Sen. Stephen Webber said during floor debate that ‘powerful people’ are protecting the accused but he could not reveal the name because of a promise to victims

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

Accusations that a sexual predator is working in the Missouri Capitol Building with protection from “powerful people” abruptly ended state Senate debate Wednesday on a bill adding&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=314" target="_blank">physician assistants and emergency medical personnel</a>&nbsp;to medical providers covered by a peer review process.

The Senate had just defeated an amendment to the bill offered by state Sen. Nick Schroer, a Republican from Defiance, to make some records from peer review proceedings available for lawsuits alleging deliberate acts against patients.

The amendment was needed, he said, to open up records of sexual assaults and other criminal acts.

Defeat of the amendment offended Democratic state Sen. Tracy McCreery of Olivette, and she was discussing the defeat with state Sen. Stephen Webber of Columbia when he dropped the accusation.

“There are sexual predators who work in this building,” Webber said. “There are powerful people who know who those people are and are protecting them. That is happening right now.”

Webber said he could not reveal the identity of the person he was accusing nor could he reveal any details of where in the Capitol the person worked or the position of the person who told him of the problem.

He had promised the victims confidentiality, he said.

McCreery said she, too, was aware of the problem, and understood the desire of the victim to remain anonymous.

“I am respectful of that as well,” McCreery said. “But I’m also very careful with my group of people.”

Interviewed after the Senate adjourned, Webber said he could not give any more details. When lawmakers are in session, there are executive branch officials and staff, legislators and staff, lobbyists, contract cleaning crews and representatives of the media working in the Capitol Building.

“If the victims wanted me to say something, I would,” Webber said. “If they wanted me to name names, I would. The victims don’t want me to, so I’m not going to.”

The bill, sponsored by Sen. Rusty Black, a Republican from Chillicothe, would create new training requirements for ambulance district board members in addition to making emergency medical personnel subject to the peer review process.

Schroer said the peer review process, which is completely confidential under state law, is being used to hide sexual mistreatment of patients and the response of employers.

“They are using this old, archaic statute that was meant for good, and finding that if they put anything into the system they can conceal it,” Schroer said after the Senate adjourned for the day.

Schroer said he was not aware of the accusations discussed by McCreery and Webber.

In her discussion with Webber, McCreery noted that victims of sexual assault had been visiting with lawmakers during the day to advocate for stronger laws.

The review process is being used to conceal too much, she said.

“When this process, this formal peer review process, has been worked and twisted enough that it’s now being used to hide allegations of sexual assault and sexual abuse, that is wrong,” she said. “Why are we willing to protect abusers?”

Webber said he had no answer to that question. That is when he began discussing the problem in the Missouri Capitol.

“I will say there’s certainly people, powerful people in this building,” Webber said, “who, beyond any doubt, I’m not alleging, I know for a fact, of powerful people in this building who are currently protecting sexual predators.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743080521384.png" alt=" State Sen. Stephen Webber, a Democrat from Columbia, begins his tenure in the Missouri Senate on the first day of the 2025 legislative session in January (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> State Sen. Stephen Webber, a Democrat from Columbia, begins his tenure in the Missouri Senate on the first day of the 2025 legislative session in January (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Sen. Stephen Webber said during floor debate that ‘powerful people’ are protecting the accused but he could not reveal the name because of a promise to victims</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Accusations that a sexual predator is working in the Missouri Capitol Building with protection from “powerful people” abruptly ended state Senate debate Wednesday on a bill adding&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=314" target="_blank">physician assistants and emergency medical personnel</a>&nbsp;to medical providers covered by a peer review process.The Senate had just defeated an amendment to the bill offered by state Sen. Nick Schroer, a Republican from Defiance, to make some records from peer review proceedings available for lawsuits alleging deliberate acts against patients.The amendment was needed, he said, to open up records of sexual assaults and other criminal acts.Defeat of the amendment offended Democratic state Sen. Tracy McCreery of Olivette, and she was discussing the defeat with state Sen. Stephen Webber of Columbia when he dropped the accusation.“There are sexual predators who work in this building,” Webber said. “There are powerful people who know who those people are and are protecting them. That is happening right now.”Webber said he could not reveal the identity of the person he was accusing nor could he reveal any details of where in the Capitol the person worked or the position of the person who told him of the problem.He had promised the victims confidentiality, he said.McCreery said she, too, was aware of the problem, and understood the desire of the victim to remain anonymous.“I am respectful of that as well,” McCreery said. “But I’m also very careful with my group of people.”Interviewed after the Senate adjourned, Webber said he could not give any more details. When lawmakers are in session, there are executive branch officials and staff, legislators and staff, lobbyists, contract cleaning crews and representatives of the media working in the Capitol Building.“If the victims wanted me to say something, I would,” Webber said. “If they wanted me to name names, I would. The victims don’t want me to, so I’m not going to.”The bill, sponsored by Sen. Rusty Black, a Republican from Chillicothe, would create new training requirements for ambulance district board members in addition to making emergency medical personnel subject to the peer review process.Schroer said the peer review process, which is completely confidential under state law, is being used to hide sexual mistreatment of patients and the response of employers.“They are using this old, archaic statute that was meant for good, and finding that if they put anything into the system they can conceal it,” Schroer said after the Senate adjourned for the day.Schroer said he was not aware of the accusations discussed by McCreery and Webber.In her discussion with Webber, McCreery noted that victims of sexual assault had been visiting with lawmakers during the day to advocate for stronger laws.The review process is being used to conceal too much, she said.“When this process, this formal peer review process, has been worked and twisted enough that it’s now being used to hide allegations of sexual assault and sexual abuse, that is wrong,” she said. “Why are we willing to protect abusers?”Webber said he had no answer to that question. That is when he began discussing the problem in the Missouri Capitol.“I will say there’s certainly people, powerful people in this building,” Webber said, “who, beyond any doubt, I’m not alleging, I know for a fact, of powerful people in this building who are currently protecting sexual predators.”

Missouri state senator says a ‘sexual predator’ works in the Capitol Building

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating after suspicious activity near a Kansas park are asking the public for help to locate a vehicle.

Just after 1p.m. On March 17, police were dispatched to the 11300 block of South Cook Street in Olathe regarding suspicious activity, according to Olathe Police Sergeant John Moncayo.

It was reported that a man asked juveniles to enter his vehicle while they were playing at an area park.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The vehicle is believed to be a silver Chevrolet Malibu, with an unknown temporary license plate. The vehicle is also believed to have damage to the rear driver side bumper.

Officers arrived and contacted the&nbsp;juveniles and their parent. Officers also checked the area and were unable to locate the vehicle, which was described as a grey or silver 4-door passenger vehicle missing its hubcaps.

The man was described as being in his 50’s or 60’s, with darker brown skin and short black hair and was last seen wearing a red shirt and dark pants.

&nbsp;Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the Olathe Police Department at (913) 971-6363 or the TIPS Hotline at (816) 474-8477.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743020809818.png" alt="Photo Olathe Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Olathe Police</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating after suspicious activity near a Kansas park are asking the public for help to locate a vehicle.Just after 1p.m. On March 17, police were dispatched to the 11300 block of South Cook Street in Olathe regarding suspicious activity, according to Olathe Police Sergeant John Moncayo.It was reported that a man asked juveniles to enter his vehicle while they were playing at an area park.&nbsp;&nbsp;The vehicle is believed to be a silver Chevrolet Malibu, with an unknown temporary license plate. The vehicle is also believed to have damage to the rear driver side bumper.Officers arrived and contacted the&nbsp;juveniles and their parent. Officers also checked the area and were unable to locate the vehicle, which was described as a grey or silver 4-door passenger vehicle missing its hubcaps.The man was described as being in his 50’s or 60’s, with darker brown skin and short black hair and was last seen wearing a red shirt and dark pants.&nbsp;Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the Olathe Police Department at (913) 971-6363 or the TIPS Hotline at (816) 474-8477.

Police: Man allegedly asked children to get into his car

KANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;-&nbsp;Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) agents were involved in a shooting while serving an arrest warrant just before 9p.m. Wednesday at the El Rio Bravo Supermarket at 11 S. 10th&nbsp;St. in Kansas City, Kansas, according to a media release from the agency.

