ready to receive Articles of Impeachment from the House and conduct a conviction trial in this body but in the meantime I think the Senate must show our colleagues in the House that we’ve had enough of the failures from the Department of Homeland Security and believe that the Secretary is not fit to faithfully carry out the duties of his office.&nbsp;I would like to insert this into the record, Mr. Chairman,”&nbsp;Senator&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;said.

Senator&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;pressed DHS Secretary Mayorkas on the latest CBP border crossing numbers that dropped last night, revealing there have been over 5 million illegal border crossings since Joe Biden took office. The senator also questioned Mayorkas about the department’s failure to track down convicted criminals residing in the country illegally.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632317716965.png" alt="Marshall pressed DHS Secretary Mayorkas on the latest&nbsp; border crossing numbers released this week revealing there have been over 5 million illegal border crossings since Joe Biden took office. Photo Rep. Tony Gonzales" />
 <figcaption>Marshall pressed DHS Secretary Mayorkas on the latest&nbsp; border crossing numbers released this week revealing there have been over 5 million illegal border crossings since Joe Biden took office. Photo Rep. Tony Gonzales</figcaption>
 </figure>Washington&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Roger&nbsp;Marshall on Tuesday introduced a new resolution calling for a vote of no confidence in Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for his failed leadership of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).(Click below to watch Marshall and Sec. Mayorka's during the hearing)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QuthYGvz5Qk?start=2" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The resolution was announced during Secretary Mayorkas’s appearance before the committee Tuesday. When announcing the resolution, Senator&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;said:&nbsp;“The Secure Fence Act mandated that the Secretary of DHS achieve operational control of our borders. Mr. Secretary, our borders are not under control. Mr. Secretary, you are derelict in your duties. I would be derelict to not do something about this. That’s why I have a draft resolution here that I intend to introduce in the coming days that would require the Senate to take a vote of no confidence on Secretary Mayorkas.&nbsp;As I’ve stated on the record before, I stand at the ready to receive Articles of Impeachment from the House and conduct a conviction trial in this body but in the meantime I think the Senate must show our colleagues in the House that we’ve had enough of the failures from the Department of Homeland Security and believe that the Secretary is not fit to faithfully carry out the duties of his office.&nbsp;I would like to insert this into the record, Mr. Chairman,”&nbsp;Senator&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;said.Senator&nbsp;Marshall&nbsp;pressed DHS Secretary Mayorkas on the latest CBP border crossing numbers that dropped last night, revealing there have been over 5 million illegal border crossings since Joe Biden took office. The senator also questioned Mayorkas about the department’s failure to track down convicted criminals residing in the country illegally.

🎥Marshall calls for no confidence vote for Homeland Security Secretary

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) —Ralph Yarl, the 16-year-old Kansas City boy who was shot at point-blank range in the head by a white homeowner but miraculously survived the bullet to his skull continues to recover at home.

Missouri Republican Gov. Mike Parson, who had remained silent on the shooting until Wednesday, accused Biden of politicizing it.

The 84-year-old white owner of the Kansas City, Missouri, house where the teen mistakenly went to pick up his brothers faces his first court appearance Wednesday.

Andrew Lester is charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action. He could face life in prison if convicted. Lester does not yet have a listed attorney. He is free on bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681726215314.png" alt="Ralph Yarl-photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Ralph Yarl-photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) —Ralph Yarl, the 16-year-old Kansas City boy who was shot at point-blank range in the head by a white homeowner but miraculously survived the bullet to his skull continues to recover at home.Missouri Republican Gov. Mike Parson, who had remained silent on the shooting until Wednesday, accused Biden of politicizing it.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681929117276.png" alt="Missouri Governor Mike Parson-file photo" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Governor Mike Parson-file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"I don’t want some 16-year-old kid to be getting shot because he went to the wrong house — we just don’t want those kinds of things to happen. It’s a tragedy,” Parson told the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article274486986.html">Kansas City Star</a>. “When the president of the United States is trying to make a political statement over a very serious tragedy, it is very unfortunate.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It is a tragedy anytime a 16-year-old is shot, and Ralph Yarl is no exception. I trust law enforcement to continue conducting a thorough investigation and expect a fair and just result.&mdash; Governor Mike Parson (@GovParsonMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovParsonMO/status/1648738567764443148?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The 84-year-old white owner of the Kansas City, Missouri, house where the teen mistakenly went to pick up his brothers faces his first court appearance Wednesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681844207619.png" alt="Lester as seen in his Clay Co. Missouri booking photo after he turned himself in on Tuesday." />
 <figcaption>Lester as seen in his Clay Co. Missouri booking photo after he turned himself in on Tuesday.</figcaption>
 </figure>Andrew Lester is charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action. He could face life in prison if convicted. Lester does not yet have a listed attorney. He is free on bond.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Last night, I had a chance to call Ralph Yarl and his family. No parent should have to worry that their kid will be shot after ringing the wrong doorbell. We&#39;ve got to keep up the fight against gun violence. And Ralph, we&#39;ll see you in the Oval once you feel better. <a href="https://t.co/mPXiM1X6nK">pic.twitter.com/mPXiM1X6nK</a>&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1648390965797744640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Mo. Governor: Biden is politicizing the shooting of KC teen

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of&nbsp;Health reported 730&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">&nbsp;new</a> <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">coronavirus cases</a> in Kansas from April 12, to April 19, for a total of 944,383 cases.&nbsp;&nbsp;The state reported 903 cases the previous week.

