BARTON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Wednesday in Barton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Chevy Cavalier driven by a 52-year-old Nevada, Mo., man was southbound on Interstate 49 three miles south of Lamar. The car rear-ended a 2015 Ford transit van driven by a 42-year-old Hollywood, California man.

The car driver was pronounced deceased at Cox Hospital. EMS also transported the van driver to Cox Hospital. The MSHP had incomplete seat belt usage information.

BARTON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Wednesday in Barton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Chevy Cavalier driven by a 52-year-old Nevada, Mo., man was southbound on Interstate 49 three miles south of Lamar. The car rear-ended a 2015 Ford transit van driven by a 42-year-old Hollywood, California man.The car driver was pronounced deceased at Cox Hospital. EMS also transported the van driver to Cox Hospital. The MSHP had incomplete seat belt usage information.

Missouri man dies after car rear-ends transit van

JOHNSON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 4p.m. Wednesday in Johnson County.

The accident involving a pickup truck and passenger car occurred in the area of West 151st&nbsp;Street and Southpark Boulevard, according to Olathe Police Department Spokesperson John Moncayo.

First responders observed the driver and sole occupant of the passenger car was a 77-year-old woman. She was pronounced deceased on scene. The 22-year-old male driver of the pickup truck remained on scene and is cooperating.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

JOHNSON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 4p.m. Wednesday in Johnson County.The accident involving a pickup truck and passenger car occurred in the area of West 151st&nbsp;Street and Southpark Boulevard, according to Olathe Police Department Spokesperson John Moncayo.First responders observed the driver and sole occupant of the passenger car was a 77-year-old woman. She was pronounced deceased on scene. The 22-year-old male driver of the pickup truck remained on scene and is cooperating.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

Woman dies after car, pickup crash in Kansas

FRANKLIN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an dispute involving firearm.

On Monday, sheriff's deputies responded to report of a physical altercation at a home outside Pomona, Kansas, according to a media release from the Franklin County Sheriff.

The altercation ended with a firearm discharged into a vehicle.

The incident started as a disturbance among family in the 300 Block of Georgia Road. The argument eventually escalated into being physical which caused one person to be injured requiring medical treatment, according to the sheriff's office.

As the injured individual attempted to drive from the scene, 53-year-old Marion 'Gene' Ferris of Richmond allegedly discharged a firearm into the vehicle striking a tire.&nbsp; Three people including a 3-year-old child were in the vehicle.&nbsp;

The only injuries were non-life-threatening and not from the discharge of the firearm being discharged.&nbsp; Sheriff's deputies located Ferris at his residence in Richmond. He refused to exit the home. Ten hours later, deputies arrested him after he attempted to flee from the rear of the residence. He is being held on requested charges of attempted second degree murder, aggravated battery, aggravated assault, criminal threat, criminal discharge of a firearm, criminal damage to property, felony interference with law enforcement and aggravated child endangerment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736894679012.png" alt="Ferris photo Franklin County" />
 <figcaption>Ferris photo Franklin County</figcaption>
 </figure>FRANKLIN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an dispute involving firearm.On Monday, sheriff's deputies responded to report of a physical altercation at a home outside Pomona, Kansas, according to a media release from the Franklin County Sheriff.The altercation ended with a firearm discharged into a vehicle.The incident started as a disturbance among family in the 300 Block of Georgia Road. The argument eventually escalated into being physical which caused one person to be injured requiring medical treatment, according to the sheriff's office.As the injured individual attempted to drive from the scene, 53-year-old Marion 'Gene' Ferris of Richmond allegedly discharged a firearm into the vehicle striking a tire.&nbsp; Three people including a 3-year-old child were in the vehicle.&nbsp;The only injuries were non-life-threatening and not from the discharge of the firearm being discharged.&nbsp; Sheriff's deputies located Ferris at his residence in Richmond. He refused to exit the home. Ten hours later, deputies arrested him after he attempted to flee from the rear of the residence. He is being held on requested charges of attempted second degree murder, aggravated battery, aggravated assault, criminal threat, criminal discharge of a firearm, criminal damage to property, felony interference with law enforcement and aggravated child endangerment.

Kansas man fired gun at vehicle with 3-year-old inside

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects in connection with an armed robbery.

Just after 9p.m. Monday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received notification of a medical emergency in the 6500 block of NW Elmont Road, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

Deputies discovered that an armed robbery had just occurred when a 61-year-old man's vehicle and money were stolen from him at gunpoint.

Deputies arrested Jaterri J. Davis, 36, of Topeka, on requested charges of Aggravated robbery,&nbsp;&nbsp;Aggravated assault, Criminal trespass, Theft, Theft of a motor vehicle,&nbsp;Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon and Possession of an opiate, opium and narcotic or certain stimulant

Deputies also arrested&nbsp;Diamantae T. M. Boyd, 31, of Junction City, on requested charges of Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, possession of stolen property; firearm, Possession of stolen property and Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736890224327.png" alt="Davis photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Davis photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects in connection with an armed robbery.Just after 9p.m. Monday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received notification of a medical emergency in the 6500 block of NW Elmont Road, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736890453717.png" alt="Boyd-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Boyd-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies discovered that an armed robbery had just occurred when a 61-year-old man's vehicle and money were stolen from him at gunpoint.Deputies arrested Jaterri J. Davis, 36, of Topeka, on requested charges of Aggravated robbery,&nbsp;&nbsp;Aggravated assault, Criminal trespass, Theft, Theft of a motor vehicle,&nbsp;Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon and Possession of an opiate, opium and narcotic or certain stimulantDeputies also arrested&nbsp;Diamantae T. M. Boyd, 31, of Junction City, on requested charges of Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, possession of stolen property; firearm, Possession of stolen property and Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia

Suspects took cash, vehicle from Kansas man at gunpoint

LANSING, Kansas. –&nbsp;Lansing Correctional Facility (LCF) resident Angel Pedro Lara, 25, died Wednesday morning, according to a statement from the Kansas Department of Corrections.

 Lara was found ill inside the facility clinic Tuesday afternoon. Staff and Emergency Medical Service personnel administered life-saving measures and transported Lara to a local hospital where he eventually died. The cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.

&nbsp;Lara was serving a 123-month sentence for convictions of 2nd degree murder in Sedgwick County, Kansas.

Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. The investigation is ongoing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736964124627.png" alt="Angel Lara-photo Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Angel Lara-photo Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>LANSING, Kansas. –&nbsp;Lansing Correctional Facility (LCF) resident Angel Pedro Lara, 25, died Wednesday morning, according to a statement from the Kansas Department of Corrections. Lara was found ill inside the facility clinic Tuesday afternoon. Staff and Emergency Medical Service personnel administered life-saving measures and transported Lara to a local hospital where he eventually died. The cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.&nbsp;Lara was serving a 123-month sentence for convictions of 2nd degree murder in Sedgwick County, Kansas.Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. The investigation is ongoing.

25-year-old Kan. inmate serving time for murder has died

Shawna Richter-Ryerson Nebraska Game and Parks

Nebraska Game and Parks is reminding the public to use caution and test the ice when going onto frozen lakes or ponds after conservation officers responded to two incidents on Jan. 11 in western Nebraska.

No injuries or fatalities were reported in either incident, one at Lake Maloney State Recreation Area and one at Cottonwood-Steverson Wildlife Management Area, where all-terrain vehicles broke through the ice.

At Lake Maloney in Lincoln County, four people who had been ice fishing were riding the ATV at about 7 p.m. when it broke through the ice. Game and Parks Officers and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene.

Other anglers initially assisted the four, who declined medical treatment from law enforcement.

No citations were issued, and Game and Parks will work with Nebraska Public Power District to remove the ATV from the lake.

At Cottonwood-Steverson in Cherry County, an all-terrain vehicle broke through the ice on Saturday; the incident was reported Sunday to Nebraska Game and Parks. The ATV remains in the lake.

People going onto lakes for winter recreation are reminded of the following clear-ice thickness guidelines, according to state fish, wildlife and parks agencies:

People should use an ice chisel or spud bar to strike the ice and evaluate conditions as they venture out.

Remember as winter progresses, ice changes. Cloudy ice of frozen slush is about half as strong as clear lake ice, so people should double the minimum thickness when encountering such conditions.

