silasmiller

Silas's Bills in the Kansas Senate

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 14:01:20 GMT

Here's what I'm carrying and backing in the Kansas Senate. Not press releases -- bills with numbers you can look up yourself.

Cutting Taxes on the Basics

SB 389 -- eliminates the sales tax on diapers, feminine hygiene products, and incontinence products. Missouri already exempts all three. I'm a co-sponsor, and I'm pushing the committee chair to give it a hearing.

SB 488 -- the Kansas Property Tax Freedom Act of 2026. Property taxes are the number one thing I hear about at the door, and this is the kind of big swing that forces Topeka to take the conversation seriously.

Taking On the Prescription Middlemen

SB 360 -- the Kansas Consumer Prescription Protection and Accountability Act. Pharmacy benefit managers pocket the spread between what insurers pay and what pharmacies get, and your drug prices go up. This bipartisan bill makes PBMs register with the state, pass rebates to patients, and bans spread pricing. The Senate already passed it.

Protecting Students

SB 424 -- the Student Secular Bill of Rights. I'm the sponsor.

See the Full List

Every bill I sponsor or co-sponsor is public record, updated in real time:

Sen. Silas Miller • Kansas Legislature official page

Questions about any of these? Call or text me at (316) 350-7350 .

Map of Kansas Senate District 25

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 13:57:34 GMT

Kansas' legislative district maps were adopted during the 2022 session, following the 2020 census. Redistricting won't happen again until about 2032 -- so these boundaries are the ones that count for the rest of the decade.

Where District 25 Sits

Senate District 25 sits in the heart of Wichita, straddling the Arkansas River in central Sedgwick County. At about 20 square miles and roughly 73,500 people, it's one of the most compact Senate districts in Kansas -- real neighborhoods, close together, where a senator can actually knock the doors.

The district runs from I-235 on the west to the Arkansas River on the east, between 25th Street North and Pawnee, with an eastern pocket reaching to Hillside between Kellogg and Pawnee. Neighborhoods include Riverside, Benjamin Hills, Orchard Park, and Mount Vernon.

See the Official Map

The Kansas Legislature publishes the official district map as a PDF:

Kansas Legislature 2022 Map • Kansas Senate District 25 (PDF)

Not sure if you're in the district? Call or text Silas at (316) 350-7350 -- he answers his own phone.

They Broke Their Promise on Special Ed

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 07:30:35 GMT

In 2024, the Legislature and the Governor agreed to a four-year plan to properly fund special education. The law says Kansas should reimburse school districts for 92% of special education costs. Right now we're at 75%.

The plan called for $73 million this year to start closing that gap. The House Appropriations Committee just cut it to $10 million.

That's not a compromise. That's breaking a promise to kids who need the most help.

School districts across Sedgwick County are already stretched thin. Special education teachers are burning out. Parents are fighting for services their kids are legally entitled to. And the House decided that $63 million in promised funding just wasn't a priority.

I'll say what needs to be said: if you can find room in the budget for corporate tax breaks, you can find room for kids with disabilities. This isn't complicated. It's a question of what you actually value.

I'll fight for the full amount in the Senate.

The 2026 Session So Far

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 07:28:31 GMT

January 12 was my first day as your state senator. The Chief Justice swore me in, and I got to work.

Here's where I'm focused:

Property taxes. Multiple bills in play. I'm pushing for real relief that reaches working families - not just corporations.

Education funding. 68 education bills carried over from last session. Special education remains severely underfunded. I'm advocating for consistent, predictable funding that doesn't leave our teachers scrambling.

Healthcare access. Medicaid expansion continues to be blocked. I won't stop fighting for it. 150,000 Kansans deserve better than political games with their health.

Child care. The new Kansas Office of Early Childhood consolidates our fragmented system under one agency. That's progress. But I'm watching closely to make sure safety standards for providers don't get weakened in the process.

I serve on the Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee (as Ranking Minority Member), the Commerce Committee, and the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee. If any of these issues touch your life, I want to hear from you.

Call or text: (316) 350-7350

Email: silas.miller@senate.ks.gov

Ad Astra per Aspera,

Silas

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150,000 Kansans Still Waiting on Medicaid

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 07:24:32 GMT

I wish I could tell you we made progress on Medicaid expansion this session. We didn't.

Democrats offered amendments. Every single one was voted down along party lines. That's 150,000 Kansans - working people, many of them with jobs that don't offer insurance - left without coverage because of partisan politics.

This isn't abstract. I hear from constituents who ration insulin. Who skip follow-ups because they can't afford the copay. Who drive to Oklahoma for care because our rural hospitals keep closing.

Forty states have expanded Medicaid. Kansas remains one of the holdouts. The federal government covers 90% of the cost. Our own hospitals support it. Polls show most Kansans support it.

The only thing standing in the way is Republican leadership in the Legislature.

I'll keep pushing. I'll keep offering amendments. And I'll keep telling you the truth about where the obstruction is coming from.

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Kansas Still Taxes Your Diapers

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 07:23:13 GMT

Missouri did it. Texas did it. More than 20 states have done it. Kansas still charges full sales tax on diapers, feminine hygiene products, and incontinence supplies.

Senate Bill 389 and House Bill 2073 would end that. Simple bills. Bipartisan support among voters. And yet - neither bill has even gotten a hearing in the Senate Assessment and Taxation Committee.

This isn't a culture war issue. It's a math issue. A family with an infant spends $80-100 a month on diapers. The state is taxing that at the same rate as a TV. That's wrong, and Kansas families know it.

I'm a cosponsor of SB 389. I'm pushing the committee chair to schedule a hearing. If you agree this is overdue, call your senator and tell them.

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Property Tax Relief Can't Wait

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Property taxes are the number one issue I hear about from District 25 families. It's not close.

The House passed a bill capping local property tax increases at 3%. The Senate has a different version. Right now they're trading blows instead of getting something to the Governor's desk.

Here's what I know: families in Wichita and Sedgwick County can't wait for Topeka to sort out its turf war. Property valuations are climbing. Rent is climbing with them. People who've lived in their homes for 30 years are getting squeezed.

I'm pushing for real caps with real teeth - not a watered-down compromise that lets the problem keep growing. Your property tax bill shouldn't double because the market got hot and the Legislature got slow.

I'll keep you posted as this moves.

How the city and state are working together to bring new opportunities to Wichita

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 23:28:10 GMT

I had the opportunity to sit down with Wichita's Vice Mayor Maggie Ballard and local tattoo artists Steve and Bryan to discuss challenges the artists are experiencing with old laws prohibiting tattoo conventions in downtown Wichita. Watch the full video .

In addition to a zoning restriction that was recently updated by the Wichita City Council for the Downtown district, I was able to interface with the Kansas Board of Cosmetology to ensure the rules would permit the tattoo convention.

When these restrictions were passed more than 50 years ago, there was a stigma associated with tattoos. Now that the stigma has mostly passed, its time we update our laws so we don't miss out important economic development opportunities like tattoo conventions.

Lots of thanks to Vice Mayor Ballard for her initiative to make this happen for Wichita.

Kansas Legislative Session Update for March 2023

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 18:58:49 GMT

This week in Topeka, the legislature heard or took action on over 100 bills. House Democrats were busy with amendments and doing our duty as the minority party.

We kicked off the week with a Monday morning press conference to unveil the policy platform for 2023 and 2024, and from there, the caucus went to work throughout the building for a week of chaos. Members heard and worked bills on LGBTQ rights and discrimination; public education funding, including special education, so-called school choice, and vouchers; the decriminalization of test strips for Fentanyl, roofies, and ketamine; solutions to the Ogallala Aquifer’s rapid decline, and more.

Clay Wirestone with the Kansas Reflector wrote about the quick and hectic pace of this week’s legislative proceedings.