On Wednesday, <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">the state reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;5 additional COVID-19 deaths since the report on April 12 for a total of 10,172 since the state started reporting COVID illness and deaths.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a>&nbsp;about the COVID-19 vaccine.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">Click here</a>&nbsp;for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

Kansas provides fewer updates of its data about COVID-19 now that Gov. Laura Kelly formally declared that the state is moving toward treating COVID-19 as a disease like the flu that spreads regularly and isn't considered a pandemic.&nbsp;The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.

The state continues to support access to free COVID-19 testing, works to ensure that vulnerable populations can get vaccinated, see that providers serve a broad population and give “comprehensive guidance” about the virus. She called the new phase “endemic normalcy.”

The health department updates data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of&nbsp;Health reported 730&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">&nbsp;new</a> <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">coronavirus cases</a> in Kansas from April 12, to April 19, for a total of 944,383 cases.&nbsp;&nbsp;The state reported 903 cases the previous week.On Wednesday, <a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">the state reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;5 additional COVID-19 deaths since the report on April 12 for a total of 10,172 since the state started reporting COVID illness and deaths.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681926583703.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a>&nbsp;about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/3097/2023-COVID-19-Summary-and-Historical-Binder-PDF?bidId=">Click here</a>&nbsp;for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.Kansas provides fewer updates of its data about COVID-19 now that Gov. Laura Kelly formally declared that the state is moving toward treating COVID-19 as a disease like the flu that spreads regularly and isn't considered a pandemic.&nbsp;The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.The state continues to support access to free COVID-19 testing, works to ensure that vulnerable populations can get vaccinated, see that providers serve a broad population and give “comprehensive guidance” about the virus. She called the new phase “endemic normalcy.”The health department updates data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.

KDHE: COVID cases continue to decline, 5 more deaths

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a check writing scam.

On Feb. 14, the Barton County Sheriff’s Office began investigating the scam and fraudulent check case involving at least Barton County-area business, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir. 

The individual in question wrote checks at businesses, produced proper identification and purchased large quantities of merchandise. The business later discovered the checks and identification were forged.

The Sheriff’s Office was able to identify the suspect as 65-year-old Roger Kornegay of Mount Olive, North Carolina. He had been recently released from federal parole. Investigators discovered Kornegay had been using more than 25 aliases and has a criminal history involving financial crimes.

Detectives had obtained a warrant for his arrest and have been in the process of tracking his location for several weeks.

The Sheriff’s Office learned that Kornegay was in Nebraska, possibly headed to Oberlin, Kansas. With the assistance of the Decatur County Sheriff’s Office and the Oberlin Police Department, Kornegay was arrested on a Barton County District Court warrant for forgery and theft. 

Kornegay is currently being held on a $100,000 bond in the Decatur County jai. He will be transported to Barton County Wednesday, according to Bellendir.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681916228349.jpeg" alt="Security camera photo Barton Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Security camera photo Barton Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a check writing scam.On Feb. 14, the Barton County Sheriff’s Office began investigating the scam and fraudulent check case involving at least Barton County-area business, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir. The individual in question wrote checks at businesses, produced proper identification and purchased large quantities of merchandise. The business later discovered the checks and identification were forged.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681916413116.jpeg" alt="Kornegay -photo Decatur County" />
 <figcaption>Kornegay -photo Decatur County</figcaption>
 </figure>The Sheriff’s Office was able to identify the suspect as 65-year-old Roger Kornegay of Mount Olive, North Carolina. He had been recently released from federal parole. Investigators discovered Kornegay had been using more than 25 aliases and has a criminal history involving financial crimes.Detectives had obtained a warrant for his arrest and have been in the process of tracking his location for several weeks.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681916433018.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Sheriff’s Office learned that Kornegay was in Nebraska, possibly headed to Oberlin, Kansas. With the assistance of the Decatur County Sheriff’s Office and the Oberlin Police Department, Kornegay was arrested on a Barton County District Court warrant for forgery and theft. Kornegay is currently being held on a $100,000 bond in the Decatur County jai. He will be transported to Barton County Wednesday, according to Bellendir.&nbsp;

Suspect in Kansas check writing scam captured

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Quick action by law enforcement prevented a tragedy early Wednesday in Wabaunsee County.