Ice near shore may be weakened by heat from the ground, or thinner because of rising water levels. If temperatures are below freezing, but warm during the day, go early and leave before ice melts near the shore.

Be especially careful on any ice that has moving water below it. Water movement hinders freezing causing hard-to-detect thin spots.

Materials embedded in ice, such as weeds or logs, also weaken ice. Large objects on the ice, such as duck blinds or ice shacks, can absorb the sun’s heat and melt ice.

If venturing out, tell someone your plan, bring a long throw rope and ice picks, and pack extra dry clothes.

Visit&nbsp;OutdoorNebraska.gov&nbsp;for&nbsp;<a href="https://outdoornebraska.gov/about/press-events/news/game-and-parks-offers-top-8-ice-safety-tips/">other ice safety tips for anglers and ATV riders</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736887503177.png" alt="Photo Nebraska Game and Parks" />
 <figcaption>Photo Nebraska Game and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>Shawna Richter-Ryerson Nebraska Game and ParksNebraska Game and Parks is reminding the public to use caution and test the ice when going onto frozen lakes or ponds after conservation officers responded to two incidents on Jan. 11 in western Nebraska.No injuries or fatalities were reported in either incident, one at Lake Maloney State Recreation Area and one at Cottonwood-Steverson Wildlife Management Area, where all-terrain vehicles broke through the ice.At Lake Maloney in Lincoln County, four people who had been ice fishing were riding the ATV at about 7 p.m. when it broke through the ice. Game and Parks Officers and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene.Other anglers initially assisted the four, who declined medical treatment from law enforcement.No citations were issued, and Game and Parks will work with Nebraska Public Power District to remove the ATV from the lake.At Cottonwood-Steverson in Cherry County, an all-terrain vehicle broke through the ice on Saturday; the incident was reported Sunday to Nebraska Game and Parks. The ATV remains in the lake.<h2>Safety guidelines</h2>People going onto lakes for winter recreation are reminded of the following clear-ice thickness guidelines, according to state fish, wildlife and parks agencies:<ol>
 <li>Under 4 inches:&nbsp;Stay off the ice</li><li>4 inches:&nbsp;Can support ice fishing or other activities on foot</li><li>5-7 inches:&nbsp;Can support a snowmobile or small ATV</li><li>7-8 inches:&nbsp;Can support side-by-side ATV</li>
 </ol>People should use an ice chisel or spud bar to strike the ice and evaluate conditions as they venture out.Remember as winter progresses, ice changes. Cloudy ice of frozen slush is about half as strong as clear lake ice, so people should double the minimum thickness when encountering such conditions.Ice near shore may be weakened by heat from the ground, or thinner because of rising water levels. If temperatures are below freezing, but warm during the day, go early and leave before ice melts near the shore.Be especially careful on any ice that has moving water below it. Water movement hinders freezing causing hard-to-detect thin spots.Materials embedded in ice, such as weeds or logs, also weaken ice. Large objects on the ice, such as duck blinds or ice shacks, can absorb the sun’s heat and melt ice.If venturing out, tell someone your plan, bring a long throw rope and ice picks, and pack extra dry clothes.Visit&nbsp;OutdoorNebraska.gov&nbsp;for&nbsp;<a href="https://outdoornebraska.gov/about/press-events/news/game-and-parks-offers-top-8-ice-safety-tips/">other ice safety tips for anglers and ATV riders</a>.

Public alert after ATV incidents on frozen lakes in Nebraska

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas man on drug allegations.

Just after 12:30a.m. Monday, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 1995 Dodge Neon on U.S. 75 Highway, near 126th Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 A Jackson County Sheriff’s K-9 alerted to the presence of illegal drugs within the vehicle. The driver, Colby Lee Gant, 36, of Council Grove, was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while license suspended, no insurance and inoperable tag lamp.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736890574533.png" alt="Grant photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Grant photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas man on drug allegations.Just after 12:30a.m. Monday, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 1995 Dodge Neon on U.S. 75 Highway, near 126th Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. A Jackson County Sheriff’s K-9 alerted to the presence of illegal drugs within the vehicle. The driver, Colby Lee Gant, 36, of Council Grove, was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while license suspended, no insurance and inoperable tag lamp.

Kansas sheriff's K9 caught suspect transporting meth

The FDA is revoking the authorization for the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 as a matter of law, based on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/changes-science-law-and-regulatory-authorities/part-iii-drugs-and-foods-under-1938-act-and-its-amendments">Delaney Clause</a>&nbsp;of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/laws-enforced-fda/federal-food-drug-and-cosmetic-act-fdc-act">Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&amp;C Act)</a>. The FDA is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2025-00830/petition-color-additive-center-for-science-in-the-public-interest-et-al-request-to-revoke-color">amending its color additive regulations</a>&nbsp;to no longer allow for the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs in response to a 2022&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hfpappexternal.fda.gov/scripts/fdcc/index.cfm?set=FAP-CAP&amp;id=CAP_3C0323&amp;sort=Petition_Type_Number&amp;order=ASC&amp;startrow=1&amp;type=basic&amp;search=red">color additive petition</a>.

The petition requested the agency review whether the Delaney Clause applied and cited, among other data and information, two studies that showed cancer in laboratory male rats exposed to high levels of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 due to a rat specific hormonal mechanism. The way that FD&amp;C Red No. 3 causes cancer in male rats does not occur in humans. Relevant exposure levels to FD&amp;C Red No. 3 for humans are typically much lower than those that cause the effects shown in male rats. Studies in other animals and in humans did not show these effects; claims that the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in food and in ingested drugs puts people at risk are not supported by the available scientific information.&nbsp;

The Delaney Clause, enacted in 1960 as part of the Color Additives Amendment to the FD&amp;C Act, prohibits FDA authorization of a food additive or color additive if it has been found to induce cancer in humans or animals. This is not the first time the agency revoked an authorization based on the Delaney Clause. For example, in 2018, the FDA&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/hfp-constituent-updates/fda-removes-7-synthetic-flavoring-substances-food-additives-list">revoked the authorization for certain synthetic flavors</a>&nbsp;based on the Delaney Clause in response to a food additive petition.&nbsp;

FD&amp;C Red No. 3 is a synthetic food dye that gives foods and drinks a bright, cherry-red color. The FDA estimates that FD&amp;C Red No. 3 is not as widely used in food and drugs when compared to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/food-ingredients-packaging/color-additives-information-consumers">other certified colors</a>&nbsp;based on information available in third-party food product labeling databases, food manufacturers’ websites and other public information, and the FDA’s certification data. FD&amp;C Red No. 3 has been primarily used in certain food products, such as candy, cakes and cupcakes, cookies, frozen desserts, and frostings and icings, as well as certain ingested drugs.&nbsp;

Manufacturers who use FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs will have until January 15, 2027 or January 18, 2028, respectively, to reformulate their products. Other countries still currently allow for certain uses of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 (called erythrosine in other countries). However, foods imported to the U.S. must comply with U.S. requirements.