Forever the Free State: Defending Constitutional Rights & Freedoms

The House Democrats unveiled their policy platform for the 2023-2024 biennium in a Monday morning press conference.

House Democrats are committed to defending constitutional rights and freedoms. Each year, the attacks from the GOP on Kansans’ freedom get worse.

Once again, they’re attempting to strip low-income and rural Kansans of their right and access to an equitable public education. They refuse to return taxpayer money to taxpayers, instead favoring tax breaks for giant multinational corporations. Despite Kansans overwhelmingly rejecting the anti-abortion constitutional amendment on August 2, numerous anti-abortion bills have been put forward, including another constitutional amendment proposing an outright, explicit ban on abortion. Local control is routinely impeded -- particularly regarding prevailing wage -- which negatively affects countless laborers across the state. The LGBTQ community and their bodies are used as a punching bag to score cheap political points. Legalizing cannabis isn’t a priority for the GOP despite it having the support of the vast majority of Kansans.

● “Kansas House Democrats remain committed to education, cannabis legalization,” WIBW , 2/13/2023

Hate Week: “Playing to the Lowest Common Denominator”

Following a national trend, Republicans in the legislature have introduced a slew of discriminatory, anti-LGBTQ bills. The majority of these bills had hearings within a 4-day window this week. Rep. Heather Meyer nailed it when she told the Kansas Reflector , “They are trying to burn us out” by scheduling such a packed week of legislation.

Data from The Trevor Project ’s 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health show overwhelming rates of anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts among LGBTQ youth. This is exacerbated when anti-LGBTQ legislation floods the airwaves.

● 93% of transgender and nonbinary youth worry about receiving proper medical care due to state and local government interference.

● 91% are concerned about safe restroom access.

● 83% have worried about their ability to participate in sports due to state or local law.

Transgender Youth In Sports: On Monday, HB 2238 had a hearing in the House Education committee . HB 2238 is perhaps the most infamous of the recent anti-transgender bills. Deceptively named the “Fairness in Women’s Sports Act,” the bill seeks to prevent trans girls from participating in K-12 and college athletics. There are only two transgender kids in after-school activities this year, according to the Kansas State High School Athletics Association, which oversees the programs. Use this form to contact your state representative about the legislation.

You can always count on me to be in opposition to any legislation that would attack our vulnerable LGBTQ youth and adults, as well as bills that attack women’s bodily autonomy and reproductive rights. I will continue to fight these terrible bills in committee and on the floor, along-side my Democratic colleagues, and I urge you to tell EVERY legislator here, both House and Senate, how you feel about it. I would also encourage you to get everyone you know to do the same. They need to know how you feel and how it affects our LGBT youth.

We address issues related to mental health every day here in Topeka, however there seems to be a disconnect in most Republican’s minds as to how these terrible bills affect our mental health crisis in Kansas. I’m painfully aware of the increase in suicide rates for unsupported vulnerable youth, and I know all too well how terrifying it can be to see in the news that your lawmakers are coming for your freedoms… again.

“It’s terrible and evil,” said Rep. Jerry Stogsdill, the top Democrat on the committee. “It’s hateful, it’s unnecessary, it’s a political attempt to play to the lowest common denominator in the Republican Party.”

Reps. Brandon Woodard , Susan Ruiz , and Heather Meyer submitted testimony in opposition to the bill alongside the ACLU , Mainstream Coalition , Equality Kansas , the Kansas State Board of Education , Kansas National Education Association (KNEA), Kansas Suicide Prevention , the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce , the Kansas Association of School Boards , Kansas Action for Children , the American Academy of Pediatrics , and over 100 others.

“Many of you in this building often wonder why young people leave our state in record numbers. It is because of backward policies, like this bill, that my generation has left and never looks back,” said Rep. Woodard in his testimony.

Despite such robust opposition, the bill is expected to be voted on by the full House later this legislative session. Two Republicans voted with Democrats in opposition to passing the bill out of committee.

HB 2376 had a Wednesday hearing in the Local Government committee .

The bill impedes on home rule and prohibits city or county nondiscrimination ordinances that are more restrictive than the current nondiscrimination ordinance in Kansas. Notably, the current ordinance does not include veterans or the LGBTQ community -- something House Democrats have repeatedly tried to change.

Across the rotunda in the Senate:

● SB 12 bans gender-affirming care for transgender people ages 21 and under. The GOP deemed the act “the Kansas child mutilation act,” a clear attempt to manipulate the public. The bill had a hearing on Valentine’s Day.

● SB 233 revokes the licenses of physicians who perform gender-reassignment surgery on individuals under the age of 18. It also allows people who have gone through the surgery to file civil lawsuits against the responsible physician. It also had a hearing on Valentine’s Day.

● SB 149 bans drag performances for minors although has not yet been scheduled for a hearing.

● SB 180 , the so-called “Women’s Bill of Rights,” segregates spaces based on biological reproductive abilities. The consequences of this bill include the prohibition of transgender women from female-designated areas at domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, locker rooms or restrooms. The bill had a hearing on February 15.

“The president of the Senate is very, very, very anti-LGBT, very anti-trans,” said Rep. Susan Ruiz. “He doesn’t care if children kill themselves due to any of these laws that we are proposing. And if he thinks that kids aren’t listening, he is very wrong. Kids are listening.”

The Trevor Project’s survey quantifies the suicide attempts referenced by Rep. Ruiz: 45% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year and 14% made the attempt. Nearly 1 in 5 transgender and nonbinary youth attempted suicide.

Read the coverage from Hate Week here:

● “Kansas Legislature just won't stop trying to legislate away people who are transgender,” Topeka Capital-Journal , Opinion: Editorial Advisory Board, 2/17/2023

● “Effort to remove racist housing convenants in Kansas also cuts LGBT protections,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/15/2023

● “States’ push to define sex decried as erasing trans people,” Associated Press , 2/15/2023

● “Critics call proposed Kansas ‘women’s bill of rights’ sexist, transphobic,” Kansas Reflector , 2/16/2023

● “Bill blocking gender-affirming care for Kansas transgender youths panned by opponents,” Kansas Reflector , 2/16/2023

● “Kansas cities push back against House bill nullifying local anti-discrimination ordinances,” Kansas Reflector , 2/15/2023

● “'Today is the start of hate week' — Advocates decry flood of anti-transgender bills in Kansas,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/14/2023

● “Some Kansas lawmakers want to punish doctors who help transgender kids transition,” KPR, KPRS , 2/14/2023

● “Kansas has no place for hate in 2023. When will legislators get the memo?” Kansas Reflector , Opinion: Donnovan Dillon, 2/14/2023

● “Kansas Democrats describe attempt to ban transgender student athletes as ‘crushing weight,’” Kansas Reflector , 2/13/2023

Continuing the Fight for Kansas Public Schools

Public schools, special education funding, vouchers, and school choice continue to be at the center of one of the loudest -- and most frequent -- debates in Topeka.

The nationwide teacher shortage affects Kansas yet Republicans in the House fail to pursue sustainable solutions, opting instead to siphon money away from the public education budget and into unaccredited, unmonitored private and parochial schools. They say public schools don’t deserve support because of threats from a “woke agenda,” teachers who “groom” students, critical race theory, and other hot-button issues de jour.

Assistant Leader Valdenia Winn, the top Democrat on the K-12 Education budget committee , doesn’t buy that argument.

“The Legislature, whether they like it or not, or intends, is running teachers out of the profession. It is that simple,” said Rep. Winn. “Teaching is one of the most important jobs in our society. Yet, it’s repeatedly sidelined and dismissed. Some arrogant lawmakers — I hate to call them that — seem to work day in and day out to squash the hopes and esteems of Kansas teachers.”

Education bills to keep an eye on:

● HB 2048 : Providing additional student eligibility under the tax credit for low income students scholarship program and increasing the amount of the tax credit for contributions made pursuant to such program.