Just after 4a.m., Wabaunsee County Sheriff's Deputies were assisting a westbound motorist on Interstate 70 just west of Snokomo Road, according to the Sheriff's Department.

&nbsp;The deputies suddenly heard squealing tires. Multiple vehicles including semi trucks were desperately maneuvering to avoid a collision with a sedan traveling westbound in the eastbound lane of the highway towards oncoming traffic. 

Sheriff's deputies activated lights and sirens, crossed the median ahead of the wrong way driver and moved toward the oncoming sedan. Prior to performing an intentional collision to force the suspect vehicle off the highway, the wrong way vehicle stopped in the middle of the roadway. 

Verbal commands via loudspeaker for the driver to pull into the median were ignored. Among passing traffic, deputies sprinted at, entered the vehicle, subdued the driver and forcibly drove the vehicle into the median in order to clear the roadway.

The driver was detained and after a brief investigation, released from custody and transported from scene to hospital for evaluation after being cited. 

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Quick action by law enforcement prevented a tragedy early Wednesday in Wabaunsee County.Just after 4a.m., Wabaunsee County Sheriff's Deputies were assisting a westbound motorist on Interstate 70 just west of Snokomo Road, according to the Sheriff's Department.&nbsp;The deputies suddenly heard squealing tires. Multiple vehicles including semi trucks were desperately maneuvering to avoid a collision with a sedan traveling westbound in the eastbound lane of the highway towards oncoming traffic. Sheriff's deputies activated lights and sirens, crossed the median ahead of the wrong way driver and moved toward the oncoming sedan. Prior to performing an intentional collision to force the suspect vehicle off the highway, the wrong way vehicle stopped in the middle of the roadway. Verbal commands via loudspeaker for the driver to pull into the median were ignored. Among passing traffic, deputies sprinted at, entered the vehicle, subdued the driver and forcibly drove the vehicle into the median in order to clear the roadway.The driver was detained and after a brief investigation, released from custody and transported from scene to hospital for evaluation after being cited. There were no injuries reported.

Quick action by deputies prevents wrong-way I-70 crash

WASHINGTON —On Tuesday, the President and First Lady released their 2022 federal income tax return. With this release, President Biden has shared a total of 25 years of tax returns with the American public. Once again demonstrating his commitment to being transparent with the American people about the finances of the Commander-in-Chief, President Biden has released the most tax returns of any president while in office.

<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/POTUS-2022-Tax-Returns-Final-Signed-Redacted.pdf">Click here to view</a>&nbsp;the President and First Lady’s tax returns&nbsp; <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/VPOTUS-2022-Tax-Returns-Final-Signed-Redacted.pdf">Click here to view</a>&nbsp;the Vice President and Second Gentleman’s tax returns

The President and First Lady filed their income tax return jointly and reported federal adjusted gross income of $579,514. They paid $169,820 in combined federal, Delaware, and Virginia income taxes. And their 2022 effective federal income tax rate is 23.8 percent. The President and First Lady also reported contributions of $20,180 to 20 different charities. The largest gift to charity was $5,000 to the Beau Biden Foundation, a public charity dedicated to ensuring that all children are free from the threat of abuse. They also donated to St. Joseph on the Brandywine, their home parish, to the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, and the National Fraternal Order of Police Foundation, among other charities. Specifically, the President and First Lady paid $137,658 in federal income tax. They also released their Delaware income tax return and reported paying $29,023 in Delaware income tax. The First Lady released her Virginia income tax return as well, and reported paying $3,139 in Virginia income tax. The Vice President and the Second Gentleman also released their 2022 federal income tax return, as well as state income tax returns for California and the District of Columbia. Including today’s release, the Vice President has published 19 years of tax returns.&nbsp; The Vice President and the Second Gentleman reported federal adjusted gross income of $456,918. They paid $93,570 in federal income tax, amounting to a 2022 effective federal income tax rate of 20.5 percent. They also paid $17,612 in California income tax, and Mr. Emhoff paid $9,697 in District of Columbia income tax. They contributed $23,000 to charity in 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676821587118.png" alt="The President and First Lady also reported contributions of $20,180 to 20 different charities.- file photo White House" />
 <figcaption>The President and First Lady also reported contributions of $20,180 to 20 different charities.- file photo White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —On Tuesday, the President and First Lady released their 2022 federal income tax return. With this release, President Biden has shared a total of 25 years of tax returns with the American public. Once again demonstrating his commitment to being transparent with the American people about the finances of the Commander-in-Chief, President Biden has released the most tax returns of any president while in office.<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/POTUS-2022-Tax-Returns-Final-Signed-Redacted.pdf">Click here to view</a>&nbsp;the President and First Lady’s tax returns&nbsp; <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/VPOTUS-2022-Tax-Returns-Final-Signed-Redacted.pdf">Click here to view</a>&nbsp;the Vice President and Second Gentleman’s tax returns The President and First Lady filed their income tax return jointly and reported federal adjusted gross income of $579,514. They paid $169,820 in combined federal, Delaware, and Virginia income taxes. And their 2022 effective federal income tax rate is 23.8 percent. The President and First Lady also reported contributions of $20,180 to 20 different charities. The largest gift to charity was $5,000 to the Beau Biden Foundation, a public charity dedicated to ensuring that all children are free from the threat of abuse. They also donated to St. Joseph on the Brandywine, their home parish, to the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, and the National Fraternal Order of Police Foundation, among other charities. Specifically, the President and First Lady paid $137,658 in federal income tax. They also released their Delaware income tax return and reported paying $29,023 in Delaware income tax. The First Lady released her Virginia income tax return as well, and reported paying $3,139 in Virginia income tax. The Vice President and the Second Gentleman also released their 2022 federal income tax return, as well as state income tax returns for California and the District of Columbia. Including today’s release, the Vice President has published 19 years of tax returns.&nbsp; The Vice President and the Second Gentleman reported federal adjusted gross income of $456,918. They paid $93,570 in federal income tax, amounting to a 2022 effective federal income tax rate of 20.5 percent. They also paid $17,612 in California income tax, and Mr. Emhoff paid $9,697 in District of Columbia income tax. They contributed $23,000 to charity in 2022.