The FDA is revoking the authorization for the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 as a matter of law, based on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/changes-science-law-and-regulatory-authorities/part-iii-drugs-and-foods-under-1938-act-and-its-amendments">Delaney Clause</a>&nbsp;of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/laws-enforced-fda/federal-food-drug-and-cosmetic-act-fdc-act">Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&amp;C Act)</a>. The FDA is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2025-00830/petition-color-additive-center-for-science-in-the-public-interest-et-al-request-to-revoke-color">amending its color additive regulations</a>&nbsp;to no longer allow for the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs in response to a 2022&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hfpappexternal.fda.gov/scripts/fdcc/index.cfm?set=FAP-CAP&amp;id=CAP_3C0323&amp;sort=Petition_Type_Number&amp;order=ASC&amp;startrow=1&amp;type=basic&amp;search=red">color additive petition</a>. <div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today, the FDA is issuing an order to revoke the authorization for the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs in response to a 2022 color additive petition that requested the agency to review whether the Delaney Clause applied. <a href="https://t.co/Qd0NFOIUz8">https://t.co/Qd0NFOIUz8</a> <a href="https://t.co/Bpr6XNC8OR">pic.twitter.com/Bpr6XNC8OR</a>&mdash; U.S. FDA Human Foods Program (@FDAfood) <a href="https://twitter.com/FDAfood/status/1879532094730227991?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The petition requested the agency review whether the Delaney Clause applied and cited, among other data and information, two studies that showed cancer in laboratory male rats exposed to high levels of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 due to a rat specific hormonal mechanism. The way that FD&amp;C Red No. 3 causes cancer in male rats does not occur in humans. Relevant exposure levels to FD&amp;C Red No. 3 for humans are typically much lower than those that cause the effects shown in male rats. Studies in other animals and in humans did not show these effects; claims that the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in food and in ingested drugs puts people at risk are not supported by the available scientific information.&nbsp;The Delaney Clause, enacted in 1960 as part of the Color Additives Amendment to the FD&amp;C Act, prohibits FDA authorization of a food additive or color additive if it has been found to induce cancer in humans or animals. This is not the first time the agency revoked an authorization based on the Delaney Clause. For example, in 2018, the FDA&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/hfp-constituent-updates/fda-removes-7-synthetic-flavoring-substances-food-additives-list">revoked the authorization for certain synthetic flavors</a>&nbsp;based on the Delaney Clause in response to a food additive petition.&nbsp;FD&amp;C Red No. 3 is a synthetic food dye that gives foods and drinks a bright, cherry-red color. The FDA estimates that FD&amp;C Red No. 3 is not as widely used in food and drugs when compared to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/food/food-ingredients-packaging/color-additives-information-consumers">other certified colors</a>&nbsp;based on information available in third-party food product labeling databases, food manufacturers’ websites and other public information, and the FDA’s certification data. FD&amp;C Red No. 3 has been primarily used in certain food products, such as candy, cakes and cupcakes, cookies, frozen desserts, and frostings and icings, as well as certain ingested drugs.&nbsp;Manufacturers who use FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs will have until January 15, 2027 or January 18, 2028, respectively, to reformulate their products. Other countries still currently allow for certain uses of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 (called erythrosine in other countries). However, foods imported to the U.S. must comply with U.S. requirements.

FDA Bans Red Dye No. 3 from Foods

Minority party endorses idea of raising state’s $7.25 minimum wage

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas Democrats vowed on the second day of the legislative session Tuesday to concentrate on reforms that addressed the rising cost of housing, health care, groceries, child care and fuel.

The news conference at the Capitol attended by Democrats from the House and Senate followed Monday’s messaging effort by Republican leaders in both legislative chambers and preceded Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s State of the State speech Wednesday night. The Democratic legislators didn’t release a set of specific bills that could advance their cost-of-living agenda.

Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes repeated a prominent GOP talking point during the 2024 election cycle that many Kansans were struggling to keep up financially as escalating prices made nearly every aspect of their lives more challenging.

“They don’t believe the economy is working for them,” said Sykes, a Lenexa Democrat. “While Kansans are working hard, often that hard work benefits shareholders and corporations — leaving workers and their families behind. That is wrong. Everything we do this session should be focused on making life more affordable.”

She said legislation put forward by GOP lawmakers should be scrutinized according to a fundamental question. The litmus test: Would it make life more affordable for Kansans?

Under that metric, Sykes said the renewed push by Republicans to divert state tax dollars from K-12 public schools to private schools would fail. She said the same answer would apply to rehashed legislative proposals to repeal voting rights, including use of ballot drop boxes and the three-day grace period for mail ballots to be counted after Election Day.

House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard, also a Lenexa Democrat, said the minority party would strive to raise the state’s minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. He didn’t, however, identify a target for elevating the compensation rate.

“Raising the minimum wage is the first step to addressing income inequality throughout the state,” Woodard said. “At a time when the entire country is feeling the impact of inflation, Kansas must appropriately compensate workers who need it most.”

In three nearby states, the minimum wage is about double the rate in Kansas. Examples: Colorado, $14.81 per hour; Missouri, $13.75; and Nebraska, $13.50. Oklahoma at $7.25 is the equal of Kansas.

Democratic legislators would also encourage passage of measures that expanded quality health care, including broadband access for use in telehealth programs. The state should invest in better access to mental health services, Woodard said.

Woodard said the Legislature should continue to grapple with a 30-year trend that shifted more of the property-tax burden onto residential owners. High property taxes disproportionately burden middle-class homeowners and the elderly on fixed incomes, he said.

He said restoration of a homestead property tax rebate program for renters — it was discontinued more than a decade ago — would be helpful to Kansans who didn’t own a residence.

In terms of property tax relief, Sykes said the Democratic caucus didn’t have a fixed position but wanted results of the upcoming debate to be financially sustainable and offer relief to all Kansans rather than certain economic classes.

Sykes asserted GOP legislative leadership was “misrepresenting what actually happened” on property taxes during closed-door discussions in the June special session. Sykes said the governor set a financial maximum on the total value of reductions that would be acceptable to her in terms of sales, income and property taxes.

“Republican leadership reduced the property tax portion in order to get income taxes,” Sykes said. “They chose to have a lesser amount on property tax in order … to change the income tax structure.”

Hawkins and Masterson, the respective GOP leaders of the House and Senate, maintained it was the governor who insisted property tax reform had to take a back seat to income tax cuts. In the end, the governor signed a $1.2 billion, three-year reform bill that was anchored to income tax reductions.

Kelly is on the record urging the 2025 Legislature to put off another major tax-cut effort until the full impact of last year’s reform was known.

Masterson said the Legislature would attempt to place on a statewide ballot a proposed change to the Kansas Constitution that would put a lid on the rate of increase in property tax collections. The state depends primarily on sales and income taxes for its budget, leaving the property tax to cities, counties and schools.

“What the state can do primarily is a constitutional amendment that would create caps and change the processes in which that’s affecting people. People see these rapid appraisal increases, which turns into rapid tax increases,” Masterson said.

Sykes, on the other hand, said it could be a mistake to undermine the capacity of local government to operate by depriving municipalities of property tax revenue.

“What we do in Topeka cannot cause more harm to our cities and counties,” she said. “We want the firefighter to come. We want the police to be able to. We want good roads. We have to partner with them and work collaboratively.”

Senate Bill 1, which passed by overwhelming bipartisan margins during the special session in June, included an increase in the amount of residential property exempted from the statewide property tax that helped fund K-12 public schools. The school-finance law was changed starting in the 2024 tax year so the exemption from the 20-mill levy for K-12 schools increased to $75,000, up from $42,000.

Hawkins said Republicans and Democrats in the House were frustrated because Kelly stiff-armed the opportunity to enact bigger property tax adjustments. He expected changes during the 2025 session to be approved with bipartisan majorities.