● HB 2218 : Establishing the Sunflower education equity act to provide education savings accounts for qualified students in Kansas.

● HB 2236 : Establishing parents' right to direct the education, upbringing and moral or religious training of their children including the right to object to harmful and inappropriate educational materials.

● HB 2261 : Authorizing boards of education of school districts to compensate board members for the duties and obligations of board members.

● HB 2271 : Authorizing any nonresident student whose parent or guardian is employed by a school district to enroll in and attend such school district.

Catch up on the week’s education coverage:

● “Kansas parental rights legislation folded into unrelated bill,” Kansas Reflector , 2/17/2023

● “This bill could help out-of-state teachers cut through red tape to get Kansas licenses,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/16/2023

● “Kansas school administrators question bill adding school board members to district payroll,” Kansas Reflector , 2/15/2023

● “Olathe superintendent, GOP House members tangle over reasons for K-12 teacher vacancies,” Kansas Reflector , 2/14/2023

● “Capitol Update: Rep. Jarrod Ousley says lawmakers must fund special ed services,” Shawnee Mission Post , 2/13/2023

● “Capitol Update: Rep. Mari-Lynn Poskin decries education voucher bill as ‘tax scam’,” Shawnee Mission Post , 2/13/2023

● “Case for Kansas school vouchers riddled with misleading statistics, cherrypicked data,” Kansas Reflector , 2/13/2023

● “Kansas lawmakers seek university funding info on diversity, equity, critical race theory,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/12/2023

Fentanyl Testing Strips

A movement has spread like wildfire across Kansas to decriminalize Fentanyl test strips. The energy comes after a shocking spike in Fentanyl overdoses in the state and across the nation. Test strips have been pitched as one effort to help curb deaths that would be low-cost and accessible, with data to support their effectiveness.

Rep. Jason Probst, who has been called “a driving force behind fentanyl test strip legalization,” worked with colleagues from across the aisle to develop a coalition invested in the passage of Fentanyl legislation beginning last year. That coalition -- built from Republicans and Democrats from across Kansas and the political spectrum -- successfully ushered two bills through committee this week. Governor Laura Kelly has also supported decriminalization of test strips, even citing the policy as a priority in her state of the state address .

I support this bill because I’ve heard a growing number of concerns from constituents in our district regarding the Fentanyl problem in Wichita.

HB 2390 had a hearing on Wednesday, February 15 in the Health & Human Services committee . The bill establishes the Kansas overdose fatality review board and allows Kansans to legally test substances for Fentanyl, ketamine or GHB -- commonly known as a roofie, or the date-rape drug.

HB 2328 is virtually the same bill with the exception of the review board. It was also heard by on Wednesday, but in the Corrections & Juvenile Justice committee .

Explaining why the bills went to two separate committees, Rep. Probst told the Kansas Reflector , “As we learned last year on this, it seems like you need as many avenues as possible to get some of these things done, especially if we’re going to try to overcome the reluctance in the Senate.”

Last year, the House’s efforts to decriminalize Fentanyl test strips were squashed by Republicans in the Senate, with one senator implying that people would use the test kits to seek out Fentanyl. “Let’s be clear. There are individuals that want fentanyl in the drug that they’ve purchased or acquired,” said GOP Sen. Molly Baumgardner, who also chairs the Senate Education committee .

One or both of the bills is expected to be voted on by the full House before the end of session.

● “‘I was paralyzed’: Kansas advocate urges lawmakers to add protections against date rape drug,” Kansas Reflector , 2/16/2023

What’s Up With Water?: The Ogallala Aquifer

Groundwater managers in western Kansas have been responsible for slowing the decline of the Ogallala Aquifer for 50 years. The Ogallala Aquifer, which underlies parts of Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, and Wyoming, provides water to the people and regional economy. From Kansas southward, the aquifer’s water levels are in rapid decline.

After years of consternation surrounding the impending water crisis in Kansas and numerous failed efforts, the Water committee made significant progress this week.

HB 2279 , introduced by top Democrat on the committee Rep. Lindsay Vaughn (Overland Park), requires these groundwater management districts to annually submit information on their spending to the Kansas Legislature. The bill was passed out of committee on Thursday with bipartisan support and praise for the deference it shows to both local and state efforts.

“We’re hoping that we’re empowering groundwater management districts to identify the most important areas that need to be addressed in relation to conserving and extending the life of the Ogallala Aquifer and then coming up with plans to do that,” said Rep. Lindsay Vaughn, top Democrat on the House Water committee .

● “Audit finds western Kansas keeps losing water, despite local efforts,” Kansas Reflector , 2/15/2023

● “Kansas House committee advances bills to conserve water in Ogallala Aquifer,” Kansas Reflector , 2/16/2023

Politics & Podcasts

● “Kansas lawmakers at odds over a bill that would allow state funds to be used for private education,” KCUR’s Up to Date , 2/16/2023

● “Listen: Kansas, Michigan offer lessons for Democratic governors with a GOP legislature,” Arizona Central , 2/16/2023

● “Inside one of the anti-abortion crisis pregnancy centers that might get millions from Kansas,” Kansas Public Radio , 2/16/2023

● “Kansas education advocates see vouchers and hostility as attempts to undermine public schools,” Kansas Reflector , 2/13/2023

● “Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 64: Elephants,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/13/2023

Views from the House Floor

● HB 2100: Updating the version of risk-based capital instructions in effect. Passed on Emergency Final Action, 121-0 .

● HB 2096 : Requiring certain premium taxes to be paid 90 days after each calendar year and basing such premium taxes upon the gross premiums collected for the previous calendar year. Passed on Emergency Final Action, 121-0 .

● HB 2093 : Discontinuing payments to certain group-funded insurance pools, refunding existing balances thereof and abolishing such funds and establishing the group-funded pools refund fund. Passed on Emergency Final Action, 120-1 .

● HB 2314 : Prohibiting the use of the social media platform TikTok on state-owned devices and on any state network. Passed as amended on Emergency Final Action, 109-12 .

● HB 2262: Allowing six months of an embalmer apprenticeship to be completed prior to an individual attending mortuary science school. Passed on Emergency Final Action, 121-0 .

● HB 2060 : Establishing the special education and related services funding task force. Passed on Final Action, 83-37 .

● HB 2234 : Increasing and changing the measure of the cost threshold when state construction projects require a negotiating committee and the selection of professional services from a list of qualified firms. Passed as amended on Final Action, 116-4 .

● HCR 5004 : Urging the U.S. Congress to fully fund the federal government's original funding promise under the individuals with disabilities education act. Passed on Final Action, 119-1 .

● HB 2021 : Allowing evidence-based program account money to be used on certain children, requiring the department of corrections to build data systems and allowing for overall case length limit extensions for certain juvenile offenders. Passed as amended on Final Action, 85-35 .

In Case You Missed It

● “Amid US TikTok bans, a few balk at writing its name into law,” Associated Press , 2/17/2023

● “Kansas Legislature considers bill to overhaul Ethics Commission as it probes GOP officials,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/17/2023

● “Kansas lawmaker questions fairness of flat tax plan that would benefit state’s top earners,” Kansas Reflector , 2/16/2023

● “With families struggling, Welfare Reform Committee focuses on making life harder for Kansans,” Kansas Reflector , Opinion: Erin Melton, 2/16/2023

● “Kansas lawmaker says disabled workers would 'rot at home' if employers can't pay lower wage,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/16/2023

● “Kansas law enforcement agencies working to handcuff bill reforming civil asset forfeiture,” Kansas Reflector , 2/16/2023

● “Kansas passes 10K COVID-19 deaths as bill aims to strip public health officers of authority,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/16/2023

● “Kansas Senate panel considers doubling down on abortion pill restriction,” Kansas Reflector , 2/15/2023

● “Kansas lawmaker: Safety net got me from poverty to Capitol,” Kansas City Star , 2/15/2023

● “TikTok ban on state-owned devices proposed for Kansas students,” KWCH , 2/14/2023

● “‘It’s shameful.’ Critics say GOP bill in Kansas House could wipe out LGBTQ protections,” Kansas City Star , 2/14/2023

● “Wichita family testifies on behalf of Lailah’s Law years after 2017 assault by parolee,” Kansas Public Radio , 2/13/2023

● “Kansas Republicans want welfare reform. Here's what it means for food stamp work requirement.” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/13/2023

● “Kansas senator vents wrath at state health officials: ‘Recognize your inadequacy’,” Kansas Reflector , 2/13/2023

● “Laura Kelly cashes in on Chiefs Super Bowl win, but is Kansas benefiting as well?” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/13/2023

● “Evergy among Kansas energy companies seeking monopoly power over transmission projects,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/12/2023

● “Kansas Republicans select 2020 election conspiracy theorist to serve as party chairman,” Kansas Reflector , 2/11/2023

It is a special honor to serve as your state representative. I value and need your input on the various issues facing state government.

