VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis criticized laws that criminalize homosexuality as “unjust,” saying God loves all his children just as they are and called on Catholic bishops who support the laws to welcome LGBTQ people into the church.

“Being homosexual isn’t a crime,”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-ap-interview-highlights-8b9ec42afec4e0c0691a54f756b257bc">Francis said</a>&nbsp;during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-retirement-papacy-dcca464e7c1fd910568d07d6bf4d9994">an interview Tuesday</a>&nbsp;with The Associated Press.

Francis acknowledged that Catholic bishops in some parts of the world support laws that criminalize homosexuality or discriminate against the LGBTQ community, and he himself referred to the issue in terms of “sin.” But he attributed such attitudes to cultural backgrounds, and said bishops in particular need to undergo a process of change to recognize the dignity of everyone.

“These bishops have to have a process of conversion,” he said, adding that they should apply “tenderness, please, as God has for each one of us."

Some 67 countries or jurisdictions worldwide criminalize consensual same-sex sexual activity, 11 of which can or do impose the death penalty, according to The Human Dignity Trust, which works to end such laws. Experts say even where the laws are not enforced, they contribute to harassment, stigmatization and violence against LGBTQ people.

In the U.S., more than a dozen states still have anti-sodomy laws on the books, despite a 2003 Supreme Court ruling declaring them unconstitutional. Gay rights advocates say the antiquated laws are used to harass homosexuals, and point to new legislation, such as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/florida-dont-say-gay-law-signed-56aee61f075a12663f25990c7b31624d">“Don’t say gay” law in Florida</a>, which forbids instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in kindergarten through third grade, as evidence of continued efforts to marginalize LGBTQ people.

The United Nations has repeatedly called for an end to laws criminalizing homosexuality outright, saying they violate rights to privacy and freedom from discrimination and are a breach of countries’ obligations under international law to protect the human rights of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Declaring such laws “unjust,” Francis said the Catholic Church can and should work to put an end to them. “It must do this. It must do this,” he said.

Francis quoted the Catechism of the Catholic Church in saying gay people must be welcomed and respected, and should not be marginalized or discriminated against.

“We are all children of God, and God loves us as we are and for the strength that each of us fights for our dignity,” Francis said, speaking to the AP in the Vatican hotel where he lives.

Such laws are common in Africa and the Middle East and date from British colonial times or are inspired by Islamic law. Some Catholic bishops have strongly upheld them as consistent with Vatican teaching that considers homosexual activity “intrinsically disordered,” while others have called for them to be overturned as a violation of basic human dignity.

In 2019, Francis had been expected to issue a statement opposing criminalization of homosexuality during a meeting with human rights groups that conducted research into the effects of such laws and so-called “conversion therapies.”

In the end, the pope did not meet with the groups, which instead met with the Vatican No. 2, who reaffirmed “the dignity of every human person and against every form of violence.”

On Tuesday, Francis said there needed to be a distinction between a crime and a sin with regard to homosexuality.

“Being homosexual is not a crime," he said. "It's not a crime. Yes, but it's a sin. Fine, but first let's distinguish between a sin and a crime."

"It's also a sin to lack charity with one another," he added.

Catholic teaching holds that while gay people must be treated with respect, homosexual acts are “intrinsically disordered.” Francis has not changed that teaching, but he has made reaching out to the LGBTQ community a hallmark of his papacy.

Starting with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/archive-pope-benedict-xvi-pope-francis-7b465b60945f40deb3a68b3de742f84a">his famous 2013 declaration</a>, “Who am I to judge?” when he was asked about a purportedly gay priest, Francis has gone on to minister repeatedly and publicly to the gay and trans community. As archbishop of Buenos Aires, he favored granting legal protections to same-sex couples as an alternative to endorsing gay marriage, which Catholic doctrine forbids.

Despite such outreach, Francis was criticized by the Catholic LGBTQ community for a 2021 decree from the Vatican’s doctrine office that the church cannot bless same-sex unions “because God cannot bless sin.”

The Vatican in 2008 declined to sign onto a U.N. declaration that called for the decriminalization of homosexuality, complaining the text went beyond the original scope and also included language about “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” it found problematic. In a statement at the time, the Vatican urged countries to avoid “unjust discrimination” against gay people and end penalties against them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615845367722.png" alt="“Being homosexual isn’t a crime,”&nbsp;Francis said&nbsp;during&nbsp;an interview Tuesday&nbsp;with The Associated Press.-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>“Being homosexual isn’t a crime,”&nbsp;Francis said&nbsp;during&nbsp;an interview Tuesday&nbsp;with The Associated Press.-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis criticized laws that criminalize homosexuality as “unjust,” saying God loves all his children just as they are and called on Catholic bishops who support the laws to welcome LGBTQ people into the church.“Being homosexual isn’t a crime,”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-ap-interview-highlights-8b9ec42afec4e0c0691a54f756b257bc">Francis said</a>&nbsp;during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-retirement-papacy-dcca464e7c1fd910568d07d6bf4d9994">an interview Tuesday</a>&nbsp;with The Associated Press.Francis acknowledged that Catholic bishops in some parts of the world support laws that criminalize homosexuality or discriminate against the LGBTQ community, and he himself referred to the issue in terms of “sin.” But he attributed such attitudes to cultural backgrounds, and said bishops in particular need to undergo a process of change to recognize the dignity of everyone.“These bishops have to have a process of conversion,” he said, adding that they should apply “tenderness, please, as God has for each one of us."Some 67 countries or jurisdictions worldwide criminalize consensual same-sex sexual activity, 11 of which can or do impose the death penalty, according to The Human Dignity Trust, which works to end such laws. Experts say even where the laws are not enforced, they contribute to harassment, stigmatization and violence against LGBTQ people.In the U.S., more than a dozen states still have anti-sodomy laws on the books, despite a 2003 Supreme Court ruling declaring them unconstitutional. Gay rights advocates say the antiquated laws are used to harass homosexuals, and point to new legislation, such as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/florida-dont-say-gay-law-signed-56aee61f075a12663f25990c7b31624d">“Don’t say gay” law in Florida</a>, which forbids instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in kindergarten through third grade, as evidence of continued efforts to marginalize LGBTQ people.The United Nations has repeatedly called for an end to laws criminalizing homosexuality outright, saying they violate rights to privacy and freedom from discrimination and are a breach of countries’ obligations under international law to protect the human rights of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.Declaring such laws “unjust,” Francis said the Catholic Church can and should work to put an end to them. “It must do this. It must do this,” he said.Francis quoted the Catechism of the Catholic Church in saying gay people must be welcomed and respected, and should not be marginalized or discriminated against.“We are all children of God, and God loves us as we are and for the strength that each of us fights for our dignity,” Francis said, speaking to the AP in the Vatican hotel where he lives.Such laws are common in Africa and the Middle East and date from British colonial times or are inspired by Islamic law. Some Catholic bishops have strongly upheld them as consistent with Vatican teaching that considers homosexual activity “intrinsically disordered,” while others have called for them to be overturned as a violation of basic human dignity.In 2019, Francis had been expected to issue a statement opposing criminalization of homosexuality during a meeting with human rights groups that conducted research into the effects of such laws and so-called “conversion therapies.”In the end, the pope did not meet with the groups, which instead met with the Vatican No. 2, who reaffirmed “the dignity of every human person and against every form of violence.”On Tuesday, Francis said there needed to be a distinction between a crime and a sin with regard to homosexuality.“Being homosexual is not a crime," he said. "It's not a crime. Yes, but it's a sin. Fine, but first let's distinguish between a sin and a crime.""It's also a sin to lack charity with one another," he added.Catholic teaching holds that while gay people must be treated with respect, homosexual acts are “intrinsically disordered.” Francis has not changed that teaching, but he has made reaching out to the LGBTQ community a hallmark of his papacy.Starting with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/archive-pope-benedict-xvi-pope-francis-7b465b60945f40deb3a68b3de742f84a">his famous 2013 declaration</a>, “Who am I to judge?” when he was asked about a purportedly gay priest, Francis has gone on to minister repeatedly and publicly to the gay and trans community. As archbishop of Buenos Aires, he favored granting legal protections to same-sex couples as an alternative to endorsing gay marriage, which Catholic doctrine forbids.Despite such outreach, Francis was criticized by the Catholic LGBTQ community for a 2021 decree from the Vatican’s doctrine office that the church cannot bless same-sex unions “because God cannot bless sin.”The Vatican in 2008 declined to sign onto a U.N. declaration that called for the decriminalization of homosexuality, complaining the text went beyond the original scope and also included language about “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” it found problematic. In a statement at the time, the Vatican urged countries to avoid “unjust discrimination” against gay people and end penalties against them.

The AP Interview: Pope Francis: Homosexuality not a crime

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden announced Wednesday that the U.S. will send 31 M1 Abrams battle tanks to Ukraine, reversing months of persistent arguments that the tanks were too difficult for Ukrainian troops to operate and maintain.

(Click below to listen to the President's statement)

The U.S. decision came on the heels of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-german-tanks-435da2221bf452a8aae9d2e58d23acae">Germany agreeing to send 14 Leopard 2 A6 tanks</a>&nbsp;from its own stocks. Germany had said the Leopards would not be sent unless the U.S. put its Abrams on the table, not wanting to incur Russia's wrath without the U.S. similarly committing its own tanks.

Biden said that in total European allies have agreed to send enough tanks to equip two Ukrainian tank battalions, or a total of 62 tanks.

“With spring approaching, Ukrainian forces are working to defend the territory they hold and preparing for additional counter offenses," Biden said in his announcement of his decision to send the tanks. “To liberate their land, they need to be able to counter Russia’s evolving tactics and strategy on the battlefield in the very near term.”

The announcement ends a standoff between Germany and the United States. Biden administration officials on Wednesday sought to downplay any friction between the two countries as both unveiled their plans.

Both sides had participated in "good diplomatic conversations” that had made the difference and were part of the “extraordinary shift in Germany’s security policy" over providing weapons to Ukraine&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">since Russia invaded 11 months ago</a>, said a senior administration official, who briefed reporters Wednesday on the condition of anonymity to describe the new tank package before the announcement.

The $400 million package announced Wednesday also includes eight M88 recovery vehicles — tank-like tracked vehicles that can tow the Abrams if it gets stuck.