“Democrats … have said they will be voting for property tax relief,” Hawkins said during an interview on KCUR. “Will all of them? No. There’s some of them that will follow the governor. If the governor tells them, ‘No, don’t do it.’ But there are going to be some that are a little bit more independent-minded that realize it is a very important thing for the people of Kansas.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736949640692.png" alt="Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes and House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard, both of Lenexa, said during a news conference Tuesday at the Capitol that Democrats in the 2025 legislative session would concentrate on issues that reduced the burden of basic cost increases on Kansans. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes and House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard, both of Lenexa, said during a news conference Tuesday at the Capitol that Democrats in the 2025 legislative session would concentrate on issues that reduced the burden of basic cost increases on Kansans. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Minority party endorses idea of raising state’s $7.25 minimum wage</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas Democrats vowed on the second day of the legislative session Tuesday to concentrate on reforms that addressed the rising cost of housing, health care, groceries, child care and fuel.The news conference at the Capitol attended by Democrats from the House and Senate followed Monday’s messaging effort by Republican leaders in both legislative chambers and preceded Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s State of the State speech Wednesday night. The Democratic legislators didn’t release a set of specific bills that could advance their cost-of-living agenda.Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes repeated a prominent GOP talking point during the 2024 election cycle that many Kansans were struggling to keep up financially as escalating prices made nearly every aspect of their lives more challenging.“They don’t believe the economy is working for them,” said Sykes, a Lenexa Democrat. “While Kansans are working hard, often that hard work benefits shareholders and corporations — leaving workers and their families behind. That is wrong. Everything we do this session should be focused on making life more affordable.”She said legislation put forward by GOP lawmakers should be scrutinized according to a fundamental question. The litmus test: Would it make life more affordable for Kansans?Under that metric, Sykes said the renewed push by Republicans to divert state tax dollars from K-12 public schools to private schools would fail. She said the same answer would apply to rehashed legislative proposals to repeal voting rights, including use of ballot drop boxes and the three-day grace period for mail ballots to be counted after Election Day.House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard, also a Lenexa Democrat, said the minority party would strive to raise the state’s minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. He didn’t, however, identify a target for elevating the compensation rate.“Raising the minimum wage is the first step to addressing income inequality throughout the state,” Woodard said. “At a time when the entire country is feeling the impact of inflation, Kansas must appropriately compensate workers who need it most.”In three nearby states, the minimum wage is about double the rate in Kansas. Examples: Colorado, $14.81 per hour; Missouri, $13.75; and Nebraska, $13.50. Oklahoma at $7.25 is the equal of Kansas.Democratic legislators would also encourage passage of measures that expanded quality health care, including broadband access for use in telehealth programs. The state should invest in better access to mental health services, Woodard said.Woodard said the Legislature should continue to grapple with a 30-year trend that shifted more of the property-tax burden onto residential owners. High property taxes disproportionately burden middle-class homeowners and the elderly on fixed incomes, he said.He said restoration of a homestead property tax rebate program for renters — it was discontinued more than a decade ago — would be helpful to Kansans who didn’t own a residence.In terms of property tax relief, Sykes said the Democratic caucus didn’t have a fixed position but wanted results of the upcoming debate to be financially sustainable and offer relief to all Kansans rather than certain economic classes.Sykes asserted GOP legislative leadership was “misrepresenting what actually happened” on property taxes during closed-door discussions in the June special session. Sykes said the governor set a financial maximum on the total value of reductions that would be acceptable to her in terms of sales, income and property taxes.“Republican leadership reduced the property tax portion in order to get income taxes,” Sykes said. “They chose to have a lesser amount on property tax in order … to change the income tax structure.”Hawkins and Masterson, the respective GOP leaders of the House and Senate, maintained it was the governor who insisted property tax reform had to take a back seat to income tax cuts. In the end, the governor signed a $1.2 billion, three-year reform bill that was anchored to income tax reductions.Kelly is on the record urging the 2025 Legislature to put off another major tax-cut effort until the full impact of last year’s reform was known.Masterson said the Legislature would attempt to place on a statewide ballot a proposed change to the Kansas Constitution that would put a lid on the rate of increase in property tax collections. The state depends primarily on sales and income taxes for its budget, leaving the property tax to cities, counties and schools.“What the state can do primarily is a constitutional amendment that would create caps and change the processes in which that’s affecting people. People see these rapid appraisal increases, which turns into rapid tax increases,” Masterson said.Sykes, on the other hand, said it could be a mistake to undermine the capacity of local government to operate by depriving municipalities of property tax revenue.“What we do in Topeka cannot cause more harm to our cities and counties,” she said. “We want the firefighter to come. We want the police to be able to. We want good roads. We have to partner with them and work collaboratively.”Senate Bill 1, which passed by overwhelming bipartisan margins during the special session in June, included an increase in the amount of residential property exempted from the statewide property tax that helped fund K-12 public schools. The school-finance law was changed starting in the 2024 tax year so the exemption from the 20-mill levy for K-12 schools increased to $75,000, up from $42,000.Hawkins said Republicans and Democrats in the House were frustrated because Kelly stiff-armed the opportunity to enact bigger property tax adjustments. He expected changes during the 2025 session to be approved with bipartisan majorities.“Democrats … have said they will be voting for property tax relief,” Hawkins said during an interview on KCUR. “Will all of them? No. There’s some of them that will follow the governor. If the governor tells them, ‘No, don’t do it.’ But there are going to be some that are a little bit more independent-minded that realize it is a very important thing for the people of Kansas.”

Kansas House, Senate Democrats want to focus ’25 session on cost-of-living issues

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating three separate homicides in Kansas City that occurred Tuesday.

The deceased is identified as Alex Benson, BM, 05/17/2002.

Just before 12:15a.m. Tuesday, officers were patrolling in the area of E 30th Street and Indiana Avenue when they observed a vehicle stopped in the roadway and facing oncoming traffic, according to KCPD&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

Officers stopped to check the vehicle and any occupants that may be inside. As they approached the vehicle, an adult male victim could be seen inside suffering from apparent gunshot trauma and unresponsive.

EMS responded to the scene and declared the victim deceased.&nbsp;

Just after 2:30p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to a shooting at an apartment complex in the area of 6300 Manchester Avenue in Kansas City, according to Officer Gonzalez.

When officers arrived on scene, they made contact with the calling party who advised someone was shot inside. Officers entered the residence and located a man suffering from apparent, gunshot trauma and unresponsive. EMS personnel responded to the scene and declared the victim deceased.

Police had no preliminary information at this time that would indicate what lead up to the shooting and have not reported an arrest or suspect information.&nbsp; The name of the victim has not been released.

Just after 4:30p.m. police were dispatched to the 3900 block of N Lister Avenue on a reported shooting disturbance. Upon arrival, officers located an a victim lying outside of a nearby residence suffering from apparent gunshot trauma. EMS transported the victim to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased, according to Officer Gonzalez.

Officers located another adult male victim inside of the home suffering from gunshot trauma who was transported to the hospital with critical injuries. Preliminary investigation indicates the shooting may have started over an argument. We are working to determine the relationship between both shooting victims and identify a person of interest. Homicide detectives and crime scene personnel responded to begin collecting evidence and gathering witness statements

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736904780718.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation near 6300 Manchester Avenue on Tuesday afternoon- Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation near 6300 Manchester Avenue on Tuesday afternoon- Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating three separate homicides in Kansas City that occurred Tuesday.The deceased is identified as Alex Benson, BM, 05/17/2002.Just before 12:15a.m. Tuesday, officers were patrolling in the area of E 30th Street and Indiana Avenue when they observed a vehicle stopped in the roadway and facing oncoming traffic, according to KCPD&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.Officers stopped to check the vehicle and any occupants that may be inside. As they approached the vehicle, an adult male victim could be seen inside suffering from apparent gunshot trauma and unresponsive.EMS responded to the scene and declared the victim deceased.&nbsp;Just after 2:30p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to a shooting at an apartment complex in the area of 6300 Manchester Avenue in Kansas City, according to Officer Gonzalez.When officers arrived on scene, they made contact with the calling party who advised someone was shot inside. Officers entered the residence and located a man suffering from apparent, gunshot trauma and unresponsive. EMS personnel responded to the scene and declared the victim deceased.Police had no preliminary information at this time that would indicate what lead up to the shooting and have not reported an arrest or suspect information.&nbsp; The name of the victim has not been released.Just after 4:30p.m. police were dispatched to the 3900 block of N Lister Avenue on a reported shooting disturbance. Upon arrival, officers located an a victim lying outside of a nearby residence suffering from apparent gunshot trauma. EMS transported the victim to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased, according to Officer Gonzalez.Officers located another adult male victim inside of the home suffering from gunshot trauma who was transported to the hospital with critical injuries. Preliminary investigation indicates the shooting may have started over an argument. We are working to determine the relationship between both shooting victims and identify a person of interest. Homicide detectives and crime scene personnel responded to begin collecting evidence and gathering witness statements

Police: 3 homicides in Kansas City on Tuesday

TOPEKA –Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach on Tuesday announced his office has filed a lawsuit against SARJ LLC, the operator of 13 adult websites.

<a href="https://www.ag.ks.gov/home/showdocument?id=22872&amp;t=638724608498177132">Click here to read the</a> petition

The Kansas Attorney General's Office filed the suit in Shawnee County District Court. Since July 1, 2024, Kansas law has required that adult websites verify the age of its users. 

SARJ LLC's websites distribute erotic films, photography, and live streaming platforms without verifying the age of users. The lawsuit marks the first such suit under the 2024 law.

