As governors loosen long-lasting coronavirus restrictions, state lawmakers across the U.S. are taking actions to significantly limit the power they could wield in future emergencies.

The legislative measures are aimed not simply at undoing mask mandates and capacity limits that have been common during the pandemic. Many proposals seek to fundamentally shift power away from governors and toward lawmakers the next time there is a virus outbreak, terrorist attack or natural disaster.

“The COVID pandemic has been an impetus for a re-examination of balancing of legislative power with executive powers,” said Pam Greenberg, a policy researcher at the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Lawmakers in 45 states have proposed more than 300 measures this year related to legislative oversight of executive actions during the COVID-19 pandemic or other emergencies, according to the NCSL.

About half those states are considering significant changes, such as tighter limits on how long governors’ emergency orders can last without legislative approval, according to the American Legislative Exchange Council, an association of conservative lawmakers and businesses. It wrote a model “Emergency Power Limitation Act” for lawmakers to follow.

Though the pushback is coming primarily from Republican lawmakers, it is not entirely partisan.

Republican lawmakers have sought to limit the power of Democratic governors in states such as Kansas, Kentucky and North Carolina. But they also have sought to rein in fellow Republican governors in such states as Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana and Ohio. Some Democratic lawmakers also have pushed back against governors of their own party, most notably limiting the ability of embattled New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo to issue new mandates.

When the pandemic hit a year ago, many governors and their top health officials temporarily ordered residents to remain home, limited public gatherings, prohibited in-person schooling and shut down dine-in restaurants, gyms and other businesses. Many governors have been repealing or relaxing restrictions after cases declined from a winter peak and as more people get vaccinated.

But the potential remains in many states for governors to again tighten restrictions if new variants of the coronavirus lead to another surge in cases.

Governors have been acting under the authority of emergency response laws that in some states date back decades and weren’t crafted with an indefinite health crisis in mind.

“A previous legislature back in the ’60s, fearing a nuclear holocaust, granted tremendous powers” to the governor, said Idaho state Rep. Jason Monks, a Republican and the chamber’s assistant majority leader.

“This was the first time I think that those laws were really stress-tested,” he said.

Like many governors, Idaho Gov. Brad Little has repeatedly extended his monthlong emergency order since originally issuing it last spring. A pair of bills nearing final approval would prohibit him from declaring an emergency for more than 60 days without legislative approval. The Republican governor also would be barred from suspending constitutional rights, restricting the ability of people to work, or altering state laws like he did by suspending in-person voting and holding a mail-only primary election last year.

A measure that recently passed New Hampshire’s Republican-led House also would prohibit governors from indefinitely renewing emergency declarations, as GOP Gov. Chris Sununu has done every 21 days for the past year. It would halt emergency orders after 30 days unless renewed by lawmakers.

Next month, Pennsylvania voters will decide a pair of constitutional amendments to limit disaster emergency declarations to three weeks, rather than three months, and require legislative approval to extend them. The Republican-led Legislature placed the measures on the ballot after repeatedly failing to reverse the policies Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf implemented to try to contain the pandemic.

In Indiana, the Republican-led Legislature and GOP governor are embroiled in a power struggle over executive powers.

The Legislature approved a bill this past week that would give lawmakers greater authority to intervene in gubernatorially declared emergencies by calling themselves into special session. The House Republican leader said the bill was not “anti-governor” but a response to a generational crisis.

Gov. Eric Holcomb, who has issued more than 60 executive orders during the pandemic, vetoed the bill Friday. He contends the legislature’s attempt to expand its power could violate the state Constitution. Legislative leaders said they intend to override the veto, potentially setting up a legal clash between the legislative and executive branches. Unlike Congress and most states, Indiana lawmakers can override a veto with a simple majority of both houses.

Several other governors also have vetoed bills limiting their emergency authority or increasing legislative powers.

In Michigan, where new variants are fueling a rise in COVID-19 cases, Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer vetoed GOP-backed legislation last month that would have ended state health department orders after 28 days unless lengthened by lawmakers.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, a Republican, contended that legislation allowing lawmakers to rescind his public health orders “jeopardizes the safety of every Ohioan.” But the Republican-led Legislature overrode his veto the next day.

“It’s time for us to stand up for the legislative branch,” sponsoring Sen. Rob McColley told his colleagues.

Kentucky’s GOP-led Legislature overrode Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear’s vetoes of bills limiting his emergency powers, but a judge temporarily blocked the laws from taking effect. The judge said they are “likely to undermine, or even cripple, the effectiveness of public health measures.”

In some states, governors have worked with lawmakers to pare back executive powers.

Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, a Republican, signed a law last month giving the GOP-led Legislature greater say in determining whether to end his emergency orders. It was quickly put to the test by the Arkansas Legislative Council, which decided to let Hutchinson extend his emergency declaration another two months.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, also enacted a law last month giving legislative leaders power to revoke her emergency orders. Top Republican lawmakers immediately used it to scuttle a Kelly order meant to encourage counties to keep mask mandates in place.

“The power of the executive has been emasculated when it comes to the Emergency Management Act,” Democratic state Rep. John Carmichael said. “That may have very dire consequences in other circumstances and other disasters.”

Kelly said it will be harder to persuade people to keep wearing masks without state or local mandates. She said her orders had relieved pressure on local leaders and businesses.

“Let me be the bad guy. Let me be the one who mandates so that they don’t have to make those kinds of decisions,” Kelly said.

Republican lawmakers insisted that their push to curb the governor’s power is not partisan. Lawmakers said they didn’t understand how broad the governor’s power was until she started issuing orders last spring to close K-12 schools, limit indoor worship services and regulate how businesses could reopen.

House Speaker Pro Tem Blaine Finch said he believes the changes in Kansas’ emergency management law will encourage future governors to “use that power sparingly” and collaborate with lawmakers.

