TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas outperformed the March estimate by $52.3 million, or 9.7%, with $590.1 million received in total tax collections. That is $66.7 million more than last March, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Recenue.

“While this revenue growth is encouraging, we must continue practicing fiscal responsibility – particularly as we’re getting a clearer picture of how federal and state tax legislation could impact the state’s ending balance,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“We cannot risk passing any tax bill that would put Kansas back into a self-inflicted budget crisis, and jeopardize our COVID-19 recovery efforts.”

With the late start of tax season and refunds going out in March, individual income tax collections were lower than the estimate by $4.8 million, or 1.9%, with $255.2 million collected. Corporate income tax collections were $25.3 million, beating the estimate by 26.7%, or $5.3 million.

Consumer spending has not slowed down as both retail sales tax and compensating use tax collections were more than estimated. Retail sales tax collections were up $19.2 million for the month, with $194.2 million collected. Compensating use sales tax was $2.6 million more than the estimate with $42.6 million collected.

The Consensus Revenue Estimating Group will meet later this month to reassess future estimates and consider the impact COVID-19 related federal legislation has on revenue number

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas outperformed the March estimate by $52.3 million, or 9.7%, with $590.1 million received in total tax collections. That is $66.7 million more than last March, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Recenue.“While this revenue growth is encouraging, we must continue practicing fiscal responsibility – particularly as we’re getting a clearer picture of how federal and state tax legislation could impact the state’s ending balance,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“We cannot risk passing any tax bill that would put Kansas back into a self-inflicted budget crisis, and jeopardize our COVID-19 recovery efforts.”With the late start of tax season and refunds going out in March, individual income tax collections were lower than the estimate by $4.8 million, or 1.9%, with $255.2 million collected. Corporate income tax collections were $25.3 million, beating the estimate by 26.7%, or $5.3 million.Consumer spending has not slowed down as both retail sales tax and compensating use tax collections were more than estimated. Retail sales tax collections were up $19.2 million for the month, with $194.2 million collected. Compensating use sales tax was $2.6 million more than the estimate with $42.6 million collected.The Consensus Revenue Estimating Group will meet later this month to reassess future estimates and consider the impact COVID-19 related federal legislation has on revenue number

Kan. tax collections $66.7M ahead of March 2020

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Top Kansas legislators on Thursday revoked an order aimed at encouraging counties to keep mask mandates amid the coronavirus pandemic, just hours after Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly issued it.

<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/EO-21-14-Executed.pdf" target="_blank">Kelly’s order</a>&nbsp;required people to wear masks indoors at businesses and public spaces and outdoors when they can’t socially distance. State law gives counties the final say, but her order meant that elected county commissions had to vote to set less restrictive rules or opt out.

The governor said in a statement that the order would ensure that past efforts to check the virus “will not have been wasted.”

The order was similar to a mask policy she issued in November. She was required to reissue it under&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/ccrb_sb40_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a new Kansas law&nbsp;</a>that also gives eight top legislators the power to revoke an order issued by the governor because of a pandemic or other emergency. And they immediately did so.

Their vote came after Republicans in both chambers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-kansas-coronavirus-pandemic-topeka-92837a6b1f26af90f8429fa816a17909">approved resolutions</a>&nbsp;this week directing legislative leaders to rescind any statewide mask policy.

Speaker Pro Tem Blaine Finch, of Ottawa, said the earlier order was issued as case numbers soared and things have changed drastically since.

“Thankfully they have come down, and we just want to encourage people to be safe and practice infection control. But the numbers don’t support a statewide mandate at this time,” he said.

Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, said counties can still pass and enforce their own rules.

“I would like to remind everyone that this is simply a revocation of a statewide mandate,” he said. “It does not prevent anyone from wearing a mask. The local controls are all still in place.”

But the two Democrats in the group — Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, of Lenexa, and House Minority Leader Tom Sawyer, of Wichita — voted against overturning Kelly’s order, saying it sent a stronger message than any individual county orders.

“It just sends a better message and it is protecting the economy and it is boosting consumer confidence instead of just those counties because it is a broader,” Skyes said.

Sawyer said most residents still aren’t fully vaccinated and that virus numbers are creeping up in some areas of the country as variants spread.