President, Vice President release their 2022 tax returns

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting have identified the victim as 33-year-old&nbsp;Sherman Coleman Jr, of Topeka. 

Just after 6:30p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to a report of gunshots in the 2300 block of SE Bellview Avenue in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley. 

First responders found an Coleman, Jr. suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound. He was transported by ambulance to a local hospital where he died.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681821530853.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation Monday evening-Photo by Phil Anderson courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation Monday evening-Photo by Phil Anderson courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting have identified the victim as 33-year-old&nbsp;Sherman Coleman Jr, of Topeka. Just after 6:30p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to a report of gunshots in the 2300 block of SE Bellview Avenue in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley. First responders found an Coleman, Jr. suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound. He was transported by ambulance to a local hospital where he died.-------------

Police ID victim in Kansas homicide investigation

WASHINGTON – Nearly 150 lawmakers including all GOP members of the Kansas Congressional delegation except Senator Jerry Moran signed a brief on Tuesday urging the United State's Supreme Court to uphold a ruling limiting the use of the abortion pill. Missouri Senator Josh Hawley and GOP Representatives&nbsp;Blaine Luetkemeyer, Mark Alford and Eric Burlison signed the brief. Senator Eric Schmitt, Representative Sam Graves and Ann Wagner did not sign.

The 23 members of the Senate are nearly half the Senate GOP conference supporting the 5th circuit’s ruling that put sharply stricter limits on the abortion drug nationwide

<a href="https://aul.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Brief-Amici-Curiae-of-147-MOC.pdf">Click here to read</a>&nbsp;the brief

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/sites/default/files/2023-04/Brief%20Amici%20Curiae%20of%20147%20MOC%20041823.pdf">updated brief</a>&nbsp;filed Tuesday is similar to the briefs filed by Members in&nbsp;Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA&nbsp;at the&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.txnd.370067/gov.uscourts.txnd.370067.84.0_5.pdf">district</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.ca5.213145/gov.uscourts.ca5.213145.84.0_3.pdf">circuit court</a>&nbsp;levels, but with updates in light of the Fifth Circuit’s ruling. &nbsp;Americans United for Life authored the briefs, according to a statement from&nbsp;U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi.

“The FDA’s unlawful deregulation of chemical abortion drugs subverts Congress’ public policy considerations and safeguards for patient safety. &nbsp;Amici respectfully urge this Court to deny the application for a stay of the District Court’s order because the FDA exceeded the scope of its authorized power, and endangered the health and safety of women and girls seeking chemical abortion drugs,”&nbsp;the lawmakers’ brief concludes.

The Supreme Court brief argues that emergency appeals by DOJ and Danco Laboratories, LLC should be denied because:

In response to the emergency appeals, the Supreme Court issued an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/041423zr2_c9dh.pdf">administrative stay</a>&nbsp;of the&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.txnd.370067/gov.uscourts.txnd.370067.137.0_8.pdf">district court’s order</a>&nbsp;in&nbsp;Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA, as&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.ca5.213145/gov.uscourts.ca5.213145.183.2_1.pdf">partially stayed</a>&nbsp;by the Fifth Circuit, until 11:59 p.m., Wednesday, April 19.

In addition to Hyde-Smith, chair of the Senate Pro-Life Caucus, the amicus brief was signed by U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kan.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), James Risch (R-Idaho), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.).

124 Members of the House of Representatives signed including Missouri Representatives Blaine Luetkemeyer, Mark Alford and Eric Burlison.