"Protecting our children against the harmful effects of pornography is a high priority for all Kansans. This law is making a difference. When the Kansas Legislature passes a law, I will enforce it faithfully to the letter of the law. That is what the people of Kansas elected me to do," Kobach said.Under Kansas law, SARJ LLC's practices are subject to civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation per day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736891986982.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA –Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach on Tuesday announced his office has filed a lawsuit against SARJ LLC, the operator of 13 adult websites.<a href="https://www.ag.ks.gov/home/showdocument?id=22872&amp;t=638724608498177132">Click here to read the</a> petitionThe Kansas Attorney General's Office filed the suit in Shawnee County District Court. Since July 1, 2024, Kansas law has required that adult websites verify the age of its users. SARJ LLC's websites distribute erotic films, photography, and live streaming platforms without verifying the age of users. The lawsuit marks the first such suit under the 2024 law."Protecting our children against the harmful effects of pornography is a high priority for all Kansans. This law is making a difference. When the Kansas Legislature passes a law, I will enforce it faithfully to the letter of the law. That is what the people of Kansas elected me to do," Kobach said.Under Kansas law, SARJ LLC's practices are subject to civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation per day.

Read the petition: Kan. AG sues adult website for lack of age verification

&nbsp;PALM BEACH —The Presidential inauguration is January 20.&nbsp; On Tuesday night, the Chairman and CEO of Coca-Cola Company, James Quincey presented President-elect Trump the first ever Presidential Commemorative Inaugural Diet Coke bottle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736905668769.png" alt="Photo courtesy Margo Martin Deputy Director of Communications, Donald J. Trump for President&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Margo Martin Deputy Director of Communications, Donald J. Trump for President&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;PALM BEACH —The Presidential inauguration is January 20.&nbsp; On Tuesday night, the Chairman and CEO of Coca-Cola Company, James Quincey presented President-elect Trump the first ever Presidential Commemorative Inaugural Diet Coke bottle.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736905639822.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Trump is a long-time Diet Coke fanatic.

Coca-Cola gives Trump commemorative inaugural Diet Coke bottle

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man and woman have been charged with felonies in connection with missing Abbi Schaeffer, who was found dead in South Kansas City in 2023, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

Jacob Block&nbsp;faces one count of Accessory Abandonment of a Corpse and one count of Accessory Tampering with Physical Evidence. Eunice Carlo-Martinez&nbsp;faces the same charges.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2473/Block-Jacob---PC-Statement_Redacted">According to court records</a>, on May 23, 2022, Ring camera footage showed Schaeffer, entering the defendant's grey BMW from her residence in Clay County, and the vehicle leaving the area. Additional camera footage shows the defendant and&nbsp;Schaeffer, entering a residence in Jackson County, but Schaeffer is never seen exiting.

Over the next few days, the defendant and&nbsp;codefendant are captured on video surveillance exiting and entering the residence several times. Camera footage shows the codefendant moving mop buckets and deactivating and then reactivating one of the cameras.

Two days after&nbsp;Schaeffer is last seen entering the residence, camera footage shows the defendant and the codefendant loading a U-Haul with a large black box-like object and then leaving the residence.

On April 1, 2023, skeletal remains were found in a broken box in a ditch off a roadway. The box looked like the same size and color the defendant was seen loading into the U-Haul truck.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2474/Carlo-Martinez-Eunice---PC-Statement_Redacted">Detectives conducted a search</a>&nbsp;of the defendant and codefendant's cell phones and found photos and videos in the residence of the wooden box, which appeared to be the same one found at the crime scene. A lab report later determined the box in the photos and videos and the one at the crime scene were the same.

Detectives also conducted searches of the defendant and codefendant's Facebook accounts, which revealed messages indicating they gave Schaeffer, Fentanyl, and she suffered an overdose.

According to the Medical Examiner's Office, due to the level of decomposition,&nbsp;Schaeffer's cause of death could not be determined. However,&nbsp;Schaeffer brain tissue did contain fentanyl metabolites.&nbsp;

Prosecutors requested a $150,000 cash-only bond for both Block and Carlo-Martinez.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736614535780.png" alt="Abbi Schaeffer photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Abbi Schaeffer photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man and woman have been charged with felonies in connection with missing Abbi Schaeffer, who was found dead in South Kansas City in 2023, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.Jacob Block&nbsp;faces one count of Accessory Abandonment of a Corpse and one count of Accessory Tampering with Physical Evidence. Eunice Carlo-Martinez&nbsp;faces the same charges.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2473/Block-Jacob---PC-Statement_Redacted">According to court records</a>, on May 23, 2022, Ring camera footage showed Schaeffer, entering the defendant's grey BMW from her residence in Clay County, and the vehicle leaving the area. Additional camera footage shows the defendant and&nbsp;Schaeffer, entering a residence in Jackson County, but Schaeffer is never seen exiting.Over the next few days, the defendant and&nbsp;codefendant are captured on video surveillance exiting and entering the residence several times. Camera footage shows the codefendant moving mop buckets and deactivating and then reactivating one of the cameras.Two days after&nbsp;Schaeffer is last seen entering the residence, camera footage shows the defendant and the codefendant loading a U-Haul with a large black box-like object and then leaving the residence.On April 1, 2023, skeletal remains were found in a broken box in a ditch off a roadway. The box looked like the same size and color the defendant was seen loading into the U-Haul truck.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2474/Carlo-Martinez-Eunice---PC-Statement_Redacted">Detectives conducted a search</a>&nbsp;of the defendant and codefendant's cell phones and found photos and videos in the residence of the wooden box, which appeared to be the same one found at the crime scene. A lab report later determined the box in the photos and videos and the one at the crime scene were the same.Detectives also conducted searches of the defendant and codefendant's Facebook accounts, which revealed messages indicating they gave Schaeffer, Fentanyl, and she suffered an overdose.According to the Medical Examiner's Office, due to the level of decomposition,&nbsp;Schaeffer's cause of death could not be determined. However,&nbsp;Schaeffer brain tissue did contain fentanyl metabolites.&nbsp;Prosecutors requested a $150,000 cash-only bond for both Block and Carlo-Martinez.

Two charged in connection with missing KC woman found dead

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas woman on drug allegations.

Just before 4 a.m. January 12., a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on an  Acura passenger vehicle on 150th Road, just west of U.S. 75 Highway in rural Jackson County, according to Sheriff Tim Morse

.  Nichole Hoyal Allen, 40, of Topeka, was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while license suspended, improper driving on laned roadway and a defective tag lamp.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736890783002.png" alt="Allen-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Allen-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas woman on drug allegations.Just before 4 a.m. January 12., a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on an Acura passenger vehicle on 150th Road, just west of U.S. 75 Highway in rural Jackson County, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. Nichole Hoyal Allen, 40, of Topeka, was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while license suspended, improper driving on laned roadway and a defective tag lamp.

Kan. woman with suspended license was transporting meth

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for an alleged violent crime.

Just after 10p.m. January 12,, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Communications Center received notification of a stabbing in the 7300 block of SW Robins Drive, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

At the scene, deputies located a 78-year-old man and a 68-year-old woman both suffering from stab wounds. One victim was transported by American Medical Response (AMR) to a local hospital with series injuries

Deputies arrested 37-year-old Chadwyck P. N. L. Myers, 37, of Topeka into custody on requested charges of Aggravated battery and&nbsp;Criminal damage to property. The suspect and the victims were known to each other, according to Deputy Christian.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736896046123.png" alt="Myers-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Myers-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for an alleged violent crime.Just after 10p.m. January 12,, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Communications Center received notification of a stabbing in the 7300 block of SW Robins Drive, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.At the scene, deputies located a 78-year-old man and a 68-year-old woman both suffering from stab wounds. One victim was transported by American Medical Response (AMR) to a local hospital with series injuriesDeputies arrested 37-year-old Chadwyck P. N. L. Myers, 37, of Topeka into custody on requested charges of Aggravated battery and&nbsp;Criminal damage to property. The suspect and the victims were known to each other, according to Deputy Christian.

Sheriff: Kan. man stabbed 78-year-old man, 68-year-old woman

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">SHERMAN SMITH</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly praised labor unions for contributing to unprecedented economic growth in Kansas and touted her administration’s economic development gains in a speech at an annual labor rally Tuesday at the Statehouse.