While KBI agents attempted to make the arrest, the 25-year-old male subject was shot. The man was transported to an area hospital where he is being treated for his injury and is expected to recover. KBI agents were not injured during the incident, however, following the shooting the involved agent was medically evaluated and then released.

As is standard procedure, the special agent who fired will be placed on paid administrative leave pending further investigation.

The KBI asked the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department (KCKPD) to investigate this shooting. Further information related to this investigation is expected to come from KCKPD.&nbsp;

KANSAS CITY, Kan.&nbsp;-&nbsp;Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) agents were involved in a shooting while serving an arrest warrant just before 9p.m. Wednesday at the El Rio Bravo Supermarket at 11 S. 10th&nbsp;St. in Kansas City, Kansas, according to a media release from the agency.While KBI agents attempted to make the arrest, the 25-year-old male subject was shot. The man was transported to an area hospital where he is being treated for his injury and is expected to recover. KBI agents were not injured during the incident, however, following the shooting the involved agent was medically evaluated and then released.As is standard procedure, the special agent who fired will be placed on paid administrative leave pending further investigation.The KBI asked the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department (KCKPD) to investigate this shooting. Further information related to this investigation is expected to come from KCKPD.&nbsp;

KBI special agent shot man while serving a warrant 

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.

Just before&nbsp;7:30p.m. Wednesday, patrol&nbsp;officers were dispatched to a shooting in the&nbsp;3700&nbsp;block&nbsp;of&nbsp;St.&nbsp;John, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte.

First responders were directed to the parking lot&nbsp;of&nbsp;a convenience&nbsp;store at the corner&nbsp;of&nbsp;St.&nbsp;John&nbsp;and Monroe. They found a man suffering from gunshot wounds. They immediately began performing life saving measures and summoned emergency medical personnel to the scene. EMS pronounced the victim deceased on scene.

This is being investigated as a homicide. Preliminary investigation revealed an interaction between individuals in the parking lot&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;store just before the victim was shot. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage and canvassing the area for witnesses. Crime scene personnel are processing the scene for any available physical evidence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743105949880.png" alt="Photos Sheriff Daryl Forte" />
 <figcaption>Photos Sheriff Daryl Forte</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City. Just before&nbsp;7:30p.m. Wednesday, patrol&nbsp;officers were dispatched to a shooting in the&nbsp;3700&nbsp;block&nbsp;of&nbsp;St.&nbsp;John, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743107951249.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>First responders were directed to the parking lot&nbsp;of&nbsp;a convenience&nbsp;store at the corner&nbsp;of&nbsp;St.&nbsp;John&nbsp;and Monroe. They found a man suffering from gunshot wounds. They immediately began performing life saving measures and summoned emergency medical personnel to the scene. EMS pronounced the victim deceased on scene.This is being investigated as a homicide. Preliminary investigation revealed an interaction between individuals in the parking lot&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;store just before the victim was shot. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage and canvassing the area for witnesses. Crime scene personnel are processing the scene for any available physical evidence.

KCPD: Man killed in KC convenience store parking lot

WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging a Mexican national with physically attacking a federal law enforcement agent.&nbsp;

According to court documents, Diego Barron-Esquivel, 23, of Wichita was indicted on one count of forcible assault of a federal officer.

In February 2025, Barron-Esquivel is accused of forcibly assaulting and causing bodily harm to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation officer while the officer was performing his official duties.&nbsp;

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742909861775.png" alt="Barron-Esquivel is being held in Butler County" />
 <figcaption>Barron-Esquivel is being held in Butler County</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging a Mexican national with physically attacking a federal law enforcement agent.&nbsp;According to court documents, Diego Barron-Esquivel, 23, of Wichita was indicted on one count of forcible assault of a federal officer.In February 2025, Barron-Esquivel is accused of forcibly assaulting and causing bodily harm to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation officer while the officer was performing his official duties.&nbsp;Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case.

Mexican national accused of attack on ICE deportation officer in Kansas

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas couple on multiple allegations after a traffic stop arrest.

Just before 12:30a.m. Tuesday, a sheriff's deputy&nbsp;initiated a traffic stop on a passenger vehicle for excessive speed and equipment violations in the vicinity of Kansas 4 highway and Wakarusa Road just north of Eskridge in Wabaunsee County, according to the sheriff's department.&nbsp;

Two sheriff's department officials made contact with the vehicle occupants and their subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of the driver, identified as 33-year-old Colter Weeks of Louisville, Kansas.&nbsp;

He was taken into custody on scene without incident on requested charges of driving while suspended, possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant (two counts); Methamphetamine and HCL base crack cocaine.

The passenger, identified as 34-year-old Jerah Weeks of Louisville, Kansas&nbsp; was arrested on requested charges of possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant (two counts); Methamphetamine &amp; HCL base crack cocaine and for unlawfully obtaining prescription drugs.

Colter Weeks has a previous felony conviction for battery on a city or county corrections officer, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743019719268.png" alt="-Weeks photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>-Weeks photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas couple on multiple allegations after a traffic stop arrest.Just before 12:30a.m. Tuesday, a sheriff's deputy&nbsp;initiated a traffic stop on a passenger vehicle for excessive speed and equipment violations in the vicinity of Kansas 4 highway and Wakarusa Road just north of Eskridge in Wabaunsee County, according to the sheriff's department.&nbsp;Two sheriff's department officials made contact with the vehicle occupants and their subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of the driver, identified as 33-year-old Colter Weeks of Louisville, Kansas.&nbsp;He was taken into custody on scene without incident on requested charges of driving while suspended, possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant (two counts); Methamphetamine and HCL base crack cocaine.The passenger, identified as 34-year-old Jerah Weeks of Louisville, Kansas&nbsp; was arrested on requested charges of possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant (two counts); Methamphetamine &amp; HCL base crack cocaine and for unlawfully obtaining prescription drugs.Colter Weeks has a previous felony conviction for battery on a city or county corrections officer, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Sheriff: Kansas felon caught transporting crack cocaine

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.

Just after 10p.m. Tuesday, patrol officers were dispatched to a shooting in the 4000 block of North Bennington, according to KCPD&nbsp;Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

First responders were directed to an apartment building where they located a man later identified as 19-year-old Dewayne&nbsp;Toombs suffering from a gunshot wound. Officers began performing life saving measures and emergency medical personnel were summoned to the scene.&nbsp; The victim was transported to a local hospital with critical injuries. 

Just after 11:30p.m. Toombs was pronounced deceased at the hospital, according to DiMartino. This is being investigated as a homicide. There is no one in custody at this point.&nbsp; Investigators are working to determine what led up to the shooting. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743001410266.png" alt="Apartment complex where the shooting occurred-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Apartment complex where the shooting occurred-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.Just after 10p.m. Tuesday, patrol officers were dispatched to a shooting in the 4000 block of North Bennington, according to KCPD&nbsp;Sergeant Phil DiMartino.First responders were directed to an apartment building where they located a man later identified as 19-year-old Dewayne&nbsp;Toombs suffering from a gunshot wound. Officers began performing life saving measures and emergency medical personnel were summoned to the scene.&nbsp; The victim was transported to a local hospital with critical injuries. Just after 11:30p.m. Toombs was pronounced deceased at the hospital, according to DiMartino. This is being investigated as a homicide. There is no one in custody at this point.&nbsp; Investigators are working to determine what led up to the shooting.

Man wounded in KC apartment complex shooting has died

TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health is reporting additional measles cases in the state. According to the department's online reportable infections disease web site,&nbsp; there are now 23 cases of measles in six Kansas counties including Stevens, Morton, Grant, Gray, Haskell and Kiowa.

 Last week, the state reported just 10 cases.

On March 13, the state reported the first Measles case in Kansas since 2018.

Early symptoms of measles are a fever of more than 101 degrees Fahrenheit, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. Usually, one to four days after these early symptoms, a red rash appears on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.&nbsp;Measles symptoms typically develop 10-14 days after exposure. Symptoms can develop as soon as seven days and as long as 21 days after exposure, according to the Kansas Department of Health.