In Kansas all three GOP members of the delegation signed including Ron Estes, Jake LaTurner and Tracey Mann.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680967457500.png" alt="About 60% of abortions in Kansas involve the abortion pill. photo Associated Press" />
 <figcaption>About 60% of abortions in Kansas involve the abortion pill. photo Associated Press</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON – Nearly 150 lawmakers including all GOP members of the Kansas Congressional delegation except Senator Jerry Moran signed a brief on Tuesday urging the United State's Supreme Court to uphold a ruling limiting the use of the abortion pill. Missouri Senator Josh Hawley and GOP Representatives&nbsp;Blaine Luetkemeyer, Mark Alford and Eric Burlison signed the brief. Senator Eric Schmitt, Representative Sam Graves and Ann Wagner did not sign.The 23 members of the Senate are nearly half the Senate GOP conference supporting the 5th circuit’s ruling that put sharply stricter limits on the abortion drug nationwide<a href="https://aul.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Brief-Amici-Curiae-of-147-MOC.pdf">Click here to read</a>&nbsp;the briefThe&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hydesmith.senate.gov/sites/default/files/2023-04/Brief%20Amici%20Curiae%20of%20147%20MOC%20041823.pdf">updated brief</a>&nbsp;filed Tuesday is similar to the briefs filed by Members in&nbsp;Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA&nbsp;at the&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.txnd.370067/gov.uscourts.txnd.370067.84.0_5.pdf">district</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.ca5.213145/gov.uscourts.ca5.213145.84.0_3.pdf">circuit court</a>&nbsp;levels, but with updates in light of the Fifth Circuit’s ruling. &nbsp;Americans United for Life authored the briefs, according to a statement from&nbsp;U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi.“The FDA’s unlawful deregulation of chemical abortion drugs subverts Congress’ public policy considerations and safeguards for patient safety. &nbsp;Amici respectfully urge this Court to deny the application for a stay of the District Court’s order because the FDA exceeded the scope of its authorized power, and endangered the health and safety of women and girls seeking chemical abortion drugs,”&nbsp;the lawmakers’ brief concludes.The Supreme Court brief argues that emergency appeals by DOJ and Danco Laboratories, LLC should be denied because:<ul>
 <li>The FDA failure to adhere to the FFDCA drug approval process has created grave risks to the health and safety of women and girls.</li><li>The FDA endangers pregnant adolescents seeking chemical abortion drugs by unlawfully subverting the pediatric study requirement.</li><li>The FDA has created serious hazards for women’s health and safety by permitting mail-order chemical abortion drugs in violation of federal law.</li>
 </ul>In response to the emergency appeals, the Supreme Court issued an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/orders/courtorders/041423zr2_c9dh.pdf">administrative stay</a>&nbsp;of the&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.txnd.370067/gov.uscourts.txnd.370067.137.0_8.pdf">district court’s order</a>&nbsp;in&nbsp;Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA, as&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.ca5.213145/gov.uscourts.ca5.213145.183.2_1.pdf">partially stayed</a>&nbsp;by the Fifth Circuit, until 11:59 p.m., Wednesday, April 19.In addition to Hyde-Smith, chair of the Senate Pro-Life Caucus, the amicus brief was signed by U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kan.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), James Risch (R-Idaho), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.).124 Members of the House of Representatives signed including Missouri Representatives Blaine Luetkemeyer, Mark Alford and Eric Burlison.In Kansas all three GOP members of the delegation signed including Ron Estes, Jake LaTurner and Tracey Mann.

Not all Mo. GOP lawmakers sign brief supporting abortion pill ban

Manhattan —Investigators say improperly discarding of smoking material caused a fire at a home in Manhattan.

Just before 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, the Manhattan Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire at 156 North Dartmouth, according to assistant Fire Chief Mike Kaus.

First responders found the two-story home with heavy fire on the back of the residence.&nbsp; The fire extended into the attic space and was extinguished within 30 minutes.&nbsp; Riley County EMS evaluated one occupant for smoke inhalation.

&nbsp;The residents evacuated prior to the fire department's arrival. Loss is estimated at $25,000 to contents and $75,000 to the structure. 

The fire cause is accidental due to discarded smoking materials.&nbsp; A reminder to discard smoking materials in an approved container filled with sand or water.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681898577954.png" alt="Photos Manhattan Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photos Manhattan Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Manhattan —Investigators say improperly discarding of smoking material caused a fire at a home in Manhattan.Just before 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, the Manhattan Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire at 156 North Dartmouth, according to assistant Fire Chief Mike Kaus.First responders found the two-story home with heavy fire on the back of the residence.&nbsp; The fire extended into the attic space and was extinguished within 30 minutes.&nbsp; Riley County EMS evaluated one occupant for smoke inhalation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681899979579.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;The residents evacuated prior to the fire department's arrival. Loss is estimated at $25,000 to contents and $75,000 to the structure. The fire cause is accidental due to discarded smoking materials.&nbsp; A reminder to discard smoking materials in an approved container filled with sand or water.