Please feel free to contact me with your comments and questions. My office address is Room 174-W, 300 SW 10th, Topeka, KS 66612.

You can reach me at (785) 296-7631 or call the legislative hotline at (800) 432-3924 to leave a message for me. Additionally, you can email me at silas.miller@house.ks.gov . You can also follow the legislative session online at www.kslegislature.org .

If you feel strongly about a policy or bill, let your legislators know! Find their contact information here .

Did you know? All committee hearings and chamber proceedings can be found on the Kansas Legislature’s YouTube page.

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Legislation Sponsored

Kansas Legislative Session Update for February 2023

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 18:29:17 GMT

We have seen more controversial bills being introduced as we get further into session with quite a few coming through the committees where I serve.

Convention of States

HCR5005 and HCR5008 regarding the “Convention of States” are this year’s first attempts at Article V convention, which is a very sticky subject no matter how you look at it. While most people support term limits for US Legislators, calling a convention of states would ultimately put unmitigated control into the hands of a group of people considered to be a “sovereign body” or “above the law. While they could be given exclusive instructions to use the convention to impose term limits, once a convention is called there will be no governing body preventing the convention from enacting or amending any other laws they might decide to address.

The convention would not be beholden to any prior limitations, or to anyone else. We the people would have no control over who is elected to the convention, or what matters they take up. I hope you can see why this is very dangerous, considering how may freedoms and liberties have been under attack in recent years, women’s bodily autonomy being one of them. I will remain opposed to the Article V Convention of States for these reasons, and would encourage anyone interested in the matter to research more into the matter, including the history of Article V and its original intended purpose.

This week in Topeka, the House Democrats introduced legislation addressing a slew of critical issues including health care affordability and access; property tax cuts for homeowners and families which includes a constitutional amendment; legalizing adult-use recreational cannabis and providing for ‘cannabis amnesty;’ penalizing irresponsible pipeline operators, and more.

Public education committees continue to boil over with controversial legislation on vouchers and so-called school choice. The Lesser Prairie Chicken -- the GOP’s favorite distraction -- is back in the spotlight.

Let’s Be Blunt: Yes We Kannabis!

Two pieces of cannabis-related legislation were introduced this week in the House: HB 2363 and HB 2367 .

Nearly three dozen House Democrats put forward HB 2363 -- “cannabis amnesty.” Anyone serving probation, parole, prison or jail sentences, along with other cannabis-related sentencing, would be immediately released. The bill also effectively ends any future prosecution and incarceration for nonviolent crimes related to cannabis use or possession. I was proud to co-sponsor this legislation because it just makes sense, cannabis prohibition has disproportionately affected minority communities since its inception. This bill would be one step on a long journey to correcting what’s been broken by outdated prohibition laws about a plant.

HB 2367 creates the adult-use cannabis regulation act. This bill regulates the cultivation, manufacturing, possession, and sale of recreational cannabis in Kansas. I sponsored this bill for a few reasons, the first being a promise I made so many times on the campaign trail to work diligently to decriminalize cannabis in Kansas. I also believe cannabis is the solution for our budget, looking at Missouri’s first week’s recreational sales of over $12 Million, the proof is clear that cannabis can make money for Kansans. There’s also the topics of mental health, pain management, PTSD treatments, and so many more ways that cannabis can help Kansas.

High on the idea of legalized cannabis, Kansans across the state have repeatedly pointed to the economic, health, tourist, and recreational benefits of legalizing recreational and medical access to marijuana. The Kansas House passed the policy in 2021 but after crossing over to the Senate, the bill went up in smoke.

● “Kansas lawmakers must decide who will thrive with medical marijuana — if bill even advances,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/6/2023

Pipeline Problems

This week a group of House Democrats put forward HB 2327 , a bill to immediately end property tax exemptions if an oil or natural gas pipeline has a spill or leak. Inspired by the disastrous Keystone pipeline leak that made national headlines in December, state representatives are demanding accountability.

Rep. Rui Xu (Westwood), a lead cosponsor of HB 2327, said “If you want state dollars to do a project, then you have to prove to be good stewards of our state’s land. A spill like the Keystone spill obviously does not satisfy that.”

● “After Keystone oil spill, Kansas Democrats want to cancel tax exemptions when pipelines leak,” KCUR , 2/10/2023

● “Keystone pipeline owner blames Kansas spill on faulty weld, estimates $480M remediation cost,” Kansas Reflector , 2/9/2023

● “Pipeline operator discloses cause of Kansas Keystone oil spill. EPA chief pledges oversight,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/9/2023

● “Kansas faith leaders, environmentalists call for transparency around Keystone pipeline spill,” Kansas Reflector , 2/7/2023

GOP Chickens Vote on the Lesser Prairie Chicken

The Lesser Prairie Chicken, a fixture of #ksleg politics, is back in the spotlight after federal involvement.

On Thursday, House Republicans voted to condemn the United States Fish and Wildlife Service for designating the Lesser Prairie Chicken as a threatened species in Kansas. The species is a Kansas treasure. Without federal protections, the chicken is at risk of further endangerment.

● “Resolution condemning lesser prairie chicken protection clears Kansas House,” Kansas Reflector , 2/8/2023

● “Leaders reintroduce legislation to keep lesser prairie chicken off threatened list,” WIBW , 2/8/2023

Diabetes Shock: Putting a Cap on Insulin & Diabetes Devices

Rep. Heather Meyer (Overland Park) has navigated the American health care system’s complicated maze since she was a child. Rep. Meyer was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 12 years old and grew up with a single father who also had diabetes. Informed by firsthand experiences, stories from constituents, friends, and families across the state, she introduced HB 2347 this week to help curtail the financial impact of caring for diabetes.

HB 2347 caps the cost of insulin and insulin products for Kansans at $35 per month. The cap would apply to people with or without insurance, with the only exception for those on Medicaid or Medicare because federal insurance already has protective provisions in place for diabetes patients.

“We struggled constantly,” Meyer told the Kansas Reflector in an interview about the bill this week. “And it was between rationing insulin and paying bills. And which are we going to do? We know we need to stay alive and we want to live. So we’re going to do our best with what we have to stay alive. But that meant our blood sugars were always running on the high side, or they would tank out because we were overcorrecting for a hike.”

According to the American Diabetes Association:

● Approximately 255,215 people in Kansas, or 11.4% of the adult population, have diagnosed diabetes. Every year an additional estimated 17,314 people in Kansas are diagnosed with diabetes.

● An additional 66,000 people in Kansas have diabetes but don’t know it, greatly increasing their health risk.

● Total direct medical expenses for diagnosed diabetes in Kansas were estimated at $1.7 billion in 2017.

Rep. Meyer wrote about her history with diabetes affordability in the Kansas City Star last year.