Altogether, France, the U.K., the U.S., Poland, Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden will send hundreds of tanks and heavy armored vehicles to fortify Ukraine as it enters a new phase of the war and attempts to break through entrenched Russian lines.

But there were few answers about which U.S. tanks would be sent — whether they would be pulled from the existing stockpile of more than 4,000 Abrams and retrofitted, or whether the U.S. would use the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative to buy new systems to possibly backfill allies who send their own or buy new systems outright for Ukraine.

Either way, using the assistance initiative funding route means that while Abrams have now been promised to Ukraine, it will likely be many months before the tanks are actually on the battlefield, and not in time for Russia's anticipated spring offensive.

Russian Ambassador to Germany Sergey Nechayev on Wednesday called Berlin’s decision to send Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine “extremely dangerous.”

Nechayev said in an online statement that the move “shifts the conflict to a new level of confrontation and contradicts the statements of German politicians about their reluctance to get involved in it.”

“We’re seeing yet again that Germany, as well as its closest allies, is not interested in a diplomatic resolution of the Ukraine crisis, it is determined to permanently escalate it and to indefinitely pump the Kyiv regime full of new lethal weapons,” the statement read.

Until now, the U.S. has resisted providing its own M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, citing extensive and complex maintenance and logistical challenges with the high-tech vehicles. Washington believes it would be more productive to send German Leopards since many allies have them and Ukrainian troops would need less training than on the more difficult Abrams.

Biden in an exchange with reporters bristled at the notion that Germany, which had declined to provide tanks until the U.S. agreed to provide its Abrams, forced his hand.

“Germany didn’t force me to change (my) mind,” Biden said. “We wanted to make sure we were all together.”

Just last week, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl told reporters that the Abrams is complicated, expensive, difficult to maintain and hard to train on. One thing Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been very focused on, he said, “is that we should not be providing the Ukrainians systems they can’t repair, they can’t sustain, and that they, over the long term, can’t afford, because it’s not helpful.”

For the Abrams to be effective in Ukraine, its forces will require extensive training on combined arms maneuver — how the tanks operate together on the battlefield — and on how to maintain and support the complex, 70-ton weapon. The Abrams tanks use a turbine jet engine to propel themselves that burns through at least two gallons a mile regardless of whether they are moving or idling, which means that a network of fuel trucks is needed to keep the line moving.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674666335585.png" alt="Biden said that in total European allies have agreed to send enough tanks to equip two Ukrainian tank battalions, or a total of 62 tanks." />
 <figcaption>Biden said that in total European allies have agreed to send enough tanks to equip two Ukrainian tank battalions, or a total of 62 tanks.</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden announced Wednesday that the U.S. will send 31 M1 Abrams battle tanks to Ukraine, reversing months of persistent arguments that the tanks were too difficult for Ukrainian troops to operate and maintain.(Click below to listen to the President's statement)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F586264320182077%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=5" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The U.S. decision came on the heels of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-german-tanks-435da2221bf452a8aae9d2e58d23acae">Germany agreeing to send 14 Leopard 2 A6 tanks</a>&nbsp;from its own stocks. Germany had said the Leopards would not be sent unless the U.S. put its Abrams on the table, not wanting to incur Russia's wrath without the U.S. similarly committing its own tanks.Biden said that in total European allies have agreed to send enough tanks to equip two Ukrainian tank battalions, or a total of 62 tanks.“With spring approaching, Ukrainian forces are working to defend the territory they hold and preparing for additional counter offenses," Biden said in his announcement of his decision to send the tanks. “To liberate their land, they need to be able to counter Russia’s evolving tactics and strategy on the battlefield in the very near term.”The announcement ends a standoff between Germany and the United States. Biden administration officials on Wednesday sought to downplay any friction between the two countries as both unveiled their plans.Both sides had participated in "good diplomatic conversations” that had made the difference and were part of the “extraordinary shift in Germany’s security policy" over providing weapons to Ukraine&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">since Russia invaded 11 months ago</a>, said a senior administration official, who briefed reporters Wednesday on the condition of anonymity to describe the new tank package before the announcement.The $400 million package announced Wednesday also includes eight M88 recovery vehicles — tank-like tracked vehicles that can tow the Abrams if it gets stuck.Altogether, France, the U.K., the U.S., Poland, Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden will send hundreds of tanks and heavy armored vehicles to fortify Ukraine as it enters a new phase of the war and attempts to break through entrenched Russian lines.But there were few answers about which U.S. tanks would be sent — whether they would be pulled from the existing stockpile of more than 4,000 Abrams and retrofitted, or whether the U.S. would use the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative to buy new systems to possibly backfill allies who send their own or buy new systems outright for Ukraine.Either way, using the assistance initiative funding route means that while Abrams have now been promised to Ukraine, it will likely be many months before the tanks are actually on the battlefield, and not in time for Russia's anticipated spring offensive.Russian Ambassador to Germany Sergey Nechayev on Wednesday called Berlin’s decision to send Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine “extremely dangerous.”Nechayev said in an online statement that the move “shifts the conflict to a new level of confrontation and contradicts the statements of German politicians about their reluctance to get involved in it.”“We’re seeing yet again that Germany, as well as its closest allies, is not interested in a diplomatic resolution of the Ukraine crisis, it is determined to permanently escalate it and to indefinitely pump the Kyiv regime full of new lethal weapons,” the statement read.Until now, the U.S. has resisted providing its own M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine, citing extensive and complex maintenance and logistical challenges with the high-tech vehicles. Washington believes it would be more productive to send German Leopards since many allies have them and Ukrainian troops would need less training than on the more difficult Abrams.Biden in an exchange with reporters bristled at the notion that Germany, which had declined to provide tanks until the U.S. agreed to provide its Abrams, forced his hand.“Germany didn’t force me to change (my) mind,” Biden said. “We wanted to make sure we were all together.”Just last week, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl told reporters that the Abrams is complicated, expensive, difficult to maintain and hard to train on. One thing Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been very focused on, he said, “is that we should not be providing the Ukrainians systems they can’t repair, they can’t sustain, and that they, over the long term, can’t afford, because it’s not helpful.”For the Abrams to be effective in Ukraine, its forces will require extensive training on combined arms maneuver — how the tanks operate together on the battlefield — and on how to maintain and support the complex, 70-ton weapon. The Abrams tanks use a turbine jet engine to propel themselves that burns through at least two gallons a mile regardless of whether they are moving or idling, which means that a network of fuel trucks is needed to keep the line moving.___

🎥U.S. joins Germany, will send tanks to battle Russians in Ukraine

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Health reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;2,148 new coronavirus cases in Kansas from Jan. 18 to Jan. 25, for a total of&nbsp; 926,022 cases.&nbsp;&nbsp;The state reported 1,937 cases the previous week.

On Wednesday, th<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1529/June-15-Case-Summary-PDF?bidId=">e state reported</a>&nbsp;41 additional COVID-19 deaths since the report on Jan. 18, for a total of 9,944.

<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/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

Kansas is providing 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;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Health reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;2,148 new coronavirus cases in Kansas from Jan. 18 to Jan. 25, for a total of&nbsp; 926,022 cases.&nbsp;&nbsp;The state reported 1,937 cases the previous week.On Wednesday, th<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1529/June-15-Case-Summary-PDF?bidId=">e state reported</a>&nbsp;41 additional COVID-19 deaths since the report on Jan. 18, for a total of 9,944.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674669465422.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/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.Kansas is providing 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 reports jump in number of COVID cases, 41 more deaths

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on felony allegations after a high-speed chase. Just after 10a.m. Tuesday, deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a red 2013 Ford Raptor near NW Topeka Boulevard and NW Paramore Street for traffic violations, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

The driver refused to stop and fled the area at a high rate of speed into&nbsp; &nbsp;Douglas County. At 10:21a.m., deputies located the vehicle and driver just inside of Douglas County, parked at a dead end.

The driver, Mitchell Glynn, 61, of Topeka, was placed into custody. He received medical attention on scene and at a local hospital for self inflicted injuries he sustained when he attempted to exit the vehicle. Glynn was then booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of felony interference with law enforcement, fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer, operating a motor vehicle without a valid license, operating a vehicle without registration and transporting an open container of liquor. In addition, Glynn had four felony warrants for his arrest through Shawnee County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674669052854.png" alt="Glynn-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Glynn-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on felony allegations after a high-speed chase. Just after 10a.m. Tuesday, deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a red 2013 Ford Raptor near NW Topeka Boulevard and NW Paramore Street for traffic violations, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. The driver refused to stop and fled the area at a high rate of speed into&nbsp; &nbsp;Douglas County. At 10:21a.m., deputies located the vehicle and driver just inside of Douglas County, parked at a dead end. The driver, Mitchell Glynn, 61, of Topeka, was placed into custody. He received medical attention on scene and at a local hospital for self inflicted injuries he sustained when he attempted to exit the vehicle. Glynn was then booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of felony interference with law enforcement, fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer, operating a motor vehicle without a valid license, operating a vehicle without registration and transporting an open container of liquor. In addition, Glynn had four felony warrants for his arrest through Shawnee County.

Wanted Kan. suspect captured after high-speed chase 

WASHINGTON —The Biden administration announced new actions Wednesday to increase fairness in the rental market and further principles of fair housing.

According to a statement from the White House, these actions align with a new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/White-House-Blueprint-for-a-Renters-Bill-of-Rights.pdf">Blueprint for a Renters Bill of Rights</a>&nbsp;that the Administration is also releasing.