Improperly discarded smoking material caused Kan. house fire

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A powerful Missouri state senator on Tuesday unveiled a $2.8 billion plan to widen Interstate 70 to at least three lanes across the state, an even more ambitious proposal than&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-state-government-st-louis-columbia-kansas-city-29d87e49bedb4c134ecc02fb43b39ff9">what the governor originally asked</a>&nbsp;of lawmakers.

Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Lincoln Hough added the plan to a draft state budget for the upcoming fiscal year during a committee hearing.

Half the project would be funded with bonds. Hough estimated the state would pay around $132 million a year over for at most 15 years to pay off the expansion.

Republican Gov. Mike Parson earlier this year asked lawmakers for $860 million to expand I-70 in the most congested areas: suburban St. Louis, Columbia and suburban Kansas City.

House lawmakers initially balked at the request but on Tuesday gave initial approval to another budget bill that includes $860 million for the interstate. The House also on Tuesday voted to spend $28 million on Interstate 44 improvements, along with a $20 million environmental impact study that's needed before more expansive work can be done on the roadway.

Proposals have existed for years to widen I-70 from two to three lanes in each direction across the entire state, but Missouri has never had the money to do it.

Lawmakers now have an opportunity to tap into the state’s historic budget surplus to make that happen.

Hough urged fellow lawmakers to pump more money into I-70, citing current rates on government bonds and Missouri's few outstanding debts.

“The infrastructure improvements that we can make right now given the cash balances we have are transformative,” Hough said.

An Associated Press request for comment to Parson's office was not immediately returned Tuesday.

The committee and the full Senate still need to vote on Hough's plan. If passed the budget bill would head back to the House for another vote before it could go to Parson's desk for approval.

Lawmakers face a May 5 constitutional deadline to pass a budget.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A powerful Missouri state senator on Tuesday unveiled a $2.8 billion plan to widen Interstate 70 to at least three lanes across the state, an even more ambitious proposal than&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-state-government-st-louis-columbia-kansas-city-29d87e49bedb4c134ecc02fb43b39ff9">what the governor originally asked</a>&nbsp;of lawmakers.Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Lincoln Hough added the plan to a draft state budget for the upcoming fiscal year during a committee hearing.Half the project would be funded with bonds. Hough estimated the state would pay around $132 million a year over for at most 15 years to pay off the expansion.Republican Gov. Mike Parson earlier this year asked lawmakers for $860 million to expand I-70 in the most congested areas: suburban St. Louis, Columbia and suburban Kansas City.House lawmakers initially balked at the request but on Tuesday gave initial approval to another budget bill that includes $860 million for the interstate. The House also on Tuesday voted to spend $28 million on Interstate 44 improvements, along with a $20 million environmental impact study that's needed before more expansive work can be done on the roadway.Proposals have existed for years to widen I-70 from two to three lanes in each direction across the entire state, but Missouri has never had the money to do it.Lawmakers now have an opportunity to tap into the state’s historic budget surplus to make that happen.Hough urged fellow lawmakers to pump more money into I-70, citing current rates on government bonds and Missouri's few outstanding debts.“The infrastructure improvements that we can make right now given the cash balances we have are transformative,” Hough said.An Associated Press request for comment to Parson's office was not immediately returned Tuesday.The committee and the full Senate still need to vote on Hough's plan. If passed the budget bill would head back to the House for another vote before it could go to Parson's desk for approval.Lawmakers face a May 5 constitutional deadline to pass a budget.

Top Missouri lawmaker unveils $2.8B plan to expand I-70

WEBSTER COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Tuesday in Webster County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Dodge Journey driven by Christopher B. Maples, 56, Strafford, was westbound on Interstate 44 three miles west of Marshfield.

The driver lost control of the SUV. The vehicle traveled off the road into the median, went airborne, rolled over the median cables into the eastbound lanes and struck a 2022 Ford Edge driven by Melanie S. McDaris, 47, Hartville.

Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to Fraker Funeral Home. Maples was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

WEBSTER COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Tuesday in Webster County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Dodge Journey driven by Christopher B. Maples, 56, Strafford, was westbound on Interstate 44 three miles west of Marshfield.The driver lost control of the SUV. The vehicle traveled off the road into the median, went airborne, rolled over the median cables into the eastbound lanes and struck a 2022 Ford Edge driven by Melanie S. McDaris, 47, Hartville.Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to Fraker Funeral Home. Maples was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man, woman dead after violent 2-vehicle crash 

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A man accused in the death of a woman in March of 2021 made a first court appearance Monday.

