Important Updates

With the legislative turnaround deadline now behind us, we’re bringing you the crucial updates on what passed, what didn’t, and what’s on the horizon. Lawmakers have been working tirelessly to push key bills forward, and with the deadline in the rearview, we’re seeing a clearer picture of which issues are gaining traction.

In this edition, we break down the most significant moves made during the final push, the proposals still in play, and what you can expect in the coming weeks as we head into the next phase of the legislative session.

Stay tuned for all the need-to-know developments as we continue to track the progress of the most impactful bills.

Legislative Insights 

The Budget

Thanks to the hard work of the legislature, we passed a budget bill through the House in record time this session. While I fully recognize the hard work that went into crafting HB 2007 and the need for improved fiscal responsibility, I voted against the bill due to concerns over the current imbalance between revenues and expenditures.

Despite the efforts to reduce spending and prioritize key services, I believe more work is needed to ensure long-term financial sustainability. Though the budget reflects a step toward fiscal responsibility, I felt additional measures are necessary to ensure Kansas can maintain vital services without compromising future financial stability.

Property Tax

HCR 5011 seeks to stabilize property tax valuations by using an average market value, preventing sharp and unexpected tax increases. This approach offers financial relief to homeowners, particularly benefiting first-time buyers, seniors, and middle-class families, by reducing the tax burden. It ensures fairness by protecting homeowners from volatility in the real estate market and helps avoid penalties from sudden property value spikes.

This proposal promotes long-term economic stability by encouraging home ownership and offering a consistent tax structure that supports local governments’ revenue needs without dramatic fluctuations. The change creates a more predictable and fair property tax system while safeguarding essential public services.

Election Security

HCR 5004 strengthens the principle that only U.S. citizens can vote in Kansas elections, providing clarity and eliminating any ambiguity in state law. By explicitly stating this in the state constitution, the amendment ensures that Kansas election laws remain secure and resistant to potential legal challenges in the future.

While current laws already restrict voting to citizens, this proactive step helps protect against any future legal loopholes or reinterpretations that could arise. Other states have experienced confusion and diminished public trust due to non-citizen voting in municipal elections, but by taking this precaution, Kansas ensures continued election integrity and stability, safeguarding the interests and confidence of its constituents.

Protecting our youth

I’m proud to say that I voted with Republicans in the House to override the Governor’s veto of SB 63, and took a massive step towards protecting the youth of Kansas from irreversible gender transition surgeries and puberty blockers.

The Committee Report

HB 2088 benefits real estate developers and communities by enacting the Fast-Track Permits Act, which requires local governments to meet specific deadlines for issuing building permits and other necessary approvals. This bill helps speed up the development process, reduces delays, and makes it easier for businesses to move forward with projects, ultimately supporting economic growth and efficiency in local government operations.

The Committee on Federal and State Affairs passed HB 2052, which benefits citizens by updating the Personal and Family Protection Act to clarify eligibility for concealed handgun licenses, streamline the process for transitioning from a provisional to a standard license, and protect off-duty law enforcement officers' privacy. The bill also ensures that officers aren't required to wear identifying items or disclose personal information when entering buildings while armed, respecting their rights and enhancing safety without unnecessary restrictions. This measure makes the process more efficient while safeguarding both public safety and individual privacy.

HCR 5006 proposes a constitutional amendment to recognize the right to bear arms as a fundamental right, extending to the possession and use of ammunition, firearm accessories, and components. This amendment ensures that any restrictions on this right are subject to the highest level of legal scrutiny, offering stronger protection for individuals' rights to own and use firearms. By reinforcing the right to personal security, it ensures that government limitations are carefully evaluated, safeguarding individuals' freedoms and rights.

HB 2104 aims to enhance safety by standardizing firearm safety programs across school districts, ensuring that every student receives consistent, comprehensive education on firearm safety. By providing students with crucial knowledge about responsible firearm handling, the bill promotes awareness and helps prevent accidents. This standardized approach not only equips students to make informed decisions about firearms but also fosters a safer school environment and strengthens community safety overall.

As always, I remain deeply committed to serving you, my constituents, and ensuring that your voices are heard in our state's government. The work we do together is essential to shaping the future of our community, and I will continue to advocate for policies that reflect your needs and values. Rest assured, I will remain dedicated to fighting for the issues that matter most to you, and I am always here to listen, collaborate, and work toward solutions that benefit us all. Thank you for the trust you’ve placed in me—I will continue to work hard for you every day.