The Blueprint lays out a set of principles to drive action by the federal government, state and local partners, and the private sector to strengthen tenant protections and encourage rental affordability. Key actions announced today include:

These new announcements are part of a broader set of federal actions that exemplify the principles laid out in the&nbsp;Blueprint for a Renters Bill of Rights, which underscores key protections every renter deserves:

In addition, the Administration is rallying state and local stakeholders and private housing actors to drive further action to protect renters in line with the Blueprint.&nbsp;As part of this effort, the Administration is launching the Resident-Centered Housing Challenge (Challenge),&nbsp;a call to action to housing providers and other stakeholders to strengthen practices and make their own independent commitments that improve the quality of life for renters. The Challenge, which will occur during the Spring of 2023, also encourages states, local, Tribal, and territorial governments to enhance existing policies and develop new ones that promote fairness and transparency in the rental market. Early commitments in support of the Challenge,&nbsp;which would&nbsp;affect&nbsp;over 15&nbsp;million rental units,&nbsp;include:

The Administration welcomes additional commitments from interested stakeholders to: pursue high-road practices aligned with the Blueprint principles; create new benefits for residents that enhance their economic mobility, build credit, and prepare them for homeownership; reduce or eliminating rental “junk fees,” which are the hidden fees, charges, and add-ons that take cash out of people’s pockets; expand pathways to eviction mitigation and prevention; and enhance and increase communication about tenant rights. To join the Challenge, interested partners&nbsp;can complete&nbsp;<a href="https://46eop.force.com/Surveys/survey/runtimeApp.app?invitationId=0Ki3d0000003QUe&amp;surveyName=rc_housing_challenge&amp;UUID=a8136910-abfe-46b9-b689-dd39a6068542">this survey</a>&nbsp;by April 28, 2023.Questions regarding the White House Resident-Centered Housing Challenge team, can be directed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:RCHousingChallenge@who.eop.gov">RCHousingChallenge@who.eop.gov</a>.

Over a third of the American population – 44 million households – rent their homes. Before the pandemic, well over 2 million eviction fillings and roughly 900,000 evictions occurred annually – disproportionately affecting Black women and their children. Since then, rental housing has become less affordable with some landlords taking advantage of market conditions to pursue egregious rent increases.&nbsp; Today’s announcements recognize there are responsible housing providers – large and small, national and local – willing to treat renters fairly, but it also holds accountable those who exploit market realities at the cost of renters’ housing access and stability.&nbsp;

Since taking office, the President has taken substantial steps to promote fairness in the rental market and ease the burden of rental costs for millions of American renters. The Administration kept the national eviction moratorium in place until August 2021, which helped to prevent over 1.5 million eviction filings nationwide. The Administration has delivered over 8 million rental or utility assistance payments to reduce renters’ risk of eviction or housing instability through Emergency Rental Assistance programs and provided over $769 million for housing stability services.&nbsp;Last May, the Administration released a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/05/16/president-biden-announces-new-actions-to-ease-the-burden-of-housing-costs/">Housing Supply Action Plan,</a>&nbsp;which set the goal of closing America’s housing supply shortfall in five years. The Administration has been making progress advancing a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/budget_fy22.pdf">long-term goal</a>&nbsp;of providing housing vouchers to all eligible households: the 2022 and 2023 President’s Budgets proposed to expand rental assistance to an additional 200,000 households – and the Administration has secured rental assistance to more than 100,000 households through the 2022 and 2033 appropriations bills and the American Rescue Plan. And, last week, HUD published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on its efforts to Affirmatively Further Fair Housing. &nbsp;&nbsp;

WASHINGTON —The Biden administration announced new actions Wednesday to increase fairness in the rental market and further principles of fair housing.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today, the Biden-Harris Administration released a historic Blueprint for a Renters Bill of Rights that lays out a set of principles to drive action to strengthen tenant protections and encourage rental affordability. Read more: <a href="https://t.co/3rDcJdOLZH">https://t.co/3rDcJdOLZH</a> <a href="https://t.co/GJR2FNejym">pic.twitter.com/GJR2FNejym</a>&mdash; Department of Housing and Urban Development (@HUDgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/HUDgov/status/1618287645263794176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>According to a statement from the White House, these actions align with a new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/White-House-Blueprint-for-a-Renters-Bill-of-Rights.pdf">Blueprint for a Renters Bill of Rights</a>&nbsp;that the Administration is also releasing. The Blueprint lays out a set of principles to drive action by the federal government, state and local partners, and the private sector to strengthen tenant protections and encourage rental affordability. Key actions announced today include:<ul>
 <li>The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), both independent agencies, announced they will collect information to identify practices that unfairly prevent applicants and tenants from accessing or staying in housing in order to inform enforcement and policy actions under each agency’s jurisdiction.&nbsp;This is the first time the FTC has issued a request for information exploring unfair practices in the rental market. The two agencies will seek information on a broad range of practices that affect the rental market, including the creation and use of tenant background checks, the use of algorithms in tenant screenings, the provision of adverse action notices by landlords and property management companies, and how an applicant’s source of income factors into housing decisions.</li><li>The CFPB announced it will issue guidance and coordinate enforcement efforts with the FTC to ensure accurate information in the credit reporting system and to hold background check companies accountable for having unreasonable procedures.</li><li>The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), an independent agency, announced it will launch a new public process to examine proposed actions promoting renter protections and limits on egregious rent increases for future investments. FHFA will maintain transparency throughout the process and provide periodic updates, including one within 6 months, to interested stakeholders. As announced in November, the FHFA will also increase affordability in the multifamily rental market by establishing requirements that encourage the financing of multifamily loans that guarantee affordable housing.&nbsp;In 2022, Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae purchased a combined $142 billion in multifamily loans supporting over one million units. If the same activity holds in 2023, this would mean an investment in approximately 700,000 affordable units.</li><li>A U.S. Department of Justice workshop will inform potential guidance updates around anti-competitive information sharing, including in rental markets.</li><li>The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development will publish a notice of proposed rulemaking that would require public housing authorities and owners of project-based rental assistance properties to provide at least 30 days’ advanced notice before terminating a lease due to nonpayment of rent.</li><li>The Administration will hold quarterly meetings with a&nbsp;broad, diverse, and varying&nbsp;group of&nbsp;tenants and tenant advocates to ensure they continue to have a seat at the table and can share ambitious ideas to strengthen tenant protections.</li>
 </ul>These new announcements are part of a broader set of federal actions that exemplify the principles laid out in the&nbsp;Blueprint for a Renters Bill of Rights, which underscores key protections every renter deserves:<ul>
 <li>Safe, Quality, Accessible, and Affordable Housing:&nbsp;Renters should have access to housing that is safe, decent, and affordable.</li><li>Clear and Fair Leases:&nbsp;Renters should have a clear and fair lease that has defined rental terms, rights, and responsibilities.</li><li>Education, Enforcement, and Enhancement of Renter Rights:&nbsp;Federal, state, and local governments should do all they can to ensure renters know their rights and to protect renters from unlawful discrimination and exclusion.</li><li>The Right to Organize:&nbsp;Renters should have the freedom to organize without obstruction or harassment from their housing provider or property manager.</li><li>Eviction Prevention, Diversion, and Relief:&nbsp;Renters should be able to access resources that help them avoid eviction, ensure the legal process during an eviction proceeding is fair, and avoid future housing instability.</li>
 </ul>In addition, the Administration is rallying state and local stakeholders and private housing actors to drive further action to protect renters in line with the Blueprint.&nbsp;As part of this effort, the Administration is launching the Resident-Centered Housing Challenge (Challenge),&nbsp;a call to action to housing providers and other stakeholders to strengthen practices and make their own independent commitments that improve the quality of life for renters. The Challenge, which will occur during the Spring of 2023, also encourages states, local, Tribal, and territorial governments to enhance existing policies and develop new ones that promote fairness and transparency in the rental market. Early commitments in support of the Challenge,&nbsp;which would&nbsp;affect&nbsp;over 15&nbsp;million rental units,&nbsp;include:<ul>
 <li>Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA)&nbsp;and&nbsp;Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency&nbsp;(PHFA)&nbsp;have capped annual rental increases to 5 percent per year for federally or state subsidized affordable housing. Beginning in 2023, WHEDA policy applies to existing residents in properties utilizing state or federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits.&nbsp;PHFA applied this policy to their portfolio of 450 properties with PHFA funding in 2022. &nbsp;</li><li>Members of the&nbsp;Stewards of Affordable Housing for the Future&nbsp;(SAHF), which collectively own or manage 145,000 housing units across the U.S., commit to offer flexible payment plans for residents with unpaid rent who have engaged with property management and to provide the following notices and protections where permitted by local law and financing documents: at least 30 days’ notice to vacate for nonpayment of rent; at least 5 days to cure a missed rent payment; and 60 days’ notice to tenants of any proposed sale or closure of a property. SAHF also commits to launching a task force of its members to identify best practices for resident-centered practices and share resources with the field including model policies and procedures, sample notices, and case studies.</li><li>Realtor.com Rentals&nbsp;will pilot a new listing process through their DIY landlord product,&nbsp;Avail, highlighting units and landlords that indicate that they welcome Housing Choice Vouchers. Realtor.com will be able to share this information with its nearly 5 million monthly rentals search visitors. They will also ensure that more than 1.3 million Avail renters have access to their application information so they can submit their application to multiple property owners on the platform without additional cost.</li><li>The&nbsp;National Apartment Association&nbsp;commits to promoting resident programming and practices, such as helping tenants build and improve credit through reporting of positive rent payments to credit bureaus, through their website, industry events and other content channels that reach a network of more over 95,000 members owning and operating more than 11.6 million apartment homes globally.</li><li>The&nbsp;National Association of Realtors&nbsp;and its affiliate, the&nbsp;Institute of Real Estate Management, commit to creating new resources for property managers in their network of 1.5 million members that highlight ways they can incorporate resident-centered property management practices in their businesses. Practices would include a range of examples that have proven effective, such as advertising to prospective residents that Housing Choice Vouchers are accepted at their property, providing information about rental assistance, and using alternative credit scores for applicants without a detailed credit history.&nbsp;</li><li>The&nbsp;National Multifamily Housing Council&nbsp;commits to working with its 2,000 members to identify business standards that align with principles of resident-centered management practices, such as helping residents build credit, providing resource information to residents in financial distress, and communicating these practices through a new resource hub on its website.</li>
 </ul>The Administration welcomes additional commitments from interested stakeholders to: pursue high-road practices aligned with the Blueprint principles; create new benefits for residents that enhance their economic mobility, build credit, and prepare them for homeownership; reduce or eliminating rental “junk fees,” which are the hidden fees, charges, and add-ons that take cash out of people’s pockets; expand pathways to eviction mitigation and prevention; and enhance and increase communication about tenant rights. To join the Challenge, interested partners&nbsp;can complete&nbsp;<a href="https://46eop.force.com/Surveys/survey/runtimeApp.app?invitationId=0Ki3d0000003QUe&amp;surveyName=rc_housing_challenge&amp;UUID=a8136910-abfe-46b9-b689-dd39a6068542">this survey</a>&nbsp;by April 28, 2023.Questions regarding the White House Resident-Centered Housing Challenge team, can be directed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:RCHousingChallenge@who.eop.gov">RCHousingChallenge@who.eop.gov</a>.Over a third of the American population – 44 million households – rent their homes. Before the pandemic, well over 2 million eviction fillings and roughly 900,000 evictions occurred annually – disproportionately affecting Black women and their children. Since then, rental housing has become less affordable with some landlords taking advantage of market conditions to pursue egregious rent increases.&nbsp; Today’s announcements recognize there are responsible housing providers – large and small, national and local – willing to treat renters fairly, but it also holds accountable those who exploit market realities at the cost of renters’ housing access and stability.&nbsp;Since taking office, the President has taken substantial steps to promote fairness in the rental market and ease the burden of rental costs for millions of American renters. The Administration kept the national eviction moratorium in place until August 2021, which helped to prevent over 1.5 million eviction filings nationwide. The Administration has delivered over 8 million rental or utility assistance payments to reduce renters’ risk of eviction or housing instability through Emergency Rental Assistance programs and provided over $769 million for housing stability services.&nbsp;Last May, the Administration released a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/05/16/president-biden-announces-new-actions-to-ease-the-burden-of-housing-costs/">Housing Supply Action Plan,</a>&nbsp;which set the goal of closing America’s housing supply shortfall in five years. The Administration has been making progress advancing a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/budget_fy22.pdf">long-term goal</a>&nbsp;of providing housing vouchers to all eligible households: the 2022 and 2023 President’s Budgets proposed to expand rental assistance to an additional 200,000 households – and the Administration has secured rental assistance to more than 100,000 households through the 2022 and 2033 appropriations bills and the American Rescue Plan. And, last week, HUD published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on its efforts to Affirmatively Further Fair Housing. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Biden rolls out 'Renters Bill of Rights' in push for federal rent control law