Jon Lovell, 42 of Wichita, is charged with 1st degree murder, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

 Attorneys are scheduled to discuss future dates in the case (22CR1953) on 5/1/23.  He is in jail on a half-million dollar bond.

on Lovell has been charged with first-degree murder in connection to the death&nbsp;of Natasha Arvidson in 2021.

In March of 2021, police responded to a home in the 10600 Block of West Taft in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.

First responders found the body of 38-year-old&nbsp;Natasha Arvidson. The suspect, later identified as Lovell took her 2000 Mercury Grand Marquis and fled the crime scene.&nbsp; Police booked him in the Sedgwick County jail on Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lovell has previous convictions for aggravated robbery, flee or attempt to elude law enforcement, giving false alarm, DUI, Driving while habitual violator, and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Lovell's bond has been set at $500,000 and will next appear in court on May 1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681766174905.png" alt="Lovell-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Lovell-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A man accused in the death of a woman in March of 2021 made a first court appearance Monday.Jon Lovell, 42 of Wichita, is charged with 1st degree murder, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. Attorneys are scheduled to discuss future dates in the case (22CR1953) on 5/1/23. He is in jail on a half-million dollar bond.on Lovell has been charged with first-degree murder in connection to the death&nbsp;of Natasha Arvidson in 2021.In March of 2021, police responded to a home in the 10600 Block of West Taft in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.First responders found the body of 38-year-old&nbsp;Natasha Arvidson. The suspect, later identified as Lovell took her 2000 Mercury Grand Marquis and fled the crime scene.&nbsp; Police booked him in the Sedgwick County jail on Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lovell has previous convictions for aggravated robbery, flee or attempt to elude law enforcement, giving false alarm, DUI, Driving while habitual violator, and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.Lovell's bond has been set at $500,000 and will next appear in court on May 1.

Kansas felon charged in woman's murder

SHAWNEE COUNTY–Law enforcement authorities are investigating another fatal shooting in Topeka.

Just before 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 900 block of SW 17th Street in Topeka, according to Lt. Ron Ekis.

Officers located an man suffering from a life threatening gunshot wound. The victim was transported by ambulance to a local hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.&nbsp;

Police have not released the name of victim or possible suspect details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681864464057.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY–Law enforcement authorities are investigating another fatal shooting in Topeka.Just before 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 900 block of SW 17th Street in Topeka, according to Lt. Ron Ekis.Officers located an man suffering from a life threatening gunshot wound. The victim was transported by ambulance to a local hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.&nbsp;Police have not released the name of victim or possible suspect details.

Police investigate 2nd homicide this week in Topeka

OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just before 1a.m. April 16, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop at 221st and US-75 Highway for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, illegal narcotics were located.

The driver of the vehicle, Matthew W. Rickel, 47, of Vassar, was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of&nbsp;Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana and Criminal use of weapons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681505785270.png" alt="Rickel-photo Osage County" />
 <figcaption>Rickel-photo Osage County</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just before 1a.m. April 16, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop at 221st and US-75 Highway for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, illegal narcotics were located.The driver of the vehicle, Matthew W. Rickel, 47, of Vassar, was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of&nbsp;Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana and Criminal use of weapons.

Sheriff: Kansas man caught with meth, pot and guns

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — As 16-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-black-teen-shooting-9602deefd974b9b91220aaa8a94f25c7">Ralph Yarl</a>&nbsp;struggled to come to grips with being shot for going to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers, the white Kansas City, Missouri, homeowner who shot the Black teenager turned himself in on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Andrew Lester, 84, surrendered at the Clay County Detention Center and was booked on a $200,000 bond, a day after being charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action. Just before 2:30p.m., he bonded out of jail, according to online jail records.

Some civil rights leaders urged a hate crime charge but Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said first-degree assault is a higher-level crime with a longer sentence — up to life in prison.