“Our system is set up not to give one person of any party too much power over the lives of Kansans,” he said. “We’re supposed to have checks and balances.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611280712430.png" alt="Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, also enacted a law last month giving legislative leaders power to revoke her emergency orders." />
 <figcaption>Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, also enacted a law last month giving legislative leaders power to revoke her emergency orders.</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVID A. LIEB, Associated PressAs governors loosen long-lasting coronavirus restrictions, state lawmakers across the U.S. are taking actions to significantly limit the power they could wield in future emergencies.The legislative measures are aimed not simply at undoing mask mandates and capacity limits that have been common during the pandemic. Many proposals seek to fundamentally shift power away from governors and toward lawmakers the next time there is a virus outbreak, terrorist attack or natural disaster.“The COVID pandemic has been an impetus for a re-examination of balancing of legislative power with executive powers,” said Pam Greenberg, a policy researcher at the National Conference of State Legislatures.Lawmakers in 45 states have proposed more than 300 measures this year related to legislative oversight of executive actions during the COVID-19 pandemic or other emergencies, according to the NCSL.About half those states are considering significant changes, such as tighter limits on how long governors’ emergency orders can last without legislative approval, according to the American Legislative Exchange Council, an association of conservative lawmakers and businesses. It wrote a model “Emergency Power Limitation Act” for lawmakers to follow.Though the pushback is coming primarily from Republican lawmakers, it is not entirely partisan.Republican lawmakers have sought to limit the power of Democratic governors in states such as Kansas, Kentucky and North Carolina. But they also have sought to rein in fellow Republican governors in such states as Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana and Ohio. Some Democratic lawmakers also have pushed back against governors of their own party, most notably limiting the ability of embattled New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo to issue new mandates.When the pandemic hit a year ago, many governors and their top health officials temporarily ordered residents to remain home, limited public gatherings, prohibited in-person schooling and shut down dine-in restaurants, gyms and other businesses. Many governors have been repealing or relaxing restrictions after cases declined from a winter peak and as more people get vaccinated.But the potential remains in many states for governors to again tighten restrictions if new variants of the coronavirus lead to another surge in cases.Governors have been acting under the authority of emergency response laws that in some states date back decades and weren’t crafted with an indefinite health crisis in mind.“A previous legislature back in the ’60s, fearing a nuclear holocaust, granted tremendous powers” to the governor, said Idaho state Rep. Jason Monks, a Republican and the chamber’s assistant majority leader.“This was the first time I think that those laws were really stress-tested,” he said.Like many governors, Idaho Gov. Brad Little has repeatedly extended his monthlong emergency order since originally issuing it last spring. A pair of bills nearing final approval would prohibit him from declaring an emergency for more than 60 days without legislative approval. The Republican governor also would be barred from suspending constitutional rights, restricting the ability of people to work, or altering state laws like he did by suspending in-person voting and holding a mail-only primary election last year.A measure that recently passed New Hampshire’s Republican-led House also would prohibit governors from indefinitely renewing emergency declarations, as GOP Gov. Chris Sununu has done every 21 days for the past year. It would halt emergency orders after 30 days unless renewed by lawmakers.Next month, Pennsylvania voters will decide a pair of constitutional amendments to limit disaster emergency declarations to three weeks, rather than three months, and require legislative approval to extend them. The Republican-led Legislature placed the measures on the ballot after repeatedly failing to reverse the policies Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf implemented to try to contain the pandemic.In Indiana, the Republican-led Legislature and GOP governor are embroiled in a power struggle over executive powers.The Legislature approved a bill this past week that would give lawmakers greater authority to intervene in gubernatorially declared emergencies by calling themselves into special session. The House Republican leader said the bill was not “anti-governor” but a response to a generational crisis.Gov. Eric Holcomb, who has issued more than 60 executive orders during the pandemic, vetoed the bill Friday. He contends the legislature’s attempt to expand its power could violate the state Constitution. Legislative leaders said they intend to override the veto, potentially setting up a legal clash between the legislative and executive branches. Unlike Congress and most states, Indiana lawmakers can override a veto with a simple majority of both houses.Several other governors also have vetoed bills limiting their emergency authority or increasing legislative powers.In Michigan, where new variants are fueling a rise in COVID-19 cases, Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer vetoed GOP-backed legislation last month that would have ended state health department orders after 28 days unless lengthened by lawmakers.Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, a Republican, contended that legislation allowing lawmakers to rescind his public health orders “jeopardizes the safety of every Ohioan.” But the Republican-led Legislature overrode his veto the next day.“It’s time for us to stand up for the legislative branch,” sponsoring Sen. Rob McColley told his colleagues.Kentucky’s GOP-led Legislature overrode Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear’s vetoes of bills limiting his emergency powers, but a judge temporarily blocked the laws from taking effect. The judge said they are “likely to undermine, or even cripple, the effectiveness of public health measures.”In some states, governors have worked with lawmakers to pare back executive powers.Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, a Republican, signed a law last month giving the GOP-led Legislature greater say in determining whether to end his emergency orders. It was quickly put to the test by the Arkansas Legislative Council, which decided to let Hutchinson extend his emergency declaration another two months.Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, also enacted a law last month giving legislative leaders power to revoke her emergency orders. Top Republican lawmakers immediately used it to scuttle a Kelly order meant to encourage counties to keep mask mandates in place.“The power of the executive has been emasculated when it comes to the Emergency Management Act,” Democratic state Rep. John Carmichael said. “That may have very dire consequences in other circumstances and other disasters.”Kelly said it will be harder to persuade people to keep wearing masks without state or local mandates. She said her orders had relieved pressure on local leaders and businesses.“Let me be the bad guy. Let me be the one who mandates so that they don’t have to make those kinds of decisions,” Kelly said.Republican lawmakers insisted that their push to curb the governor’s power is not partisan. Lawmakers said they didn’t understand how broad the governor’s power was until she started issuing orders last spring to close K-12 schools, limit indoor worship services and regulate how businesses could reopen.House Speaker Pro Tem Blaine Finch said he believes the changes in Kansas’ emergency management law will encourage future governors to “use that power sparingly” and collaborate with lawmakers.“Our system is set up not to give one person of any party too much power over the lives of Kansans,” he said. “We’re supposed to have checks and balances.”___

Lawmakers seek long-term limit on governors' emergency power

SALINA—Law enforcement authorities investigating the murder of a woman in Salina continue their search for a suspect identified as as 35-year-old Nelson Gerrod Hull.

He is wanted for the February 23 shooting death of 36-year-old Courtney Ann Hoffman.&nbsp; The Saline County District Court issued an arrest warrant for Hull for murder in the first degree.

Hull is described as a black male, 6-foot-3, 200 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. A tattoo on the right side of his neck is "Mi Familia."

On Monday, police reported the arrest of Clarence Darnyl Brown, 34, of Salina, in connection with the case.&nbsp;Brown is being held on requested charges of Aiding and abetting first degree murder, Criminal solicitation and Interference with law enforcement.

Just after 11:30a.m. on February 23, police responded to the 700 block of North Fourth Street in Salina for a report of the sound of gunfire and someone screaming, according to a media release.

Upon arrival, Salina Police Officers located a woman identified as Hoffman inside a vehicle at 731 N. 4th Street. She had a gunshot wound and was pronounced deceased by Salina Fire Department EMS personnel.

Police say Hull should be considered armed and dangerous. They encourage anyone with information on Hull's current location to contact 911 immediately.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576681996331.jpeg" alt="Hull photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Hull photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINA—Law enforcement authorities investigating the murder of a woman in Salina continue their search for a suspect identified as as 35-year-old Nelson Gerrod Hull.He is wanted for the February 23 shooting death of 36-year-old Courtney Ann Hoffman.&nbsp; The Saline County District Court issued an arrest warrant for Hull for murder in the first degree.Hull is described as a black male, 6-foot-3, 200 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. A tattoo on the right side of his neck is "Mi Familia."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614348886825.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation Tuesday in Salina. photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation Tuesday in Salina. photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday, police reported the arrest of Clarence Darnyl Brown, 34, of Salina, in connection with the case.&nbsp;Brown is being held on requested charges of Aiding and abetting first degree murder, Criminal solicitation and Interference with law enforcement.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614629894498.png" alt="Clarence Brown -photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Clarence Brown -photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 11:30a.m. on February 23, police responded to the 700 block of North Fourth Street in Salina for a report of the sound of gunfire and someone screaming, according to a media release.Upon arrival, Salina Police Officers located a woman identified as Hoffman inside a vehicle at 731 N. 4th Street. She had a gunshot wound and was pronounced deceased by Salina Fire Department EMS personnel.Police say Hull should be considered armed and dangerous. They encourage anyone with information on Hull's current location to contact 911 immediately.

 Search continues for suspect in murder of Kansas woman

GRUNDY COUNTY, IA (AP) — A 27-year veteran of the Iowa State Patrol was shot and killed during a violent standoff with a man who fought back against agents in an armored personnel carrier and said he wanted to shoot other officers, authorities said Saturday.

Sgt. Jim Smith was killed Friday night in Grundy Center as he and other officers entered the home of Michael Thomas Lang, 41, who fled there after an earlier police pursuit, authorities said.

The standoff ended about midnight Friday when a team of highway patrol troopers in an armored personnel carrier smashed into the home. Lang fired multiple shots at the carrier. Three officers inside the carrier returned fire, hitting the man several times, authorities said.

Lang was hospitalized in critical condition on Saturday. He was charged with first-degree murder and is being held on $1 million bond.

Iowa Department of Public Safety Commissioner Steve Bayens said Smith “died a hero” and “sacrificed himself protecting others.”

“We are hurting, we are angry,” Bayens said. “But rest assured we’re not broken. We will continue to shoulder the burdens of our communities while carrying our own. We will continue to stand in the gap of good and evil because, like Jim, that is what we are called to do.”

Mitch Mortvedt, assistant director of the division of criminal investigation, said events began at 7:22 p.m. on Friday when a Grundy Center officer tried to stop Lang for a traffic violation. Lang was known to Grundy City officers and was not supposed to be driving, he said.

Lang fled but eventually stopped and assaulted the officer, Mortvedt said. During the assault, Lang yelled “Shoot Me” at the officer several times, and Lang disarmed the officer of his gun and stun gun and put him in a chokehold, he added.

A Grundy County deputy arrived and told Lang to drop his gun. Lang instead yelled “Come get me” and got into his vehicle. He ended up at his home, and several law enforcement officers arrived, Mortvedt said.

Lang’s father arrived and told officers his son had multiple weapons in the house.

Four Iowa patrol troopers, including Smith, and a K-9 unit, entered the home, and Smith was shot as officers tried to clear the house, he said. Two members of the team retreated into the basement while other officers pulled Smith out.

Lang barricaded himself for several hours. Officers who were in the basement said Lang made several statements about shooting Smith and “expressed the desire to shoot more police officers,” he said.

About 11:50 p.m., a patrol team tried to enter the home in the armored personnel carrier and exchanged gunfire with Lang, Mortvedt said.

Gov. Kim Reynolds said she plans to order flags flown at half-staff in Smith’s memory.

“It’s with deep sorrow that we recognize the loss of Iowa State Patrol Sgt. Jim Smith, a courageous hero who died in the line of duty,” Reynolds said in a statement Saturday. “Sgt. Jim Smith was a loving husband, father of two, and a pillar of the community. I along with the entire state of Iowa grieve for his family and friends as they try to cope with this devastating loss. Today we are once again reminded of the selfless sacrifices the brave men and women in uniform make. Let us never forget their bravery and that of their loved ones.”

