Reno County voters appear open to a modest countywide sales tax increase, but support drops sharply at higher levels, according to the results of a recently completed survey commissioned by the Reno County Commission.

The survey, conducted by the Wichita State University Public Policy and Management Center, was mailed to a random sample of registered voters across Reno County. Just under 400 responses were returned, representing close to 10 percent of those contacted — a response rate county officials say provides statistically valid results.

Reno County Administrator Randy Partington said approximately 70 percent of respondents indicated they would support or might support a half-cent countywide sales tax. However, willingness declined significantly when respondents were asked about higher rates, such as three-quarters of a cent or a full cent.

“That really tells us that anything above a half-cent is unlikely to pass with voters,” Partington said during a recent interview on the BW Morning Show.

The survey also measured public trust in county government. Results showed 79 percent of respondents expressed moderate trust, a finding Partington said was higher than he expected and notable compared to other communities he has worked in. He noted that trust levels can vary depending on the specific service or issue being considered.

Among spending priorities, county roads ranked as one of the top areas of support, with roughly 90 percent of respondents identifying road maintenance as an important investment. However, Partington acknowledged that some respondents may not fully understand the distinction between county and township responsibilities.

Reno County is responsible for maintaining paved county roads that are not part of the state highway system. Dirt and gravel roads, often referred to as township roads, are maintained by individual townships, not the county.

“There’s a lot of confusion about who maintains which roads, and that’s not unique to Reno County,” Partington said.

The survey also revealed misconceptions about how countywide sales tax revenue is distributed. Under Kansas law, sales tax revenue is split using a formula based on population and tax levy. In Reno County, that means the county receives about 40 cents of every dollar collected, while the City of Hutchinson receives approximately 49 cents, with the remaining share divided among smaller cities.

County commissioners also discussed whether a sales tax increase could provide property tax relief. Partington said that comparison is difficult because property values vary widely and sales tax impacts depend on individual spending habits.

“Sales tax spreads the burden more broadly, including to visitors and people passing through the county,” he said. “Property tax only applies to property owners.”

In addition to the mailed survey, the county also hosted an online public survey open to anyone. That survey showed similar trends, though with slightly lower levels of support. Because participation was unrestricted, county officials view those results as supplemental rather than statistically representative.

With the survey now complete, county officials face a tight timeline. To pursue a countywide sales tax referendum, enabling legislation must be introduced during the current Kansas legislative session. The deadline to request a bill introduction is Jan. 26.

The Board of County Commissioners will meet at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 20 in the Veterans Room of the Reno County Courthouse to consider a resolution to submit their request to the legislature.&nbsp; The meeting is open to the public.&nbsp;

Reno County survey finds support for half-cent sales tax

Dear Dave, My wife and I own three commercial properties. They are all leased out long-term. Currently, we owe about $400,000 each on two of the buildings, and a little over $500,000 on the other. The only other debt we have is our home mortgage, and we should have that paid off in two or three years. I know you hate debt, but how do you feel about owing on commercial properties that are consistently making good money?

—Dean                                                                       

Dear Dean, From what you’ve told me, it doesn’t sound like you two need to shift into panic mode and start selling everything in sight. But I do 100% believe you and your wife should sit down together, and formulate a sensible plan that will enable you to systematically work your way out from under all that debt.

I own several commercial buildings. And guess what? I don’t owe a dime on any of them. Never have. So, based on that—and the other principles I teach teach—I can’t tell you I think it’s okay to have debt on commercial buildings. I believe the best plan for building wealth is to become completely debt-free. 

If I were in your situation, Dean, I’d focus my energy on getting my home paid off first. Then, I’d take a look at the commercial properties and begin working the debt snowball on them. Start with throwing as much money as you can at the smallest debt, while making minimum payments on the other two. When you get the first one paid off, roll that amount over—along with every penny you can scrape together—and attack the second largest one. Continue following these steps until you’ve paid off all your commercial property.  

In your case, it might take several years to get this accomplished. I mean, no matter what these properties bring in, we’re still talking about well over a million dollars in debt. And debt equals risk. If you have a bunch of equity in one you don’t particularly like, you might consider selling it and throwing the cash at the other two. But whatever the timeline, I’d develop a serious game plan to get rid of this debt as fast as possible.

You can hear Dave Ramsey, Monday through Friday evenings from 7 to 10 p.m. on KWBW, unless it is preempted by sports coverage.&nbsp;

Dave Says: It’s Still a Mountain of Debt

Hunk-a-chunk of burning love! This all-pro linebacker loves to chill in his wading pool on hot summer days , munching dogoritos and sipping refreshing barkaritas while watching the latest Chiefs endzone dance-a-thon.