“We don’t want to declare victory too soon,” he said. “If people quit being careful then cases are going to go up and more people are going to get sick and unfortunately some of them are going to die.”

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Top Kansas legislators on Thursday revoked an order aimed at encouraging counties to keep mask mandates amid the coronavirus pandemic, just hours after Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly issued it.<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/EO-21-14-Executed.pdf" target="_blank">Kelly’s order</a>&nbsp;required people to wear masks indoors at businesses and public spaces and outdoors when they can’t socially distance. State law gives counties the final say, but her order meant that elected county commissions had to vote to set less restrictive rules or opt out.The governor said in a statement that the order would ensure that past efforts to check the virus “will not have been wasted.”The order was similar to a mask policy she issued in November. She was required to reissue it under&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/ccrb_sb40_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a new Kansas law&nbsp;</a>that also gives eight top legislators the power to revoke an order issued by the governor because of a pandemic or other emergency. And they immediately did so.Their vote came after Republicans in both chambers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-kansas-coronavirus-pandemic-topeka-92837a6b1f26af90f8429fa816a17909">approved resolutions</a>&nbsp;this week directing legislative leaders to rescind any statewide mask policy.Speaker Pro Tem Blaine Finch, of Ottawa, said the earlier order was issued as case numbers soared and things have changed drastically since.“Thankfully they have come down, and we just want to encourage people to be safe and practice infection control. But the numbers don’t support a statewide mandate at this time,” he said.Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, said counties can still pass and enforce their own rules.“I would like to remind everyone that this is simply a revocation of a statewide mandate,” he said. “It does not prevent anyone from wearing a mask. The local controls are all still in place.”But the two Democrats in the group — Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, of Lenexa, and House Minority Leader Tom Sawyer, of Wichita — voted against overturning Kelly’s order, saying it sent a stronger message than any individual county orders.“It just sends a better message and it is protecting the economy and it is boosting consumer confidence instead of just those counties because it is a broader,” Skyes said.Sawyer said most residents still aren’t fully vaccinated and that virus numbers are creeping up in some areas of the country as variants spread.“We don’t want to declare victory too soon,” he said. “If people quit being careful then cases are going to go up and more people are going to get sick and unfortunately some of them are going to die.”___

Kan. lawmakers topple governor’s new mask order

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A woman has died and a child remained in critical condition after they were pulled from a house fire on Kansas City's southeast side, police there said.

Firefighters were called to the scene around 5 p.m. Wednesday by someone who called 911 seeking help, police say in a news release. By the time officers arrived on the scene, firefighters had already found the woman and child inside the burning home, police said.

Both were taken to nearby hospitals, where the woman was pronounced dead. The child was listed in critical condition. Authorities have not released their names.

The fire and the woman’s death are being investigated as suspicious, police said. Detectives with the police department’s bomb and arson unit are investigating alongside homicide detectives, officials said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617296272418.png" alt="The fire and the woman’s death are being investigated as suspicious, police said. Photo KCK fire department" />
 <figcaption>The fire and the woman’s death are being investigated as suspicious, police said. Photo KCK fire department</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A woman has died and a child remained in critical condition after they were pulled from a house fire on Kansas City's southeast side, police there said.Firefighters were called to the scene around 5 p.m. Wednesday by someone who called 911 seeking help, police say in a news release. By the time officers arrived on the scene, firefighters had already found the woman and child inside the burning home, police said.Both were taken to nearby hospitals, where the woman was pronounced dead. The child was listed in critical condition. Authorities have not released their names.The fire and the woman’s death are being investigated as suspicious, police said. Detectives with the police department’s bomb and arson unit are investigating alongside homicide detectives, officials said.

Woman dies, child critically injured in Kansas City house fire 

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a hit and run accident have made an arrest.

Just after 7:30 m Wednesday,&nbsp; police witnessed the hit and run accident in the 2700 block of South Meridian, according to officer Charley Davidson.

 Witnesses on scene reported seeing two trucks racing southbound on Meridian and one of the trucks striking a 9-year-old child.&nbsp; EMS transported the child&nbsp; to an area hospital with serious injuries. The child is expected to survive.