Smith is the 11th trooper to die in the line of duty in the patrol’s history. The last death was on Sept. 20, 2011, when Trooper Mark Toney died in a crash in Warren County as he tried to make a traffic stop.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618102224872.png" alt="Sgt. Jim Smith photo courtesy Iowa State Patrol" />
 <figcaption>Sgt. Jim Smith photo courtesy Iowa State Patrol</figcaption>
 </figure>GRUNDY COUNTY, IA (AP) — A 27-year veteran of the Iowa State Patrol was shot and killed during a violent standoff with a man who fought back against agents in an armored personnel carrier and said he wanted to shoot other officers, authorities said Saturday.Sgt. Jim Smith was killed Friday night in Grundy Center as he and other officers entered the home of Michael Thomas Lang, 41, who fled there after an earlier police pursuit, authorities said.The standoff ended about midnight Friday when a team of highway patrol troopers in an armored personnel carrier smashed into the home. Lang fired multiple shots at the carrier. Three officers inside the carrier returned fire, hitting the man several times, authorities said.Lang was hospitalized in critical condition on Saturday. He was charged with first-degree murder and is being held on $1 million bond.Iowa Department of Public Safety Commissioner Steve Bayens said Smith “died a hero” and “sacrificed himself protecting others.”“We are hurting, we are angry,” Bayens said. “But rest assured we’re not broken. We will continue to shoulder the burdens of our communities while carrying our own. We will continue to stand in the gap of good and evil because, like Jim, that is what we are called to do.”Mitch Mortvedt, assistant director of the division of criminal investigation, said events began at 7:22 p.m. on Friday when a Grundy Center officer tried to stop Lang for a traffic violation. Lang was known to Grundy City officers and was not supposed to be driving, he said.Lang fled but eventually stopped and assaulted the officer, Mortvedt said. During the assault, Lang yelled “Shoot Me” at the officer several times, and Lang disarmed the officer of his gun and stun gun and put him in a chokehold, he added.A Grundy County deputy arrived and told Lang to drop his gun. Lang instead yelled “Come get me” and got into his vehicle. He ended up at his home, and several law enforcement officers arrived, Mortvedt said.Lang’s father arrived and told officers his son had multiple weapons in the house.Four Iowa patrol troopers, including Smith, and a K-9 unit, entered the home, and Smith was shot as officers tried to clear the house, he said. Two members of the team retreated into the basement while other officers pulled Smith out.Lang barricaded himself for several hours. Officers who were in the basement said Lang made several statements about shooting Smith and “expressed the desire to shoot more police officers,” he said.About 11:50 p.m., a patrol team tried to enter the home in the armored personnel carrier and exchanged gunfire with Lang, Mortvedt said.No other officers were injured.Gov. Kim Reynolds said she plans to order flags flown at half-staff in Smith’s memory.“It’s with deep sorrow that we recognize the loss of Iowa State Patrol Sgt. Jim Smith, a courageous hero who died in the line of duty,” Reynolds said in a statement Saturday. “Sgt. Jim Smith was a loving husband, father of two, and a pillar of the community. I along with the entire state of Iowa grieve for his family and friends as they try to cope with this devastating loss. Today we are once again reminded of the selfless sacrifices the brave men and women in uniform make. Let us never forget their bravery and that of their loved ones.”Smith is the 11th trooper to die in the line of duty in the patrol’s history. The last death was on Sept. 20, 2011, when Trooper Mark Toney died in a crash in Warren County as he tried to make a traffic stop.

Authorities: Iowa patrol trooper slain amid violent standoff

WOODSON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 2p.m. Saturday in Woodson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Fusion driven by Raymond&nbsp;McIntosh, 83, Buffalo, Kansas,&nbsp;was westbound on 10th Road ten miles south of Yates Center..

The car came to a stop at the stop sign at U.S. 75 and then the driver failed to yield.&nbsp; A southbound 2016 GMC Yukon driven by Gary Alan Flanagan, 74, Topeka, struck the Ford.

EMS transported McIntosh to&nbsp; Fredonia Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead. EMS transported Flanagan and a passenger Brenda Flanagan, 60, Topeka, to the Coffey County Hospital.&nbsp; McIntosh was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

WOODSON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 2p.m. Saturday in Woodson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Fusion driven by Raymond&nbsp;McIntosh, 83, Buffalo, Kansas,&nbsp;was westbound on 10th Road ten miles south of Yates Center..The car came to a stop at the stop sign at U.S. 75 and then the driver failed to yield.&nbsp; A southbound 2016 GMC Yukon driven by Gary Alan Flanagan, 74, Topeka, struck the Ford.EMS transported McIntosh to&nbsp; Fredonia Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead. EMS transported Flanagan and a passenger Brenda Flanagan, 60, Topeka, to the Coffey County Hospital.&nbsp; McIntosh was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

83-year-old Kan. man dead, 2 hospitalized after crash

Kansas City (AP) — A Kansas City man has been convicted of stabbing his father to death.

A Jackson County jury on Thursday convicted Curtis Lee, 42, of first-degree murder and armed criminal action in the stabbing in April 2018, the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office.

Officers who went to an Independence home from Charles and Clyde Burtin, who were brothers, both dead of stab wounds. A large knife with dried blood also was found.

Lee told police his father stabbed his uncle during an argument. Lee said he pulled the knife out of his uncle before going into his father’s room and sharing a cigarette. Lee said he stabbed his father after the the older man said ”“it’s going to be you or me.” The jury recommended life without parole and 15 years for the armed criminal action conviction, according to the prosecutor’s office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618000152850.png" alt="Lee photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Lee photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City (AP) — A Kansas City man has been convicted of stabbing his father to death.A Jackson County jury on Thursday convicted Curtis Lee, 42, of first-degree murder and armed criminal action in the stabbing in April 2018, the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office.Officers who went to an Independence home from Charles and Clyde Burtin, who were brothers, both dead of stab wounds. A large knife with dried blood also was found.Lee told police his father stabbed his uncle during an argument. Lee said he pulled the knife out of his uncle before going into his father’s room and sharing a cigarette. Lee said he stabbed his father after the the older man said ”“it’s going to be you or me.” The jury recommended life without parole and 15 years for the armed criminal action conviction, according to the prosecutor’s office.Lee’s will be sentenced June 24.

Jury: Kansas City man guilty of father's stabbing death

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple charges after a traffic stop.

On April 6, sheriff's deputies stopped a vehicle for an alleged registration violation east of U.S. Highway 75 on 126th Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 Further investigation in the traffic stop led to the discovery of suspected illicit items in the vehicle. 

Deputies arrested the driver, Kevin Lamont Hayes, 33, of Topeka and booked him into the Jackson County Jail on on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal carrying of weapons, driving with no license and no insurance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617878769556.png" alt="Hayes photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Hayes photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple charges after a traffic stop.On April 6, sheriff's deputies stopped a vehicle for an alleged registration violation east of U.S. Highway 75 on 126th Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. Further investigation in the traffic stop led to the discovery of suspected illicit items in the vehicle. Deputies arrested the driver, Kevin Lamont Hayes, 33, of Topeka and booked him into the Jackson County Jail on on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal carrying of weapons, driving with no license and no insurance.

Sheriff: Kan. felon was driving with weapons and meth

PARIS (AP) — French health officials said Friday that people under 55 who received a first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine should get other vaccines for their second shot because of an extremely rare risk of a blood clotting disorder.

Germany is expected to recommend a similar booster dose strategy for people under age 60. The World Health Organization says it’s too early to know whether to recommend such vaccine mixing, however, and the European Medicines Agency hasn’t advised putting any age restrictions on the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

French authorities said the British-Swedish pharmaceutical company’s vaccine remains central to its vaccination plan strategy, and they urged older populations to keep taking it as France’s hospitals battle another surge in COVID-19 patients.

“It’s an effective vaccine,” Dominique Le Guludec, president of France’s High Authority for Health, told reporters. “If we want to win the battle against the virus, we must use all weapons at our disposition.”

Several European countries decided in recent weeks to limit their use of the AstraZeneca vaccine to older people because of strengthening evidence the vaccine may be linked to rare blood clots in younger populations.

Since March 19, France has only offered the vaccine to people over 55. More than half a million French people under that age — including Health Minister Olivier Veran — received a first dose before then.

France’s High Authority for Health said Friday that it is maintaining the age limit for now and recommending that younger people who received the AstraZeneca vaccine for their first dose should get booster shots of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines instead.

“It’s a precautionary measure,” Veran said Friday on RTL radio.