When there's a chill in the air, Thor will snuggle in with a blanket and never get tired of watching "Friend's" re-runs with you and will comfort you through your latest bad relationship or job experience.

Regardless of the season, with THOR, you've got a Friend!

To adopt Thor, contact the Kingman County Humane Society. You can reach them by phone at 316-542-1812 or visit them on the <a href="https://www.kingmancountyhumanesociety.org/">web.</a>&nbsp;

The Kingman County Humane Society is located at&nbsp;811 East C Ave. in Kingman.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🐶Adopt a Furry Friend: Thor

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. ——————————————

Martin	Luther	Tolbert	II	1/16/2026 9:24&nbsp;AM	Probation Violation

Samantha	Kylee	Page		1/16/2026 10:11&nbsp;AM	Failure to Appear,					Failure to Appear

Bryson	Paul	Allen		1/16/2026 12:28&nbsp;PM	Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body,					Possession of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant,					Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circ; felony

Rusty	Scott	Weers		1/16/2026 2:04&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Justin	Huu	Nguyen		1/16/2026 2:54&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation,					Forgery; Making, altering, endorsing

Keeon	Patrick	Roberts		1/16/2026 3:33&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Gage	Ryan	Lank		1/16/2026 3:51&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Adam	Casey	Sharp		1/16/2026 6:46&nbsp;PM	Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

Levi	Charles	Trammell		1/16/2026 6:58&nbsp;PM	Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner

Edward	Matthew	Trammell	Jr	1/16/2026 8:59&nbsp;PM	Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

Faith	Elisabeth Kathryn	Jarrett		1/16/2026 10:33&nbsp;PM	Viol protection order; Condition of release

Daily Bookings

K-State Research and Extension will host a series of regional Local Food Producer Workshops in February and March, offering farmers and small food businesses practical guidance on expanding their reach in local markets.

The annual workshops are held in collaboration with the Kansas Department of Agriculture and the Kansas Center for Sustainable Agriculture &amp; Alternative Crops. They are designed to help producers learn more about selling through farmers markets, direct-to-consumer channels, and other local food market opportunities, while also providing a forum to connect with peers and share best practices.

According to organizers, the workshops focus on improving business success for local food producers by combining educational sessions with networking opportunities. Each workshop location will offer free scale certification and lunch. Select locations will also include training for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program; participants are encouraged to review the agenda for their chosen location to confirm available topics.

The workshops are organized through K-State Research and Extension, the statewide outreach arm of Kansas State University.

Additional details, including dates, locations, and agendas, are available online through K-State Research and Extension’s workshop page.

K-State Research and Extension to host local food producer workshops across Kansas

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">Click here for the KSStorm.Info forecast.&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

Three-day Outlook

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks to Leslie Grant with Wichita State University's Community Education program to discuss their free lifelong learning program.

For more details go to the web site Wichita.edu/lifelonglearning&nbsp; &nbsp;Or call the office 316-978-3731

🎙 Forward Ever: Leslie Grant with WSU's Community Education Program

TOPEKA, Kan. – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this year’s first Virtual Statewide Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday, January 22.

“The new year is all about new doors opening and new opportunities on the horizon,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “And what better way to kickstart your new year than exploring the wide array of fulfilling career opportunities available in Kansas.”

The Virtual Job Fair format allows anyone searching for a new job to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.

This month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as they might be asked to engage in an interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodation by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.

Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapp.premiervirtual.com%2Fevents%2F4fa13887-56f5-4f70-8a8e-15ad40a883d7%2Fkansasworks-virtual-statewide-job-fair-january-22,-2026/1/0101019b9e563bde-3582bec5-c4b5-4a92-b26a-425ebfb89d80-000000/AcS4yBb1tab0tbPVNUe0q3N2geF3QYIdyaodDh0okxU=439">here</a>.

State to hold first virtual job fair of the year

The Kansas Supreme Court has unanimously affirmed the convictions of a man found guilty of killing two people in Reno County, rejecting arguments that errors during the trial warranted a new proceeding.

A jury previously convicted Kyle Hardwick of two counts of first-degree premeditated murder. On direct appeal, Hardwick argued that the Reno County District Court erred by failing to instruct jurors on imperfect self-defense and by allowing evidence related to his post-arrest silence, which he said violated his Fifth Amendment rights.

In a unanimous opinion authored by Melissa Standridge, the court upheld the convictions, concluding that any error related to jury instructions was harmless in light of the overwhelming evidence presented at trial.

The court determined that even if an imperfect self-defense instruction should have been given, the absence of that instruction did not affect the outcome of the case because the evidence supporting the jury’s verdict was substantial.

