Kansas government

Since the beginning of last year, a Kansas tax subsidy law known as APEX has allowed the state to use incentives to lure big companies like Panasonic and Integra. But the law may not be extended any longer, putting big development deals in jeopardy.

The Kansas legislature has adjourned after an eventful session in Topeka, which included numerous anti-trans bills, and a large number of vetoes and Republican overrides.

Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s rejection of the bills sets up another veto override fight with the Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature. Lawmakers already overrode her veto to a bill banning transgender girls from playing girl’s sports.

The proposed changes to Title IX were announced one day after the Kansas Legislature successfully overrode Gov. Laura Kelly's veto to codify a ban on transgender athletes in women's and girl's sports. But the Education Department rules would still give schools some flexibility to ban transgender athletes depending on age and sport.

Community mental health centers in Kansas are becoming certified. That means more money for providing services, which could bring expanded programs.

Former Roeland Park Mayor Mike Kelly was elected chair of the Johnson County Board of Commissioners in November. As he prepares for his first "state of the county" address this week, Kelly shares his priorities and hopes for the most populous county in Kansas.

Mayor Quinton Lucas touts Kansas City's ability to attract big events like the NFL Draft and the 2026 World Cup. But he worries that the "hateful rhetoric" and anti-LGBTQ policies coming out of statehouses in Missouri and Kansas could drive some residents and major gatherings away.

Appealing placement decisions to the Kansas Court of Appeals would mark a new, controversial step.

The Kansas House last week narrowly passed a "school choice" bill that would shift public tax dollars to private schools, much to the frustration of public school leaders and Gov. Laura Kelly. The Kansas State Board of Education opposes the bill, saying there's no way to track how students are doing.

The Kansas House approved a bill that would create an independent commission that sets the compensation package for lawmakers. Supporters argue the commission could increase pay to help more everyday Kansans to run for office.

Police departments in the state already can alert each other to officers who've been disciplined at past jobs.

The bill had only one person speak in support with over 50 people testifying in opposition.