Education Hits a Boiling Point

HB 2218 is an expansion of anti-public education voucher programs. Like voucher programs in years past, HB 2218 funnels taxpayer money into unaccredited private and parochial schools without any oversight or restriction.

*To be clear, I will not support a single piece of legislation that would divert public taxpayer money AWAY from public schools and into the hands of private schools.*

Public Money for Private Schools: What you need to know about HB 2218

● The bill creates a board of 10 members with nine voting members and one non-voting member that would distribute taxpayer dollars for use in private and parochial schools.

● The board -- which is designed to be unelected and nonpublic -- would direct the state treasurer to administer the program. These administrative costs alone are an annual $8.1 million per year -- 5% of the aid given to each student. At every step HB 2218 siphons money away from students, communities, and schools.

● The Sunflower State Journal further broke down the financial impact, “The fiscal analysis indicates that for every 1% of the state’s 484,000 public school students participating in the program, or 4,840 students, about $24.6 million would be transferred out of the state budget to pay for private-school tuition.”

● The bill would allow parents to obtain about $5,000 from public school funds or use in covering private school or homeschool costs. There are no guidelines mandating the funds go to traditionally accredited schools.

Due to the fiscal irresponsibility, academically questionable practices, and inequitable provisions in the bill, HB 2218 was opposed by numerous pro-public education advocacy groups including the Kansas National Association of Education , the Kansas Association of School Boards , public school officials, and several Kansas State Board of Education members during a Monday hearing of the House K-12 Education Budget Committee .

One opponent, whose child utilizes special education programs in public schools, was clear: “You will be pulling vital resources from the kids who need it.”

Another controversial bill, HB 2236 , lays the groundwork for extensive classroom censorship under the guise of a “parental bill of rights.” Similar legislation was brought forward last year , where dozens of teachers, parents, students, school administrators, and more testified in opposition to the bill calling it legislative overreach. Ultimately, Governor Kelly vetoed the bill.

Read more about proposed education legislation:

● “Kansas Legislature may expand program that pays two-year college tuition for hundreds,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/10/2023

● “No more ‘gender unicorns’: Lawmakers debate new parents’ bill of rights legislation,” Kansas Reflector , 2/9/2023

● “House education panel advances Kansas school voucher program,” Kansas Reflector , 2/8/2023

● “From this educator, a modest proposal for privatized Kansas schools,” Kansas Reflector , Opinion: Liz Meitl, 2/8/2023

● “Kansas lawmakers unveil bill to incentivize private education with public funds,” Kansas Reflector , 2/7/2023

● “Hearing on new school choice bill gets feisty,” Sunflower State Journal , 2/6/2023

● “Are Kansas schools doing enough to address bullying? Legislators say no.” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/6/2023

● “Tuition, sports and free speech: How Kansas lawmakers want to change higher education in 2023,” Kansas City Beacon , 2/3/2023

Keeping Homeowners in Their Homes: Property Tax Relief Proposals

Kansas homeowners have been clear: They need property tax relief. House Democratic Leader Vic Miller, Rep. Mike Amyx (Lawrence), and dozens of other Democrats introduced a three-pronged proposal that takes aim at the unfair and burdensome residential property taxes shouldered by homeowners. The plan is expected to save Kansans nearly $700 million annually.

Offer an amendment to the Kansas Constitution to reduce the assessment level of Residential Property from 11.5% to 9%.

When the property tax classification amendment to the Kansas Constitution (Article 11, Section 1) was amended in 1992, residential assessed valuation represented 35% of the tax base statewide. In the last 30 years that percentage of the tax base has grown to an astonishing 54%. The time has arrived for some relief to be extended to homeowners. We propose the voters of Kansas be offered an amendment to the Kansas Constitution lowering the assessment rate for residential property from 11.5% to 9%.

Even with this reduction, residential property will still contribute an estimated 48% of the total property taxes in the state.

Replenish and enhance the Local Ad Valorem Tax Reduction Fund (LAVTRF).

The LAVTRF was established so that the State of Kansas would provide direct funding to local units of government for the express purpose of providing property tax relief to property owners. However, for the last twenty years the State has consistently failed to do so. We propose that the LAVTRF be replenished with the annual $54,000,000 required by law (K.S.A. 79-2959) and, for the next four years, enhanced by an equal annual amount of $54,000,000.

Amend K.S.A. 79-201x raising the residential property exemption from the statewide school mill levy to $65,000.

In the last legislative session we raised the residential property exemption for the 20 mill USD general fund levy from $20,000 to $40,000. This resulted in an estimated average property tax reduction of $46 per home.

We propose raising this exemption again—this time from $40,000 to $65,000.

With this change, Property Valuation (PVD) indicates that receipts to the State School District Finance Fund would be expected to decrease by about $55 million, an amount that would be made up through additional appropriations to ensure schools stay fully funded.

The plan was initially rolled out in Fall 2022 by Reps. Miller and Amyx. You can read coverage from the original release here:

● “Kansas Democrats float proposal to lower property taxes by reviving dormant fund,” Kansas Reflector , 9/26/2022

● “Kansas Democrats announce property tax cut plan,” KSNT , 9/26/2022

● “Property tax relief reduction plan introduced to loosen Kansans’ budgets,” WIBW , 9/26/2022

Juneteenth

Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. Rep. KC Ohaebosim (Wichita) sponsored a bill to create Juneteenth National Independence Day.

Indigenous Peoples Day

Reps. Christina Haswood (Lawrence) and Boog Highberger (Lawrence), introduced a bill to designate the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples Day. The bill also includes a recognition that Kansas is founded and built on lands first inhabited by the Indigenous Peoples of the region. Several other states including Alaska, Hawaii, Maine, New Mexico, Oregon, South Dakota, and Vermont have replaced Columbus day with Indigenous Peoples Day.

Across the Rotunda

Senate Republicans are doubling down on their attempts to make Kansas a monolithic relic of the past. Senate Federal and State Affairs will spend the coming week hearing six bills that change or restrict voting to various degrees, including limiting advance voting timelines and the number of ballot drop boxes in a community.

Senate Public Health and Welfare has hearings on two bills targeting the transgender community in Kansas. The first would criminalize gender affirming care for Kansans under 21, and the second would codify biological essentialist language defining womanhood as being a vessel for fertilization. They’re also hearing legislation to make it impossible for the state and local communities to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, and for good measure, they’re undermining the overwhelming majority of Kansans who voted to protect current abortion access by considering a ban on telemedicine for medication abortion .

Senate Tax also has a hearing on a bill that would double the devastation our economy faced under the Brownback tax experiment, and Senate Utilities has two days of hearings to give Kris Kobach the authority to investigate companies that he suspects are “conspiring” against the fossil fuel industry.”

Politics & Podcasts

● “Sedgwick County judge offers Kansas legislators package of bills to stem domestic violence,” Kansas Reflector , 2/6/2023

● “Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 63: Microchips and dip,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/6/2023

In Case You Missed It

● “Kansas Republican Party to hold contentious leadership vote after governor’s race loss,” Kansas City Star , 2/20/2023

● “Kansas farmers feed the world, but that might change if lawmakers don't act soon,” Topeka Capital-Journal , Opinion: Michael A. Smith, 2/10/2023

● “Kansas physician, legislator working to light fire under peers to raise tobacco age limit to 21,” Kansas Reflector , 2/9/2023

● “Former federal prosecutor Tony Mattivi, approved to lead Kansas Bureau of Investigation,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/9/2023

● “Keystone Pipeline operator identifies what caused the record-setting Kansas oil spill,” Kansas City Star , 2/9/2023

● “Lights, cameras ... Kansas? State may revive tax credit, despite effectiveness concern.” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/9/2023

● “Kansas gun-rights advocates renew call for firearm safety programs in all K-12 public schools,” Kansas Reflector , 2/9/2023

● “House bill calls for western Kansas to create plans to save the Ogallala Aquifer,” Kansas Reflector , 2/9/2023