The justices also rejected Hardwick’s claim regarding his post-arrest silence. The court ruled that the admission of this evidence did not violate constitutional protections because Hardwick “opened the door” through his own testimony by suggesting a willingness to cooperate with law enforcement that was inconsistent with his actual silence after arrest.

Additionally, the court found that prosecutors used the evidence narrowly and appropriately for impeachment purposes, rather than to suggest guilt, which the court said is constitutionally permissible.

As a result of the ruling, Hardwick’s convictions and sentences remain in place.

Hardwick was sentenced in April of 2023 to two consecutive life sentences for the murders of Marion Edward “Ed” Bates, 56, and Phillip “Phil” D. Anstine, 58, both of Hutchinson. Concurrent with his life convictions, Hardwick was sentenced to eight months for his third alternative count of theft and seven months for solicitation of perjury.  

Kansas Supreme Court affirms Hardwick's 2023 conviction

The national average for a gallon of regular gas went up a couple of cents since last week to $2.84. Drivers are still paying less than they were last year when the national average was $3.08. 

Pump prices are typically low in January thanks to a dip in gas demand and cheaper winter blend gasoline. Crude oil prices remain low as markets keep an eye on tensions in Iran, which is a member of OPEC and one of the world’s top oil producers. Any disruption to Iran’s oil infrastructure could have a ripple effect on gas prices here at home.&nbsp;

According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eia.gov/" target="_blank">new data from the Energy Information Administration</a>&nbsp;(EIA), gasoline&nbsp;demand&nbsp;increased&nbsp;last week&nbsp;from 8.17&nbsp;million&nbsp;b/d&nbsp;to&nbsp;8.30&nbsp;million.&nbsp;Total domestic gasoline&nbsp;supply&nbsp;increased&nbsp;from&nbsp;242&nbsp;million&nbsp;barrels&nbsp;to&nbsp;251&nbsp;million.&nbsp;Gasoline production increased last week, averaging 9.0 million barrels per day.&nbsp;

At the close of Wednesday’s formal trading session, WTI&nbsp;rose 87 cents&nbsp;to&nbsp;settle at&nbsp;$62.02&nbsp;a barrel.&nbsp;The EIA&nbsp;reports&nbsp;crude oil inventories&nbsp;increased by 3.4 million barrels from the previous week. At 422.4 million barrels, U.S. crude oil inventories are about 3% below the five-year average for this time of year.&nbsp;

Gas prices nudge higher, but remain lower than last year

Westley	Hardin	Brown		1/15/2026 8:39&nbsp;AM	Domestic Battery; Knowing or Reckless Bodily Harm (1st conviction)

Ambresia	Chloe	Leaks		1/15/2026 4:11&nbsp;PM	Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misdemeanor; unknown conv,					DL Violation; Drive While Habitual Violator

1/15/2026 10:16&nbsp;PM	Aston		Jimmy	Eugene	Possession of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant,					Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

MONTGOMERY COUNTY —One person died in accident just after 3:30a.m. Saturday in Montgomery County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 driven by&nbsp;Hinman, Dakota Ray&nbsp;Hinman, 34, Parsons, was westbound on&nbsp;County Road 2800. The driver failed to yield to oncoming traffic at U.S. 169. A northbound 2025 Freightliner semi driven by Said&nbsp;Bouchelarm, 43, Lenexa, struck the pickup on the driver's side.

Hinman was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp;Bouchelarm was not transported for treatment.&nbsp; Hinman was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after semi, pickup crash

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/alex-veiga">ALEX VEIGA</a> Associated Press

The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate is now down to its lowest level in more than three years.

The benchmark 30-year fixed rate mortgage rate eased to 6.06% this week, down from 6.16% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. One year ago, the rate averaged 7.04%.

The last time the average rate was lower was Sept. 15, 2022, when it was at 6.02%.

Meanwhile, borrowing costs on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages, popular with homeowners refinancing their home loans, also fell this week, dropping to 5.38% from 5.46% last week. A year ago, that average rate was at 6.27%, Freddie Mac said.

Lower mortgage rates boost homebuyers’ purchasing power, good news for home shoppers at a time when the housing market remains in a deep slump after years of soaring prices and elevated mortgage rates have shut out many aspiring homeowners.

Uncertainty over the economy and job market are also keeping many would-be buyers on the sidelines.

Mortgage rates began easing in July in anticipation of a series of Fed rate cuts, which began in September and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-cut-inflation-jobs-e689e1397856aa24ffebdaaefa9762a2">continued last month</a>.