The health authority also called for more research on the effects of vaccine mixing.

Germany on March 30 recommended restricting the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine to people over 60, in most cases. The country’s independent vaccine expert panel last week recommended giving a second shot of the BioNTech or Moderna vaccines to people under 60 who had received a first shot of AstraZeneca’s product.

Health ministers from Germany’s 16 states are expected to sign off on the recommendation next week.

Dr. Margaret Harris, a WHO spokeswoman, said Friday that an advisory group on immunization made recommendations about the AstraZeneca vaccine in February, but didn’t have enough information at the time to determine whether it could be used in conjunction with other vaccines.

“There is not adequate data to be able to say whether this is something that could be done,” Harris told a U.N. press briefing in Geneva.

France, which has reported one of the world’s highest virus death tolls, has closed schools and nonessential businesses for a month and imposed nationwide travel restrictions to stem the spread of new virus variants.

It’s also trying to speed up vaccinations. President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged Friday that the United States “won the bet” on coronavirus vaccines by investing massively and moving fast with experimental treatments.

Macron visited a French factory that started bottling and packaging Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines this week, and urged his compatriots to join a “national war effort” to administer and make vaccines. He promised that France would produce 250 million vaccine doses this year for domestic and global use.

PARIS (AP) — French health officials said Friday that people under 55 who received a first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine should get other vaccines for their second shot because of an extremely rare risk of a blood clotting disorder.Germany is expected to recommend a similar booster dose strategy for people under age 60. The World Health Organization says it’s too early to know whether to recommend such vaccine mixing, however, and the European Medicines Agency hasn’t advised putting any age restrictions on the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine.French authorities said the British-Swedish pharmaceutical company’s vaccine remains central to its vaccination plan strategy, and they urged older populations to keep taking it as France’s hospitals battle another surge in COVID-19 patients.“It’s an effective vaccine,” Dominique Le Guludec, president of France’s High Authority for Health, told reporters. “If we want to win the battle against the virus, we must use all weapons at our disposition.”Several European countries decided in recent weeks to limit their use of the AstraZeneca vaccine to older people because of strengthening evidence the vaccine may be linked to rare blood clots in younger populations.Since March 19, France has only offered the vaccine to people over 55. More than half a million French people under that age — including Health Minister Olivier Veran — received a first dose before then.France’s High Authority for Health said Friday that it is maintaining the age limit for now and recommending that younger people who received the AstraZeneca vaccine for their first dose should get booster shots of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines instead.“It’s a precautionary measure,” Veran said Friday on RTL radio.The health authority also called for more research on the effects of vaccine mixing.Germany on March 30 recommended restricting the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine to people over 60, in most cases. The country’s independent vaccine expert panel last week recommended giving a second shot of the BioNTech or Moderna vaccines to people under 60 who had received a first shot of AstraZeneca’s product.Health ministers from Germany’s 16 states are expected to sign off on the recommendation next week.Dr. Margaret Harris, a WHO spokeswoman, said Friday that an advisory group on immunization made recommendations about the AstraZeneca vaccine in February, but didn’t have enough information at the time to determine whether it could be used in conjunction with other vaccines.“There is not adequate data to be able to say whether this is something that could be done,” Harris told a U.N. press briefing in Geneva.France, which has reported one of the world’s highest virus death tolls, has closed schools and nonessential businesses for a month and imposed nationwide travel restrictions to stem the spread of new virus variants.It’s also trying to speed up vaccinations. President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged Friday that the United States “won the bet” on coronavirus vaccines by investing massively and moving fast with experimental treatments.Macron visited a French factory that started bottling and packaging Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines this week, and urged his compatriots to join a “national war effort” to administer and make vaccines. He promised that France would produce 250 million vaccine doses this year for domestic and global use.

Some countries recommend mixing COVID-19 vaccines  

KOSHKONONG, Mo. (AP) — One person was killed and three others were critically injured Saturday morning in a shooting at a convenience store in southern Missouri, authorities said.

The shooting occurred at a Snappy Mart convenience store in Koshkonong, a town of about 200 people on the Missouri-Arkansas border.

Officers were alerted when a clerk inside the store called 911. The suspect walked into the store and started firing with a handgun. Several witnesses inside the store were not injured, Oregon County Sheriff Eric King said.

A 28-year-old suspect from Thayer, Missouri, was arrested about four hours later in neighboring Howell County, King said. Authorities do not believe any other suspects are involved.

The suspect and at least one of the victims knew each other, the sheriff said. Three of the victims, including the person who died, were from out of state. No other details were immediately released. Koshkonong is about 145 miles southeast of Springfield, Missouri.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618080788145.png" alt="Sheriff's deputies have arrested a suspect -photo courtesy KYTV" />
 <figcaption>Sheriff's deputies have arrested a suspect -photo courtesy KYTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KOSHKONONG, Mo. (AP) — One person was killed and three others were critically injured Saturday morning in a shooting at a convenience store in southern Missouri, authorities said.The shooting occurred at a Snappy Mart convenience store in Koshkonong, a town of about 200 people on the Missouri-Arkansas border.Officers were alerted when a clerk inside the store called 911. The suspect walked into the store and started firing with a handgun. Several witnesses inside the store were not injured, Oregon County Sheriff Eric King said.A 28-year-old suspect from Thayer, Missouri, was arrested about four hours later in neighboring Howell County, King said. Authorities do not believe any other suspects are involved.The suspect and at least one of the victims knew each other, the sheriff said. Three of the victims, including the person who died, were from out of state. No other details were immediately released. Koshkonong is about 145 miles southeast of Springfield, Missouri.

1 dead, 3 injured in shooting at Missouri convenience store

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced that $16 billion in grants will be administered to shuttered venues through the Shuttered Venue Operators Grants (SVOG) program by the Small Business Administration (SBA), according to a media release.

“Kansas venues are an integral part of our history, our culture, and our communities,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said. “I strongly support the SBA’s efforts to aid these important local businesses. These grants will ensure venues emerge from the pandemic with the resources they need, and I encourage all Kansas venues that are eligible to apply for the program.”

The SVOG program will be administered by the SBA’s Office of Disaster Assistance.

Eligible applicants may qualify for the SVOG grant equal to&nbsp;45% of their gross earned revenue for 2019, with the maximum amount available for a single grant award of $10 million.

$2 billion is reserved for eligible applications with up to 50 full-time employees. The program was established by the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act, signed into law on December 27, 2020.

“Kansas venues were hit especially hard by this pandemic, and this program was established specifically to support them,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland said.&nbsp;“SBA has created a strong lifeline for venues in our state, and I would encourage any business owner who feels this funding could help them to apply. To Kansans with impacted venues - you are not alone. We're here to help.”

Eligible entities must have been in operation by February 29, 2020 and include:

“The COVID-19 pandemic has been catastrophic for our industry, with most venues facing 95%+ revenue loss,”&nbsp;Adam Hartke, Co-Owner of the Cotillion in Wichita, said.&nbsp;“Through these hard times we have committed to persevere to become once again economic, tourism, and cultural drivers within Kansas.”

“Prior to COVID, our economic impact within Kansas was over $400 million annually, and we brought&nbsp;tens of thousands of tourists to Kansas from across the country for shows at our venues every year,”&nbsp;Jessie Hartke, Cotillion Co-Owner, said.&nbsp;“We are ready to get back to work, and with the continued overwhelming support of the State of Kansas, grow our industry for years to come, gaining Kansas the recognition it deserves as a vital tour stop for traveling musicians, and shedding light on the vast depth of local talent found within our local communities.”