Measles is a respiratory disease caused by a virus. Measles is spread through the air by breathing, coughing or sneezing. Measles can be spread from an infected person to others from four days before, to four days after the rash appears.

Because measles is a highly infectious disease, it is very important for anyone exposed and experiencing symptoms to isolate from others with the exception of visiting a health care provider.

The best way to prevent measles is to get the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends children get their first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and a second dose at age 4 to 6 years. Infants ages 6 through 11 months old should get the MMR vaccination if traveling outside the United States. Adults are protected from measles if they have had at least one dose of the MMR vaccine, were born before 1957, or have evidence of immunity from a blood test.

If an individual has known exposure to someone with measles and they are not immune through vaccination or prior infection, they are recommended to:

Per K.A.R. 28-1-2, measles is a four-hour reportable disease. If a health care provider, laboratory or hospital suspects, tests, or diagnoses an individual with measles, KDHE should be notified immediately. KDHE will work with the health care provider on testing recommendations. Teachers and school administrators are also required by law to report suspected cases to KDHE. &nbsp;

Measles cases rarely occur in Kansas and are usually associated with international travel.

For questions, call the Stevens County Health Department at 620-544-7177 or KDHE Epidemiology Hotline at 877-427-7317 (option 5).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743011018377.png" alt="Image KDHE" />
 <figcaption>Image KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health is reporting additional measles cases in the state. According to the department's online reportable infections disease web site,&nbsp; there are now 23 cases of measles in six Kansas counties including Stevens, Morton, Grant, Gray, Haskell and Kiowa. Last week, the state reported just 10 cases.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743011119644.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>On March 13, the state reported the first Measles case in Kansas since 2018.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741908251964.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Early symptoms of measles are a fever of more than 101 degrees Fahrenheit, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. Usually, one to four days after these early symptoms, a red rash appears on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.&nbsp;Measles symptoms typically develop 10-14 days after exposure. Symptoms can develop as soon as seven days and as long as 21 days after exposure, according to the Kansas Department of Health.Measles is a respiratory disease caused by a virus. Measles is spread through the air by breathing, coughing or sneezing. Measles can be spread from an infected person to others from four days before, to four days after the rash appears.Because measles is a highly infectious disease, it is very important for anyone exposed and experiencing symptoms to isolate from others with the exception of visiting a health care provider.The best way to prevent measles is to get the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends children get their first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and a second dose at age 4 to 6 years. Infants ages 6 through 11 months old should get the MMR vaccination if traveling outside the United States. Adults are protected from measles if they have had at least one dose of the MMR vaccine, were born before 1957, or have evidence of immunity from a blood test.If an individual has known exposure to someone with measles and they are not immune through vaccination or prior infection, they are recommended to:<ol>
 <li>Consult with a health care provider to determine if post-exposure prophylaxis is recommended.</li><li>Exclude themselves from public settings for 21 days from the last time they were exposed unless symptoms develop.</li><li>If&nbsp;symptoms&nbsp;develop, individuals should notify their local health department and stay away from public areas until four days after the rash appeared.</li><li>Individuals seeking health care are advised to call ahead to their health care provider and let them know their symptoms and exposure concerns. This will help limit exposure within the healthcare setting.</li>
 </ol>Per K.A.R. 28-1-2, measles is a four-hour reportable disease. If a health care provider, laboratory or hospital suspects, tests, or diagnoses an individual with measles, KDHE should be notified immediately. KDHE will work with the health care provider on testing recommendations. Teachers and school administrators are also required by law to report suspected cases to KDHE. &nbsp;Measles cases rarely occur in Kansas and are usually associated with international travel.For questions, call the Stevens County Health Department at 620-544-7177 or KDHE Epidemiology Hotline at 877-427-7317 (option 5).

More measles: Now in six counties in Kansas

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <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 Supreme Court Justice Evelyn Wilson will retire, effective July 4, following a recent amyotrophic lateral sclerosis diagnosis, also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Wilson’s letter of resignation submitted Monday to Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly began: “Life changes, so plans change.”&nbsp;

She wrote in the letter that the diagnosis has progressed to such a point that her ability to perform the job is “no longer at the level of excellence sufficient to suit me.” Wilson, 65, added she intends to stay in her position until July 4 to see unfinished projects through.

Wilson has served on the Kansas Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/08/03/newest-kansas-supreme-court-justice-promises-tenure-free-of-external-influences/">since 2020</a>. Kelly appointed Wilson in 2019. She served as a Shawnee County district judge beginning in 2004, and the final five of those years before her appointment to the Supreme Court were spent as the district’s chief judge. Before the bench, Wilson practiced law in Topeka and northwest Kansas, and she graduated from Bethany College in Lindsborg and Washburn University School of Law. She is from Smith Center.

The vacancy will mean a fourth state Supreme Court appointment for Kelly, a Democrat, which will occur through a vetting process by a nominating commission made up of five lawyers and four people appointed by the governor. The nominating commission selects three names from a group of applicants to forward to the governor, who selects one appointee. Justices undergo retention votes after their first year on the Supreme Court and every six years after.

“I know from experience the Supreme Court Nominating Commission, and the KBI, will investigate any applicant for my position as thoroughly and vigorously as they investigated me,” Wilson wrote in her letter to Kelly. “And so will you.”

Kansans are set to&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/19/kansas-house-endorses-plan-to-elect-supreme-court-justices-placing-question-on-august-2026-ballot/">vote in August 2026</a>&nbsp;on whether the process ought to change. Republican legislators pushed a resolution through the Legislature earlier this month that will create a ballot question asking voters if justices should be elected by popular vote instead of&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/18/plan-to-elect-kansas-supreme-court-justices-scrutinized-by-critics-including-courts-former-chief/">the merit-based current process</a>.&nbsp;

Chief Justice Marla Luckert, who also served as a district judge in Shawnee County, called Wilson a valued colleague and a “dear friend.”

“My high esteem for her has risen to new heights as I’ve observed her courage facing her health challenges,” Luckert said in a Monday news release. “We will miss her presence on our court, but we understand and support her decision to focus on her health.”

Wilson described the job “as extremely and unrelentingly difficult as it is rewarding.” She said her time on the Supreme Court has been “a rare gift.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743002890644.png" alt="Kansas Supreme Court Justice Evelyn Wilson, pictured here in May 2022, will retire from the bench in July following a Lou Gehrig's disease diagnosis. (Thad Allton for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Supreme Court Justice Evelyn Wilson, pictured here in May 2022, will retire from the bench in July following a Lou Gehrig's disease diagnosis. (Thad Allton for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <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 Supreme Court Justice Evelyn Wilson will retire, effective July 4, following a recent amyotrophic lateral sclerosis diagnosis, also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease.Wilson’s letter of resignation submitted Monday to Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly began: “Life changes, so plans change.”&nbsp;She wrote in the letter that the diagnosis has progressed to such a point that her ability to perform the job is “no longer at the level of excellence sufficient to suit me.” Wilson, 65, added she intends to stay in her position until July 4 to see unfinished projects through.Wilson has served on the Kansas Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/08/03/newest-kansas-supreme-court-justice-promises-tenure-free-of-external-influences/">since 2020</a>. Kelly appointed Wilson in 2019. She served as a Shawnee County district judge beginning in 2004, and the final five of those years before her appointment to the Supreme Court were spent as the district’s chief judge. Before the bench, Wilson practiced law in Topeka and northwest Kansas, and she graduated from Bethany College in Lindsborg and Washburn University School of Law. She is from Smith Center.The vacancy will mean a fourth state Supreme Court appointment for Kelly, a Democrat, which will occur through a vetting process by a nominating commission made up of five lawyers and four people appointed by the governor. The nominating commission selects three names from a group of applicants to forward to the governor, who selects one appointee. Justices undergo retention votes after their first year on the Supreme Court and every six years after.“I know from experience the Supreme Court Nominating Commission, and the KBI, will investigate any applicant for my position as thoroughly and vigorously as they investigated me,” Wilson wrote in her letter to Kelly. “And so will you.”Kansans are set to&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/19/kansas-house-endorses-plan-to-elect-supreme-court-justices-placing-question-on-august-2026-ballot/">vote in August 2026</a>&nbsp;on whether the process ought to change. Republican legislators pushed a resolution through the Legislature earlier this month that will create a ballot question asking voters if justices should be elected by popular vote instead of&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/18/plan-to-elect-kansas-supreme-court-justices-scrutinized-by-critics-including-courts-former-chief/">the merit-based current process</a>.&nbsp;Chief Justice Marla Luckert, who also served as a district judge in Shawnee County, called Wilson a valued colleague and a “dear friend.”“My high esteem for her has risen to new heights as I’ve observed her courage facing her health challenges,” Luckert said in a Monday news release. “We will miss her presence on our court, but we understand and support her decision to focus on her health.”Wilson described the job “as extremely and unrelentingly difficult as it is rewarding.” She said her time on the Supreme Court has been “a rare gift.”