● “House Republicans explore new way to punish low-income, aging Kansans seeking food,” Kansas Reflector , 2/8/2023

● “Embattled Kansas Highway Patrol Superintendent Herman Jones to retire July 1,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/8/2023

● “Kansas House passes legislation to clarify language in juvenile justice system,” Kansas Reflector , 2/8/2023

● “Kansas faith leaders to converge on Statehouse, demand Medicaid expansion,” WIBW , 2/8/2023

● “No fooling — House committee shopping April 1 demise of state sales tax on groceries,” Kansas Reflector , 2/8/2023

● “There’s a referee shortage in Kansas. Can criminalizing sports official abuse fix it?” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/7/2023

● “Kansas House committee fixes typo ‘error of all time’ before tabling homeland security bill,” Kansas Reflector , 2/7/2023

● “Catholic Church and Kansas legislators should honor religious freedom for all on abortion,” Kansas Reflector , 2/7/2023

● “Diversity training? Kansas lawmakers say no in budget proviso for social worker licensing,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/7/2023

● “Capitol Update: Rep. Dan Osman says it’s time for a change on marijuana in Kansas,” Shawnee Mission Post , 2/6/2023

● “As Kansas politicians pander to plutocrats, bills unraveling our shared freedoms can’t be dismissed,” Kansas Reflector , Opinion: Clay Wirestone, 2/6/2023

● “AG Kris Kobach says Walgreens abortion pill effort violates Kansas law, despite court stay,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/7/2023

● “Proposed KPERS bond buyback program could save Kansas millions in interest,” Kansas Reflector , 2/6/2023

● “Capitol Update: Rep. Stephanie Clayton sponsors tax cut bills,” Shawnee Mission Post , 2/6/2023

● “As conservatives push to combat 'woke' investing by KPERS, Kansas joins national trend,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/5/2023

● “In leaving Topeka, Hill's Pet Nutrition gets $3M from taxpayers to keep headquarters in Kansas,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/5/2023

● “Kansas Supreme Court examines clash over expanding hog facilities, shielding water supply,” Kansas Reflector , 2/4/2023

● “Inside the lonely and surprisingly earnest world of political TikTok,” Vox , 2/3/2023

● “Bills would make it easier for JoCo cities to get rid of racist housing covenants,” Shawnee Mission Post , 2/2/2023

Bills to Watch

● HB 2304 : Standardizing firearms safety programs in school districts.

● HB 2357 : Requiring that appointees to the supreme court be determined to be qualified by the senate.

● HB 2355 : Removing sodomy between consenting members of the same sex from the crime of criminal sodomy.

● HB 2368 : Enacting the making work pay act to increase the Kansas minimum wage.

● HB 2370 : Defining consent in the Kansas criminal code for sexual offenses.

Views From the House Floor

● HB 2070 : Allowing certain nondrug offenders to participate in a certified drug abuse treatment program. Final Action, Passed 123-0 .

● HB 2069 : Providing that the service of postrelease supervision period shall not toll except as otherwise provided by law. Final Action, Passed 123-0 .

● HB 2042 : Authorizing towing by self-storage unit operators of motor vehicles, watercraft or trailers for nonpayment of rent or abandonment and providing for notice to occupants, a right of redemption prior to towing and liability protection for operators. Final Action, Passed 123-0 .

● HB 2033 : Changing the criteria used to refer and admit juveniles to a juvenile crisis intervention center. Final Action, Passed 123-0 .

● HB 2010 : Updating a statutory cross reference to provide proper jury instruction in cases when a defendant lacks the required mental state to commit a crime. Final Action, Passed 118-0 .

● HB 2065 : Allowing a court to change a spouse's name to a name that is different than a maiden or former name during a divorce proceeding. Final Action, Passed 118-0 .

● HB 2014 : Designating a portion of United States highway 69 in Crawford county as the Robert Lessen memorial highway. Final Action, Passed 118-0 .

It is a special honor to serve as your state representative. I value and need your input on the various issues facing state government.

Please feel free to contact me with your comments and questions. My office address is Room 174-W, 300 SW 10th, Topeka, KS 66612.

If you feel strongly about a policy or bill, let your legislators know! Find their contact information here .

Did you know? All committee hearings and chamber proceedings can be found on the Kansas Legislature’s YouTube page.

Legislative Resources

My Legislative Facebook Page

Kansas House Democrats Facebook Page

Kansas House Democrats Twitter Page

Kansas House Democrats Website

Kansas Legislature Website

Legislation Sponsored

Kansas Legislative Session Update for February 2023

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 18:51:06 GMT

Last week, House Democrats responded to an unfair flat tax proposal, changes to elections, school voucher plans, and more. Governor Laura Kelly and the State Finance Council announced a follow-up megaproject to Panasonic. The caucus heard from the Working Kansans Alliance. Members of the caucus are attempting to repeal discriminatory child welfare and LGBTQ policy.

In Education committee we heard testimony from constituents about HB2143 regarding bullying and HB2139 involving abuse of sports officials. We are expecting hearings in week 5 about due process for teachers, expanding the eligible fields for the Promise Act, and credential incentives for career technical education participants.

In Fed/State we heard testimony in favor of the regulation of Kratom, and possible changes to the laws involving areas designated to open-consumption of alcohol. On Wednesday of this week we will have a hearing on HCR5005 involving the Article V convention of states to apply term limits to US Congress members. I will update with more information this weekend about the results of that hearing, which is a controversial topic.

Back to Brownback Flat Tax: Flat Out Unfair

Immediately after releasing HB 2061 , the bill’s sponsors -- conservative Kansas Chamber of Commerce and GOP -- received a wave of backlash for the fiscal irresponsibility of the proposal. HB 2061, an aggressive, expensive “flat tax,” would cost Kansas more than $3 billion over the next three years.

House Democratic Leader Vic Miller released a statement saying, “This legislation will pull us right back into the Brownback dumpster fire, famous for making Kansas a late-night television punchline.

Under this bill, Kansans making $250,000 or more would get an average of $5,000 in tax cuts and Kansans making $25,000 or less would get an average of $143 back.”

Governor Laura Kelly, who has made headlines for rehabilitating the state’s coffers after Brownback nearly ran the state’s finances into the ground, said the proposal “would do more damage more quickly than the Brownback tax experiment of 2012 and 2013.”

Check out the media’s coverage and details of the plan:

● “Flat tax would have catastrophic consequences for Kansans. We’ve already seen it happen.” Opinion: Chris Courtwright & Frmr. Sen. Anthony Hensley, Kansas Reflector , 2/1/2023

● “Push underway to implement flat tax in Kansas,” KWCH 12 News , 1/31/2023

● “Gov. Kelly condemns flat tax proposal, touts plan to cut taxes on groceries and other supplies,” Kansas Reflector , 1/31/2023

● “At $1.5 billion, Kansas Chamber's flat tax plan would be bigger tax cut than Brownback's,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 1/30/2023

● “Analysis shows Kansas Chamber’s flat tax proposal costs $1.5B, favors top 20% of wage earners,” Kansas Reflector , 1/30/2023

● “Flat tax proposal would cost more than $3 billion over three years,” Sunflower State Journal , 1/30/2023

Dropboxes & Disenfranchisement

The Elections committee has been jam packed with significant legislation this session, and this week was no different. Top Democrat on the committee, Rep. Brandon Woodard (Lenexa), led the charge against bills restricting mail-in voting, supporting run-off elections, and complicating drop boxes with other Democrats and allies on the committee, including Reps. Melissa Oropeza (KCK), Allison Hougland (Olathe), and Cindy Neighbor (Shawnee).

Rep. Neighbor wrote about the committee’s work in the Shawnee Mission Post .

So-Called School Choice: “Holy Tax Scams!”

It’s a tale as old as time. The Republicans in the House have launched another round of attacks on public education.