The Fed doesn’t set mortgage rates, but when it cuts its short-term rate that can signal lower inflation or slower economic growth ahead, which can drive investors to buy U.S. government bonds. That can help lower yields on long-term U.S. Treasurys, which can result in lower mortgage rates.

The pullback in mortgage rates helped drive sales of previously occupied U.S. homes higher on a monthly basis the last four months of 2025. Even so,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/housing-home-sales-real-estate-home-prices-d14d4f80bb90d6031292d1f0c377d708">home sales remained stuck at a 30-year low last year,</a>&nbsp;extending the housing market’s slump into its fourth year.

Lower mortgage rates have been helpful for home shoppers who can afford to buy at current rates. The median U.S. monthly housing payment fell to $2,413 in the four weeks ending Jan. 11, according to Redfin. That’s a 5.5% drop from the same period a year earlier and near the lowest level in two years.

The latest drop in rates comes after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-housing-mortgage-rates-79294cf8eac1579b17430b4cd0708fcd">President Donald Trump announced last week</a>&nbsp;that the federal government would buy $200 billion in mortgage bonds in a bid to reduce mortgage rates.

Lower rates spurred a sharp increase in homeowners seeking to refinance their existing home loan to a lower rate last fall, a trend that has continued into this year.

Applications for mortgage refinancing loans soared 40% last week from the previous week and accounted for 60% of all home loan applications, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. Applications for loans to buy a home climbed 16%.

“With mortgage rates much lower than a year ago and edging closer to 6%, MBA expects strong interest from homeowners seeking a refinance and would-be buyers stepping off the sidelines,” said MBA CEO Bob Broeksmit.

Economists generally expect mortgage rates to ease further this year, though most recent forecasts show the average rate on a 30-year mortgage remaining above 6%, about twice what it was six years ago.

Still, rates would have to drop considerably for homeowners, who bought or refinanced when mortgage rates hit rock bottom earlier this decade, to take on a new loan at a far higher rate.

Nearly 69% of U.S. homes with an outstanding mortgage have a fixed-rate of 5% or lower, and slightly more than half have a rate at or below 4%, according to Realtor.com.

Average US long-term mortgage rate hits lowest point in more than 3 years

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The city of Wichita took the unprecedented action Friday to address social media statements involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Wichita Police.

On the city's social media page, they wrote, they are aware of circulating posts that claim Mayor Lily Wu directed the Wichita Police to work alongside ICE. 

<a href="https://www.wichita.gov/DocumentCenter/View/31832/Policy-514--Arrest-And-Detention-of-Foreign-Nationals-PDF?fbclid=IwY2xjawPYjvRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFKWURCWGVvamNQNzUyRGFkc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHjOuuW0ENB3dOVjGJWJJOdrhrZHh6XzsQupwxLVexmvcCpPbt_bk7Leu343i_aem_wiV7GHQkO5g_hcN9M1wLAw">Click here to read</a>&nbsp;Wichita Police policy on the arrest and detention of foreign nationals.

1. The Mayor of Wichita does not have the administrative power to direct any City department. 

City dispels misinformation concerning Wichita police, ICE

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Police investigating a deadly shooting in Lawrence have two suspects in custody.

Just after 2a.m. Saturday, police were called to a reported shooting at the Hawk, 1340 Ohio Street in Lawrence, according to an online report from Lawrence Police.

First responders found two victims with gunshot wounds and several potential witnesses who told officers the suspects took off. While officers on scene tended to the victims, others flooded the surrounding area.  Soon after, officers found a group of people matching the suspects’ descriptions walking just blocks away. 

They were taken to the Lawrence Police Department to be questioned by detectives. Through the course of the investigation, probable cause was developed to suggest requesting charges on one suspect for first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and aggravated assault and requesting charges on a second suspect of felony murder and aggravated assault. 

Both were booked into the Douglas County Correctional Facility.

An 18-year-old boy was pronounced deceased at the scene. The second victim, a 16-year-old boy, was taken to an area trauma center where he remains in critical condition.&nbsp;

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Police are investigating a deadly shooting in Lawrence. 

The shooting occurred at approximately 2a.m. Saturday at the Hawk, 1340 Ohio Street, according to a statement from Lawrence police.

 One person is confirmed deceased and another is in critical condition at an area trauma center. Police secured the scene and detectives were questioning those involved.

Arrest made in fatal shooting at popular bar near KU campus

USD 465 is celebrating an extraordinary act of generosity that is making a meaningful difference for students and families across the district. During the January 12 Board of Education meeting, Superintendent Tricia Reiser shared the exciting news that the district received an unexpected donation totaling $15,432.00, which fully eliminated outstanding debt for unpaid student lunches.