All eligible Kansas venues are encouraged to take part in the SVOG program. You can learn more about the Program and apply&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.f62zmuWdIVcrQ67l_qBWUO7fdlLzOKM-CCLbmLtVlGY/s/1303160919/br/101757746494-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584386106306.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced that $16 billion in grants will be administered to shuttered venues through the Shuttered Venue Operators Grants (SVOG) program by the Small Business Administration (SBA), according to a media release.“Kansas venues are an integral part of our history, our culture, and our communities,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said. “I strongly support the SBA’s efforts to aid these important local businesses. These grants will ensure venues emerge from the pandemic with the resources they need, and I encourage all Kansas venues that are eligible to apply for the program.”The SVOG program will be administered by the SBA’s Office of Disaster Assistance.Eligible applicants may qualify for the SVOG grant equal to&nbsp;45% of their gross earned revenue for 2019, with the maximum amount available for a single grant award of $10 million.$2 billion is reserved for eligible applications with up to 50 full-time employees. The program was established by the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act, signed into law on December 27, 2020.“Kansas venues were hit especially hard by this pandemic, and this program was established specifically to support them,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland said.&nbsp;“SBA has created a strong lifeline for venues in our state, and I would encourage any business owner who feels this funding could help them to apply. To Kansans with impacted venues - you are not alone. We're here to help.”Eligible entities must have been in operation by February 29, 2020 and include:<ul>
 <li>Live venue operators or promoters</li><li>Theatrical producers</li><li>Live performing arts organization operators</li><li>Relevant museum operators, zoos, and aquariums</li><li>Motion picture theater operators</li><li>Venue must have&nbsp;fixed seating</li><li>Talent representatives</li><li>Owners of eligible business entities</li>
 </ul>“The COVID-19 pandemic has been catastrophic for our industry, with most venues facing 95%+ revenue loss,”&nbsp;Adam Hartke, Co-Owner of the Cotillion in Wichita, said.&nbsp;“Through these hard times we have committed to persevere to become once again economic, tourism, and cultural drivers within Kansas.”“Prior to COVID, our economic impact within Kansas was over $400 million annually, and we brought&nbsp;tens of thousands of tourists to Kansas from across the country for shows at our venues every year,”&nbsp;Jessie Hartke, Cotillion Co-Owner, said.&nbsp;“We are ready to get back to work, and with the continued overwhelming support of the State of Kansas, grow our industry for years to come, gaining Kansas the recognition it deserves as a vital tour stop for traveling musicians, and shedding light on the vast depth of local talent found within our local communities.”All eligible Kansas venues are encouraged to take part in the SVOG program. You can learn more about the Program and apply&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MDkuMzg1MjQ2OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2djYzAyLnNhZmVsaW5rcy5wcm90ZWN0aW9uLm91dGxvb2suY29tLz91cmw9aHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZ3d3cuc2JhLmdvdiUyRmZ1bmRpbmctcHJvZ3JhbXMlMkZsb2FucyUyRmNvdmlkLTE5LXJlbGllZi1vcHRpb25zJTJGc2h1dHRlcmVkLXZlbnVlLW9wZXJhdG9ycy1ncmFudCZkYXRhPTA0JTdDMDElN0NSYXluYS5LYXJzdCU0MGtzLmdvdiU3QzIxYWRiMDM4MTlkMjQzYzI3NzA1MDhkOGZiNzQ2ZTRjJTdDZGNhZTgxMDFjOTJkNDgwY2JjNDNjNjc2MWNjY2NjNWElN0MwJTdDMCU3QzYzNzUzNTgyNDc2NDczMTQwMCU3Q1Vua25vd24lN0NUV0ZwYkdac2IzZDhleUpXSWpvaU1DNHdMakF3TURBaUxDSlFJam9pVjJsdU16SWlMQ0pCVGlJNklrMWhhV3dpTENKWFZDSTZNbjAlM0QlN0MxMDAwJnNkYXRhPTFJcG5Na20zWUpSb3cwaThXUCUyQjBicFVZOGlqZldiMSUyQnRUdEhYTSUyRnR2Q1klM0QmcmVzZXJ2ZWQ9MCJ9.f62zmuWdIVcrQ67l_qBWUO7fdlLzOKM-CCLbmLtVlGY/s/1303160919/br/101757746494-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

$16B in grants available to Kan. venues affected by COVID

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (AP) — Two female police officers allege in a lawsuit that the Overland Park, Kansas, police department discriminated against them when it repeatedly passed over them for promotions in favor of younger, less experienced men.

Capt. Kathleen Morgan and Sgt. Tirsa Otero filed the lawsuit alleging discrimination based on race, age and gender. It was recently moved to the U.S. District Court in Kansas City because its discrimination claims are made under federal law, the Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/article250528689.html" target="_blank">reported</a>.

Police spokesman Officer John Lace declined to comment on the ongoing lawsuit.

Morgan, 57, has served in the department for 25 years, including more than eight years as a captain. Otero, 52, has been with the department for 19 years, with more than eight years as a sergeant.

The lawsuit contends that Morgan has applied multiple times for the rank of police major, but has not been offered the position despite meeting qualifications. She was told the police department “want(s) someone who’s going to be here for a while,” which she contends constitutes age discrimination.

Otero, who is of Puerto Rican descent, alleged she has applied for promotion to captain multiple times, but the positions were filled with younger, less qualified white men.

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (AP) — Two female police officers allege in a lawsuit that the Overland Park, Kansas, police department discriminated against them when it repeatedly passed over them for promotions in favor of younger, less experienced men.Capt. Kathleen Morgan and Sgt. Tirsa Otero filed the lawsuit alleging discrimination based on race, age and gender. It was recently moved to the U.S. District Court in Kansas City because its discrimination claims are made under federal law, the Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/article250528689.html" target="_blank">reported</a>.Police spokesman Officer John Lace declined to comment on the ongoing lawsuit.Morgan, 57, has served in the department for 25 years, including more than eight years as a captain. Otero, 52, has been with the department for 19 years, with more than eight years as a sergeant.The lawsuit contends that Morgan has applied multiple times for the rank of police major, but has not been offered the position despite meeting qualifications. She was told the police department “want(s) someone who’s going to be here for a while,” which she contends constitutes age discrimination.Otero, who is of Puerto Rican descent, alleged she has applied for promotion to captain multiple times, but the positions were filled with younger, less qualified white men.

2 Kansas police officers allege discrimination in lawsuit

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A split among Republicans on Friday blocked a proposal from conservative Kansas lawmakers to allow parents of academically struggling students to pay for private schooling with state dollars normally earmarked for public schools.

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/ccrb_sb175_02_2119.pdf" target="_blank">A bill</a>&nbsp;that ties public school funding to the proposal failed on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210409132538_694551/" target="_blank">a 20-20 vote</a>&nbsp;in the GOP-controlled Senate. The chamber had&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210408231159_686939/" target="_blank">voted 19-19</a>&nbsp;against the measure Thursday night, with two Republicans absent.

The bill would set up education savings accounts for students who are at risk of failing in public schools. Parents could use the funds for a wide range of educational expenses to help their children, including private school tuition.

The measure included Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s proposal for $5.2 billion in state aid for public schools for 2021-22. Democrats said the measure potentially siphons off several hundred million dollars for the new savings accounts, and even some Republicans were wary, particularly because senators had not previously had not debated such an aggressive “school choice” initiative.

“It’s taking public funds and sending them to private and parochial schools,” said Sen. Brenda Dietrich, a moderate Topeka Republican and a former public school superintendent. “I think our job is to shore up public education.”

Nine Republicans joined the Senate’s 11 Democrats in voting against the measure. The House approved it Thursday in&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210408153110_690539/" target="_blank">a 64-59 vote</a>&nbsp;that saw 20 of the chamber’s 86 Republicans join all 39 Democrats in voting no.

Conservative Republicans argued their proposed “Student Empowerment Program” would give parents more ways to help their children and that promoting “school choice” pushes public schools to improve.

“We need to make sure that at-risk kids don’t stay where they are, which is not succeeding like they should be succeeding,” said Rep. Kristey Williams, an Augusta Republican and the chair of a House committee on education spending.

GOP conservatives now must draft a new proposal and work to win over at least one dissident Republican in the Senate if they’re to get a bill passed this year.

Williams promised another attempt after the Legislature returns May 3 from its annual spring break. She also told reporters that she wants to keep&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-school-choice-education-kansas-topeka-c83a8d06af93e64f5647b0b9e53bed66">linking funding for public schools to major policy changes</a>&nbsp;in a single package.

“We’ve gotten accustomed to funding K-12 — 52% of our budget — without requiring a return on our investment,” she said.

Senate Education Committee Chair Molly Baumgardner, a Louisburg Republican, said the focus may turn to other school policy issues. She said the proposal for the education savings accounts needs a “real vetting process” in the Senate.

“It may be quite frankly that the ask is the House needs to address that again next year,” she said.