Through follow-up investigation, officers were able to locate both trucks and their drivers. One driver, a 16-year-old boy was booked into the Sedgwick County Juvenile Detention Facility (JDF) on charges of Reckless Driving and No Driver’s License. The

The other driver, a 17-year-old boy, was booked into JDF on charges of Aggravated Battery, Reckless Driving, Hit and Run and Violation of Driver’s License Restrictions.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a hit and run accident have made an arrest.Just after 7:30 m Wednesday,&nbsp; police witnessed the hit and run accident in the 2700 block of South Meridian, according to officer Charley Davidson. Witnesses on scene reported seeing two trucks racing southbound on Meridian and one of the trucks striking a 9-year-old child.&nbsp; EMS transported the child&nbsp; to an area hospital with serious injuries. The child is expected to survive.Through follow-up investigation, officers were able to locate both trucks and their drivers. One driver, a 16-year-old boy was booked into the Sedgwick County Juvenile Detention Facility (JDF) on charges of Reckless Driving and No Driver’s License. TheThe other driver, a 17-year-old boy, was booked into JDF on charges of Aggravated Battery, Reckless Driving, Hit and Run and Violation of Driver’s License Restrictions.

Kan. teens arrested after hit and run that injured child

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Legislature passed a Republican-backed bill Wednesday that would require graduating high school students to have passed a civics test with questions such as, “What is one way Americans can serve their country?”

The GOP-controlled Senate voted 24-15 for the bill and sent it to Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly. The Republican-controlled House narrowly approved it in early March.

The measure would require public and private school students to pass a test or series of tests consisting of 60 randomly selected questions from the U.S. citizenship test. The bill does not set a passing grade, leaving that up to teachers. Students would be able to take the test multiple times until they pass.

Supporters say the test would give students basic knowledge to become engaged citizens. Nineteen states require high school students to take a civics test in order to graduate, according to the Legislature’s research staff.

“By providing this test, we are just ensuring that the principles of our government and the foundations of our Constitution are taught in our schools,” said freshman state Sen. Alicia Straub, an Ellinwood Republican.

Kelly has not said whether she will sign the bill, and fellow Democrats opposed it, questioning whether it would be effective in getting young people engaged.

The U.S. citizenship test includes questions that require applicants to name three branches of government, a document that influenced the U.S. Constitution, and who appoints federal judges.

Straub, who led the move to pass the bill in the Senate, said if students are already being taught about the U.S. Constitution and the federal government, they should be able to easily pass the test.

But the Kansas State Board of Education opposed the bill, saying it encroaches on its authority under the state constitution to set graduation requirements. The measure has also faced criticism from some education groups, including the Kansas National Education Association, which says students are already getting a civics education in government and history classes.

Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, a Lenexa Democrat, said that she has encouraged students to work for campaigns and become poll workers. She pointed to a national program called Civics Unplugged in which high school students are trained to work on civics projects.

“I think there are programs like this that actually will help with the intent of making sure kids know about the civics process, getting them engaged and actually having an experience that will be much more influential than to take a citizenship, the naturalization exam,” Sykes said.

However, Sen. Kellie Warren, a Leawood Republican, said she disagrees with political activism substituting for the knowledge students would have to demonstrate in a civics test.

“We can disagree on politics and culture but if we don’t have a united understanding about where our country came from and its history and how it is structured. We’re going to have difficulties moving forward and getting things done,” Warren said.