The rally, billed as Solidarity Day, packed the first floor rotunda with representatives from a range of unions. Labor leaders encouraged workers to talk to lawmakers about policies that include prevailing wage requirements, private school vouchers and tax relief.

The Democratic governor touted her administration’s ability to secure economic development projects with good-paying jobs, including Panasonic’s vehicle battery plant in De Soto. She said her administration developed a comprehensive economic development plan to prepare the state for long-term success with investments in workforce development and infrastructure.

“I’ve often said that my goal as your governor is to make Kansas the best place to live and raise a family,” Kelly said. “Together, we’re building a foundation for that to be a reality for all working Kansans.”

She talked about investments made in transportation and the state pension fund, and the modernization of an unemployment computer system that was last updated the day Elvis died.

And she signed a comprehensive overhaul of worker compensation laws, which includes increased benefits for injured workers beginning July 2027.

“These measures are not just policies,” Kelly said. “They are a recognition of your value and a promise to prioritize your well-being.”

She urged lawmakers in the upcoming session to embrace tax policies that support long-term fiscal responsibility rather than short-sighted cuts that jeopardize essential services. She also said lawmakers “must resist” attempts to privatize public services or erode the rights of working Kansans.

“As your governor, I will continue to stand with you and to protect and advance the rights of working Kansans,” Kelly said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736883667906.jpeg" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly speaks with John Nave, executive vice president of Kansas AFL-CIO, before a labor rally on Jan. 14, 2025, at the Statehouse. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly speaks with John Nave, executive vice president of Kansas AFL-CIO, before a labor rally on Jan. 14, 2025, at the Statehouse. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">SHERMAN SMITH</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly praised labor unions for contributing to unprecedented economic growth in Kansas and touted her administration’s economic development gains in a speech at an annual labor rally Tuesday at the Statehouse.The rally, billed as Solidarity Day, packed the first floor rotunda with representatives from a range of unions. Labor leaders encouraged workers to talk to lawmakers about policies that include prevailing wage requirements, private school vouchers and tax relief.The Democratic governor touted her administration’s ability to secure economic development projects with good-paying jobs, including Panasonic’s vehicle battery plant in De Soto. She said her administration developed a comprehensive economic development plan to prepare the state for long-term success with investments in workforce development and infrastructure.“I’ve often said that my goal as your governor is to make Kansas the best place to live and raise a family,” Kelly said. “Together, we’re building a foundation for that to be a reality for all working Kansans.”She talked about investments made in transportation and the state pension fund, and the modernization of an unemployment computer system that was last updated the day Elvis died.And she signed a comprehensive overhaul of worker compensation laws, which includes increased benefits for injured workers beginning July 2027.“These measures are not just policies,” Kelly said. “They are a recognition of your value and a promise to prioritize your well-being.”She urged lawmakers in the upcoming session to embrace tax policies that support long-term fiscal responsibility rather than short-sighted cuts that jeopardize essential services. She also said lawmakers “must resist” attempts to privatize public services or erode the rights of working Kansans.“As your governor, I will continue to stand with you and to protect and advance the rights of working Kansans,” Kelly said.

Kansas governor praises unions, touts economic development in labor rally speech

Confirmation hearings for&nbsp;Donald Trump’s&nbsp;cabinet picks began Tuesday. Senators on the Armed Service Committee questioned defense secretary, nominee Pete Hegseth.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/event/senate-committee/defense-secretary-nominee-pete-hegseth-testifies-at-confirmation-hearing/429823">Click here to watch</a>&nbsp;a replay of the hearing

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736865351790.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>Confirmation hearings for&nbsp;Donald Trump’s&nbsp;cabinet picks began Tuesday. Senators on the Armed Service Committee questioned defense secretary, nominee Pete Hegseth.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/event/senate-committee/defense-secretary-nominee-pete-hegseth-testifies-at-confirmation-hearing/429823">Click here to watch</a>&nbsp;a replay of the hearing<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Discouraging the use of the words “mom and dad” at our military academies is nuts and so are racial quotas for officers. Our military needs to get out of the DEI business and focus on lethality. Period. <a href="https://t.co/DgZGuNlZ7h">pic.twitter.com/DgZGuNlZ7h</a>&mdash; Eric Schmitt (@Eric_Schmitt) <a href="https://twitter.com/Eric_Schmitt/status/1879264783456965079?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;I appreciate your service to our nation. It&#39;s something that I know you are very proud of and it is something that we have in common and that we share.&quot; WATCH: Complete exchange between <a href="https://twitter.com/SenJoniErnst?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenJoniErnst</a> and Defense Secretary Nominee Pete Hegseth. <a href="https://t.co/ichJIGfdwZ">pic.twitter.com/ichJIGfdwZ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1879252453016678571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;Anonymous smears.&quot; Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth responds to several questions from <a href="https://twitter.com/SenMarkKelly?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenMarkKelly</a> regarding statements about Hegseth&#39;s past personal behavior. <a href="https://t.co/yLKgMITr8M">pic.twitter.com/yLKgMITr8M</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1879239114807034006?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenMullin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenMullin</a>: &quot;How many senators have shown up drunk to vote at night?...And how many senators do you know have gotten divorced for cheating on their wives...it&#39;s for show....it is so ridiculous you guys hold yourselves to a higher standard.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/6OICfbzsjo">pic.twitter.com/6OICfbzsjo</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1879225972488032392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI) criticizes Pete Hegseth for having never managed an organization of more than 100 people.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenatorWicker?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenatorWicker</a>: &quot;Mr. Hegseth, it seems to me that you&#39;ve supervised far more people than the average United States Senator supervises.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/X9zi3xTZjv">pic.twitter.com/X9zi3xTZjv</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1879223729986682970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenWarren?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenWarren</a>: &quot;You&#39;re quite sure that every general who serves should not go directly into the defense industry for 10 years. You&#39;re not willing to make that same pledge? Pete Hegseth: &quot;I&#39;m not a general, Senator.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/X2IcnoRAzR">pic.twitter.com/X2IcnoRAzR</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1879218809090813965?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenTimKaine?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenTimKaine</a> to Pete Hegseth: &quot;You had fathered a child two months before by a woman that was not your wife...Can you so casually cheat on a second wife and cheat on the mother of a child that had been born two months before and you tell us you&#39;re completely cleared?&quot; <a href="https://t.co/JxLAo1ctvt">pic.twitter.com/JxLAo1ctvt</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1879215000268521736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sen. <a href="https://twitter.com/maziehirono?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@maziehirono</a>: Would you carry out an order from President Trump to seize Greenland...by force or would you comply with an order to take over the Panama Canal? Pete Hegseth: I will emphasize that President Trump received 77 million votes to be the lawful Commander-in-chief. <a href="https://t.co/SWKkhgDQoH">pic.twitter.com/SWKkhgDQoH</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1879209803446194178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;You will have to change how you see women to do this job well and I don&#39;t know if you are capable of that.&quot; Full exchange between <a href="https://twitter.com/SenGillibrand?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenGillibrand</a> and Pete Hegseth on women and LGBTQ serving in the military. <a href="https://t.co/UkSMppbJDF">pic.twitter.com/UkSMppbJDF</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1879202428546941075?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenGillibrand?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenGillibrand</a> to Pete Hegseth: &quot;What&#39;s wrong with a mom, by the way? Once you have babies you therefore are no longer able to be lethal? You&#39;re basically saying women after they have children can&#39;t ever serve in the military in a combat role. It&#39;s a silly thing to say.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/81oehgr1Pr">pic.twitter.com/81oehgr1Pr</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1879199920688635943?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Exchange between <a href="https://twitter.com/SenatorShaheen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenatorShaheen</a> and Defense Secretary Nominee Pete Hegseth on women in the military. <a href="https://t.co/hgYYL4S00i">pic.twitter.com/hgYYL4S00i</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1879199544103043384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Trump's Nominee for Defense Secretary Grilled on Qualifications

WASHINGTON —Days before his term end, President Biden on Monday canceled more student loan debt.

On the White House web site, Biden wrote.