Kansas Supreme Court justice to step down, citing Lou Gehrig’s disease

TOPEKA – An Arizona man was sentenced Tuesday to life in prison for kidnapping and sexually assaulting his victim at gunpoint as he transported her across state lines, according to the United State's Attorney.

 A federal judge also sentenced&nbsp;Martin Brandon Gillen, 27, of Phoenix, Arizona,  to 95 years in prison for other related crimes, to be served concurrent with his life sentence.

Gillen pleaded guilty to one count of kidnapping, two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, one count of transportation for criminal sexual activity, one count of transportation of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography.

In late 2021, Gillen began an online relationship with a minor female who was then 17 years of age. He persuaded her to take and send him sexually explicit images and videos which he kept and later used to threaten the victim. Over the course of the online relationship, Gillen repeatedly made violent threats against the victim. 

In March 2024, Gillen traveled to Illinois to pick up the victim then transported her across state lines, from Illinois to Missouri to Kansas. During this trip, Gillen sexually assaulted her on multiple occasions.

Gillen and the victim were found in Kansas by officers with the Iola Police Department. In his possession, Gillen had a firearm, multiple magazines, and zip ties. Gillen admitted to officers that his cell phone contained child sexual abuse materials. Subsequent examination by law enforcement revealed hundreds of images and videos of child sexual abuse materials on his cell phone, as well as sexually explicit images of the female from when she was 17 years old. 

Agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) also found images of Gillen sexually abusing an unrelated 4-year-old child from Utah on the phone.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Iola Police Department, the New Baden, Illinois Police Department, and the Illinois State Police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720647510208.png" alt="Gillen is being held in Butler Co." />
 <figcaption>Gillen is being held in Butler Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – An Arizona man was sentenced Tuesday to life in prison for kidnapping and sexually assaulting his victim at gunpoint as he transported her across state lines, according to the United State's Attorney. A federal judge also sentenced&nbsp;Martin Brandon Gillen, 27, of Phoenix, Arizona, to 95 years in prison for other related crimes, to be served concurrent with his life sentence.Gillen pleaded guilty to one count of kidnapping, two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, one count of transportation for criminal sexual activity, one count of transportation of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography.In late 2021, Gillen began an online relationship with a minor female who was then 17 years of age. He persuaded her to take and send him sexually explicit images and videos which he kept and later used to threaten the victim. Over the course of the online relationship, Gillen repeatedly made violent threats against the victim. In March 2024, Gillen traveled to Illinois to pick up the victim then transported her across state lines, from Illinois to Missouri to Kansas. During this trip, Gillen sexually assaulted her on multiple occasions.Gillen and the victim were found in Kansas by officers with the Iola Police Department. In his possession, Gillen had a firearm, multiple magazines, and zip ties. Gillen admitted to officers that his cell phone contained child sexual abuse materials. Subsequent examination by law enforcement revealed hundreds of images and videos of child sexual abuse materials on his cell phone, as well as sexually explicit images of the female from when she was 17 years old. Agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) also found images of Gillen sexually abusing an unrelated 4-year-old child from Utah on the phone.This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Iola Police Department, the New Baden, Illinois Police Department, and the Illinois State Police.

Online relationship: Man captured in Kan. admits to kidnapping, sex crimes

The highly anticipated <a href="https://www.tonyspizzaeventscenter.com/events/60th-annual-mid-america-farm-exposition">Mid America Farm Expo</a>&nbsp;returns to Salina, Kansas, from March 26-28, 2025, bringing together farmers, agribusiness professionals, and agricultural enthusiasts for three days of cutting-edge innovation, valuable networking, and industry insights.

The Mid-America Farm Expo, held annually, is celebrating its 60th anniversary and is considered to be one of the best places for anyone involved in the farming and agricultural sectors to get connected with dealers showcasing equipment.&nbsp; This year’s Expo will offer a wide range of exhibitors, including the latest agricultural technologies, equipment, machinery, and services, designed to help the farming community improve efficiency and sustainability.

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the latest products and services transforming the agricultural landscape, attend informative sessions featuring thought leaders and industry experts, network with fellow professionals, suppliers, and farmers, and participate in live demonstrations of advanced farming equipment and technologies.

“I think there’s a misconception that agriculture is a dying industry, when of course, here in the Midwest, we know that couldn’t be any further from the truth,” Renee Duxler, President and CEO of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, said. “The Farm Expo continues to evolve as the industry evolves with advanced technology, innovative methods, and emerging research. The Farm Expo is a great place for farmers and industry leaders to capture that knowledge.”

Special features of the Expo, in addition to the farm equipment displays, will include a variety of programs and seminars. Wednesday morning’s session will be Kansas Forage &amp; Grassland Council Talks with a panel of experts from across the region and will be held on the second floor of Tony’s Pizza Events Center. Wednesday afternoon will host a Central Kansas Irrigation Panel in the 4-H Building with a panel consisting of Dr. Johnathan Aguilar, KSU Extension Irrigation Specialist; Mark Billinger, KDA Assistant Water Commissioner; and Ryan Flickner, KFB Senior Director of Public Policy &amp; Central Kansas Farmer.

On Thursday, Washburn University’s Professor of Agricultural Law and Taxation, Roger McEowen, will discuss Hot Topics in Agricultural Law at 10:30 a.m. on the second floor of Tony’s Pizza Events Center. In addition to the morning session, McEowen will be discussing farm succession planning at 1:30 p.m. in the 4-H Building.

To conclude the 60th Annual Mid America Farm Expo, there will be a Women in Agriculture session on Friday morning at 10 a.m. at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center on the second floor.

The Expo began 60 years ago as a project of the Agriculture Committee of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce. It was named the Salina Materials Handling Show and had 44 exhibits on display at the Saline County Fairgrounds, now called the Saline County Livestock and Expo Center. With the construction of the Tony’s Pizza Events Center directly across from the Expo Center, the Farm Expo expanded and is now one of the largest spring farm shows in the Midwest, attracting a few thousand attendees over the three days.

The Expo is headquartered in the Tony’s Pizza Events Center, with additional displays in the Saline County Livestock &amp; Expo Center's Agricultural Hall. Exhibits are also located outside in front of Ag Hall and in the Events Center's west parking lot.