“This generous gift directly supports our families and ensures that students can focus on learning without the burden of meal debt,” said Reiser. “We are incredibly grateful.”

According to Elizabeth Smith, USD 465 Business Manager and Board of Education Treasurer, families will now see negative balances removed from their school meal accounts. Every student in our district will start off the spring semester with a clean slate for their lunch accounts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“This donation is truly a blessing,” Smith said. “We thank and bless the person who chose to help our students and families in such a meaningful way.” Smith states, “Every student in the district regardless of whether or not they have a negative balance has the opportunity to be provided a meal; possibly an alternative meal depending on the grade level.&nbsp; We want to ensure every student is fed.”

This year, 1,136 USD 465 students qualify for free or reduced meals, based on family income. This represents more than half of the district’s total enrollment. The donation specifically impacts approximately 450 students who were carrying meal debt. In some cases, the debt may have accrued prior to a student qualifying for free or reduced meals.

Parents are encouraged to apply for free/reduced price meals.&nbsp; KSDE's guidelines to qualify for a family of 5 for free meals are families that earn less than $48,945 and to qualify for reduced less than $69,653.&nbsp; Each additional person in the household adds $7,150 to the earnings to qualify for free and $10,175 to qualify for reduced. USD 465 encourages families to remember that if their financial situation changes at any point during the school year, they may apply or reapply for free or reduced price meal benefits at that time. Applications and assistance are available through the District Office.

USD 465 extends its heartfelt gratitude to the anonymous donor for their compassion and commitment to supporting students and families in the Winfield community.

Anonymous donor pays off Kan. district's school-lunch debt 

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that occurred Thursday night in east Wichita during a reported home invasion robbery.

At 7:30 p.m., officers assigned to Patrol East heard several gunshots and then received a Gunshot Detection System (GSD) alert in the 5300 block of E. Funston, according to a media release from Wichita Police. Officers arrived before 911 calls came in.

When officers arrived, they found a 22-year-old man with multiple gunshot wounds. Officers began life-saving measures until Sedgwick County EMS arrived. EMS transported the man to a local hospital, where he remains in serious but stable condition.

“ Our officers heard the gunshots, and our Gunshot Detection System immediately pinpointed the area before the first 911 calls came in. That combination helped us get to the exact location fast, start medical aid right away, and get EMS there quickly. It potentially saved the suspect’s life. And it also allowed us to secure the scene, take the suspect into custody, and move this case forward. Technology like this continues to strengthen our ability to respond quickly and protect our community.”&nbsp;

Three people, later determined to be victims, were detained for interviews. After speaking with investigators, all three were released.

Detectives learned a 21-year-old Wichita woman was inside her home in the 5300 block of E. Funston when three armed suspects kicked in the door and robbed her.

During the incident, her boyfriend, a 23-year-old Wichita man, arrived with a 22-year-old friend.

As the boyfriend approached the home, one suspect exited through the front door, pointed a gun at him, and ordered him to get on the ground. A struggle over the firearm followed. As the 22-year-old friend got out of the vehicle, an exchange of gunfire occurred, and the 22-year-old suspect was shot. The other two suspects fled the scene and remain at large.

The suspect who was shot remains in police custody at the hospital. Once released, he will be booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on aggravated robbery, aggravated kidnapping, and aggravated assault. The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office for charging consideration.

Kan. home invasion robbery suspect wounded in gunfight

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ghills/">GRACE HILLS</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — A bipartisan&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/01/07/kansas-lawmakers-want-statewide-k-12-cell-phone-ban-by-next-school-year/">Kansas bill</a>&nbsp;that aims to implement a bell-to-bell cellphone ban beginning next school year would override local rules and establish one of the nation’s most restrictive policies.&nbsp;

The bill already has garnered a two-thirds supermajority of&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/01/07/kansas-lawmakers-want-statewide-k-12-cell-phone-ban-by-next-school-year/">support</a>&nbsp;from the Kansas Senate, as well as the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/01/13/full-transcript-of-kansas-gov-laura-kellys-2026-state-of-the-state-speech/">support</a>&nbsp;of Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly.&nbsp;

Supporters of the bill say students would be mentally and physically safer, while opponents argue it’s an overreach of power that asks too much of students and schools.&nbsp;

More than 20 people testified on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb302/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 302</a>&nbsp;on Thursday before the Senate Education Committee, including Timothy Graham from the Kansas National Education Association, which represents 22,000 educators.&nbsp;

“Our members are all over the place on this issue,” Graham said. “Understandably so.”

Ngoc Vuong, a school board member for Wichita Public Schools and a community psychology PhD candidate, told the committee he researches the academic effects of cellphones in schools.