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly called Tuesday for Kansas officials to stop distracting themselves with "wedge issues” in education, sharply rebuking a Republican-controlled Legislature pursuing policies catering to conservative parents unhappy with public schools.

<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Governor-Laura-Kelly-Delivers-2023-State-of-the-State-Address.pdf">Click here to read</a> a transcript of the address or below to watch&nbsp;

Kelly used her annual State of the State address to decry what she called efforts to “turn parents against teachers” and "communities against their schools.” She wasn't specific, but top Republicans have promised to pursue several ideas in vogue in GOP-led states, including restrictions on what public K-12 schools can teach&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-kansas-city-state-government-gender-7f11f63aaf26e193aa9d30d935747002">about gender and sexuality.</a>

Republican lawmakers plan to pursue a measure to allow parents to claim tax dollars previously earmarked for public schools to cover private or home schooling costs. Iowa’s GOP-controlled Legislature&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-florida-nebraska-kim-reynolds-iowa-1fdab7c898730873b8c3b880223c5306">approved such a plan</a>&nbsp;early Tuesday. Kelly strongly opposes the idea.

Kelly also toughened her tone in advocating for the legalization of marijuana for medical uses, calling the state's current prohibition “ridiculous.” She highlighted the case of a terminally ill man who had his&nbsp;<a>northwestern Kansas hospital room raided by police</a>&nbsp;because he was using marijuana extracts to ease his pain.

The Democratic governor's tough talk on these issues contrasted with her extolling the pursuit of middle-of-the-road policies elsewhere in Tuesday evening's address to a joint session of the House and Senate. She also called for continued bipartisanship in the inaugural address that opened her second, four-year term earlier this month.

“We all agree our kids do better when parents and teachers are involved in their education,” Kelly said in her 40-minute speech. “So, rather than distracting ourselves with wedge issues, let's focus on giving them both the resources and the support that they need.”

Kelly had been scheduled to give the State of the State on Jan. 11 but tested positive for COVID-19 the day before, only to learn later it was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-kansas-state-government-covid-5b3711d2f19bc08e0dde29297bf3f41b">a false positive.</a>&nbsp;Her office went ahead with releasing her proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-kansas-state-government-leavenworth-topeka-d0401d9088c104143632e4bbb97ca3a1">$24.1 billion state budget</a>&nbsp;for the 2024 fiscal year beginning July 1.

She ended up giving the address on her 73rd birthday, and lawmakers serenaded her with “Happy Birthday," followed by applause.

The state is flush with cash, and Kelly already had proposed a series of tax cuts, including the elimination of the state's 4% sales tax on groceries on April 1. Republican leaders are pushing a proposal to move Kansas to a “flat” income tax, with one rate each for individual and corporate filers, instead of three for individuals and two for corporations.

Republicans outlined an agenda two weeks ago that includes measures popular with GOP conservatives in numerous other states, including a ban on transgender athletes in girls and women's K-12, club and college sports. Kelly has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/topeka-kansas-legislature-libraries-9ffb07cf3b25faf848dda6d78bff8856">vetoed two previous proposals.</a>

In Republicans' official response, taped two weeks ago, Senate President Ty Masterson, a Wichita-area Republican, said that under Kelly, the state is on a path toward making K-12 schools "into little more than factories for a radical social agenda.” Masterson has said he wants to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-kansas-city-state-government-gender-7f11f63aaf26e193aa9d30d935747002">pursue restrictions</a>&nbsp;on how public schools discuss gender and sexuality, like what critics call Florida’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/florida-dont-say-gay-law-signed-56aee61f075a12663f25990c7b31624d">“Don’t Say Gay”</a>&nbsp;law.

Kelly declared: "Know this: I will oppose any efforts that are designed to turn parents against teachers, to turn communities against their schools and to turn young people away from the teaching profession.”

State Rep. Kristey Williams, a Wichita-area Republican chairing a House committee on K-12 spending, said she is working on a plan for education savings accounts for parents, using tax dollars. Masterson said the GOP will “focus on students, not legacy systems.”

“We want high quality classical education that focuses on academic excellence, preparing our kids for a successful future, not the sexualized woke agenda we see permeating the system today,” Masterson said.

Kelly's address came only hours after hundreds of abortion opponents and parochial school students rallied outside the Statehouse to mark last Sunday's 50th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision, which the U.S. Supreme Court overturned last year. But Kansas anti-abortion groups suffered a decisive political loss in August, when a statewide vote&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-primary-elections-kansas-abortion-b6d62a852c2ce4617f2c03589fbb523e">strongly affirmed protections</a>&nbsp;for abortion rights under the Kansas Constitution.

Kelly applauded the August vote but didn't mention abortion in the State of the State address. GOP lawmakers expect to push for millions of dollars in new funding for anti-abortion pregnancy counseling centers.

House Speaker Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican, opened his remarks at the anti-abortion rally with, “Good afternoon, God's warriors!” and promised, “We will continue to fight.”

Each year Kelly has been in office, she has called on legislators to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-medical-marijuana-kansas-marijuana-medicaid-a11663e4684db69315b71f1db5353013">expand Medicaid</a>&nbsp;as encouraged by the 2010 federal Affordable Care Act championed by former President Barack Obama. Republicans who strongly oppose the move have held enough key leadership jobs to block expansion, even as voters in other Republican-leaning states have embraced it, including Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska and Oklahoma.

Kelly also has pushed legislators to legalize marijuana for medical uses. While the House&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-health-medical-marijuana-marijuana-7f059c07fd72dbec30180f0f50f6dc74">approved a plan in 2021</a>, it never had even a committee vote in the Senate. Kelly's call for legalization this year inspired the most enthusiastic response from Democrats in her address.

“Every day, thousands of Kansans are forced to choose between breaking the law and living without pain,” Kelly said. “It is an unbearable choice — and an absolutely unnecessary one.”

Masterson said after the speech that the Senate would consider medical marijuana proposals this year.