There is no charge for admission or parking. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 26, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 27, and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. March 28. The event is sponsored by the Agriculture Committee of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743003798464.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The highly anticipated <a href="https://www.tonyspizzaeventscenter.com/events/60th-annual-mid-america-farm-exposition">Mid America Farm Expo</a>&nbsp;returns to Salina, Kansas, from March 26-28, 2025, bringing together farmers, agribusiness professionals, and agricultural enthusiasts for three days of cutting-edge innovation, valuable networking, and industry insights.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742998261596.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Mid-America Farm Expo, held annually, is celebrating its 60th anniversary and is considered to be one of the best places for anyone involved in the farming and agricultural sectors to get connected with dealers showcasing equipment.&nbsp; This year’s Expo will offer a wide range of exhibitors, including the latest agricultural technologies, equipment, machinery, and services, designed to help the farming community improve efficiency and sustainability.Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the latest products and services transforming the agricultural landscape, attend informative sessions featuring thought leaders and industry experts, network with fellow professionals, suppliers, and farmers, and participate in live demonstrations of advanced farming equipment and technologies.“I think there’s a misconception that agriculture is a dying industry, when of course, here in the Midwest, we know that couldn’t be any further from the truth,” Renee Duxler, President and CEO of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, said. “The Farm Expo continues to evolve as the industry evolves with advanced technology, innovative methods, and emerging research. The Farm Expo is a great place for farmers and industry leaders to capture that knowledge.”Special features of the Expo, in addition to the farm equipment displays, will include a variety of programs and seminars. Wednesday morning’s session will be Kansas Forage &amp; Grassland Council Talks with a panel of experts from across the region and will be held on the second floor of Tony’s Pizza Events Center. Wednesday afternoon will host a Central Kansas Irrigation Panel in the 4-H Building with a panel consisting of Dr. Johnathan Aguilar, KSU Extension Irrigation Specialist; Mark Billinger, KDA Assistant Water Commissioner; and Ryan Flickner, KFB Senior Director of Public Policy &amp; Central Kansas Farmer.On Thursday, Washburn University’s Professor of Agricultural Law and Taxation, Roger McEowen, will discuss Hot Topics in Agricultural Law at 10:30 a.m. on the second floor of Tony’s Pizza Events Center. In addition to the morning session, McEowen will be discussing farm succession planning at 1:30 p.m. in the 4-H Building.To conclude the 60th Annual Mid America Farm Expo, there will be a Women in Agriculture session on Friday morning at 10 a.m. at the Tony’s Pizza Events Center on the second floor.The Expo began 60 years ago as a project of the Agriculture Committee of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce. It was named the Salina Materials Handling Show and had 44 exhibits on display at the Saline County Fairgrounds, now called the Saline County Livestock and Expo Center. With the construction of the Tony’s Pizza Events Center directly across from the Expo Center, the Farm Expo expanded and is now one of the largest spring farm shows in the Midwest, attracting a few thousand attendees over the three days.The Expo is headquartered in the Tony’s Pizza Events Center, with additional displays in the Saline County Livestock &amp; Expo Center's Agricultural Hall. Exhibits are also located outside in front of Ag Hall and in the Events Center's west parking lot.There is no charge for admission or parking. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 26, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 27, and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. March 28. The event is sponsored by the Agriculture Committee of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce.

Schedule for 60th Annual Mid America Farm Expo in Salina

DOUGLAS COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after altercation with sheriff's deputies in Douglas County.

Just before 1p.m. Tuesday, deputies arrested&nbsp;a 40-year-old Lawrence man who had displayed a knife while they sought to apprehend him on a warrant, according to the Douglas County Sheriff's office.

The man had an outstanding warrant for an alleged parole violation.

Deputies saw the suspect display the knife as they directed him to stop walking in the 1000 block between Kentucky and Vermont streets in Lawrence. The suspect eventually dropped the knife, and deputies took him to the Douglas County Jail. No one was injured.&nbsp; The sheriff's office did not release the name of the suspect or list requested charges.

DOUGLAS COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after altercation with sheriff's deputies in Douglas County.Just before 1p.m. Tuesday, deputies arrested&nbsp;a 40-year-old Lawrence man who had displayed a knife while they sought to apprehend him on a warrant, according to the Douglas County Sheriff's office.The man had an outstanding warrant for an alleged parole violation.Deputies saw the suspect display the knife as they directed him to stop walking in the 1000 block between Kentucky and Vermont streets in Lawrence. The suspect eventually dropped the knife, and deputies took him to the Douglas County Jail. No one was injured.&nbsp; The sheriff's office did not release the name of the suspect or list requested charges.

Sheriff: Kansas man threatened deputies with a knife

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a>

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump Tuesday signed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/03/preserving-and-protecting-the-integrity-of-american-elections/" target="_blank">sweeping executive order</a>&nbsp;that overhauls the administration of U.S. elections, including requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote.

It’s likely to face legal challenges from voting rights groups and Democratic state attorneys general.

The order is an extension of the president’s&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2024/05/06/though-noncitizens-can-vote-in-few-local-elections-gop-goes-big-to-make-it-illegal/" target="_blank">rhetoric on the campaign trail</a>&nbsp;about noncitizens voting in federal elections and his crackdown on immigration since returning to office.

Trump has often pushed back against other issues in elections administration, railing against early voting and vote-by-mail. He falsely claimed the 2020 presidential election was stolen from him through voter fraud.&nbsp;

Tuesday’s order aligns with&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/04/12/trump-supports-u-s-house-speaker-johnson-elections-agenda-in-joint-appearance/" target="_blank">a priority for House Republicans</a>&nbsp;to pass the&nbsp;Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, or<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/22" target="_blank">&nbsp;SAVE, Act</a>&nbsp;that would require proof of citizenship in federal elections. That bill, if signed into law, would codify parts of the executive order.

States are responsible for administering elections&nbsp;—&nbsp;even those at the federal level&nbsp;— but the order uses federal funding to compel states to follow it. Those&nbsp;that do not comply with the order will have federal funds revoked, according to the order.

The order directs the federal&nbsp;Election Assistance Commission, which distributes grants to states, within 30 days to start requiring people registering to vote to provide proof of citizenship, such as a passport or state-issued identification that indicates citizenship.

The order also prohibits the counting of absentee or mail-in ballots that are received after Election Day. States set their own rules for ballot counting and many allow those that arrive after Election Day but postmarked before.

The order also instructs the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, along with Trump megadonor Elon Musk’s&nbsp;U.S. DOGE Service, to gain access to state voter rolls in order to ensure the voter lists are up to date. Those entities will also have access to immigration databases and states will be allowed to request DHS to verify if any noncitizen is on the state’s list of voters.

The Department of Government Efficiency, which is not actually a federal department, has come under scrutiny for the access it has been given to Americans’ private data housed in other federal departments.

The order instructs DHS Secretary Kristi Noem within 90 days to provide the attorney general “information on all foreign nationals who have indicated on any immigration form that they have registered or voted in a Federal, State, or local election, and shall also take all appropriate action to submit to relevant State or local election officials such information.”

While noncitizens are not allowed to vote in federal elections,&nbsp;certain municipalities in California, Maryland and Vermont, as well as the District of Columbia, allow noncitizens to participate in local elections. If someone who is not a U.S. citizen votes, it could lead to a felony charge and subject that person to deportation.

Congressional Republicans and the president have taken aim at noncitizen voting, even though it’s extremely rare. The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.heritage.org/voterfraud/search?combine=citizenship&amp;state=All&amp;year=&amp;case_type=All&amp;fraud_type=24491&amp;page=0" target="_blank">conducted an analysis of election conduct</a>&nbsp;from 2003 to 2023 and found 29 instances of noncitizens voting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742940038269.png" alt="Image from White House video of the signing during a Tuesday cabinet meeting" />
 <figcaption>Image from White House video of the signing during a Tuesday cabinet meeting</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a>WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump Tuesday signed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/03/preserving-and-protecting-the-integrity-of-american-elections/" target="_blank">sweeping executive order</a>&nbsp;that overhauls the administration of U.S. elections, including requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote.It’s likely to face legal challenges from voting rights groups and Democratic state attorneys general.The order is an extension of the president’s&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2024/05/06/though-noncitizens-can-vote-in-few-local-elections-gop-goes-big-to-make-it-illegal/" target="_blank">rhetoric on the campaign trail</a>&nbsp;about noncitizens voting in federal elections and his crackdown on immigration since returning to office.Trump has often pushed back against other issues in elections administration, railing against early voting and vote-by-mail. He falsely claimed the 2020 presidential election was stolen from him through voter fraud.&nbsp;Tuesday’s order aligns with&nbsp;<a href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/04/12/trump-supports-u-s-house-speaker-johnson-elections-agenda-in-joint-appearance/" target="_blank">a priority for House Republicans</a>&nbsp;to pass the&nbsp;Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, or<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/22" target="_blank">&nbsp;SAVE, Act</a>&nbsp;that would require proof of citizenship in federal elections. That bill, if signed into law, would codify parts of the executive order.States are responsible for administering elections&nbsp;—&nbsp;even those at the federal level&nbsp;— but the order uses federal funding to compel states to follow it. Those&nbsp;that do not comply with the order will have federal funds revoked, according to the order.The order directs the federal&nbsp;Election Assistance Commission, which distributes grants to states, within 30 days to start requiring people registering to vote to provide proof of citizenship, such as a passport or state-issued identification that indicates citizenship.The order also prohibits the counting of absentee or mail-in ballots that are received after Election Day. States set their own rules for ballot counting and many allow those that arrive after Election Day but postmarked before.The order also instructs the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, along with Trump megadonor Elon Musk’s&nbsp;U.S. DOGE Service, to gain access to state voter rolls in order to ensure the voter lists are up to date. Those entities will also have access to immigration databases and states will be allowed to request DHS to verify if any noncitizen is on the state’s list of voters.The Department of Government Efficiency, which is not actually a federal department, has come under scrutiny for the access it has been given to Americans’ private data housed in other federal departments.The order instructs DHS Secretary Kristi Noem within 90 days to provide the attorney general “information on all foreign nationals who have indicated on any immigration form that they have registered or voted in a Federal, State, or local election, and shall also take all appropriate action to submit to relevant State or local election officials such information.”While noncitizens are not allowed to vote in federal elections,&nbsp;certain municipalities in California, Maryland and Vermont, as well as the District of Columbia, allow noncitizens to participate in local elections. If someone who is not a U.S. citizen votes, it could lead to a felony charge and subject that person to deportation.Congressional Republicans and the president have taken aim at noncitizen voting, even though it’s extremely rare. The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.heritage.org/voterfraud/search?combine=citizenship&amp;state=All&amp;year=&amp;case_type=All&amp;fraud_type=24491&amp;page=0" target="_blank">conducted an analysis of election conduct</a>&nbsp;from 2003 to 2023 and found 29 instances of noncitizens voting.