“While multiple factors are responsible for causing and exacerbating the ongoing youth mental health, literacy, and numeracy crises, the evidence increasingly points to the advent and proliferation of a screen-based childhood, the immense power and influence of Big Tech companies over our society, culture, and education system, and the unhealthy relationships many children and adolescents have with smartphones and social media as central drivers of these problematic outcomes,” Vuong said.&nbsp;

In his&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/committees/ctte_s_ed_1/misc_documents/download_testimony/ctte_s_ed_1_20260115_13_testimony.html" target="_blank">written</a>&nbsp;testimony, Vuong linked cellphone use to poor&nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1524645/full" target="_blank">academic performance</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2024/5592994" target="_blank">attention</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0149763424000411?via%3Dihub" target="_blank">executive functioning</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165032724014265?via%3Dihub" target="_blank">sleep</a>, and physical and mental health.&nbsp;

Gretchen Shanahan, a parent from Overland Park, referenced a National Association of School Resource Officers statement supporting a bell-to-bell cellphone ban.&nbsp;

“Access to phones during the school day reduces student safety in normal and especially emergency situations,” Shanahan said. “During an emergency such as a school shooting, students must be completely focused on lifesaving instructions. Phones can easily distract students from hearing, understanding and reacting appropriately — even when students use the phones to communicate with their parents.”

Kevin Cronister, a retired detective with the Internet Crimes against Children Task Force, said that based on his experience, a cellphone ban would mitigate the risk of predators contacting students. Cronister said predators often target students during the school day, when they are away from their parents, and may ask students to introduce them to classmates.&nbsp;

Several proponents criticized the Kansas State Board of Education’s&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/12/13/kansas-board-of-education-accepts-policy-report-recommending-phone-bans-sends-to-local-districts/">directive</a>&nbsp;allowing each school district to craft its own policies around cellphone use, urging lawmakers to instead adopt a statewide ban.

Cathy Hopkins and Beryl New, legislative liaisons for the Kansas State Board of Education, testified neutrally on the bill. They pointed to the Blue Ribbon&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksde.gov/Portals/0/Commissioner/Blue-Ribbon-Task-Force-on-Student-Screen-Time-Report.pdf?ver=2024-12-12-131410-427" target="_blank">Task Force</a>&nbsp;on Screen Time in 2024 that led to the state board’s directive, and said districts that developed policies in collaboration with their community have seen the strongest results.&nbsp;

Topeka Democrat Ann Mah, a former state representative, served on the board of education when it sent out the directive allowing for local control.&nbsp;

“It should be clear that these discussions belong at (the district) level,” Mah said. “It should also be clear the Legislature has no role here. When you have school districts that range from fewer than one hundred students to more than 45,000 students, there is no way the Legislature can create a one-size-fits-all solution.&nbsp;

“Besides that, I’m fairly certain that the 2,000 or so locally elected school board members are in a better position than you to make that call. What message are you sending your local board members? They likely already have a policy, but you think you know better? Seriously?”&nbsp;

Kailey Howell, a senior at Spring Hill High School, said her cellphone has never distracted her from schoolwork.&nbsp;

“While I understand that this is not the case for all students, I am confused as to why I am now having to bear the weight of consequences that were never meant for me,” Howell said. “Education has always been what students choose to make of it. Students with positive attitudes and a desire to learn will do so. Students who purposely avoid learning at every cost will not learn. Removing phones doesn’t change a student’s attitude. It only gives them another avenue to find another distraction.”

In his neutral testimony, Graham from the Kansas National Education Association — who also mentioned that teachers are divided on this bill — brought up the lack of funding.&nbsp;

Multiple proponents acknowledged that schools would need dedicated storage for cellphones. Along with the storage, Graham said, districts would need to train staff, enforce compliance, and report to the state — all without additional funding.&nbsp;

Eighteen&nbsp;<a href="https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/states-banning-cellphones-schools/story?id=125515186" target="_blank">states</a>&nbsp;— including Washington, D.C., and the Virgin Islands — have banned cellphones and other wireless communication devices for the entire instructional day, the bell-to-bell policy.&nbsp;

Neighboring&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/01/13/gov-pillen-ne-lawmakers-take-aim-at-social-media-and-school-time-cell-phone-use-by-youths/" target="_blank">Nebraska</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-lawmakers-pass-ban-on-cell-phones-in-public-school-classrooms/" target="_blank">Missouri</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://oklahomavoice.com/2025/05/06/oklahoma-governor-signs-mandatory-one-year-school-cellphone-ban-into-law/" target="_blank">Oklahoma</a>&nbsp;are part of that mix, and pushed similar bills forward last year.&nbsp;