But, he added: “I'm not going to be, like, shamed into doing it from some bad example.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674609426767.png" alt="Kelly used her annual State of the State address to decry what she called efforts to “turn parents against teachers” and "turn communities against their schools.” She wasn't specific, but top Republicans have promised to pursue several ideas in vogue in GOP-led states, including restrictions on what public K-12 schools can teach&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-kansas-city-state-government-gender-7f11f63aaf26e193aa9d30d935747002">about gender and sexuality</a>" />
 <figcaption>Kelly used her annual State of the State address to decry what she called efforts to “turn parents against teachers” and "turn communities against their schools.” She wasn't specific, but top Republicans have promised to pursue several ideas in vogue in GOP-led states, including restrictions on what public K-12 schools can teach&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-kansas-city-state-government-gender-7f11f63aaf26e193aa9d30d935747002">about gender and sexuality</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNA&nbsp;TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly called Tuesday for Kansas officials to stop distracting themselves with "wedge issues” in education, sharply rebuking a Republican-controlled Legislature pursuing policies catering to conservative parents unhappy with public schools.<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Governor-Laura-Kelly-Delivers-2023-State-of-the-State-Address.pdf">Click here to read</a> a transcript of the address or below to watch&nbsp;<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CJYLpiHptOQ?start=1824" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Kelly used her annual State of the State address to decry what she called efforts to “turn parents against teachers” and "communities against their schools.” She wasn't specific, but top Republicans have promised to pursue several ideas in vogue in GOP-led states, including restrictions on what public K-12 schools can teach&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-kansas-city-state-government-gender-7f11f63aaf26e193aa9d30d935747002">about gender and sexuality.</a>Republican lawmakers plan to pursue a measure to allow parents to claim tax dollars previously earmarked for public schools to cover private or home schooling costs. Iowa’s GOP-controlled Legislature&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-florida-nebraska-kim-reynolds-iowa-1fdab7c898730873b8c3b880223c5306">approved such a plan</a>&nbsp;early Tuesday. Kelly strongly opposes the idea.Kelly also toughened her tone in advocating for the legalization of marijuana for medical uses, calling the state's current prohibition “ridiculous.” She highlighted the case of a terminally ill man who had his&nbsp;<a>northwestern Kansas hospital room raided by police</a>&nbsp;because he was using marijuana extracts to ease his pain.The Democratic governor's tough talk on these issues contrasted with her extolling the pursuit of middle-of-the-road policies elsewhere in Tuesday evening's address to a joint session of the House and Senate. She also called for continued bipartisanship in the inaugural address that opened her second, four-year term earlier this month.“We all agree our kids do better when parents and teachers are involved in their education,” Kelly said in her 40-minute speech. “So, rather than distracting ourselves with wedge issues, let's focus on giving them both the resources and the support that they need.”Kelly had been scheduled to give the State of the State on Jan. 11 but tested positive for COVID-19 the day before, only to learn later it was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-kansas-state-government-covid-5b3711d2f19bc08e0dde29297bf3f41b">a false positive.</a>&nbsp;Her office went ahead with releasing her proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-kansas-state-government-leavenworth-topeka-d0401d9088c104143632e4bbb97ca3a1">$24.1 billion state budget</a>&nbsp;for the 2024 fiscal year beginning July 1.She ended up giving the address on her 73rd birthday, and lawmakers serenaded her with “Happy Birthday," followed by applause.The state is flush with cash, and Kelly already had proposed a series of tax cuts, including the elimination of the state's 4% sales tax on groceries on April 1. Republican leaders are pushing a proposal to move Kansas to a “flat” income tax, with one rate each for individual and corporate filers, instead of three for individuals and two for corporations.Republicans outlined an agenda two weeks ago that includes measures popular with GOP conservatives in numerous other states, including a ban on transgender athletes in girls and women's K-12, club and college sports. Kelly has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/topeka-kansas-legislature-libraries-9ffb07cf3b25faf848dda6d78bff8856">vetoed two previous proposals.</a>In Republicans' official response, taped two weeks ago, Senate President Ty Masterson, a Wichita-area Republican, said that under Kelly, the state is on a path toward making K-12 schools "into little more than factories for a radical social agenda.” Masterson has said he wants to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-kansas-city-state-government-gender-7f11f63aaf26e193aa9d30d935747002">pursue restrictions</a>&nbsp;on how public schools discuss gender and sexuality, like what critics call Florida’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/florida-dont-say-gay-law-signed-56aee61f075a12663f25990c7b31624d">“Don’t Say Gay”</a>&nbsp;law.Kelly declared: "Know this: I will oppose any efforts that are designed to turn parents against teachers, to turn communities against their schools and to turn young people away from the teaching profession.”State Rep. Kristey Williams, a Wichita-area Republican chairing a House committee on K-12 spending, said she is working on a plan for education savings accounts for parents, using tax dollars. Masterson said the GOP will “focus on students, not legacy systems.”“We want high quality classical education that focuses on academic excellence, preparing our kids for a successful future, not the sexualized woke agenda we see permeating the system today,” Masterson said.Kelly's address came only hours after hundreds of abortion opponents and parochial school students rallied outside the Statehouse to mark last Sunday's 50th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision, which the U.S. Supreme Court overturned last year. But Kansas anti-abortion groups suffered a decisive political loss in August, when a statewide vote&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-primary-elections-kansas-abortion-b6d62a852c2ce4617f2c03589fbb523e">strongly affirmed protections</a>&nbsp;for abortion rights under the Kansas Constitution.Kelly applauded the August vote but didn't mention abortion in the State of the State address. GOP lawmakers expect to push for millions of dollars in new funding for anti-abortion pregnancy counseling centers.House Speaker Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican, opened his remarks at the anti-abortion rally with, “Good afternoon, God's warriors!” and promised, “We will continue to fight.”Each year Kelly has been in office, she has called on legislators to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-medical-marijuana-kansas-marijuana-medicaid-a11663e4684db69315b71f1db5353013">expand Medicaid</a>&nbsp;as encouraged by the 2010 federal Affordable Care Act championed by former President Barack Obama. Republicans who strongly oppose the move have held enough key leadership jobs to block expansion, even as voters in other Republican-leaning states have embraced it, including Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska and Oklahoma.Kelly also has pushed legislators to legalize marijuana for medical uses. While the House&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-health-medical-marijuana-marijuana-7f059c07fd72dbec30180f0f50f6dc74">approved a plan in 2021</a>, it never had even a committee vote in the Senate. Kelly's call for legalization this year inspired the most enthusiastic response from Democrats in her address.“Every day, thousands of Kansans are forced to choose between breaking the law and living without pain,” Kelly said. “It is an unbearable choice — and an absolutely unnecessary one.”Masterson said after the speech that the Senate would consider medical marijuana proposals this year.But, he added: “I'm not going to be, like, shamed into doing it from some bad example.”

🎥 Governor decries 'distracting' Kansas with 'wedge issues'

OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities have arrested a suspect identified in the burglary that occurred at the Santa Fe Trail High School, 15701 S. California Road in Carbondale during the early morning hours of January 12. He was allegedly burglarizing a church.

Just after 3:30 p.m. Monday, police responded to the report of a burglary in progress at Love Fellowship Church, located at 2636 SE Minnesota Ave. in Topeka, according to Police Spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

Officers entered the church and located a suspect, later identified as Angel M. Wahquahboshkuk, 26, of Topeka. Wahquahboshkuk was taken into custody without incident. 

Upon continued clearing, a second suspect was found, identified as Dalton R. Quimby, 28, of Topeka. Both Wahquahboshkuk and Quimby were found to have various stolen items from the church. They were then arrested and later booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections

Quimby remains jail on requested charges that include&nbsp;Aggravated burglary; Locked non-dwelling for felony, theft, Theft;pocket-Picking Unknown Value;&nbsp;Criminal Damage To Property; Misdemeanor and Interference with Law enforcement.

Wahquahboshkuk was booked on various warrants.

&nbsp;USD 434 dismissed high school students early on Jan. 12, to allow deputies to investigate the school burglary. The high school resumed classes the following day.

Quimby is scheduled for a court appearance on May 12, according to online jail records.&nbsp;&nbsp; Charges for the burglary of Santa Fe Trail High School against Quimby have been submitted to the county attorney's office, according to the Osage County Sheriff's office.

OSAGE COUNTY– Law enforcement authorities investigating&nbsp; &nbsp;the burglary that occurred at the Santa Fe Trail High School, 15701 S. California Road in Carbondale during the early morning hours of January 12 have identified a&nbsp;person of interest, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.

The sheriff asked for the public’s assistance in locating Dalton R. Quimby, a 28-year-old white male, approximately 5-foot-11, 200 pounds, green eyes, and sandy blonde hair.

USD 434 dismissed high school students early on the 12th, to allow deputies to investigate. The high school will resumed classes on Friday.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Quimby is asked to contact the Osage County Sheriff’s Office at 785-828-3121, email tips@oscosheriff.org, Osage County Crime Stoppers at (877) OSCRIME, or their local law enforcement agency

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673573355483.png" alt="-Security camera image Osage Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>-Security camera image Osage Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities have arrested a suspect identified in the burglary that occurred at the Santa Fe Trail High School, 15701 S. California Road in Carbondale during the early morning hours of January 12. He was allegedly burglarizing a church.Just after 3:30 p.m. Monday, police responded to the report of a burglary in progress at Love Fellowship Church, located at 2636 SE Minnesota Ave. in Topeka, according to Police Spokesperson Rosie Nichols.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674594873481.png" alt="Quimby is being held in the Shawnee Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Quimby is being held in the Shawnee Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>Officers entered the church and located a suspect, later identified as Angel M. Wahquahboshkuk, 26, of Topeka. Wahquahboshkuk was taken into custody without incident. Upon continued clearing, a second suspect was found, identified as Dalton R. Quimby, 28, of Topeka. Both Wahquahboshkuk and Quimby were found to have various stolen items from the church. They were then arrested and later booked into the Shawnee County Department of CorrectionsQuimby remains jail on requested charges that include&nbsp;Aggravated burglary; Locked non-dwelling for felony, theft, Theft;pocket-Picking Unknown Value;&nbsp;Criminal Damage To Property; Misdemeanor and Interference with Law enforcement.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674595809858.png" alt=" Wahquahboshkuk-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption> Wahquahboshkuk-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Wahquahboshkuk was booked on various warrants.&nbsp;USD 434 dismissed high school students early on Jan. 12, to allow deputies to investigate the school burglary. The high school resumed classes the following day.Quimby is scheduled for a court appearance on May 12, according to online jail records.&nbsp;&nbsp; Charges for the burglary of Santa Fe Trail High School against Quimby have been submitted to the county attorney's office, according to the Osage County Sheriff's office.-------OSAGE COUNTY– Law enforcement authorities investigating&nbsp; &nbsp;the burglary that occurred at the Santa Fe Trail High School, 15701 S. California Road in Carbondale during the early morning hours of January 12 have identified a&nbsp;person of interest, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.The sheriff asked for the public’s assistance in locating Dalton R. Quimby, a 28-year-old white male, approximately 5-foot-11, 200 pounds, green eyes, and sandy blonde hair.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674080967196.png" alt="Quimby-photo Osage Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Quimby-photo Osage Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>USD 434 dismissed high school students early on the 12th, to allow deputies to investigate. The high school will resumed classes on Friday.Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Quimby is asked to contact the Osage County Sheriff’s Office at 785-828-3121, email tips@oscosheriff.org, Osage County Crime Stoppers at (877) OSCRIME, or their local law enforcement agency

Kan. high school burglary suspect caught burglarizing a church

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/01/24/broad-coalition-urges-kansas-lawmakers-to-amend-law-on-driving-license-revocations/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Sen. Oletha 
Faust-Goudeau says state law revoked driving privileges for failure to 
pay a traffic citation should be amended to give motorists the 
opportunity to apply for a restricted license so they could get to work 
and earn money to pay off the any penalties.

Faust-Goudeau, a Wichita Democrat who led efforts in the Kansas 
Legislature for previous changes to traffic law, told Senate colleagues 
Tuesday the idea was to open a path for an estimated 3,300 Kansans to 
secure a limited-use license. With that in hand, she said, those 
individuals could earn an income that could be devoted to paying fines, 
obtaining insurance and taking care of their families.

The state operates a program allowing more than 180,000 Kansans with 
suspended licenses to get back on the road with approval of the Kansas 
Division of Motor Vehicles. Kansans with a revoked license tied to 
nonpayment of fines or fees don’t qualify for the existing state 
program.

“It will simply allow them to participate in the current law within 
the restricted driver’s license program,” Faust-Goudeau said. “<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/sb2_00_0000.pdf">Senate Bill 2 will certainly help those Kansans</a>
 who want to go to work, they want to be law-abiding citizens. It will 
help them drive legally, make payments to the court and have insurance.”