Trump signs broad elections order requiring proof of citizenship

MIAMI COUNTY—Searchers have located the body of a missing Kansas man.&nbsp; Just before 5:30p.m. Monday,&nbsp;the Miami County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a possible body found in a pond near U.S. 69 Highway and 247th&nbsp;Street, according to Olathe Police Sergeant John Moncayo.

Law enforcement responded and located the body. On Tuesday an autopsy was conducted, confirming the identity as 37-year-old Jordan Yust.

Yust was last seen just before 11a.m. March 3 when he left his home in&nbsp; 14100 Block of W 141st Place in Olathe, according to Moncayo. His&nbsp; Silver Honda Odyssey was later found on U.S. 69 near 247th Street.

The cause of death is still under investigation; however, there were no signs of foul play.

This case remains under investigation by the Olathe Police Department and Miami County Sheriff’s Office.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742953898172.png" alt="Yust photo Olathe Police" />
 <figcaption>Yust photo Olathe Police</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI COUNTY—Searchers have located the body of a missing Kansas man.&nbsp; Just before 5:30p.m. Monday,&nbsp;the Miami County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a possible body found in a pond near U.S. 69 Highway and 247th&nbsp;Street, according to Olathe Police Sergeant John Moncayo.Law enforcement responded and located the body. On Tuesday an autopsy was conducted, confirming the identity as 37-year-old Jordan Yust.Yust was last seen just before 11a.m. March 3 when he left his home in&nbsp; 14100 Block of W 141st Place in Olathe, according to Moncayo. His&nbsp; Silver Honda Odyssey was later found on U.S. 69 near 247th Street.The cause of death is still under investigation; however, there were no signs of foul play.This case remains under investigation by the Olathe Police Department and Miami County Sheriff’s Office.&nbsp;

Police confirm body found in a pond was missing Kansas man

SMITH COUNTY—Authorities are investigating the cause of a fatal fire in Smith County.

Just after 5a.m. Tuesday, first responders were alerted to a fire at the Home on the Rang Lodging Motel on East Highway 36 in Smith Center, according to Sheriff Travis Conway.

First responders pulled a unresponsive person from the structure who was pronounced dead at the scene. The Smith County Sheriff'f office, investigators from the Kansas State Fire Marshal and a K9 from Sedgwick County Fire are working together to investigate.&nbsp; No foul play is suspected.&nbsp; Authorities have not released the name of the victim or a damage estimate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742953737241.png" alt="Photo Kansas Fire Marshal&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Fire Marshal&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>SMITH COUNTY—Authorities are investigating the cause of a fatal fire in Smith County.Just after 5a.m. Tuesday, first responders were alerted to a fire at the Home on the Rang Lodging Motel on East Highway 36 in Smith Center, according to Sheriff Travis Conway.First responders pulled a unresponsive person from the structure who was pronounced dead at the scene. The Smith County Sheriff'f office, investigators from the Kansas State Fire Marshal and a K9 from Sedgwick County Fire are working together to investigate.&nbsp; No foul play is suspected.&nbsp; Authorities have not released the name of the victim or a damage estimate.

Cause of fatal fire at Kansas motel under investigation

BUTLER COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating alleged sex crimes in Butler County and made seven arrests.

On March 21 and 22, the Butler County Sheriff's Office, Homeland Security Investigations, Andover Police Department, and El Dorado Police Department conducted a joint counter-human trafficking operation to deter human trafficking and commercial sex crimes in Butler County, according to Sheriff Monty Hughey.

Investigators and officers worked with ICTSOS, a local advocacy group providing support to survivors of trafficking. They met with potential victims of trafficking and offered paths to survivorship to ten people who were engaged in commercial sex work during the course of the operation. One suspect was identified as a sex trafficker during this advocacy initiative, located nearby, and arrested for promoting the sale of sexual relations, a felony.

This operation also identified and arrested six men who agreed to purchase sexual relations from a minor child in Butler County. These men have been arrested and booked into the Butler County jail on a variety of felony charges:

Kimron Charvell Burris, 31, has been charged with Aggravated Human Trafficking, Electronic Solicitation of a Child, Commercial Sexual Exploitation of a Child, and Driving While Suspended.

Shane Anthony Pitman (39) has been charged with Aggravated Human Trafficking, Sexual Exploitation of a Child, Commercial Sexual Exploitation of a Child, Indecent Solicitation of a Child, and Promote Obscenity, distribute obscene material.

Jose Campos-Urrutia (36) has been charged with Aggravated Human Trafficking, Electronic Solicitation of a Child, Commercial Sexual Exploitation of a Child, and Indecent Solicitation of a Child.

Andrew Jordan Bikar (22) has been charged with Aggravated Human trafficking, Electronic Soliciatation Of a Child, Commercial Sexual Exploitation Of a Child, Indecent Solicitation Of a Child, and Promote Obscenity, distribute obscene material.

Anthony Joseph Blakely (35) has been arrested and is awaiting charges of Aggravated Human Trafficking, Electronic Solicitation of a Child,&nbsp;Commercial Sexual Exploitation Of a Child, Sexual Exploitation Of a Child, and Indecent Solicitation Of a Child.

Joseph Frank Patrick III, 31, has been arrested and is awaiting charges of Aggravated Human Trafficking, Electronic Solicitation of a Child, Commercial Sexual Exploitation Of a Child, Aggravated Indecent Liberties With a Child, and Indecent Solicitation Of a Child.

Alexander Jamal Lane was arrested and is awaiting charges of Promoting The Sale of Sexual Relations

This operation was carefully designed to create a perception of risk to anyone willing to come to Butler County to exploit trafficking victims, vulnerable children, or engage in commercial sex. It was also designed to create hope and path to freedom for those who being exploited by these suspects.