Preliminary data shows that strict school cellphone bans, like what’s being proposed in Kansas, have led to more more focused students, according to a University of Pennsylvania&nbsp;<a href="https://penntoday.upenn.edu/news/angela-duckworth-over-20000-educators-share-insights-school-cell-phone-policies" target="_blank">survey</a>&nbsp;of 20,000 teachers.&nbsp;

Florida was the first state to entirely ban cellphones in schools in 2023. A National Bureau of Economic Research&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nber.org/papers/w34388" target="_blank">paper</a>&nbsp;found there was an adjustment period in 2024, the first year the ban took effect, with an increase in suspensions in the short-term — especially among Black students. By the second year, suspensions had dissipated, test scores increased, and there were fewer unexcused absences.

Kansas legislators hear divided testimony on proposed school cellphone ban

On Friday, President Donald J. Trump congratulated the formation of the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG), a vital step forward in implementing Phase Two of his Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict—a 20-point roadmap for lasting peace, stability, reconstruction, and prosperity in the region, according to statement from the White House.

The NCAG will be led by Dr. Ali Sha’ath, a widely respected technocratic leader who will oversee the restoration of core public services, the rebuilding of civil institutions, and the stabilization of daily life in Gaza, while laying the foundation for long-term, self-sustaining governance. Dr. Sha’ath brings deep experience in public administration, economic development, and international engagement, and is widely respected for his pragmatic, technocratic leadership and understanding of Gaza’s institutional realities.

This milestone perfectly aligns with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803 (2025), which endorsed President Trump’s Comprehensive Plan and welcomed the establishment of the Board of Peace. The Board of Peace will play an essential role in fulfilling all 20 points of the President’s plan, providing strategic oversight, mobilizing international resources, and ensuring accountability as Gaza transitions from conflict to peace and development.

To operationalize the Board of Peace’s vision—under the chairmanship of President Donald J. Trump—a founding Executive Board has been formed, composed of leaders with experience across diplomacy, development, infrastructure, and economic strategy. The appointed members are:

Each Executive Board member will oversee a defined portfolio critical to Gaza’s stabilization and long-term success, including, but not limited to, governance capacity-building, regional relations, reconstruction, investment attraction, large-scale funding, and capital mobilization.

In support of this operating model, the Chairman has appointed Aryeh Lightstone and Josh Gruenbaum as senior advisors to the Board of Peace, charged with leading day-to-day strategy and operations, and translating the Board’s mandate and diplomatic priorities into disciplined execution.

H.E. Nickolay Mladenov, an Executive Board member, will serve as the High Representative for Gaza. In this capacity, he will act as the on-the-ground link between the Board of Peace and the NCAG. He will support the Board’s oversight of all aspects of Gaza’s governance, reconstruction, and development, while ensuring coordination across civilian and security pillars.

To establish security, preserve peace, and establish a durable terror-free environment, Major General Jasper Jeffers has been appointed Commander of the International Stabilization Force (ISF), where he will lead security operations, support comprehensive demilitarization, and enable the safe delivery of humanitarian aid and reconstruction materials.

In support of the Office of the High Representative and the NCAG, a Gaza Executive Board is being established. The Board will help support effective governance and the delivery of best-in-class services that advance peace, stability, and prosperity for the people of Gaza. The appointed members are:

The United States remains fully committed to supporting this transitional framework, working in close partnership with Israel, key Arab nations, and the international community to achieve the objectives of the Comprehensive Plan. The President calls on all parties to cooperate fully with the NCAG, the Board of Peace, and the International Stabilization Force to ensure the swift and successful implementation of the Comprehensive Plan.

Additional Executive Board and Gaza Executive Board members will be announced over the coming weeks.

Who is on Trump's 'Board of Peace' for Gaza?

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/hannah-schoenbaum">HANNAH SCHOENBAUM</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/matthew-brown">MATTHEW BROWN</a>

PROVO, Utah (AP) — The Utah man charged with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-shooting-suspect-things-to-know-dcde3f792f4d6636d44fb9f4fa53569c">killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk</a>&nbsp;returned to court Friday as his attorneys seek to disqualify prosecutors because an adult child of a deputy county attorney involved in the case attended the rally where Kirk was shot.

Defense attorneys say the relationship represents a conflict of interest after prosecutors said they intend to seek the death penalty against Tyler Robinson for aggravated murder.

Robinson, 22, has pleaded not guilty in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-conservative-activist-shot-546165a8151104e0938a5e085be1e8bd">Sept. 10 shooting</a>&nbsp;of Kirk on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-valley-university-police-charlie-kirk-d7d464c949ec9d4abad0eb3910d6a96b">Utah Valley University</a>&nbsp;campus in Orem, just a few miles north of the Provo courthouse.