The bill carving out the reprieve wouldn’t be available to people 
with DUIs or other major driving infractions. Nor could Senate Bill 2 be
 used by individuals convicted for driving with a canceled, suspended or
 revoked license more than three times. A person granted this restricted
 license by the state Division of Motor Vehicles would forfeit it if 
found guilty of another violation tied to suspension, revocation or 
cancellation of the license.

Sen. Mike Peterson, a Wichita Republican and chairman of the Senate 
Transportation Committee, said he expected the committee to work toward 
approving a bill to address the issue.

“This is an important bill. We want to obviously have more insured 
drivers on Kansas roads. Having more insured drivers makes us all safer 
and is good public policy for Kansas,” said Sen. Ethan Corson, D-Prairie
 Village.

A <a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/fisc_note_sb2_00_0000.pdf">divergent coalition endorsed the legislation</a>,
 including the NAACP, Americans for Prosperity, the Kansas Chamber and a
 representative of three Kansas law enforcement associations.

Jonathan Lueth, deputy state director of the Kansas chapter of 
Americans for Prosperity, said a Wisconsin study from 2017 indicated a 
valid driver’s license was often a better predictor of sustained 
employment than a high school diploma or GED credential. The same study,
 he said, revealed people with a driver’s license were twice as likely 
to have an income above the poverty level.

“We want to make sure we are providing folks an opportunity to break 
out of what can at times become a vicious cycle of failure to pay, 
incurring additional penalties, failing to pay back on those penalties 
and then snowballing from there,” Lueth said.

Marilyn Harp, former executive director of Kansas Legal Services, 
said the nonprofit National Safety Council declared suspension or 
revocation of licenses for non-moving violations, including failure to 
pay a traffic ticket, weren’t in the best interests of public safety.

“Their policy, at this point, is that driver’s license suspension 
should be limited to highway and traffic safety behavior,” Harp said.

She said the Legislature previously accommodated in statute the 
motorists charged with DUI by allowing those individuals back on the 
road through installation of an ignition interlock device. However, 
state statute didn’t address individuals who had licenses revoked for 
failure to pay a fine.

Glenda Overstreet, representing the Kansas chapter of the NAACP, said
 state lawmakers had an opportunity to “give people a reasonable 
opportunity to take care of their families, to be able to secure and 
ensure that they are able to keep a job and then also to be able to go 
to school and be productive citizens.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674591985407.png" alt="Sen. Oletha Faust-Goudeau, D-Wichita, urged the Senate Transportation Committee to support a bill amending state law to grant restricted driver’s licenses to people who had their license suspended due to nonpayment of traffic fines. The legislation was endorsed by a broad political coalition. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Oletha Faust-Goudeau, D-Wichita, urged the Senate Transportation Committee to support a bill amending state law to grant restricted driver’s licenses to people who had their license suspended due to nonpayment of traffic fines. The legislation was endorsed by a broad political coalition. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/01/24/broad-coalition-urges-kansas-lawmakers-to-amend-law-on-driving-license-revocations/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Sen. Oletha 
Faust-Goudeau says state law revoked driving privileges for failure to 
pay a traffic citation should be amended to give motorists the 
opportunity to apply for a restricted license so they could get to work 
and earn money to pay off the any penalties.Faust-Goudeau, a Wichita Democrat who led efforts in the Kansas 
Legislature for previous changes to traffic law, told Senate colleagues 
Tuesday the idea was to open a path for an estimated 3,300 Kansans to 
secure a limited-use license. With that in hand, she said, those 
individuals could earn an income that could be devoted to paying fines, 
obtaining insurance and taking care of their families.The state operates a program allowing more than 180,000 Kansans with 
suspended licenses to get back on the road with approval of the Kansas 
Division of Motor Vehicles. Kansans with a revoked license tied to 
nonpayment of fines or fees don’t qualify for the existing state 
program.“It will simply allow them to participate in the current law within 
the restricted driver’s license program,” Faust-Goudeau said. “<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/sb2_00_0000.pdf">Senate Bill 2 will certainly help those Kansans</a>
 who want to go to work, they want to be law-abiding citizens. It will 
help them drive legally, make payments to the court and have insurance.”The bill carving out the reprieve wouldn’t be available to people 
with DUIs or other major driving infractions. Nor could Senate Bill 2 be
 used by individuals convicted for driving with a canceled, suspended or
 revoked license more than three times. A person granted this restricted
 license by the state Division of Motor Vehicles would forfeit it if 
found guilty of another violation tied to suspension, revocation or 
cancellation of the license.Sen. Mike Peterson, a Wichita Republican and chairman of the Senate 
Transportation Committee, said he expected the committee to work toward 
approving a bill to address the issue.“This is an important bill. We want to obviously have more insured 
drivers on Kansas roads. Having more insured drivers makes us all safer 
and is good public policy for Kansas,” said Sen. Ethan Corson, D-Prairie
 Village.A <a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/fisc_note_sb2_00_0000.pdf">divergent coalition endorsed the legislation</a>,
 including the NAACP, Americans for Prosperity, the Kansas Chamber and a
 representative of three Kansas law enforcement associations.Jonathan Lueth, deputy state director of the Kansas chapter of 
Americans for Prosperity, said a Wisconsin study from 2017 indicated a 
valid driver’s license was often a better predictor of sustained 
employment than a high school diploma or GED credential. The same study,
 he said, revealed people with a driver’s license were twice as likely 
to have an income above the poverty level.“We want to make sure we are providing folks an opportunity to break 
out of what can at times become a vicious cycle of failure to pay, 
incurring additional penalties, failing to pay back on those penalties 
and then snowballing from there,” Lueth said.Marilyn Harp, former executive director of Kansas Legal Services, 
said the nonprofit National Safety Council declared suspension or 
revocation of licenses for non-moving violations, including failure to 
pay a traffic ticket, weren’t in the best interests of public safety.“Their policy, at this point, is that driver’s license suspension 
should be limited to highway and traffic safety behavior,” Harp said.She said the Legislature previously accommodated in statute the 
motorists charged with DUI by allowing those individuals back on the 
road through installation of an ignition interlock device. However, 
state statute didn’t address individuals who had licenses revoked for 
failure to pay a fine.Glenda Overstreet, representing the Kansas chapter of the NAACP, said
 state lawmakers had an opportunity to “give people a reasonable 
opportunity to take care of their families, to be able to secure and 
ensure that they are able to keep a job and then also to be able to go 
to school and be productive citizens.”

Coalition to lawmakers: Amend Kansas drivers license revocation law

SUMNER COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal hunting accident involving a dog stepping on a rifle have identified the man who died as 30-year-old Joseph Austin Smith of Wichita, according to the Sumner County Sheriff.

Just after 9:30a.m. Saturday, sheriff's deputies responded to the area of 80th Street South and River Road after report of&nbsp; a man who was shot in the back, according to a media release from the sheriff.

Smith was in the front passenger seat of the pickup when a dog stepped on the rifle in the back seat.&nbsp; The rifle fired a round that struck Smith.

EMS responded within minutes of the 911 call and started CPR, according to the sheriff's office. Smith was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and Wellington Fire and EMS also responded to the scene.

SUMNER COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal hunting accident involving a dog stepping on a rifle have identified the man who died as 30-year-old Joseph Austin Smith of Wichita, according to the Sumner County Sheriff.Just after 9:30a.m. Saturday, sheriff's deputies responded to the area of 80th Street South and River Road after report of&nbsp; a man who was shot in the back, according to a media release from the sheriff.Smith was in the front passenger seat of the pickup when a dog stepped on the rifle in the back seat.&nbsp; The rifle fired a round that struck Smith.EMS responded within minutes of the 911 call and started CPR, according to the sheriff's office. Smith was pronounced dead at the scene.The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and Wellington Fire and EMS also responded to the scene.

Sheriff IDs Kan. man who died after dog steps on rifle

TOPEKA - Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach and Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey are joining a lawsuit against the Biden administration over a new U.S. Department of Homeland Security program that unlawfully creates a de facto path the citizenship for hundreds of thousands of aliens.

<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/texas-v-biden-1-24-2023.pdf?sfvrsn=4c28bd1a_2">Click here to read</a> a copy of the lawsuit

“The Biden administration is once again shattering federal law in its effort to open our borders to as many illegal aliens as possible,” Kobach said. “The executive branch does not have the authority to redefine what immigration parole means. Kansas will stand firm against such illegal actions.”

The Texas Attorney General’s Office is leading the legal battle. Kansas and 18 other states joined the lawsuit.

Contrary to existing law, the program creates a pathway for participants to apply from their home country and gain lawful status to enter and stay in the U.S. for up to two years or longer. The DHS rule seeks to establish a new visa system allowing up to 360,000 aliens from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to be “paroled” into the United States every year. Congress has only authorized parole for foreign aliens who meet very specific stands that have not been met in this instance.

The Biden administration also instituted this program without engaging in the usual notice and comment rulemaking process required by law. This constitutes yet another episode in which the administration has abused its executive authority in furtherance of its apparent objective for immigration policy: open borders and amnesty for all.

Kobach said every state in the nation, especially Border States, are being crushed by the impacts of illegal immigration, which has only worsened under the Biden administration’s disregard for the rule of law and ramifications of the president’s ill-conceived policies. The result has been increased violence on streets, increased drug trafficking, and overwhelming demand for government and community services that is exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

“This unlawful amnesty program will only invite hundreds of thousands of immigrants to flood our border and make this crisis even worse,” Kobach said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671577993523.png" alt="Photo courtesy Rep. Tony Gonzales" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Rep. Tony Gonzales</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA - Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach and Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey are joining a lawsuit against the Biden administration over a new U.S. Department of Homeland Security program that unlawfully creates a de facto path the citizenship for hundreds of thousands of aliens.<a href="https://ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/texas-v-biden-1-24-2023.pdf?sfvrsn=4c28bd1a_2">Click here to read</a> a copy of the lawsuit“The Biden administration is once again shattering federal law in its effort to open our borders to as many illegal aliens as possible,” Kobach said. “The executive branch does not have the authority to redefine what immigration parole means. Kansas will stand firm against such illegal actions.”The Texas Attorney General’s Office is leading the legal battle. Kansas and 18 other states joined the lawsuit.Contrary to existing law, the program creates a pathway for participants to apply from their home country and gain lawful status to enter and stay in the U.S. for up to two years or longer. The DHS rule seeks to establish a new visa system allowing up to 360,000 aliens from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to be “paroled” into the United States every year. Congress has only authorized parole for foreign aliens who meet very specific stands that have not been met in this instance.The Biden administration also instituted this program without engaging in the usual notice and comment rulemaking process required by law. This constitutes yet another episode in which the administration has abused its executive authority in furtherance of its apparent objective for immigration policy: open borders and amnesty for all.Kobach said every state in the nation, especially Border States, are being crushed by the impacts of illegal immigration, which has only worsened under the Biden administration’s disregard for the rule of law and ramifications of the president’s ill-conceived policies. The result has been increased violence on streets, increased drug trafficking, and overwhelming demand for government and community services that is exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.“This unlawful amnesty program will only invite hundreds of thousands of immigrants to flood our border and make this crisis even worse,” Kobach said.