During its debate Wednesday, the Senate included an amendment from Democrat Sen. David Haley, of Kansas City, Kansas, requiring the State Board of Education to develop curriculum standards for personal financial literacy classes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583163846371.jpeg" alt="State Senator Alicia Straub, who led the move to pass the bill in the Senate, said if students are already being taught about the U.S. Constitution and the federal government, they should be able to easily pass the test." />
 <figcaption>State Senator Alicia Straub, who led the move to pass the bill in the Senate, said if students are already being taught about the U.S. Constitution and the federal government, they should be able to easily pass the test.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Legislature passed a Republican-backed bill Wednesday that would require graduating high school students to have passed a civics test with questions such as, “What is one way Americans can serve their country?”The GOP-controlled Senate voted 24-15 for the bill and sent it to Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly. The Republican-controlled House narrowly approved it in early March.The measure would require public and private school students to pass a test or series of tests consisting of 60 randomly selected questions from the U.S. citizenship test. The bill does not set a passing grade, leaving that up to teachers. Students would be able to take the test multiple times until they pass.Supporters say the test would give students basic knowledge to become engaged citizens. Nineteen states require high school students to take a civics test in order to graduate, according to the Legislature’s research staff.“By providing this test, we are just ensuring that the principles of our government and the foundations of our Constitution are taught in our schools,” said freshman state Sen. Alicia Straub, an Ellinwood Republican.Kelly has not said whether she will sign the bill, and fellow Democrats opposed it, questioning whether it would be effective in getting young people engaged.The U.S. citizenship test includes questions that require applicants to name three branches of government, a document that influenced the U.S. Constitution, and who appoints federal judges.Straub, who led the move to pass the bill in the Senate, said if students are already being taught about the U.S. Constitution and the federal government, they should be able to easily pass the test.But the Kansas State Board of Education opposed the bill, saying it encroaches on its authority under the state constitution to set graduation requirements. The measure has also faced criticism from some education groups, including the Kansas National Education Association, which says students are already getting a civics education in government and history classes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616069152124.png" alt="Senator Dinah Sykes" />
 <figcaption>Senator Dinah Sykes</figcaption>
 </figure>Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, a Lenexa Democrat, said that she has encouraged students to work for campaigns and become poll workers. She pointed to a national program called Civics Unplugged in which high school students are trained to work on civics projects.“I think there are programs like this that actually will help with the intent of making sure kids know about the civics process, getting them engaged and actually having an experience that will be much more influential than to take a citizenship, the naturalization exam,” Sykes said.However, Sen. Kellie Warren, a Leawood Republican, said she disagrees with political activism substituting for the knowledge students would have to demonstrate in a civics test.“We can disagree on politics and culture but if we don’t have a united understanding about where our country came from and its history and how it is structured. We’re going to have difficulties moving forward and getting things done,” Warren said.During its debate Wednesday, the Senate included an amendment from Democrat Sen. David Haley, of Kansas City, Kansas, requiring the State Board of Education to develop curriculum standards for personal financial literacy classes.

Kan. lawmakers OK bill mandating civics test for students

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A man inside his home was killed by a stray bullet from a gun battle that took place outside on the street in Kansas City, Kansas, police there said.

The shooting happened shortly after 3 p.m., when an argument involving a group of people erupted in gunfire, police said. Authorities did not given other details of the shooting, but witnesses along the stretch of Farrow Avenue told news outlets they heard at least a dozen gunshots.

Police had not released the name of the man killed by Thursday morning..

The death marked the city’s fifth homicide this year,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article250349551.html" target="_blank">according&nbsp;</a>to data kept by the Kansas City Star. Kansas City, Kansas, saw 55 homicides in all of 2020.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A man inside his home was killed by a stray bullet from a gun battle that took place outside on the street in Kansas City, Kansas, police there said.The shooting happened shortly after 3 p.m., when an argument involving a group of people erupted in gunfire, police said. Authorities did not given other details of the shooting, but witnesses along the stretch of Farrow Avenue told news outlets they heard at least a dozen gunshots.Police had not released the name of the man killed by Thursday morning..The death marked the city’s fifth homicide this year,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article250349551.html" target="_blank">according&nbsp;</a>to data kept by the Kansas City Star. Kansas City, Kansas, saw 55 homicides in all of 2020.

Police: Man in Kan. home killed by stray bullet from gun battle

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republican lawmakers in Kansas are joining GOP colleagues nationwide in trying to tighten voting laws, advancing a measure Wednesday that would make it harder for churches, civic groups, neighbors and candidates to collect and return absentee ballots for voters.

The state Senate approved, 28-12,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_hb2183_02_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill&nbsp;</a>that would make it a felony for someone to deliver more than five absentee ballots for other people to election officials. Candidates would be limited to delivering ballots for immediate family members.

Republicans in the GOP-controlled Legislature argue that they’re trying to prevent “ballot harvesting,” particularly by candidates or campaign workers. They have presented no evidence that the state’s policy that allows someone to deliver an unlimited number of ballots for others has resulted in fraudulent voting.