In the K-12 Education Budget committee this week, legislation was put forward which will effectively function as a tax scam. Under the guise of “school choice,” Chairwoman Kristey Williams (Augusta) supports a bill that strips public schools of their funding, one student at a time.

The legislation expands tax credits given to parents who choose private schools over public schools. Rep. Jarrod Ousley (Merriam) captured the House Democrats’ position on the issues perfectly when he called public schools “the fabric of our nation.” Taxpayer money belongs in public schools -- NOT private schools.

Rep. Mari-Lynn Poskin (Leawood) called out the nefariousness of the legislation when she said, “ Holy tax scams! ” in an explanation of unintended consequences that could (and likely would) follow the legislation, if signed into law.

Coverage of the committee can be found here:

● “MAGA parents demand school choice and I can’t wait to say goodbye,” Opinion: Dion Lefler, Wichita Eagle , 2/2/2023

● “School-choice debate heats up in Kansas,” Washington Post , 1/31/2023

● “Kansas advocates debate school choice,” KSNT , 1/30/2023

Prevailing Wage

Rep. Pam Curtis (KCK) has championed prevailing wage since she was first elected to the legislature. This year, her hard work may bring a bill reinstating the policy across the finish line.

First and foremost, prevailing wage is a local control issue. In 1891, Kansas was the first state to pass a “prevailing wage” for its own projects. In 2013, the Kansas Legislature stripped local governments of their right to incorporate prevailing wage requirements into public projects. Advocates for prevailing wage claim reinstatement would restore local control and return discretion to communities.

Prevailing wage is a fiscally responsible policy. Workers earn a livable wage while building skills and talents that contribute to the improvement of the state’s infrastructure and other public facilities like schools. Military veterans, who face unique challenges when returning to civilian life, would particularly see a benefit.

Adoption Bill

Representatives Heather Meyer (Overland Park), Susan Ruiz (Shawnee), and Brandon Woodard (Lenexa) introduced a bill to repeal the so-called “Kansas Adoption Protection Act,” which allows religious adoption agencies to discriminate against the LGBTQ+ community. The bill, which is certainly not about protecting adoption, was passed in 2018 after a late-night vote.

Labor in the House

This week House Democrats heard from the Working Kansans Alliance , “a coalition of union and non-union groups dedicated to protecting the rights of the hard working Kansas families that fuel our State’s economy at every turn.” The group collectively represents over 500,000 Kansans.

The caucus heard from SMART TD (Sheet Metal, Rail, and Transportation), KOSE (Kansas Association of State Employees), and the Tri-County AFL-CIO , one of nearly 500 state and local labor councils of the AFL-CIO.

The group laid out their legislative priorities:

● Prevailing Wage

● Economic Development

● Tax Relief for Working Families

● Support Public Education Funding

● Medicaid Expansion

● Public Employee Rights, Pay, & Benefits

● Fair Share

● Raising the minimum wage

● Workers’ rights and the freedom to unionize

● Workplace Safety

● Payday Loan Reform

● Worker’s Comp., the UI Nominating Committee & UI Benefits

● Medical Marijuana Legalization

Across the Rotunda: The Senate Democrats

The good: Senator Pat Pettey has a hearing next week in Senate Education on her bill addressing the teacher shortage facing Kansas schools. Senate Bill 66 would enact the Interstate Mobility Compact to recognize equivalent teacher licenses across member states.

The bad: The Senate Committee on Federal and State Affairs is hearing this session’s iteration of the “Eddie the Eagle” bill on Wednesday, which would put the National Rifle Association’s curriculum in our classrooms. Governor Laura Kelly vetoed similar legislation in 2021. And the Senate Tax Committee has a hearing on Thursday on the Convention of States, which has the potential of allowing a group of unelected “delegates” to design a completely new form of government.

The questionable: Senate Tax also has hearings on two bills addressing taxes for retirees. The first, SB 52 , would increase the income limit for the exemption of Social Security benefits from state income taxes. The second, SB 33 , would exempt ALL Social Security benefits from state income taxes.

The CHIPS Act Expands to Kansas: Integra Technologies

On Thursday, the State Finance Council approved an economic incentive agreement for Integra Technologies . Integra plans to invest in a large-scale semiconductor manufacturing facility in Wichita. The plant is expected to create 5,000 high-paying jobs. In addition, Integra hopes to secure incentives through the federal CHIPS act, which aims to create a domestic supply chain of semiconductors.

“As the second-largest private investment in Kansas history, this project will be transformative for our state’s economy, providing over 5,000 high-paying jobs that will help more Kansans create better lives for themselves and their children,” Governor Laura Kelly said . “Integra’s investment is further proof that we have put Kansas on the map, establishing our state on the forefront of innovation and national security.”

Last year’s APEX incentive -- the largest private investment in Kansas history -- brought a $4 billion battery manufacturing plant to DeSoto, Kansas. The batteries, for electric vehicle creation, are in high-demand. The Panasonic plant promises 4,000 well-paying jobs and $2.5 billion in economic activity and is expected to be supported by the new semiconductor plant.

“The semiconductors we work on are in multiple space applications, such as the Mars Rover and Hubble Telescope; more than 100 Department of Defense programs of record; as well as commercial applications that power everyday life,” Integra Technologies President and CEO Brett Robinson said . “On behalf of our employee-owners, we are especially grateful for Governor Kelly, Lt. Governor Toland, and Kansas legislative leadership on the State Finance Council for supporting Integra with its premier economic development program, positioning us to transform domestic Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test services while expanding in our home state.”

You can watch the State Finance Council meeting here .

● “First, it was Panasonic and now Integra. Are tax-driven megaprojects good for Kansas?” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/3/2023

● “More than $300M in KS incentives for new semiconductor factory, 2,000 jobs in Wichita,” Wichita Eagle , 2/3/2023

● “A $1.8 billion semiconductor plant is planned for Wichita through another Kansas megaproject deal,” KCUR , 2/2/2023

● “Semiconductor manufacturer expanding with Kansas taxpayer incentives. Here's what we know.” The Hutchinson News , 2/2/2023

● “Wichita company secures APEX incentives for $1.8B semiconductor plant,” Wichita Business Journal , 2/2/2023

Politics & Podcasts

● “Chillin' in the Statehouse, Episode 62: What state is the state in?” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/2/2023

In Case You Missed It

● “Kansas to OK secret incentives deal for $1 billion-plus megaproject in Wichita, sources say,” Wichita Eagle , 2/2/2023

● “Did Kansas criminalize voter registration drives? Supreme Court weighs election law case,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 2/2/2023

● “Kansas Supreme Court justices point to ‘chilling’ impact of election law on voter registration,” KCUR , 2/2/2023

● “Parents should think deeply about Parents' Bill of Rights,” Opinion: Dr. Nishani Frazier, Salina Post , 2/2/2023

● “Physician asks Kansas lawmakers to ban racial diversity programs at medical schools, hospitals,” Kansas Reflector , 2/2/2023

● “Kansas bill seeks to boost donations to anti-abortion crisis pregnancy centers,” Kansas City Star , 2/2/2023

● “Attorney General Kobach to request $1 million budget increase to fill prosecutor vacancies,” Kansas Reflector , 2/2/2023

● “Two months after the Keystone's biggest oil spill, residents of a Kansas county wonder what's next,” KCUR , 2/2/2023

● “House Districts: A look at how Kelly, Schmidt performed,” Sunflower State Journal , 2/2/2023

● “Anti-LGBTQ bills introduced in Kansas Legislature are political bullying tactic, activists say,” Kansas Reflector , 2/2/2023

● “30 years ago, these Kansas farmers were told to use less water. Here's how they did it,” High Plains Public Radio , 2/1/2023

● “Governor Kelly Announces January Total Tax Collections Exceed Estimate by $56.2 Million,” Governor Laura Kelly , 2/1/2023