Kan., Mo., join lawsuit over unlawful change to immigration visa rules

LONDON (AP) — Microsoft said it's seeing some improvement to problems with its online services including the Teams messaging platform and Outlook email system after users around the world reported outages Wednesday.

In a status update, the tech company reported “service degradation” for a number of its Microsoft 365 services.

Thousands of users reported problems with Teams, Outlook, the Azure cloud computing service and XBox Live online gaming service early Wednesday on the Downdetector website, which tracks outage reports. Many users also took to social media to complain that services were down.

By later in the morning, Downdetector showed the number of reports had dropped considerably.

“We’re continuing to monitor the recovery across the service and some customers are reporting mitigation," the Microsoft 365 Status Twitter account said. “We’re also connecting the service to additional infrastructure to expedite the recovery process."

It tweeted earlier that it had “isolated the problem to a networking configuration issue" and that a network change suspected to be causing the problem was rolled back.

It comes after Microsoft reported Tuesday that its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-microsoft-corp-business-16f40e92ea291dc5d883985ad78ad55a">quarterly profit fell 12%</a>, reflecting economic uncertainty that the company said led to its decision this month to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/microsoft-job-cuts-18fe0c9b8c9ff856e932e075161b1f43">cut 10,000 workers</a>.

LONDON (AP) — Microsoft said it's investigating problems with its online services including its Teams messaging platform and Outlook email system after users around the world reported outages Wednesday.

Thousands of users reported problems with Teams, Outlook, the Azure cloud computing service and XBox Live online gaming service early Wednesday on the Downdetector website, which tracks outage reports. By later in the morning, it showed the number of reports had dropped considerably.

Many users took to social media to complain that the services were down.

“We’ve isolated the problem to a networking configuration issue, and we are analyzing the best mitigation strategy to address it without causing additional impact,” the Microsoft 365 Status Twitter account said.

It later tweeted that a network change that was suspected to be causing the problem was rolled back and that it's monitoring as the rollback takes effect.

A day earlier, Microsoft reported that its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-microsoft-corp-business-16f40e92ea291dc5d883985ad78ad55a">quarterly profit fell 12%</a>, reflecting economic uncertainty that the company said led to its decision this month to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/microsoft-job-cuts-18fe0c9b8c9ff856e932e075161b1f43">cut 10,000 workers</a>.

LONDON (AP) — Microsoft said it's seeing some improvement to problems with its online services including the Teams messaging platform and Outlook email system after users around the world reported outages Wednesday.In a status update, the tech company reported “service degradation” for a number of its Microsoft 365 services.Thousands of users reported problems with Teams, Outlook, the Azure cloud computing service and XBox Live online gaming service early Wednesday on the Downdetector website, which tracks outage reports. Many users also took to social media to complain that services were down.By later in the morning, Downdetector showed the number of reports had dropped considerably.“We’re continuing to monitor the recovery across the service and some customers are reporting mitigation," the Microsoft 365 Status Twitter account said. “We’re also connecting the service to additional infrastructure to expedite the recovery process."It tweeted earlier that it had “isolated the problem to a networking configuration issue" and that a network change suspected to be causing the problem was rolled back.It comes after Microsoft reported Tuesday that its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-microsoft-corp-business-16f40e92ea291dc5d883985ad78ad55a">quarterly profit fell 12%</a>, reflecting economic uncertainty that the company said led to its decision this month to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/microsoft-job-cuts-18fe0c9b8c9ff856e932e075161b1f43">cut 10,000 workers</a>.-----------LONDON (AP) — Microsoft said it's investigating problems with its online services including its Teams messaging platform and Outlook email system after users around the world reported outages Wednesday.In a status update, the tech company reported “service degradation” for a number of its Microsoft 365 services.Thousands of users reported problems with Teams, Outlook, the Azure cloud computing service and XBox Live online gaming service early Wednesday on the Downdetector website, which tracks outage reports. By later in the morning, it showed the number of reports had dropped considerably.Many users took to social media to complain that the services were down.“We’ve isolated the problem to a networking configuration issue, and we are analyzing the best mitigation strategy to address it without causing additional impact,” the Microsoft 365 Status Twitter account said.It later tweeted that a network change that was suspected to be causing the problem was rolled back and that it's monitoring as the rollback takes effect.A day earlier, Microsoft reported that its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-microsoft-corp-business-16f40e92ea291dc5d883985ad78ad55a">quarterly profit fell 12%</a>, reflecting economic uncertainty that the company said led to its decision this month to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/microsoft-job-cuts-18fe0c9b8c9ff856e932e075161b1f43">cut 10,000 workers</a>.

Update: Microsoft reports outage for Teams, Outlook, other services

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service announced today that 
businesses can now file Form 1099 series information returns using a new
 online portal, available free from the IRS.

Known as the Information Returns Intake System (IRIS), this free 
electronic filing service is secure, accurate and requires no special 
software. Though available to any business of any size, IRIS may be 
especially helpful to any small business that currently sends their 1099
 forms on paper to the IRS.

"The IRS is excited to offer any business, especially small 
companies, a great new way to electronically file their 1099s for free,"
 said IRS Acting Commissioner Doug O'Donnell. "This simplifies filing 
for those issuing 1099s and helps recipients receive information timely.
 The launch of IRIS can help reduce the millions of paper Forms 1099 we 
project will be filed in 2023 and demonstrates our commitment to finding
 useful and innovative ways of reducing paperwork on the business 
community and others issuing 1099s. This is part of the larger effort 
underway to make improvements and transform operations at the IRS."

Filers can use the platform to create, upload, edit and view 
information and download completed copies of 1099-series forms for 
distribution and verification.

With IRIS, businesses can e-file both small and large volumes of 
1099-series forms by either keying in the information or uploading a 
file with the use of a downloadable template.

Currently, IRIS accepts Forms 1099 only for tax year 2022 and later.

The IRS encourages any business, especially those that now file on 
paper, to switch to e-filing through the platform and share in its 
benefits.

<a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-forms-1099-with-iris">Enrollment for the IRIS filing platform</a> is now open. Filers should begin the enrollment process immediately.

The Filing Information Returns Electronically (FIRE) system will 
remain available for bulk filing Form 1099 series and the other 
information returns through at least the 2023 filing season.

For more information about IRIS visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-forms-1099-with-iris">E-file Forms 1099 With IRIS</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service announced today that 
businesses can now file Form 1099 series information returns using a new
 online portal, available free from the IRS.Known as the Information Returns Intake System (IRIS), this free 
electronic filing service is secure, accurate and requires no special 
software. Though available to any business of any size, IRIS may be 
especially helpful to any small business that currently sends their 1099
 forms on paper to the IRS."The IRS is excited to offer any business, especially small 
companies, a great new way to electronically file their 1099s for free,"
 said IRS Acting Commissioner Doug O'Donnell. "This simplifies filing 
for those issuing 1099s and helps recipients receive information timely.
 The launch of IRIS can help reduce the millions of paper Forms 1099 we 
project will be filed in 2023 and demonstrates our commitment to finding
 useful and innovative ways of reducing paperwork on the business 
community and others issuing 1099s. This is part of the larger effort 
underway to make improvements and transform operations at the IRS."Filers can use the platform to create, upload, edit and view 
information and download completed copies of 1099-series forms for 
distribution and verification.With IRIS, businesses can e-file both small and large volumes of 
1099-series forms by either keying in the information or uploading a 
file with the use of a downloadable template.Currently, IRIS accepts Forms 1099 only for tax year 2022 and later.The IRS encourages any business, especially those that now file on 
paper, to switch to e-filing through the platform and share in its 
benefits.These benefits include:<ul>
 <li>E-file security standards keep information safe and protected.</li><li>The portal is an accurate filing method that automatically detects filing errors and provides alerts for missing information.</li><li>Filers can submit automatic extensions and make corrections to information returns filed through the platform.</li><li>The IRS acknowledges receipt of the return in as early as 48 hours.</li><li>The platform keeps issuer information from year to year, and prior 
years filed through this platform, providing convenience to 1099 filers.</li><li>E-filing eliminates trips to the post office and can reduce office expenses for paper, postage and storage space.</li>
 </ul><a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-forms-1099-with-iris">Enrollment for the IRIS filing platform</a> is now open. Filers should begin the enrollment process immediately.The Filing Information Returns Electronically (FIRE) system will 
remain available for bulk filing Form 1099 series and the other 
information returns through at least the 2023 filing season.For more information about IRIS visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-forms-1099-with-iris">E-file Forms 1099 With IRIS</a>.

IRS opens free portal to file information returns

SEDGWICK COUNTY– A Kansas man pleaded guilty to distribution of fentanyl, according to the United State's attorney.

According to court documents, Javyn Johnson, 24, of Wichita sold Chanelle Pratt, 29, of Wichita, what she thought to be two Percocet pills in August 2019. Later the same day, Pratt was found dead in her home after ingesting one of the pills.

 An autopsy determined her cause of death to be Fentanyl toxicity. In his plea agreement, Johnson claims he didn’t know the tablets contained Fentanyl, however, he acknowledges giving her the Fentanyl that caused her death.

“Our nation is in the midst of a crisis where lives are lost every day due to Fentanyl poisoning,” said U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard. “This case is an example of how the Department of Justice will hold people who distribute Fentanyl accountable.”