The Kansas measure is part of a wave of Republican-backed election bills introduced in states after former President Donald Trump stoked false claims that fraud led to his 2020 election defeat. Kansas already had strict voter ID laws, though a federal appeals court last year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/816aaaa51ff9ca49a173ec7e60417d83">struck down</a>&nbsp;a requirement that new voters provide citizenship documents when registering.

The vote Wednesday sent the bill to the House, which also has a GOP supermajority and could vote on it as early as next week.

“What we’re talking about here is voter suppression, nothing less,” said Democratic state Sen. Mary Ware, of Wichita.

Advocates for voting rights and the disabled argue that the measure on absentee ballots would make it less likely that disabled voters or older voters living in nursing homes would get their ballots delivered.

The Kansas Senate’s debate came less than a week after Georgia’s Republican governor signed new voting restrictions into law, including a ban on outside groups handing out food or water to people in line to vote.

In Kansas, absentee ballots are known as “advance” ballots. Voters have until three days after the election to return ballots by mail. They also can deliver them to local election offices in person or have them delivered by family members, neighbors, churches, care givers, civic groups or even candidates themselves.

GOP lawmakers have cited the case of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/race-and-ethnicity-bills-legislation-kansas-voting-rights-5f4ec0db443f4eb96d181df0146ac87d">former Democratic state Rep. Tim Hodge,</a>&nbsp;of North Newton, who won his 2018 race by only 88 votes, before losing his 2020 contest by a wide margin. He collected voters’ ballots and said in an interview this year, “It’s called campaigning, not cheating.”

Sen. Richard Hilderbrand, a Galena Republican, said its important to have an adequate “chain of custody” to be sure that sealed ballot envelopes aren’t being tampered with or thrown away.

“If they’re going out and collecting 100 ballots, how do you know that they’re turning in 100 ballots?” he said.

Kansas had a small number of highly publicized election fraud cases prosecuted by former Secretary of State Kris Kobach in the past six years. Most were people who were caught or who mistakenly voted in two states in one election. Republican lawmakers are influenced by Trump and his allies’ persistent but unfounded allegations of fraud elsewhere.

“I want to make sure these elections are secure, fair and transparent,” said Sen. Larry Alley, a Winfield Republican.

Democratic Sen. Oletha Faust-Goudeau, of Wichita, asked several times whether she would be allowed to deliver the ballot of a disabled 80-year-old constituent. Each time, she was told no, and concluded the last time with, “I hear it loud and clear.”

“I’m elected to assist in some manner some constituencies,” she said. “If this 80-year-old woman has outlived her spouse, she has no children — you know, she needs help.”

By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republican lawmakers in Kansas are joining GOP colleagues nationwide in trying to tighten voting laws, advancing a measure Wednesday that would make it harder for churches, civic groups, neighbors and candidates to collect and return absentee ballots for voters.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NFDn_G9U9ZE?start=21515" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The state Senate approved, 28-12,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_hb2183_02_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill&nbsp;</a>that would make it a felony for someone to deliver more than five absentee ballots for other people to election officials. Candidates would be limited to delivering ballots for immediate family members.Republicans in the GOP-controlled Legislature argue that they’re trying to prevent “ballot harvesting,” particularly by candidates or campaign workers. They have presented no evidence that the state’s policy that allows someone to deliver an unlimited number of ballots for others has resulted in fraudulent voting.The Kansas measure is part of a wave of Republican-backed election bills introduced in states after former President Donald Trump stoked false claims that fraud led to his 2020 election defeat. Kansas already had strict voter ID laws, though a federal appeals court last year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/816aaaa51ff9ca49a173ec7e60417d83">struck down</a>&nbsp;a requirement that new voters provide citizenship documents when registering.The vote Wednesday sent the bill to the House, which also has a GOP supermajority and could vote on it as early as next week.“What we’re talking about here is voter suppression, nothing less,” said Democratic state Sen. Mary Ware, of Wichita.Advocates for voting rights and the disabled argue that the measure on absentee ballots would make it less likely that disabled voters or older voters living in nursing homes would get their ballots delivered.The Kansas Senate’s debate came less than a week after Georgia’s Republican governor signed new voting restrictions into law, including a ban on outside groups handing out food or water to people in line to vote.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602937208880.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In Kansas, absentee ballots are known as “advance” ballots. Voters have until three days after the election to return ballots by mail. They also can deliver them to local election offices in person or have them delivered by family members, neighbors, churches, care givers, civic groups or even candidates themselves.GOP lawmakers have cited the case of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/race-and-ethnicity-bills-legislation-kansas-voting-rights-5f4ec0db443f4eb96d181df0146ac87d">former Democratic state Rep. Tim Hodge,</a>&nbsp;of North Newton, who won his 2018 race by only 88 votes, before losing his 2020 contest by a wide margin. He collected voters’ ballots and said in an interview this year, “It’s called campaigning, not cheating.”Sen. Richard Hilderbrand, a Galena Republican, said its important to have an adequate “chain of custody” to be sure that sealed ballot envelopes aren’t being tampered with or thrown away.“If they’re going out and collecting 100 ballots, how do you know that they’re turning in 100 ballots?” he said.Kansas had a small number of highly publicized election fraud cases prosecuted by former Secretary of State Kris Kobach in the past six years. Most were people who were caught or who mistakenly voted in two states in one election. Republican lawmakers are influenced by Trump and his allies’ persistent but unfounded allegations of fraud elsewhere.“I want to make sure these elections are secure, fair and transparent,” said Sen. Larry Alley, a Winfield Republican.Democratic Sen. Oletha Faust-Goudeau, of Wichita, asked several times whether she would be allowed to deliver the ballot of a disabled 80-year-old constituent. Each time, she was told no, and concluded the last time with, “I hear it loud and clear.”“I’m elected to assist in some manner some constituencies,” she said. “If this 80-year-old woman has outlived her spouse, she has no children — you know, she needs help.”