Kelly also has hinted that she might veto a bill with such a proposal even if it contains her proposed funding for public schools. She said last week that the savings-account proposal would “cut millions in funding from public schools and harm our students.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618011715999.png" alt="Rep. Kristey Williams promised another attempt after the Legislature returns May 3 from its annual spring break. " />
 <figcaption>Rep. Kristey Williams promised another attempt after the Legislature returns May 3 from its annual spring break. </figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A split among Republicans on Friday blocked a proposal from conservative Kansas lawmakers to allow parents of academically struggling students to pay for private schooling with state dollars normally earmarked for public schools.<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/ccrb_sb175_02_2119.pdf" target="_blank">A bill</a>&nbsp;that ties public school funding to the proposal failed on&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210409132538_694551/" target="_blank">a 20-20 vote</a>&nbsp;in the GOP-controlled Senate. The chamber had&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210408231159_686939/" target="_blank">voted 19-19</a>&nbsp;against the measure Thursday night, with two Republicans absent.The bill would set up education savings accounts for students who are at risk of failing in public schools. Parents could use the funds for a wide range of educational expenses to help their children, including private school tuition.The measure included Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s proposal for $5.2 billion in state aid for public schools for 2021-22. Democrats said the measure potentially siphons off several hundred million dollars for the new savings accounts, and even some Republicans were wary, particularly because senators had not previously had not debated such an aggressive “school choice” initiative.“It’s taking public funds and sending them to private and parochial schools,” said Sen. Brenda Dietrich, a moderate Topeka Republican and a former public school superintendent. “I think our job is to shore up public education.”Nine Republicans joined the Senate’s 11 Democrats in voting against the measure. The House approved it Thursday in&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210408153110_690539/" target="_blank">a 64-59 vote</a>&nbsp;that saw 20 of the chamber’s 86 Republicans join all 39 Democrats in voting no.Conservative Republicans argued their proposed “Student Empowerment Program” would give parents more ways to help their children and that promoting “school choice” pushes public schools to improve.“We need to make sure that at-risk kids don’t stay where they are, which is not succeeding like they should be succeeding,” said Rep. Kristey Williams, an Augusta Republican and the chair of a House committee on education spending.GOP conservatives now must draft a new proposal and work to win over at least one dissident Republican in the Senate if they’re to get a bill passed this year.Williams promised another attempt after the Legislature returns May 3 from its annual spring break. She also told reporters that she wants to keep&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-school-choice-education-kansas-topeka-c83a8d06af93e64f5647b0b9e53bed66">linking funding for public schools to major policy changes</a>&nbsp;in a single package.“We’ve gotten accustomed to funding K-12 — 52% of our budget — without requiring a return on our investment,” she said.Senate Education Committee Chair Molly Baumgardner, a Louisburg Republican, said the focus may turn to other school policy issues. She said the proposal for the education savings accounts needs a “real vetting process” in the Senate.“It may be quite frankly that the ask is the House needs to address that again next year,” she said.Kelly also has hinted that she might veto a bill with such a proposal even if it contains her proposed funding for public schools. She said last week that the savings-account proposal would “cut millions in funding from public schools and harm our students.”

Push for 'school choice' measure in Kansas falters 

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service reminds eligible residents 
of the U.S. territories that if they receive unemployment compensation 
payments that are otherwise&nbsp; subject to U.S. income tax, they may be 
eligible to exclude up to $10,200 per person of &nbsp;unemployment 
compensation from U.S. income tax for 2020, following legislation that 
was passed March 11, 2021.

Taxpayers with modified adjusted income of less than $150,000 may 
exclude the first $10,200 of unemployment compensation from their 2020 
federal income tax return. In the case of taxpayers that are married 
filing jointly, the maximum exclusion would be $10,200 for each spouse 
for a maximum of $20,400. Taxpayers who filed before the law was passed <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-to-recalculate-taxes-on-unemployment-benefits-refunds-to-start-in-may">should not file an amended return</a>.

Last year, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress passed 
legislation providing eligible individuals with two new types of 
pandemic-related unemployment compensation, which are subject to the 
same U.S. tax rules that apply to other unemployment compensation:

The $10,200 exclusion applies to these new types of unemployment compensation for U.S. income tax purposes.

The IRS also notes that for U.S. income tax purposes, unemployment 
compensation is generally considered sourced where the taxpayer 
performed the underlying services. For guidance on the U.S. income 
taxation of residents of the U.S. territories, see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-570">Publication 570, Tax Guide for Individuals with Income from U.S. Possessions</a>.

The U.S. territories are American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the 
Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the
 U.S. Virgin Islands.

U.S. territory residents should contact their territory tax 
department with questions relating to the taxation of COVID-related 
unemployment compensation at the territory level.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service reminds eligible residents 
of the U.S. territories that if they receive unemployment compensation 
payments that are otherwise&nbsp; subject to U.S. income tax, they may be 
eligible to exclude up to $10,200 per person of &nbsp;unemployment 
compensation from U.S. income tax for 2020, following legislation that 
was passed March 11, 2021.Taxpayers with modified adjusted income of less than $150,000 may 
exclude the first $10,200 of unemployment compensation from their 2020 
federal income tax return. In the case of taxpayers that are married 
filing jointly, the maximum exclusion would be $10,200 for each spouse 
for a maximum of $20,400. Taxpayers who filed before the law was passed <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-to-recalculate-taxes-on-unemployment-benefits-refunds-to-start-in-may">should not file an amended return</a>.Last year, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress passed 
legislation providing eligible individuals with two new types of 
pandemic-related unemployment compensation, which are subject to the 
same U.S. tax rules that apply to other unemployment compensation:<ul>
 <li>Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)</li><li>Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC)</li>
 </ul>The $10,200 exclusion applies to these new types of unemployment compensation for U.S. income tax purposes.The IRS also notes that for U.S. income tax purposes, unemployment 
compensation is generally considered sourced where the taxpayer 
performed the underlying services. For guidance on the U.S. income 
taxation of residents of the U.S. territories, see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-570">Publication 570, Tax Guide for Individuals with Income from U.S. Possessions</a>.The U.S. territories are American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the 
Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the
 U.S. Virgin Islands.U.S. territory residents should contact their territory tax 
department with questions relating to the taxation of COVID-related 
unemployment compensation at the territory level.

IRS: Portion of unemployment benefits tax-exempt

Editor's note: The Dickinson County Sheriff's office released additional details on the chase and arrest on Friday. The KHP reported the suspect is from Abilene.

DICKINSON COUNTY —A Kansas woman was arrested after a pursuit in Dickinson County on Friday.

Just after 1p.m., a Dickinson County Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to stop a Volkswagen Jetta traveling north on K-43 Highway near Hope for speeding, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.

The driver, later identified as Shierra K. Gray, 32, of Salina, refused to stop and the Deputy pursued her to the 1500 Block of K-15 Highway, where the Sheriff and Undersheriff assisted with bringing the fleeing vehicle to a stop.&nbsp; 

Dickinson County EMS and the Kansas Highway Patrol were dispatched to the scene.&nbsp; Gray was taken into custody and transported to Abilene Memorial Hospital and later to Salina Regional Health Center by ambulance due to an apparent medical issue not related to the vehicle pursuit.&nbsp; The incident remains under investigation.

DICKINSON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident during a law enforcement pursuit just before 1:30p.m. Friday in Dickinson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a Dickinson County Sheriff's Deputies were northbound on Kansas 15 chasing a 2020 Volkswagen Jetta driven by Shierra Kukya Gray, 32, Abilene.

&nbsp;The Volkswagen suddenly slowed on the highway and came to a stop at 1500 Avenue.

A 2016 Ford Explorer driven by Christopher Lea Cease, Jr, 25, Abilene, braked and swerved left to try to avoid striking the Volkswagen. 

As the Explorer was braking, the driver of the Volkswagen turned in front of the Explorer.&nbsp; The Explorer struck the Volkswagen. The Volkswagen also struck a stopped 2018 Ford Explorer when the driver attempted to back up.

EMS transported Gray to Salina Regional Health Center. Cease was not injured.&nbsp; Gray was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP. Authorities have not reported what prompted the chase.

Editor's note: The Dickinson County Sheriff's office released additional details on the chase and arrest on Friday. The KHP reported the suspect is from Abilene.DICKINSON COUNTY —A Kansas woman was arrested after a pursuit in Dickinson County on Friday.Just after 1p.m., a Dickinson County Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to stop a Volkswagen Jetta traveling north on K-43 Highway near Hope for speeding, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.The driver, later identified as Shierra K. Gray, 32, of Salina, refused to stop and the Deputy pursued her to the 1500 Block of K-15 Highway, where the Sheriff and Undersheriff assisted with bringing the fleeing vehicle to a stop.&nbsp; Dickinson County EMS and the Kansas Highway Patrol were dispatched to the scene.&nbsp; Gray was taken into custody and transported to Abilene Memorial Hospital and later to Salina Regional Health Center by ambulance due to an apparent medical issue not related to the vehicle pursuit.&nbsp; The incident remains under investigation. -----------DICKINSON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident during a law enforcement pursuit just before 1:30p.m. Friday in Dickinson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a Dickinson County Sheriff's Deputies were northbound on Kansas 15 chasing a 2020 Volkswagen Jetta driven by Shierra Kukya Gray, 32, Abilene.&nbsp;The Volkswagen suddenly slowed on the highway and came to a stop at 1500 Avenue.A 2016 Ford Explorer driven by Christopher Lea Cease, Jr, 25, Abilene, braked and swerved left to try to avoid striking the Volkswagen. As the Explorer was braking, the driver of the Volkswagen turned in front of the Explorer.&nbsp; The Explorer struck the Volkswagen. The Volkswagen also struck a stopped 2018 Ford Explorer when the driver attempted to back up.EMS transported Gray to Salina Regional Health Center. Cease was not injured.&nbsp; Gray was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP. Authorities have not reported what prompted the chase.