"Today, my Administration is approving student loan relief for more than 150,000 borrowers – bringing the total number of Americans who have had their student debt cancelled by my Administration to over 5 million.&nbsp;These 150,000 borrowers include: almost 85,000 borrowers who attended schools that cheated and defrauded their students, 61,000 borrowers with total and permanent disabilities, and 6,100 public service workers."

"My Administration has taken historic action to reduce the burden of student debt, hold bad actors accountable, and fight on behalf of students across the country. This includes fixing the broken Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program and ensuring over 1 million public service workers receive the student loan relief they are entitled to under the law, approving student loan relief for 1.7 million borrowers who were cheated and defrauded by their schools, delivering student debt relief to 633,000 borrowers with total and permanent disabilities, and fixing administrative errors in the Income-Driven Repayment programs to deliver relief to over 1.4 million borrowers who have been in repayment for decades."

My Administration also secured the largest increase to the maximum Pell Grant award in a decade to put higher-education in reach for more Americans.

"Since Day One of my Administration, I promised to ensure higher-education is a ticket to the middle class, not a barrier to opportunity, and I’m proud to say we have forgiven more student loan debt than any other administration in history."

WASHINGTON —Days before his term end, President Biden on Monday canceled more student loan debt.On the White House web site, Biden wrote."Today, my Administration is approving student loan relief for more than 150,000 borrowers – bringing the total number of Americans who have had their student debt cancelled by my Administration to over 5 million.&nbsp;These 150,000 borrowers include: almost 85,000 borrowers who attended schools that cheated and defrauded their students, 61,000 borrowers with total and permanent disabilities, and 6,100 public service workers.""My Administration has taken historic action to reduce the burden of student debt, hold bad actors accountable, and fight on behalf of students across the country. This includes fixing the broken Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program and ensuring over 1 million public service workers receive the student loan relief they are entitled to under the law, approving student loan relief for 1.7 million borrowers who were cheated and defrauded by their schools, delivering student debt relief to 633,000 borrowers with total and permanent disabilities, and fixing administrative errors in the Income-Driven Repayment programs to deliver relief to over 1.4 million borrowers who have been in repayment for decades."My Administration also secured the largest increase to the maximum Pell Grant award in a decade to put higher-education in reach for more Americans."Since Day One of my Administration, I promised to ensure higher-education is a ticket to the middle class, not a barrier to opportunity, and I’m proud to say we have forgiven more student loan debt than any other administration in history."

Parting Gift: Biden cancels student loans for 150,000 more borrowers

KANSAS CITY–Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.&nbsp;

Officers stopped to check the vehicle and any occupants that may be inside. As they approached the vehicle, an adult male victim could be seen inside suffering from apparent gunshot trauma and unresponsive. 

EMS was called to the scene and declared the victim deceased. Detective are working to determine what led up to the shooting and are actively working to identify a possible person of interest. No one has been identified and police do not currently have anyone in custody at this time.

KANSAS CITY–Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.&nbsp;Just before 12:15a.m. Tuesday, officers were patrolling in the area of E 30th Street and Indiana Avenue when they observed a vehicle stopped in the roadway and facing oncoming traffic, according to KCPD&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.Officers stopped to check the vehicle and any occupants that may be inside. As they approached the vehicle, an adult male victim could be seen inside suffering from apparent gunshot trauma and unresponsive. EMS was called to the scene and declared the victim deceased. Detective are working to determine what led up to the shooting and are actively working to identify a possible person of interest. No one has been identified and police do not currently have anyone in custody at this time.

Homicide: Victim found in car facing wrong-way on KC street

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/camikoons/">CAMI KOONS</a>&nbsp;-

The U.S. Department of Agriculture finalized a third regulatory reform under the Packers and Stockyards Act, with the latest regulation giving greater stability and fairness to chicken farmers working for major meat companies, according to an announcement Tuesday.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a press conference Monday the regulation came from “the ground up” and reflects changes that poultry farmers across the country have said they needed.

“This rule basically addresses many of the concerns that we’ve heard from rank and file producers who just simply want a fair shake,” Vilsack said. “They don’t want the field necessarily tilted in their direction, they just don’t want to have to work uphill.”

The regulation limits some of the variability within the poultry tournament system, a system where growers are ranked against one another to determine pay. The new rule stops companies from deducting from a grower’s baseline pay because of their placement in the tournament system.

The rule sets that no more than 25% of a grower’s total compensation can be based on the tournament system and requires greater stability, and information, on the inputs producers receive.

The rule, according to Vilsack, will also provide producers with “key information” on the nature and extent of capital investments that a company would require a contract grower to make in order to extend a contract.

“This is a strong rule and a good rule, and it’s a rule that bubbled up from the ground up, not the top down, and I think those kinds of rules, ultimately, are successful and the ones that are preserved,” Vilsack said.

USDA has made two other rules to strengthen fairness and transparency under of the Packers and Stockyards Act during the Biden administration, including another poultry-oriented rule&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2023/11/08/usda-announces-progress-further-competition-agriculture-level-playing-field-farmers" target="_blank">finalized in 2023</a>&nbsp;that mandated large processing companies give “critical information” to their poultry growers related to earnings, flock placement and protocol for sickness or natural disaster.

The other&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2024/03/05/usda-announces-next-major-step-promoting-competition-agriculture-and-advancing-economic-opportunity#:~:text=The%20final%20rule%20Inclusive%20Competition,retaliation%20and%20deception%20in%20contracting." target="_blank">rule prohibited discrimination and banned companies from retaliating</a>&nbsp;against farmers who communicate with government agencies or join grower associations.

Vilsack said USDA has also strengthened partnerships with state attorneys general and the U.S. Department of Justice to better enforce the Packers and Stockyards Act.

“We try to be responsive to the field, to the ordinary folks out there working hard every day, trying to make a living and trying to take care of their family, trying to make sure their their operation remains profitable in a tough time, and that they’re in a position to be able to turn it on to the next generation in better shape than they found it,” Vilsack said, reflecting on the work of USDA during the Biden administration.

USDA additionally announced Tuesday the withdrawal of a fourth rule, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/06/28/2024-14042/fair-and-competitive-livestock-and-poultry-markets" target="_blank">Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets</a>, which it had proposed in June 2024 and would have defined general practices that were either unfair or in violation of the Packers and Stockyards Act.

Vilsack said the department chose to withdraw the rule, rather than leave it to be finalized by the incoming administration, because it was a very complex rule that could have been “fundamentally” changed by a couple of tweaks.

“If there is an intent to do that,” Vilsack said, “then it seems like it ought to start from the beginning of the process, not at the end of the process.”