The 18-year-old child who attended the event -- and whose name was redacted from court filings -- later texted with their father in the Utah County Attorney’s Office to describe the chaotic events around the shooting, the filings from prosecutors and defense lawyers state.

Robinson’s attorneys say that personal relationship is a conflict of interest that “raises serious concerns about past and future prosecutorial decision-making in this case,” according to court documents. They also argue that the “rush” to seek the death penalty against Robinson is evidence of “strong emotional reactions” by the prosecution and merits the disqualification of the entire team.

Defense attorney Richard Novak urged Judge Tony Graf on Friday to bring in the state attorney general’s office in place of Utah County prosecutors to address the conflict of interest. Novak said it was problematic for county prosecutors to litigate on behalf of the state while defending their aptness to remain on the case.

Utah County Attorney Richard Gray replied that Novak’s last-minute request was aimed at delaying the case against Robinson.

“This is ambush and another stalling tactic to delay these proceedings,” Gray said.

The director of a state council that trains prosecutors said he was not aware of any other major case where attorneys had been disqualified for bias.

“I would bet against the defense winning this motion,” Utah Prosecution Council Director Robert Church said. “They’ve got to a show a substantial amount of prejudice and bias.”

Several thousand people attended the outdoor rally where Kirk, a co-founder of Turning Point USA who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-turning-point-trump-cf2a68e4303c5628299ffe383d09c1e9">helped mobilize young people</a>&nbsp;to vote for President Donald Trump, was shot as he took questions from the audience. The adult child of the deputy county attorney did not see the shooting, according to an affidavit submitted by prosecutors.

“While the second person in line was speaking with Charlie, I was looking around the crowd when I heard a loud sound, like a pop. Someone yelled, ‘he’s been shot,’ ” the child stated in the affidavit.

The child later texted a family group chat to say “CHARLIE GOT SHOT.” In the aftermath of the shooting, the child did not miss classes or other activities, and reported no lasting trauma “aside from being scared at the time,” the affidavit said.

Prosecutors have asked Judge Graf to deny the disqualification request.

“Under these circumstances, there is virtually no risk, let alone a significant risk, that it would arouse such emotions in any father-prosecutor as to render him unable to fairly prosecute the case,” county attorney Gray said in a filing.

Gray also said the child was “neither a material witness nor a victim in the case” and that “nearly everything” the person knows about the actual homicide is mere hearsay.

If the Utah county prosecutors were disqualified, the case would likely be picked up by prosecutors in a county with enough resources to handle a big case. That could be Salt Lake City, or possibly even the state attorney general’s office, said prosecution council director Church. The judge would have the final say, he said.

Prosecutors have said text messages and DNA evidence connect Robinson to the killing. Robinson reportedly texted his romantic partner that he targeted Kirk because he “had enough of his hatred.”

At the school where the shooting took place, university president Astrid Tuminez announced Wednesday that she will be stepping down from her role after the semester ends in May.

The state university has been working to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-valley-university-police-charlie-kirk-d7d464c949ec9d4abad0eb3910d6a96b">expand its police force</a>&nbsp;and add security managers after it was criticized for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-security-utah-valley-university-85cefc5ef2a64d3c33ebea6a444e0c52">lack of key safety measures</a>&nbsp;on the day of the shooting.

Prosecutors are expected to lay out their case against Robinson at a preliminary hearing scheduled to begin May 18.

Shocking request of judge from accused Charlie Kirk killer  

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Justice Department is investigating whether Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey have impeded federal immigration enforcement through public statements they have made, according to two people familiar with the matter.

The investigation focused on potential violation of a conspiracy statute, the people said.

The people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss a pending investigation by name.

CBS News first reported the investigation.

In response to reports of the investigation, Walz said in a statement: “Two days ago it was Elissa Slotkin. Last week it was Jerome Powell. Before that, Mark Kelly. Weaponizing the justice system and threatening political opponents is a dangerous, authoritarian tactic.”

Senators Kelly and Slotkin, U.S. senators Arizona and Michigan, are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/slotkin-trump-investigation-democrats-video-illegal-orders-a4714c0008e4b48b2baf260470096812">under investigation</a>&nbsp;from the Trump administration after appearing with other Democratic lawmakers in a video urging members of the military to resist “illegal orders,” while the administration has launched a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-trump-subpoena-bf4fc6c690fa248fbc531bc9bc7f1758">criminal investigation</a>&nbsp;of Powell, the federal reserve chair.

Walz’s office said it has not received any notice of an investigation.

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