Update: Kan. woman hospitalized after crash during chase

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republicans on Friday ousted a powerful Kansas lawmaker charged with drunken driving from his leadership job following the release of a document saying he taunted the Highway Patrol trooper who arrested him and called the officer “donut boy.”

Senate Majority Leader Gene Suellentrop’s removal was the first time in at least several decades that a Kansas legislative leader’s colleagues pushed someone out before the end of his or her term. Suellentrop, a Wichita Republican, had been set to be majority leader through 2024.

Republican senators voted 22-4 to remove Suellentrop during a 50-minute meeting that was closed to reporters and the public. Senate President Ty Masterson disclosed the vote afterward, saying Republican senators would have an acting majority leader until late May, when they will elect a new majority leader.

“These are just heavy issues,” Masterson, another Wichita-area Republican, told reporters after the meeting. “We build relationships in this chamber, so it’s kind of a sad day.”

Suellentrop will remain in the seat for his Wichita district. Masterson said whether Suellentrop retains the seat is up to his constituents.

Kansas law limits the grounds for a recall to a felony conviction, misconduct in office or “failure to perform duties prescribed by law.” Constituents seeking to recall Suellentrop would have to file petitions signed by more than 3,900 registered voters in his district.

Suellentrop stepped away from most of his duties as majority leader following his March 16 arrest in Topeka after he was stopped on Interstate 70 for driving the wrong way. He was the Senate’s second-highest leadership job, and the majority leader decides which proposals are debated each day.

Asked about his relationship with Suellentrop, Masterson said, “Yes, we’re still friends.”

“I’ve made mistakes myself, maybe not to that level,” he said. “Think about it: Take your most shameful decision and put it on the news every night.”

Suellentrop was not available to reporters Friday and did not attend the meeting of fellow senators. He did not answer his cellphone, and it didn’t allow for a voicemail message seeking comment.

Suellentrop&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-wichita-arrests-topeka-driving-under-the-influence-53d21c4172c5cd87cbeaec02c0dcb882">faces five counts,</a>&nbsp;including a felony fleeing to avoid arrest and a misdemeanor driving under the influence charge.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-topeka-driving-under-the-influence-581109d7e604aeb739bb5b896823132d">An affidavit&nbsp;</a>from the Highway Patrol officer who arrested him was released Thursday, and it said Suellentrop’s blood-alcohol level after his arrest was .17, more than twice the legal limit of .08.

The call for a vote to remove Suellentrop came first from Republican Sen. Rick Kloos, of Topeka, who said he “had numerous conversations” with colleagues and the release of the affidavit was a deciding factor. He was joined by two other Topeka-area senator, Republicans Kristen O’Shea and Brenda Dietrich.

“We came to the decision today that we put this off long enough, as difficult as it is. We have more information now,” Dietrich said.

GOP senators kept the doors to their normal meeting room closed. Reporters who waited outside could see through glass in the doors legislative staffers distributing and then collecting slips of paper serving as ballots.

Asked earlier in the day about having the discussions in public, Masterson said: “We’ve had plenty of discussion in public.”

Assistant Majority Leader Larry Alley, who represents a district south of Wichita, will serve as acting majority leader, as he has since mid-March. Republicans will pick a new majority leader on the last day of this year’s legislative session, Masterson said.

Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Austin Shepley said in his affidavit that Suellentrop refused to take a breathalyzer test and was taken to a Topeka hospital for a blood test after a judge issued a warrant. At one point, he called Shepley “donut boy,” according to the affidavit, and said the events were “all for going the wrong way.”

“While the phlebotomist was administering the blood kit, Gene Suellentop’s demeanor becoming slightly aggressive in his tone, he made reference to physically going up against me,” Shepley said. “He looked me up and down, stating he played state sports competitively in high school. He stated he could ‘take me.’”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616963919848.png" alt="Republican senators voted 22-4 to remove Suellentrop during a 50-minute meeting that was closed to reporters and the public. He did not attend the meeting of fellow senators. -file photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Republican senators voted 22-4 to remove Suellentrop during a 50-minute meeting that was closed to reporters and the public. He did not attend the meeting of fellow senators. -file photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republicans on Friday ousted a powerful Kansas lawmaker charged with drunken driving from his leadership job following the release of a document saying he taunted the Highway Patrol trooper who arrested him and called the officer “donut boy.”Senate Majority Leader Gene Suellentrop’s removal was the first time in at least several decades that a Kansas legislative leader’s colleagues pushed someone out before the end of his or her term. Suellentrop, a Wichita Republican, had been set to be majority leader through 2024.Republican senators voted 22-4 to remove Suellentrop during a 50-minute meeting that was closed to reporters and the public. Senate President Ty Masterson disclosed the vote afterward, saying Republican senators would have an acting majority leader until late May, when they will elect a new majority leader.“These are just heavy issues,” Masterson, another Wichita-area Republican, told reporters after the meeting. “We build relationships in this chamber, so it’s kind of a sad day.”Suellentrop will remain in the seat for his Wichita district. Masterson said whether Suellentrop retains the seat is up to his constituents.Kansas law limits the grounds for a recall to a felony conviction, misconduct in office or “failure to perform duties prescribed by law.” Constituents seeking to recall Suellentrop would have to file petitions signed by more than 3,900 registered voters in his district.Suellentrop stepped away from most of his duties as majority leader following his March 16 arrest in Topeka after he was stopped on Interstate 70 for driving the wrong way. He was the Senate’s second-highest leadership job, and the majority leader decides which proposals are debated each day.Asked about his relationship with Suellentrop, Masterson said, “Yes, we’re still friends.”“I’ve made mistakes myself, maybe not to that level,” he said. “Think about it: Take your most shameful decision and put it on the news every night.”Suellentrop was not available to reporters Friday and did not attend the meeting of fellow senators. He did not answer his cellphone, and it didn’t allow for a voicemail message seeking comment.Suellentrop&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-wichita-arrests-topeka-driving-under-the-influence-53d21c4172c5cd87cbeaec02c0dcb882">faces five counts,</a>&nbsp;including a felony fleeing to avoid arrest and a misdemeanor driving under the influence charge.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-topeka-driving-under-the-influence-581109d7e604aeb739bb5b896823132d">An affidavit&nbsp;</a>from the Highway Patrol officer who arrested him was released Thursday, and it said Suellentrop’s blood-alcohol level after his arrest was .17, more than twice the legal limit of .08.The call for a vote to remove Suellentrop came first from Republican Sen. Rick Kloos, of Topeka, who said he “had numerous conversations” with colleagues and the release of the affidavit was a deciding factor. He was joined by two other Topeka-area senator, Republicans Kristen O’Shea and Brenda Dietrich.“We came to the decision today that we put this off long enough, as difficult as it is. We have more information now,” Dietrich said.GOP senators kept the doors to their normal meeting room closed. Reporters who waited outside could see through glass in the doors legislative staffers distributing and then collecting slips of paper serving as ballots.Asked earlier in the day about having the discussions in public, Masterson said: “We’ve had plenty of discussion in public.”Assistant Majority Leader Larry Alley, who represents a district south of Wichita, will serve as acting majority leader, as he has since mid-March. Republicans will pick a new majority leader on the last day of this year’s legislative session, Masterson said.Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Austin Shepley said in his affidavit that Suellentrop refused to take a breathalyzer test and was taken to a Topeka hospital for a blood test after a judge issued a warrant. At one point, he called Shepley “donut boy,” according to the affidavit, and said the events were “all for going the wrong way.”“While the phlebotomist was administering the blood kit, Gene Suellentop’s demeanor becoming slightly aggressive in his tone, he made reference to physically going up against me,” Shepley said. “He looked me up and down, stating he played state sports competitively in high school. He stated he could ‘take me.’”

GOP ousts Kan. Senate leader from post after DUI charges

SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating a sheriff's sergeant on multiple charges after an arrest.

On Thursday, police arrested 45-year-old Sergeant Justin Maxfield on requested charges of Aggravated Assault, Domestic Violence Battery, Domestic Violence Criminal Damage to Property and Stalking, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.

The charges stem from incidents involving an intimate partner.