The investigative team received incredible support from the Butler County Attorney's Office, Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office, Greenwood County Sheriff's Office, Clinton County (MO) Sheriff's Office, Bourbon County Sheriff's Office, and the Ray County (MO) Counter-Human Trafficking Task Force. This operation represents the ongoing commitment of all the agencies and organizations to combat human trafficking.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742934932573.png" alt="Pitman Butler County" />
 <figcaption>Pitman Butler County</figcaption>
 </figure>BUTLER COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating alleged sex crimes in Butler County and made seven arrests.On March 21 and 22, the Butler County Sheriff's Office, Homeland Security Investigations, Andover Police Department, and El Dorado Police Department conducted a joint counter-human trafficking operation to deter human trafficking and commercial sex crimes in Butler County, according to Sheriff Monty Hughey.Investigators and officers worked with ICTSOS, a local advocacy group providing support to survivors of trafficking. They met with potential victims of trafficking and offered paths to survivorship to ten people who were engaged in commercial sex work during the course of the operation. One suspect was identified as a sex trafficker during this advocacy initiative, located nearby, and arrested for promoting the sale of sexual relations, a felony.This operation also identified and arrested six men who agreed to purchase sexual relations from a minor child in Butler County. These men have been arrested and booked into the Butler County jail on a variety of felony charges:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742935004769.png" alt="Burris -photo Butler Co." />
 <figcaption>Burris -photo Butler Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kimron Charvell Burris, 31, has been charged with Aggravated Human Trafficking, Electronic Solicitation of a Child, Commercial Sexual Exploitation of a Child, and Driving While Suspended.Shane Anthony Pitman (39) has been charged with Aggravated Human Trafficking, Sexual Exploitation of a Child, Commercial Sexual Exploitation of a Child, Indecent Solicitation of a Child, and Promote Obscenity, distribute obscene material.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742935047933.png" alt="Campos-Urrutia-photo Butler Co." />
 <figcaption>Campos-Urrutia-photo Butler Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Jose Campos-Urrutia (36) has been charged with Aggravated Human Trafficking, Electronic Solicitation of a Child, Commercial Sexual Exploitation of a Child, and Indecent Solicitation of a Child.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742935091849.png" alt="Bikar photo Butler Co." />
 <figcaption>Bikar photo Butler Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Andrew Jordan Bikar (22) has been charged with Aggravated Human trafficking, Electronic Soliciatation Of a Child, Commercial Sexual Exploitation Of a Child, Indecent Solicitation Of a Child, and Promote Obscenity, distribute obscene material.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742935152063.png" alt="Blakely photo Butler Co." />
 <figcaption>Blakely photo Butler Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Anthony Joseph Blakely (35) has been arrested and is awaiting charges of Aggravated Human Trafficking, Electronic Solicitation of a Child,&nbsp;Commercial Sexual Exploitation Of a Child, Sexual Exploitation Of a Child, and Indecent Solicitation Of a Child.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742935210342.png" alt="Patrick photo Butler Co." />
 <figcaption>Patrick photo Butler Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Joseph Frank Patrick III, 31, has been arrested and is awaiting charges of Aggravated Human Trafficking, Electronic Solicitation of a Child, Commercial Sexual Exploitation Of a Child, Aggravated Indecent Liberties With a Child, and Indecent Solicitation Of a Child.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742935284256.png" alt="Lane photo Butler Co." />
 <figcaption>Lane photo Butler Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Alexander Jamal Lane was arrested and is awaiting charges of Promoting The Sale of Sexual RelationsThis operation was carefully designed to create a perception of risk to anyone willing to come to Butler County to exploit trafficking victims, vulnerable children, or engage in commercial sex. It was also designed to create hope and path to freedom for those who being exploited by these suspects.The investigative team received incredible support from the Butler County Attorney's Office, Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office, Greenwood County Sheriff's Office, Clinton County (MO) Sheriff's Office, Bourbon County Sheriff's Office, and the Ray County (MO) Counter-Human Trafficking Task Force. This operation represents the ongoing commitment of all the agencies and organizations to combat human trafficking.

6 Kan. men accused of wanting to purchase sexual relations from a minor child 

GREENE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 2:30p.m. Monday in Greene County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Peterbilt semi driven by a 26-year-old Joplin man was westbound on Interstate 44 two miles east of Halltown.

The vehicle experienced a tire defect. The driver overcorrected and the vehicle overturned in the median.

The driver was pronounced at the scene. Air Care transported an 18-year-old female passenger to Mercy Springfield.&nbsp; Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.&nbsp; The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

GREENE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 2:30p.m. Monday in Greene County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Peterbilt semi driven by a 26-year-old Joplin man was westbound on Interstate 44 two miles east of Halltown. The vehicle experienced a tire defect. The driver overcorrected and the vehicle overturned in the median.The driver was pronounced at the scene. Air Care transported an 18-year-old female passenger to Mercy Springfield.&nbsp; Both were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.&nbsp; The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri man killed, teen injured after semi overturns

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

Just before 9:30a.m. March 22, an Osage County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop at the junction of K-68 and K-268 highways, near Quenemo for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, deputies found illegal narcotics.

Deputies took Curtis W. McCammon, 46, of Waverly into custody and transported him to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Operating a motor vehicle without a valid license.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742568954237.png" alt="McCammon photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>McCammon photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas man on drug allegations.Just before 9:30a.m. March 22, an Osage County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop at the junction of K-68 and K-268 highways, near Quenemo for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, deputies found illegal narcotics.Deputies took Curtis W. McCammon, 46, of Waverly into custody and transported him to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Operating a motor vehicle without a valid license.

Kansas man without a driver's license caught transporting meth

KANSAS CITY—A man who was shot by Kansas City police after fleeing from officers in a stolen vehicle on Friday has been charged in connection with the crime.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2557/Dockins-Complaint-Red">Steven Dockins faces</a>&nbsp;Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, 1st Degree Tampering with a Motor Vehicle, and Resisting a Lawful Stop, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2556/Dockins-PC-Red">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police attempted to stop a Hyundai sedan on March 21 for a traffic violation, but the driver refused to stop. Police discovered the vehicle had been stolen and continued following it. The vehicle pulled into an alley near 11th Street and Prospect Avenue where the driver stopped and exited the vehicle with a bag.

Officers chased the defendant on foot. An officer said the defendant was running with a firearm in his right hand and carrying a backpack. Officers then reported shots were fired. The defendant was transported to an area hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;

The defendant has several prior felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing firearms. He is in custody on a $75,000 cash bond.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742379426063.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—A man who was shot by Kansas City police after fleeing from officers in a stolen vehicle on Friday has been charged in connection with the crime.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2557/Dockins-Complaint-Red">Steven Dockins faces</a>&nbsp;Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, 1st Degree Tampering with a Motor Vehicle, and Resisting a Lawful Stop, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742919068106.png" alt="Dockins photo Missouri Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Dockins photo Missouri Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2556/Dockins-PC-Red">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police attempted to stop a Hyundai sedan on March 21 for a traffic violation, but the driver refused to stop. Police discovered the vehicle had been stolen and continued following it. The vehicle pulled into an alley near 11th Street and Prospect Avenue where the driver stopped and exited the vehicle with a bag. Officers chased the defendant on foot. An officer said the defendant was running with a firearm in his right hand and carrying a backpack. Officers then reported shots were fired. The defendant was transported to an area hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;The defendant has several prior felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing firearms. He is in custody on a $75,000 cash bond.&nbsp;

Car theft suspect wounded by KCPD faces numerous charges

The state budget will go to the full House next week with 96 earmarked items costing $162.2 million total added to the spending plan presented in January by Gov. Mike Kehoe

The House Budget Committee squeezed $139 million in general revenue out of the Missouri state budget for road, port and other earmarked projects Monday night, but Republicans thwarted an effort by Democrats to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/24/education-funding-child-care-subsidies-central-to-missouri-state-budget-debate/">shift $50 million into public schools</a>.

During a stop-and-go work session that stretched late into the night, the committee approved a $47.9 billion budget for state operations in the coming fiscal year. The committee reduced Gov. Mike Kehoe’s budget by $2.1 billion overall and about $750 million in general revenue.

The mark-up session boosted the total for general revenue earmarks by $20 million and the package going to the full House will have 96 earmarked items tracked by The Independent costing $162.2 million total added since Kehoe&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/28/gov-mike-kehoe-dips-deeply-into-surplus-as-missouri-budget-grows-to-nearly-54-billion/">proposed his budget in January</a>.

Some of the biggest general revenue earmarks — $15 million for a new state park in McDonald County and $12 million for a climbing lane on Interstate 44 — are in the southwest Missouri district of House Budget Committee Chairman Dirk Deaton.

Among the largest earmarks added Monday are $5 million for ramps and an outer road on U.S. Highway 60 in Sikeston and $4 million for the Marion County Port Authority.

While Democrats succeeded in adding a handful of earmarks, they were shot down on almost every proposal to increase or shift funding for state programs.

Two major spending proposals — one Kehoe endorsed in January and another he did not — were backed by Democrats on the committee but could not win support from Republicans.