Meanwhile, Yarl was home recovering from his wounds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681844207619.png" alt="Andrew Lester-photo Clay County" />
 <figcaption>Andrew Lester-photo Clay County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — As 16-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-black-teen-shooting-9602deefd974b9b91220aaa8a94f25c7">Ralph Yarl</a>&nbsp;struggled to come to grips with being shot for going to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers, the white Kansas City, Missouri, homeowner who shot the Black teenager turned himself in on Tuesday.&nbsp;Andrew Lester, 84, surrendered at the Clay County Detention Center and was booked on a $200,000 bond, a day after being charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action. Just before 2:30p.m., he bonded out of jail, according to online jail records.Some civil rights leaders urged a hate crime charge but Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said first-degree assault is a higher-level crime with a longer sentence — up to life in prison.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681726215314.png" alt="-Ralph Yarl photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>-Ralph Yarl photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>Meanwhile, Yarl was home recovering from his wounds.“Ralph is doing considerably well," his mother, Cleo Nagbe, told&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbs.com/shows/cbs-mornings/">“CBS Mornings”</a>&nbsp;co-host Gayle King. "Physically, mornings are hard, but his spirits are in a good place. I borrow from his spirits.”Nagbe said the trauma remains evident. She said her son is “able to communicate mostly when he feels like it, but mostly he just sits there and stares and the buckets of tears just rolls down his eyes.”“You can see that he is just replaying the situation over and over again, and that just doesn’t stop my tears either,” she said.The shooting happened about 10 p.m. on Thursday. Police Chief Stacey Graves said that Yarl’s parents asked him to pick up his twin brothers at a home on 115th Terrace.Yarl, an honor student and all-state band member, mistakenly went to 115th Street — a block away from where he meant to be. When he rang the bell, Lester came to the door and shot Yarl in the forehead — then shot him again, in the right forearm.Lester faces arraignment Wednesday afternoon. He does not yet have a listed attorney.Lester told police he lives alone and was “scared to death” when he saw a Black male on the porch and thought someone was trying to break in, according to the probable cause statement.No words were exchanged before the shooting, but afterward, as Yarl got up to run, he heard Lester yell, “Don’t come around here,” the statement said.Yarl ran to “multiple” homes asking for help before finding someone who would call the police, the statement said.James Lynch was the neighbor who found Yarl. Lynch didn’t immediately respond to an interview request but his wife, Tiffany, in a brief interview, confirmed an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/good-samaritan-helped-ralph-yarl-found-bloody-motionless-didnt-deserve-rcna80116?cid=sm_npd_nn_tw_ma">NBC News</a>&nbsp;report that said Lynch heard shouting and saw Yarl banging on the door of another home.“I heard somebody screaming, ‘Help, help, I’ve been shot!’” Lynch, who is white, told NBC. The father of three ran out and found Yarl covered in blood. Lynch checked his pulse and, when another neighbor came out with towels, helped stem the bleeding until paramedics arrived.“He just wants the family to know that Ralph wasn’t alone,” Tiffany Lynch said, adding that the action was typical of her husband.“He helps out anyone he can and always has,” she said.The shooting outraged many in Kansas City and across the country. Civic and political leaders — including President Joe Biden — demanded justice. Biden also invited Yarl to the White House.“No parent should have to worry that their kid will be shot after ringing the wrong doorbell,” Biden said on Twitter. “We’ve got to keep up the fight against gun violence.”“And Ralph, we’ll see you in the Oval once you feel better.”Thompson said Monday that there was a “racial component” to the shooting. He did not elaborate. But Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Alexander Higginbotham clarified in an email to The Associated Press on Tuesday that “there is not a racial element to the legal charges that were filed.”Still, some — including lawyers for Yarl's family — pressed the racial dimension of the case. A protest rally was planned Tuesday afternoon, and several civil rights organizations planned a news conference there.“The police are not treating this case in the same way Black people accused of murder are treated," Missouri NAACP President Nimrod Chapel Jr. said in a statement. "A Black suspect would have been in jail.”Higginbotham said the prosecutor's office policy is to wait for a criminal referral from police. “KCPD submitted their referral to us on Monday afternoon and charges were filed within approximately an hour of the case being referred to us by law enforcement,” he said in an email.The assault charge carries a penalty of up to life in prison. Lester also was charged with armed criminal action, which has a penalty range of three to 15 years in prison.It wasn't immediately clear if the U.S. Department of Justice was investigating. Messages left with a spokesman were not immediately returned.Charging Lester with a hate crime would have potentially meant a shorter sentence if he's convicted, experts said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Proud today to stand with the Staley High School Black Student Union and the entire student body who marched in unity today to support their classmate, Ralph Yarl. Our young people will change this world for the better. <a href="https://t.co/UOFx6fHhmW">pic.twitter.com/UOFx6fHhmW</a>&mdash; Mayor Q (@QuintonLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/QuintonLucasKC/status/1648420140827156480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Washington University School of Law Professor Peter Joy said the state hate crime law is used only to enhance low-level felony or misdemeanor charges, taking them no higher than a class-C felony level, with a penalty range of three to 10 years upon conviction.“What the prosecutor did was charge (Lester) with the highest degree of felony they could charge him with,” Joy said.Legal experts believe Lester's lawyers will claim self-defense under Missouri’s “Stand Your Ground” law. The law allows for use of deadly force if a person is in fear for their life. Missouri is among roughly 30 states with such statutes.Robert Spitzer, a professor emeritus of political science at the State University of New York, Cortland, whose research focuses on gun policy and politics, said the Missouri law provides “wide latitude for people to use lethal force.”St. Louis defense attorney Nina McDonnell agreed. She said prosecutors have a strong case but the Stand Your Ground law defense is a “huge hurdle” to overcome.“The defendant was in his house and has expressed that he was in fear," McDonnell said.By Tuesday morning, a GoFundMe page set up for Yarl had raised $2.9 million from 77,000 donations.