The Sergeant, Justin Maxfield, has been employed by the Sheriff’s Office for 12 years. Coinciding with the arrest, Sergeant Maxfield was relieved of duty without pay. He remains in custody,<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20070249"> according to online jail records.</a>

In addition to the criminal case, the Professional Standards Unit of the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office is also conducting an investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617981475188.png" alt="Maxfield photo Sedgwick County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Maxfield photo Sedgwick County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating a sheriff's sergeant on multiple charges after an arrest.On Thursday, police arrested 45-year-old Sergeant Justin Maxfield on requested charges of Aggravated Assault, Domestic Violence Battery, Domestic Violence Criminal Damage to Property and Stalking, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.The charges stem from incidents involving an intimate partner.The Sergeant, Justin Maxfield, has been employed by the Sheriff’s Office for 12 years. Coinciding with the arrest, Sergeant Maxfield was relieved of duty without pay. He remains in custody,<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20070249"> according to online jail records.</a>In addition to the criminal case, the Professional Standards Unit of the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office is also conducting an investigation.

Kan. sheriff's sergeant accused of stalking, domestic violence

COFFEY COUNTY —A Kansas man and his passenger avoided injury during an aircraft incident just before 10:30a.m. Friday in Coffey County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000&nbsp;Dehavilland helicopter piloted by Tereso T&nbsp;Orozco, 64, Topeka,&nbsp;was flying near the area of the city of Leroy. 

The private aircraft lost power and made a precautionary landing in the backyard at 1810 C Street in Leroy, Kan., according to&nbsp; Trooper Rick Wingate 

Orozco and a passenger Kenneth David Norman, 48, Sunnyvale, Texas, were not injured. The KHP released no additional details Friday afternoon and there is no word on whether the NTSB or FAA&nbsp; will investigate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617994110218.png" alt="Location of the landing -google map" />
 <figcaption>Location of the landing -google map</figcaption>
 </figure>COFFEY COUNTY —A Kansas man and his passenger avoided injury during an aircraft incident just before 10:30a.m. Friday in Coffey County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000&nbsp;Dehavilland helicopter piloted by Tereso T&nbsp;Orozco, 64, Topeka,&nbsp;was flying near the area of the city of Leroy. The private aircraft lost power and made a precautionary landing in the backyard at 1810 C Street in Leroy, Kan., according to&nbsp; Trooper Rick Wingate Orozco and a passenger Kenneth David Norman, 48, Sunnyvale, Texas, were not injured. The KHP released no additional details Friday afternoon and there is no word on whether the NTSB or FAA&nbsp; will investigate.

KHP: Helicopter lost power, makes landing in Kansas backyard

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas conservatives on Friday pushed&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/ccrb_sb55_02_student_athletes.pdf" target="_blank">a proposed ban</a>&nbsp;on transgender athletes in girl’s and women’s school sports through the Republican-controlled Legislature but don’t have enough support yet to overcome a possible veto by the state’s Democratic governor.

(Click below to listen to a replay of the debate on the bill)

The Senate approved the measure,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210409131949_168281/" target="_blank">26-11,</a>&nbsp;after the House passed it late Thursday,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210408234417_335249/" target="_blank">76-43</a>, sending it to Gov. Laura Kelly. Overturning a veto in Kansas requires a two-thirds majority of all members — whether they are present for the vote — and both chambers were short of the mark.

The Democratic governor typically does not say what she’ll do with legislation before it reaches her desk, but she has dropped strong hints that she plans to veto such a ban. She’s a supporter of LGBTQ rights, and she’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-legislature-discrimination-kansas-gender-identity-64dcb878d8f393098437dcd87e6a352f">called the bill “regressive”</a>&nbsp;and suggested it would hurt the state’s efforts to recruit businesses — an argument critics echoed during the House’s debate.

Kansas is among more than 20 states that have considered such a ban this year, pushing back against an executive order from Democratic President Joe Biden aimed at preventing discrimination against transgender students. Idaho enacted such a ban last year, and Republican governors in Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee have signed measures this year.

“It’s about scoring points in the culture wars,” said Democratic state Rep. Boog Highberger, of Lawrence, home to the University of Kansas. “Instead of finding new ways to persecute people for being the way that God made them, why don’t we work on understanding — increasing our understanding and compassion instead?”

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas conservatives on Friday pushed&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/ccrb_sb55_02_student_athletes.pdf" target="_blank">a proposed ban</a>&nbsp;on transgender athletes in girl’s and women’s school sports through the Republican-controlled Legislature but don’t have enough support yet to overcome a possible veto by the state’s Democratic governor.(Click below to listen to a replay of the debate on the bill)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1Dr3lJRdoF4?start=690" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The Senate approved the measure,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210409131949_168281/" target="_blank">26-11,</a>&nbsp;after the House passed it late Thursday,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210408234417_335249/" target="_blank">76-43</a>, sending it to Gov. Laura Kelly. Overturning a veto in Kansas requires a two-thirds majority of all members — whether they are present for the vote — and both chambers were short of the mark.The Democratic governor typically does not say what she’ll do with legislation before it reaches her desk, but she has dropped strong hints that she plans to veto such a ban. She’s a supporter of LGBTQ rights, and she’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-legislature-discrimination-kansas-gender-identity-64dcb878d8f393098437dcd87e6a352f">called the bill “regressive”</a>&nbsp;and suggested it would hurt the state’s efforts to recruit businesses — an argument critics echoed during the House’s debate.Kansas is among more than 20 states that have considered such a ban this year, pushing back against an executive order from Democratic President Joe Biden aimed at preventing discrimination against transgender students. Idaho enacted such a ban last year, and Republican governors in Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee have signed measures this year.“It’s about scoring points in the culture wars,” said Democratic state Rep. Boog Highberger, of Lawrence, home to the University of Kansas. “Instead of finding new ways to persecute people for being the way that God made them, why don’t we work on understanding — increasing our understanding and compassion instead?”Supporters argued that they’re trying to preserving decades of hard-won opportunities for “biological” girls and women to compete in K-12 sports and win college athletic scholarships. They suggested that failing to enact such a ban represented discrimination against girls and women.Backers of the bill were eight votes short in the House and one short in the Senate of the supermajorities they would need to override a veto.Sen. Renee Erickson, a Wichita Republican and former college basketball point guard who led the push for the bill, said she hopes to get at least one colleague to switch to yes if Kelly vetoes the measure.“I want girls and women to have a chance at a fair and equitable playing field in sports,” she said Friday. “This bill protects that.”With Idaho’s ban on hold because of a federal lawsuit, the American Civil Liberties Union has promised to file a lawsuit if Kansas enacts a law.The threat of a lawsuit — and arguments that Kansas could lose collegiate sports tournaments or business development — irritated some conservative lawmakers. They also bristled at LGBTQ-rights advocates’ predictions that enacting the ban would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-legislature-discrimination-kansas-bullying-576f42af35ef03f81dd930b487797a8b">increase bullying</a>&nbsp;of transgender students.“Saying, ‘If you don’t do what we like and do what we want or think different than us, we’re going to hurt you by not coming to your state,’ that is corporate bullying, and it’s wrong,” Erickson said.Supporters of such bans have pointed to the 15 championships won between 2017 and 2019 by two transgender high school runners in Connecticut, which prompted a federal lawsuit. They argue that “biological boys” have innate physical advantages in girls’ and women’s sports that would ruin competition.“It’s discrimination to not pass this — it’s discrimination for women,” said Sen. Kristen O’Shea, a Topeka Republican.Sen. Mark Steffen, a Republican from south-central Kansas, told colleagues last month that the bill was based on “indisputable physiological facts” that demonstrate “the male as a genetically and time-engineered superior machine.” He said Friday that the issue also is about “the chaos that’s permeating our country.”Supporters generally have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lawmakers-unable-to-cite-local-trans-girls-sports-914a982545e943ecc1e265e8c41042e7">unable to cite local examples</a>&nbsp;of problems. The association overseeing extracurricular activities in Kansas K-12 schools says it has been notified of only five active transgender athletes, and there is no known case of a transgender athlete having won a Kansas championship.The debate in the Senate became emotional and heated. Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, a Kansas City-area Democrat, began to cry as she said the proposed ban “hurts vulnerable children.” Sen. Ethan Corson, another Kansas City-area Democrat, found himself accused of ageism after he suggested the bill’s support resulted from many senators being 60 or older and fearing what’s “different than the way we grew up.”In the House, freshman Democratic Rep. Stephanie Byers, of Wichita, the state’s first transgender lawmaker, saw the bill as an effort to prevent trans students from being fully part of society.“Trans girls are girls,” she told colleagues. “Trans women are women.”___