Kehoe wants the state to spend an extra $107 million in federal funds on child care to revise how payments are calculated to one based on enrollment and change when checks arrive. Meanwhile, he does not want to spend $300 million in state general revenue to fully fund the public school foundation formula.

“Our providers have been through quite a lot this past year, to some extent from what they’ve had to deal with with the state,” state Rep. Stephanie Hein, a Democrat from Springfield, said as she sought to restore part of the child care funding. “This would help provide them stability within their budgeting process for the upcoming year.”

Republicans questioned whether the federal funding used this year will be available in the future.&nbsp;

“There’s no ongoing federal money for this,” said committee vice chairman Bishop Davidson, a Republican from Republic.&nbsp;

Because of a rule requiring cuts in general revenue from one line to spend it in another, Democrats did not attempt to shift the full $300 million into the school foundation formula. Instead, they tried to delete another of Kehoe’s major initiatives,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/07/05/major-corporations-wealthy-donors-fuel-growth-of-missouri-private-school-scholarship/">$50 million for a tax credit program</a>&nbsp;supporting private school tuition scholarships.

“When I look through some of the schools that receive taxpayer dollars now through the form of the tax credit program, there are schools that are getting dollars, that wouldn’t have educated, some of us in this room and I think it’s really important that we are spending our money in the right places and fully funding the foundation formula,” said state Rep. Betsy Fogle of Springfield, ranking Democrat on the committee.

Republicans said the credits are available for students who want to switch public schools as well as attend private schools.&nbsp;

“One thing we lack is parental engagement,” Davidson said. “Another thing we lack are any sort of competitive forces and we get to have both of those things when it comes to the (Empowerment Scholarship Accounts) program.”

The foundation formula distributes state aid on a per-pupil basis, with factors that give more money for students with disabilities or who are from low-income households. It cost $3.7 billion in the current year and the amount needed to fully fund it is determined by applying the calculation to what is called the state adequacy target.

To fully fund the formula for the coming year, the adequacy target would be $7,145 per student. To keep the cost down, Kehoe and the House Budget Committee are funding a target of $6,760 per student.

Kehoe wants the formula to be revised. One Republican said he wants no more money for the formula until it is changed.

“We need to fix it or get rid of it,” said GOP state Rep. Don Mayhew of Crocker.&nbsp;

The Democratic proposal that drew the most support from Republicans would have increased the amount paid for home-delivered meals for the elderly and disabled from $6.21 per meal to $7.14 per meal at a cost of $2.1 million, including $787,120 of general revenue.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742925525368.png" alt=" State Rep. Betsy Fogle of Springfield, ranking Democrat on the House Budget Committee, was defeated Monday in an attempt to shift $50 million into the state public school foundation formula. Fogle is shown at a Feb. 13 news conference (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)." />
 <figcaption> State Rep. Betsy Fogle of Springfield, ranking Democrat on the House Budget Committee, was defeated Monday in an attempt to shift $50 million into the state public school foundation formula. Fogle is shown at a Feb. 13 news conference (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a><h2>The state budget will go to the full House next week with 96 earmarked items costing $162.2 million total added to the spending plan presented in January by Gov. Mike Kehoe</h2>The House Budget Committee squeezed $139 million in general revenue out of the Missouri state budget for road, port and other earmarked projects Monday night, but Republicans thwarted an effort by Democrats to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/24/education-funding-child-care-subsidies-central-to-missouri-state-budget-debate/">shift $50 million into public schools</a>.During a stop-and-go work session that stretched late into the night, the committee approved a $47.9 billion budget for state operations in the coming fiscal year. The committee reduced Gov. Mike Kehoe’s budget by $2.1 billion overall and about $750 million in general revenue.The mark-up session boosted the total for general revenue earmarks by $20 million and the package going to the full House will have 96 earmarked items tracked by The Independent costing $162.2 million total added since Kehoe&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/28/gov-mike-kehoe-dips-deeply-into-surplus-as-missouri-budget-grows-to-nearly-54-billion/">proposed his budget in January</a>.Some of the biggest general revenue earmarks — $15 million for a new state park in McDonald County and $12 million for a climbing lane on Interstate 44 — are in the southwest Missouri district of House Budget Committee Chairman Dirk Deaton.Among the largest earmarks added Monday are $5 million for ramps and an outer road on U.S. Highway 60 in Sikeston and $4 million for the Marion County Port Authority.While Democrats succeeded in adding a handful of earmarks, they were shot down on almost every proposal to increase or shift funding for state programs.Two major spending proposals — one Kehoe endorsed in January and another he did not — were backed by Democrats on the committee but could not win support from Republicans.Kehoe wants the state to spend an extra $107 million in federal funds on child care to revise how payments are calculated to one based on enrollment and change when checks arrive. Meanwhile, he does not want to spend $300 million in state general revenue to fully fund the public school foundation formula.“Our providers have been through quite a lot this past year, to some extent from what they’ve had to deal with with the state,” state Rep. Stephanie Hein, a Democrat from Springfield, said as she sought to restore part of the child care funding. “This would help provide them stability within their budgeting process for the upcoming year.”Republicans questioned whether the federal funding used this year will be available in the future.&nbsp;“There’s no ongoing federal money for this,” said committee vice chairman Bishop Davidson, a Republican from Republic.&nbsp;Because of a rule requiring cuts in general revenue from one line to spend it in another, Democrats did not attempt to shift the full $300 million into the school foundation formula. Instead, they tried to delete another of Kehoe’s major initiatives,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/07/05/major-corporations-wealthy-donors-fuel-growth-of-missouri-private-school-scholarship/">$50 million for a tax credit program</a>&nbsp;supporting private school tuition scholarships.“When I look through some of the schools that receive taxpayer dollars now through the form of the tax credit program, there are schools that are getting dollars, that wouldn’t have educated, some of us in this room and I think it’s really important that we are spending our money in the right places and fully funding the foundation formula,” said state Rep. Betsy Fogle of Springfield, ranking Democrat on the committee.Republicans said the credits are available for students who want to switch public schools as well as attend private schools.&nbsp;“One thing we lack is parental engagement,” Davidson said. “Another thing we lack are any sort of competitive forces and we get to have both of those things when it comes to the (Empowerment Scholarship Accounts) program.”The foundation formula distributes state aid on a per-pupil basis, with factors that give more money for students with disabilities or who are from low-income households. It cost $3.7 billion in the current year and the amount needed to fully fund it is determined by applying the calculation to what is called the state adequacy target.To fully fund the formula for the coming year, the adequacy target would be $7,145 per student. To keep the cost down, Kehoe and the House Budget Committee are funding a target of $6,760 per student.Kehoe wants the formula to be revised. One Republican said he wants no more money for the formula until it is changed.“We need to fix it or get rid of it,” said GOP state Rep. Don Mayhew of Crocker.&nbsp;The Democratic proposal that drew the most support from Republicans would have increased the amount paid for home-delivered meals for the elderly and disabled from $6.21 per meal to $7.14 per meal at a cost of $2.1 million, including $787,120 of general revenue.“This is a warranted increase,” said state Rep. John Voss, a Republican from Cape Girardeau. “Many of the counties surrounding my district are very, very poor. In fact, I think we have many of the top 10 poorest counties. That is a lot of food insecurity and anything that we can do to support our seniors here, I would sure be supportive of.”The full House will debate the budget next week. Democrats and Republicans will each have three hours to present their amendments and arguments.&nbsp;At the end of Monday’s meeting, Deaton asked members whether six hours was too much. Some Republicans said it was.“I don’t see that too much of the floor debate has changed my mind,” said state Rep. Mitch Boggs of LaRussell. “This is where the main meat and potatoes is done.”Democrats objected to any change, saying it was the only time for most House members to have a say on spending.&nbsp;“It doesn’t mean we have to burn all of it,” said Democratic state Rep. Del Taylor of St. Louis.Mayhew agreed and at the end, Deaton did not recommend any change.“This, folks, is really our only constitutional duty, and providing the opportunity for members who were elected to be here to make comments on that,” Mayhew said. “I’m okay with our standing normal procedure, and I don’t think it’s unfair or overly burdensome for us, especially when we’re talking about upwards of $52 billion of the taxpayers money.”