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Wichita Police Department investigated the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674575090989.png" alt="Johnson is being held in Butler County, according to online jail records" />
 <figcaption>Johnson is being held in Butler County, according to online jail records</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY– A Kansas man pleaded guilty to distribution of fentanyl, according to the United State's attorney.According to court documents, Javyn Johnson, 24, of Wichita sold Chanelle Pratt, 29, of Wichita, what she thought to be two Percocet pills in August 2019. Later the same day, Pratt was found dead in her home after ingesting one of the pills. An autopsy determined her cause of death to be Fentanyl toxicity. In his plea agreement, Johnson claims he didn’t know the tablets contained Fentanyl, however, he acknowledges giving her the Fentanyl that caused her death.“Our nation is in the midst of a crisis where lives are lost every day due to Fentanyl poisoning,” said U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard. “This case is an example of how the Department of Justice will hold people who distribute Fentanyl accountable.”The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Wichita Police Department investigated the case.

Kan. man admits selling pills laced with fentanyl that killed woman

FORD COUNTY – The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI)updated information on the conditions of the law enforcement officers in the Monday morning fatal shooting in Dodge City with a&nbsp; man wanted for a double homicide in Phoenix, Arizona.

The deputy from the Ford County Sheriff’s Office, who was hospitalized in Wichita, underwent surgery today. He is improving, and is currently in good condition. The deputy from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office was released from the hospital today, and he is now recovering at home. The KHP trooper is also now recovering from his injuries at home.

The condition of the female subject involved in the shooting is improving, but she continues to be treated for serious injuries.

The sheriff’s deputies involved in the shooting are all on paid administrative leave pending further investigation.&nbsp;

Preliminary information indicates that deputies from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office observed a blue Toyota Tundra driving through Minneola, Kansas.

The Tundra matched the description of a vehicle connected to a double homicide in Phoenix, Arizona. When deputies initiated a traffic stop, the female driver and her male passenger, who was later identified as Leroy D. Malone, 39, of Phoenix, Arizona, fled prompting a vehicle pursuit.

The vehicles headed north on U.S. Highway 283 into Ford County, where deputies from the Ford County Sheriff’s Office and the KHP joined the pursuit. Deputies and troopers deployed stop sticks to try to slow the truck, and a deputy from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office used a maneuver to force the truck into the ditch.

After the vehicle came to rest east of the intersection of U.S. Highway 50 and 113 Road in Dodge City, gunfire was exchanged. Deputies from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office and the Ford County Sheriff’s Office discharged their firearms. A handgun was recovered from inside the truck.

Leroy Malone was hit multiple times by gunfire, and was pronounced dead at the scene. The female subject received multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita.

FORD COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Monday morning in Dodge City, Kansas. Three deputies were shot, and a Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) trooper was injured during the fatal shooting.

Leroy Malone was hit multiple times by gunfire, and was pronounced dead at the scene. The female subject received multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita where she is in critical condition.&nbsp;

Two deputies from the Ford County Sheriff’s Office were shot. One deputy was transported to a Wichita hospital with serious gunshot wounds. He is currently in the intensive care unit. The second deputy was treated for shrapnel injuries and has been released from an area hospital.

A deputy from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office was shot twice, and was transported to a Wichita hospital. He is currently in serious condition. A KHP trooper was bit by a police K-9 during the shooting incident. He underwent surgery, and is in good condition.

FORD COUNTY – The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI)updated information on the conditions of the law enforcement officers in the Monday morning fatal shooting in Dodge City with a&nbsp; man wanted for a double homicide in Phoenix, Arizona.The deputy from the Ford County Sheriff’s Office, who was hospitalized in Wichita, underwent surgery today. He is improving, and is currently in good condition. The deputy from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office was released from the hospital today, and he is now recovering at home. The KHP trooper is also now recovering from his injuries at home.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674524036439.png" alt="-Malone was released from prison in June of 2020, according to the Arizona Dept.of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>-Malone was released from prison in June of 2020, according to the Arizona Dept.of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>The condition of the female subject involved in the shooting is improving, but she continues to be treated for serious injuries.The sheriff’s deputies involved in the shooting are all on paid administrative leave pending further investigation.&nbsp;Preliminary information indicates that deputies from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office observed a blue Toyota Tundra driving through Minneola, Kansas.The Tundra matched the description of a vehicle connected to a double homicide in Phoenix, Arizona. When deputies initiated a traffic stop, the female driver and her male passenger, who was later identified as Leroy D. Malone, 39, of Phoenix, Arizona, fled prompting a vehicle pursuit.The vehicles headed north on U.S. Highway 283 into Ford County, where deputies from the Ford County Sheriff’s Office and the KHP joined the pursuit. Deputies and troopers deployed stop sticks to try to slow the truck, and a deputy from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office used a maneuver to force the truck into the ditch.After the vehicle came to rest east of the intersection of U.S. Highway 50 and 113 Road in Dodge City, gunfire was exchanged. Deputies from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office and the Ford County Sheriff’s Office discharged their firearms. A handgun was recovered from inside the truck.Leroy Malone was hit multiple times by gunfire, and was pronounced dead at the scene. The female subject received multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita.------FORD COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Monday morning in Dodge City, Kansas. Three deputies were shot, and a Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) trooper was injured during the fatal shooting.Preliminary information indicates that deputies from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office observed a blue Toyota Tundra driving through Minneola, Kansas.The Tundra matched the description of a vehicle connected to a double homicide in Phoenix, Arizona. When deputies initiated a traffic stop, the female driver and her male passenger, who was later identified as Leroy D. Malone, 39, of Phoenix, Arizona, fled prompting a vehicle pursuit.The vehicles headed north on U.S. Highway 283 into Ford County, where deputies from the Ford County Sheriff’s Office and the KHP joined the pursuit. Deputies and troopers deployed stop sticks to try to slow the truck, and a deputy from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office used a maneuver to force the truck into the ditch.After the vehicle came to rest east of the intersection of U.S. Highway 50 and 113 Road in Dodge City, gunfire was exchanged. Deputies from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office and the Ford County Sheriff’s Office discharged their firearms. A handgun was recovered from inside the truck.Leroy Malone was hit multiple times by gunfire, and was pronounced dead at the scene. The female subject received multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita where she is in critical condition.&nbsp;Two deputies from the Ford County Sheriff’s Office were shot. One deputy was transported to a Wichita hospital with serious gunshot wounds. He is currently in the intensive care unit. The second deputy was treated for shrapnel injuries and has been released from an area hospital.A deputy from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office was shot twice, and was transported to a Wichita hospital. He is currently in serious condition. A KHP trooper was bit by a police K-9 during the shooting incident. He underwent surgery, and is in good condition.----------

KBI updates condition of deputies injured in fatal officer shooting

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly will outlined her second term priorities for the Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature during the annual State of the State address.

(click below to watch a replay of the address)

&nbsp;She has previously outlined several proposals for cutting taxes and has promised to push for expanding the state’s Medicaid coverage for the needy and elderly.&nbsp;

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly will outlined her second term priorities for the Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature during the annual State of the State address.(click below to watch a replay of the address)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CJYLpiHptOQ?start=1814" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>&nbsp;She has previously outlined several proposals for cutting taxes and has promised to push for expanding the state’s Medicaid coverage for the needy and elderly.&nbsp;

 🎥 Gov. Laura Kelly 2023 State of the State Address 

SEDGWICK COUNTY –Law enforcement authorities investigating a man's death as a homicide.

Just before 2 p.m. Monday, police responded to a suspicious death call in the 500 block of N. New York in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.

 Officers contacted a 53-year-old woman who reported finding 63-year-old Loyd Alexander deceased in the living room of his home.

Police released no additional details including the cause of death. Anyone with information on Alexander's death is asked to contact police.

SEDGWICK COUNTY –Law enforcement authorities investigating a man's death as a homicide.Just before 2 p.m. Monday, police responded to a suspicious death call in the 500 block of N. New York in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy. Officers contacted a 53-year-old woman who reported finding 63-year-old Loyd Alexander deceased in the living room of his home.Police released no additional details including the cause of death. Anyone with information on Alexander's death is asked to contact police.

Homicide: Woman found 63-year-old Kan. man dead in his home

FARMINGTON, Mo. (AP) — Authorities are piecing together how five inmates escaped from a Missouri jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674473046993.png" alt=" Kelly McSean-St. Francois County Jail" />
 <figcaption> Kelly McSean-St. Francois County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>FARMINGTON, Mo. (AP) — Authorities are piecing together how five inmates escaped from a Missouri jail.The inmates escaped from the the St. Francois County Jail in Farmington, about 75 miles south of St. Louis on Jan. 17. All five were captured over the weekend.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674473246642.png" alt=" Michael Wilkins-St. Francois County Jail" />
 <figcaption> Michael Wilkins-St. Francois County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>Chief Sheriff's Deputy Gregory Armstrong said that the inmates got into a cell that was supposed to be closed off due to plumbing repairs, removed the sink and toilet, climbed through the wall and made it down from the roof using a ladder that a contractor had left standing against the building. Jail cameras&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/five-inmates-at-large-after-crawling-through-cell-hole-escaping-st-francois-county-jail/article_fb0b9e11-bc6f-5ea8-922b-3c58d7e1310c.html">that would have captured them leaving</a>&nbsp;were down due to the construction.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674473089463.png" alt="LuJuan Tucker-St. Francois County Jail" />
 <figcaption>LuJuan Tucker-St. Francois County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>After escaping from the jail, the inmates ran to an office building parking lot and somehow found a car with the keys in it and a full tank of gas.“They just got lucky,” Armstrong said. “It's a black eye, of course, that we didn't want. Sometimes things happen.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674473122578.png" alt="Dakota D. Pace-St. Francois County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Dakota D. Pace-St. Francois County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>All five inmates have criminal records that go back years.The sheriff's department said in a statement that all five had been recaptured by mid-morning Saturday. One inmate was located at a second-hand retail store in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, on Friday morning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674473184764.png" alt="Aaron W. Sebastian-St. Francois County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Aaron W. Sebastian-St. Francois County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>The other four were apprehended in Ohio on Friday and Saturday.The Ohio State Highway Patrol said troopers tried to stop a suspected stolen car in Fairfield Township north of Cincinnati on Friday evening. The car fled and after a short chase, four people got out of it and ran. Troopers quickly captured two of them and arrested a third in West Chester Township to the south around 2 a.m. Saturday.Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones told reporters on Saturday that a report of a suspicious person in a Liberty Township subdivision led a bloodhound to a parked car where the fourth inmate was found hiding in the backseat.