● “Bills say Shawnee Indian Mission site cannot become casino,” Shawnee Mission Post , 2/1/2023

● “Kansas electric vehicle advocates stomping brake on bill imposing new state recharge tax,” Kansas Reflector , 2/1/2023

● “Ethics commission’s subpoena power targeted,” Sunflower State Journal , 2/1/2023

● “As Kansas oil cleanup nears end, key questions are still unanswered,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 1/31/2023

● “Kansas might tighten criminal penalties for kids, after loosening them 6 years ago,” KCUR , 1/31/2023

● “Kansas attorney general’s office eager to work with Legislature to dam robocall tidal wave,” Kansas Reflector , 1/31/2023

● “Kansas bill would classify drag shows as obscenity and criminalize performances for kids,” Topeka Capital-Journal , 1/31/2023

● “Tribe introduces Shawnee Indian Mission bill in Topeka,” Shawnee Mission Post , 1/30/2023

● “Kansas restaurant industry still struggling for comeback, officials say,” Kansas Reflector , 1/30/2023

● “Tired of the blinking lights on wind turbines? Kansas lawmakers have a plan for that.” Topeka Capital-Journal , 1/30/2023

● “She killed her rapist after months of abuse. Advocates say Kansas governor should set her free.” Kansas Reflector , 1/30/2023

● “Artists sought to help with Kansas suffrage memorial,” The Derby Informer , 1/28/2023

● “Statehouse scraps: Kansas lawmakers shred transparency, good and bad bills, hated photo,” Opinion: Clay Wirestone, Kansas Reflector , 1/28/2023

● “AG Kris Kobach outlines plan to combat fentanyl abuse,” KSNT , 1/26/2023

Bills to Watch

● HB 2248 : Requiring school districts to adopt policies to ensure parents may review educational materials and records pertinent to their child.

● HB 2206 : Amending the campaign finance act's definition of expressly advocating for a candidate by adding a reasonable person standard to the definition.

● HB 2244 : Providing a permanent exemption for postsecondary educational institutions from the public buildings requirements under the personal and family protection act.

● HB 2238 : Creating the fairness in women's sports act to require that female student athletic teams only include members who are biologically female.

● HB 2240 : Requiring the clerk of the district court to give notice of qualified residential treatment program placement.

● HB 2243 : Enacting the protect vulnerable adults from financial exploitation act.

● HB 2245 : Creating the gun violence restraining order act to authorize the issuance of protective orders prohibiting the acquisition and possession of firearms by certain individuals.

● HB 2246 : Establishing requirements for the involuntary discharge or transfer of a resident in an adult residential care facility, the right to appeal such discharge or transfer and a process for such appeal.

● HB 2247 : Prohibiting banks from requiring a cosigner for an account of a child in the custody of the secretary.

Views from the House Floor

● HB 2015 : Authorizing the designee of an employing agency or entity to petition the court for an order requiring infectious disease testing. Passed on Final Action, 116-6 .

● HB 2016 : Clarifying how property held under a transfer-on-death deed is distributed when one beneficiary predeceases the grantor. Passed on Final Action, 122-0 .

● HB 2017 : Enacting the uniform family law arbitration act. Passed on Final Action, 122-0 .

● HB 2018 : Permitting a will or a copy of a will filed within six months after the death of the testator to be admitted to probate at any time. Passed on Final Action, 120-2 .

It is a special honor to serve as your state representative. I value and need your input on the various issues facing state government.

Please feel free to contact me with your comments and questions. My office address is Room 174-W, 300 SW 10th, Topeka, KS 66612.

You can reach me at (785) 296-7631 or call the legislative hotline at (800) 432-3924 to leave a message for me. Additionally, you can email me at silas.miller@house.ks.gov. You can also follow the legislative session online at www.kslegislature.org .

If you feel strongly about a policy or bill, let your legislators know! Find their contact information here .

Did you know? All committee hearings and chamber proceedings can be found on the Kansas Legislature’s YouTube page.

Legislative Resources

My Legislative Facebook Page

Kansas House Democrats Facebook Page

Kansas House Democrats Twitter Page

Kansas House Democrats Website

Kansas Legislature Website

Legislation Sponsored

Serve as a Legislative Page

silasjmiller@gmail.com (Silas Miller) — Sun, 15 Jan 2023 23:21:55 GMT

Serving as a legislative page is a rite of passage for generations of Kansans. For decades, the Kansas Legislature has offered a legislative page program for junior high and early high school students who at at least 12 years old. This is a unique experience for students to understand the legislative process, the work that legislators and staff must do to make laws, have their picture taken with the Governor, and climb to the top of the capitol dome.

Members of the House of Representatives are authorized to have up to 10 pages annually (Senators get 20). Legislative page dates are assigned to legislators on a first-come, first-serve basis during the first week of session. Available openings fill up quickly so it is advisable to make your request to your legislator as soon as possible.

Pages are expected to dress and act in an appropriate manner and will receive a $5.00 coupon voucher to the Capitol snack bar. Additionally, pages will have their picture taken with the Governor, if available, and their sponsoring legislator. Finally, pages will have the opportunity to climb the steps to the top of the capitol dome. It is not for the faint of heart, and most stop at the 8th floor of the dome.

If your student is interested in serving as a Legislative Page, please complete the Legislative Page form. Remember that spaces are limited, so please consider applying also with your Senator.

silasmiller

Silas's Bills in the Kansas Senate

Cutting Taxes on the Basics

Taking On the Prescription Middlemen

Protecting Students

See the Full List

Map of Kansas Senate District 25

Where District 25 Sits

See the Official Map

They Broke Their Promise on Special Ed

The 2026 Session So Far

150,000 Kansans Still Waiting on Medicaid

Kansas Still Taxes Your Diapers

Property Tax Relief Can't Wait

How the city and state are working together to bring new opportunities to Wichita

Kansas Legislative Session Update for March 2023

Forever the Free State: Defending Constitutional Rights & Freedoms

Hate Week: “Playing to the Lowest Common Denominator”

Continuing the Fight for Kansas Public Schools

Education bills to keep an eye on:

Catch up on the week’s education coverage:

Fentanyl Testing Strips

What’s Up With Water?: The Ogallala Aquifer

Politics & Podcasts

Views from the House Floor

In Case You Missed It

Legislative Resources

Legislation Sponsored ﻿

Kansas Legislative Session Update for February 2023

Convention of States

Let’s Be Blunt: Yes We Kannabis!

Pipeline Problems

GOP Chickens Vote on the Lesser Prairie Chicken

Diabetes Shock: Putting a Cap on Insulin & Diabetes Devices

Education Hits a Boiling Point

Public Money for Private Schools: What you need to know about HB 2218

Keeping Homeowners in Their Homes: Property Tax Relief Proposals

Offer an amendment to the Kansas Constitution to reduce the assessment level of Residential Property from 11.5% to 9%.

Replenish and enhance the Local Ad Valorem Tax Reduction Fund (LAVTRF).

Amend K.S.A. 79-201x raising the residential property exemption from the statewide school mill levy to $65,000.

Juneteenth

Indigenous Peoples Day

Across the Rotunda

Politics & Podcasts

In Case You Missed It

Bills to Watch

Views From the House Floor

Legislative Resources

Legislation Sponsored ﻿

Kansas Legislative Session Update for February 2023

Back to Brownback Flat Tax: Flat Out Unfair

Dropboxes & Disenfranchisement

So-Called School Choice: “Holy Tax Scams!”

Prevailing Wage

Adoption Bill

Labor in the House

Across the Rotunda: The Senate Democrats

The CHIPS Act Expands to Kansas: Integra Technologies

Politics & Podcasts

In Case You Missed It

Bills to Watch

Views from the House Floor

Legislative Resources

Legislation Sponsored ﻿

Serve as a Legislative Page

Legislation Sponsored

Legislation Sponsored

Legislation Sponsored