This story was originally published by the&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/briefs/usda-finalizes-packers-and-stockyards-reform-to-help-chicken-farmers/" target="_blank">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>, a States Newsroom affiliate.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736876076607.jpeg" alt="Broiler chickens are raised in a chicken house on the Bobby Morgan chicken Farm in Luling, Texas on Aug. 23, 2013. (Photo by Bob Nichols/USDA)." />
 <figcaption>Broiler chickens are raised in a chicken house on the Bobby Morgan chicken Farm in Luling, Texas on Aug. 23, 2013. (Photo by Bob Nichols/USDA).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/camikoons/">CAMI KOONS</a>&nbsp;-The U.S. Department of Agriculture finalized a third regulatory reform under the Packers and Stockyards Act, with the latest regulation giving greater stability and fairness to chicken farmers working for major meat companies, according to an announcement Tuesday.Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a press conference Monday the regulation came from “the ground up” and reflects changes that poultry farmers across the country have said they needed.“This rule basically addresses many of the concerns that we’ve heard from rank and file producers who just simply want a fair shake,” Vilsack said. “They don’t want the field necessarily tilted in their direction, they just don’t want to have to work uphill.”The regulation limits some of the variability within the poultry tournament system, a system where growers are ranked against one another to determine pay. The new rule stops companies from deducting from a grower’s baseline pay because of their placement in the tournament system.The rule sets that no more than 25% of a grower’s total compensation can be based on the tournament system and requires greater stability, and information, on the inputs producers receive.The rule, according to Vilsack, will also provide producers with “key information” on the nature and extent of capital investments that a company would require a contract grower to make in order to extend a contract.“This is a strong rule and a good rule, and it’s a rule that bubbled up from the ground up, not the top down, and I think those kinds of rules, ultimately, are successful and the ones that are preserved,” Vilsack said.USDA has made two other rules to strengthen fairness and transparency under of the Packers and Stockyards Act during the Biden administration, including another poultry-oriented rule&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2023/11/08/usda-announces-progress-further-competition-agriculture-level-playing-field-farmers" target="_blank">finalized in 2023</a>&nbsp;that mandated large processing companies give “critical information” to their poultry growers related to earnings, flock placement and protocol for sickness or natural disaster.The other&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/press-releases/2024/03/05/usda-announces-next-major-step-promoting-competition-agriculture-and-advancing-economic-opportunity#:~:text=The%20final%20rule%20Inclusive%20Competition,retaliation%20and%20deception%20in%20contracting." target="_blank">rule prohibited discrimination and banned companies from retaliating</a>&nbsp;against farmers who communicate with government agencies or join grower associations.Vilsack said USDA has also strengthened partnerships with state attorneys general and the U.S. Department of Justice to better enforce the Packers and Stockyards Act.“We try to be responsive to the field, to the ordinary folks out there working hard every day, trying to make a living and trying to take care of their family, trying to make sure their their operation remains profitable in a tough time, and that they’re in a position to be able to turn it on to the next generation in better shape than they found it,” Vilsack said, reflecting on the work of USDA during the Biden administration.USDA additionally announced Tuesday the withdrawal of a fourth rule, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/06/28/2024-14042/fair-and-competitive-livestock-and-poultry-markets" target="_blank">Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets</a>, which it had proposed in June 2024 and would have defined general practices that were either unfair or in violation of the Packers and Stockyards Act.Vilsack said the department chose to withdraw the rule, rather than leave it to be finalized by the incoming administration, because it was a very complex rule that could have been “fundamentally” changed by a couple of tweaks.“If there is an intent to do that,” Vilsack said, “then it seems like it ought to start from the beginning of the process, not at the end of the process.”This story was originally published by the&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/briefs/usda-finalizes-packers-and-stockyards-reform-to-help-chicken-farmers/" target="_blank">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>, a States Newsroom affiliate.&nbsp;

USDA finalizes packers and stockyards reform to help chicken farmers

LYON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating after four&nbsp;dogs were found at the service center in Lyon County on the Kansas Turnpike, according to a social media report from the Lyon County Sheriff.

Two were left in a cage by the dumpster and two were running loose. Someone from out of state picked them up and tried to take them to the animal shelter.

The shelter was unable to take them in. They are being cared for by the Lyon County jail staff. Please contact the Lyone Sheriff's Office if you are interested in adoption or fostering.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736865052558.png" alt="Photos Lyon County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos Lyon County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating after four&nbsp;dogs were found at the service center in Lyon County on the Kansas Turnpike, according to a social media report from the Lyon County Sheriff.Two were left in a cage by the dumpster and two were running loose. Someone from out of state picked them up and tried to take them to the animal shelter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736869091970.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The shelter was unable to take them in. They are being cared for by the Lyon County jail staff. Please contact the Lyone Sheriff's Office if you are interested in adoption or fostering.

Sheriff: 4 dogs dumped at service center on Kan. Turnpike

The Office of the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Consumer Protection Division reminded residents Monday to be aware of a recent change in Kansas state law that may have an effect on daily spending habits.

 As of January 1, 2025, merchants can legally add a surcharge to credit card transactions, as long as clear notice is provided to the customer before the sale.

K.S.A. 16a-2-403 has been amended to allow any person or retailer offering sales, services or lease transactions to impose a surcharge on credit card payments, as long as the amount of the surcharge is disclosed through a “clear and conspicuous notice to the customer at the point of entry or the point of sale and in advance of such transaction.”

Before this change in the law, Kansas had what amounted to a ban on surcharges, allowing only for cash discounts on sales. In 2021, however, the ban was held to be unconstitutional in a federal case, finding it was a violation of the First Amendment.

Although debit cards are not mentioned in the body of the new Kansas statute, adding a debit card surcharge remains illegal in all 50 states under federal law, specifically the Durbin Amendment to the Dodd-Frank Reform and Consumer Protections Act. Similarly, because Kansas state law has no maximum surcharge, the maximum allowed in Kansas is capped by federal law at 4 percent.

The Office of the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Consumer Protection Division reminded residents Monday to be aware of a recent change in Kansas state law that may have an effect on daily spending habits. As of January 1, 2025, merchants can legally add a surcharge to credit card transactions, as long as clear notice is provided to the customer before the sale.K.S.A. 16a-2-403 has been amended to allow any person or retailer offering sales, services or lease transactions to impose a surcharge on credit card payments, as long as the amount of the surcharge is disclosed through a “clear and conspicuous notice to the customer at the point of entry or the point of sale and in advance of such transaction.”Before this change in the law, Kansas had what amounted to a ban on surcharges, allowing only for cash discounts on sales. In 2021, however, the ban was held to be unconstitutional in a federal case, finding it was a violation of the First Amendment.Although debit cards are not mentioned in the body of the new Kansas statute, adding a debit card surcharge remains illegal in all 50 states under federal law, specifically the Durbin Amendment to the Dodd-Frank Reform and Consumer Protections Act. Similarly, because Kansas state law has no maximum surcharge, the maximum allowed in Kansas is capped by federal law at 4 percent.

Why paying with credit card could now cost you more in Kansas

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a bank robbery in Topeka.

Just before 5p.m. Monday, a suspect, described as a black male, 5-foot-10 inches tall, approximately 200-215 pounds and wearing&nbsp; a black jacket with a hood, dark colored jeans, dark colored tennis shoes and a face covering,&nbsp; entered&nbsp;Equity Bank, 3825 SW 29th&nbsp;Street in Topeka,&nbsp;according to a media release from the FBI. 

The approached the teller and made a verbal demand for money and brandished a firearm.

The suspect fled the bank in an unknown direction with an undisclosed amount of money. There were no injuries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736817291492.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a bank robbery in Topeka.Just before 5p.m. Monday, a suspect, described as a black male, 5-foot-10 inches tall, approximately 200-215 pounds and wearing&nbsp; a black jacket with a hood, dark colored jeans, dark colored tennis shoes and a face covering,&nbsp; entered&nbsp;Equity Bank, 3825 SW 29th&nbsp;Street in Topeka,&nbsp;according to a media release from the FBI. The approached the teller and made a verbal demand for money and brandished a firearm.The suspect fled the bank in an unknown direction with an undisclosed amount of money. There were no injuries.

FBI releases details on Kansas bank robbery suspect

KANSAS CITY —Police have released the names of two women&nbsp; who died in an accident just after 3a.m. Friday in Kansas City.

A preliminary investigation revealed a Honda SUV driven by 24-year-old&nbsp; Breanna Bullington was westbound on Interstate 435 too fast for weather conditions on the snow covered highway, according KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

Just east of 103rd Street, the Honda traveled off the roadway to the right, up and over the snowbank that was lining the north side of the highway.&nbsp; The Honda then vaulted off the bridge, falling approximately 100 feet and landing in the Blue River.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736593685157.png" alt="-First responders at the scene early Friday-image from KC Scout" />
 <figcaption>-First responders at the scene early Friday-image from KC Scout</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Police have released the names of two women&nbsp; who died in an accident just after 3a.m. Friday in Kansas City.A preliminary investigation revealed a Honda SUV driven by 24-year-old&nbsp; Breanna Bullington was westbound on Interstate 435 too fast for weather conditions on the snow covered highway, according KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.Just east of 103rd Street, the Honda traveled off the roadway to the right, up and over the snowbank that was lining the north side of the highway.&nbsp; The Honda then vaulted off the bridge, falling approximately 100 feet and landing in the Blue River.Bullington and the rear seat passenger of the Honda identified as her sister 22-year-old Alexis Bullington were both declared deceased at the scene.EMS transported the male front seat passenger of the Honda to a local hospital for treatment of critical injuries according to Becchina.Two lanes of westbound Interstate 435 were closed to traffic as recovery efforts of the Honda and the deceased subjects was made.&nbsp;