🎥  GOP lawmakers advance measure to tighten Kan. voting laws

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly has issued an order aimed at encouraging Kansas counties to keep COVID-19 mask mandates. However, the policy seemed unlikely to survive Thursday. 

Kelly’s order requires people to wear masks in indoor businesses and public spaces and outdoors when they can’t socially distance. Counties have the final say, but her order means that county commissions must take a specific vote to opt out. Eight top legislators have the power to revoke an order issued by the governor because of a pandemic. 

Those lawmakers planned to meet Thursday afternoon, and the six Republicans in the

The Governor issued the following orders, which will generally remain in effect until rescinded or until the statewide state of disaster emergency expires, whichever is earlier:

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly has issued an order aimed at encouraging Kansas counties to keep COVID-19 mask mandates. However, the policy seemed unlikely to survive Thursday. Kelly’s order requires people to wear masks in indoor businesses and public spaces and outdoors when they can’t socially distance. Counties have the final say, but her order means that county commissions must take a specific vote to opt out. Eight top legislators have the power to revoke an order issued by the governor because of a pandemic. Those lawmakers planned to meet Thursday afternoon, and the six Republicans in theThe Governor issued the following orders, which will generally remain in effect until rescinded or until the statewide state of disaster emergency expires, whichever is earlier:<ul>
 <li>21-09 –&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MDEuMzgwOTc0OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDQvRU8tMjEtMDktRXhlY3V0ZWQucGRmIn0.PJ8mXtOKqtr_TQB5h3qwnsoAKHIWecHZOmHuw0kD4Nw/s/1303160919/br/101334745618-l" target="_blank">Extending professional and occupational licenses during state of disaster emergency</a></li><li>21-10 –&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MDEuMzgwOTc0OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDQvRU8tMjEtMTAtRXhlY3V0ZWQucGRmIn0.jHWjKj8ua7EZwbVXxbYaZoE58bTC4YA2XfsnHTuF4TU/s/1303160919/br/101334745618-l" target="_blank">Temporarily allowing notaries and witnesses to act via audio-video communication technology during state of disaster emergency</a></li><li>21-11 –&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MDEuMzgwOTc0OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDQvRU8tMjEtMTEtRXhlY3V0ZWQucGRmIn0.rq8OKi55v0Js5pg_kumEJnu2rvtOCgeLm1UMjagl8A0/s/1303160919/br/101334745618-l" target="_blank">Temporarily suspending certain rules relating to sale alcoholic beverages</a></li><li>21-12 –&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MDEuMzgwOTc0OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDQvRU8tMjEtMTItRXhlY3V0ZWQucGRmIn0.CmPRlnAaFZBzT9Rh2FAMtwpPkLzon85TRyIhhuPeR9A/s/1303160919/br/101334745618-l" target="_blank">Licensure, Certification, and Registration for persons and Licensure of “Adult Care Homes” during state of disaster emergency</a></li><li>21-13 –&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MDEuMzgwOTc0OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDQvRU8tMjEtMTMtRXhlY3V0ZWQucGRmIn0.31V_liNkQCvYt4tTs4EXafW_7f0z93rO3rarzDg_PT8/s/1303160919/br/101334745618-l" target="_blank">Temporarily prohibiting certain foreclosures and evictions</a></li><li>21-14 –&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MDEuMzgwOTc0OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDQvRU8tMjEtMTQtRXhlY3V0ZWQucGRmIn0.0QBr99RlWbo4HfZPW076SbOpp4TzRmHtZtSKQNA11lM/s/1303160919/br/101334745618-l" target="_blank">Establishing a face coverings protocol</a>&nbsp;(exempts local jurisdictions with their own mask orders in place)</li><li>21-15 –&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MDEuMzgwOTc0OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDQvRU8tMjEtMTUtRXhlY3V0ZWQucGRmIn0.Hclm6R3xy2G9EDEihLbitbHwEhvpPl8hI3ZBxqolpng/s/1303160919/br/101334745618-l" target="_blank">Requiring COVID-19 testing in certain adult care homes</a></li><li>21-16 –&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MDEuMzgwOTc0OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDQvRU8tMjEtMTYtRXhlY3V0ZWQucGRmIn0.cb5K4HGFlOf8WzXjpVLljCSShcPECjsiB55zbe4wXBs/s/1303160919/br/101334745618-l" target="_blank">Provisions related to drivers’ license and identification cards during the state of disaster emergency</a></li><li>21-17 –&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MDEuMzgwOTc0OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDQvRU8tMjEtMTctRXhlY3V0ZWQucGRmIn0.lqAiFBJtb7VCXJBK7XOpuXNX_JpAXtRiPgYSnuU7olw/s/1303160919/br/101334745618-l" target="_blank">Temporary relief from certain unemployment insurance requirements during state of disaster emergency</a></li><li>21-18 –&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MDEuMzgwOTc0OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDQvRU8tMjEtMTgtRXhlY3V0ZWQucGRmIn0.Hf5IXaiXym5JI4UMNRavCKg50O73ozxbEObyq2ALBQc/s/1303160919/br/101334745618-l" target="_blank">Temporary provisions for employer payment of income tax withholding for work performed in another state</a></li><li>21-19 –&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MDEuMzgwOTc0OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDQvRU8tMjEtMTktRXhlY3V0ZWQucGRmIn0.2hYLnTnJtJV7kFLNxgyIpujezoBaJQe59tvHJ8qy2SI/s/1303160919/br/101334745618-l" target="_blank">Temporary relief from certain tuberculin testing requirements during state of disaster emergency</a></li><li>21-20 –&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MDEuMzgwOTc0OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDQvRU8tMjEtMjAtRXhlY3V0ZWQucGRmIn0.ode6cYB8dsvvUFs6zvkN38SiX0NfeksroJgwCdG64Uw/s/1303160919/br/101334745618-l" target="_blank">Extending time for Kansas rural water districts to hold annual meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic</a></li><li>21-21 –&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMTQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA0MDEuMzgwOTc0OTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjEvMDQvRU8tMjEtMjEtRXhlY3V0ZWQucGRmIn0.HRsqoBcfinjSGDdFCAY1HAkma1yDSNB7Tz1qD5MCI9M/s/1303160919/br/101334745618-l" target="_blank">Temporary authorization for additional vaccinators during state of disaster emergency</a></li>
 </ul>

Kan. governor issues new but doomed statewide mask policy

CHAPEL HILL—<a href="https://goheels.com/coaches.aspx?rc=3643">Roy Williams</a>, who led the University of North Carolina to three NCAA championships, is retiring after 33 seasons and 903 wins as a college basketball head coach, according to a media release from the school. The 2007 Naismith Hall of Fame inductee will address the media at a press conference on&nbsp;<a href="https://goheels.com/coaches.aspx?rc=3643">Roy Williams</a>&nbsp;Court at the Dean E. Smith Center today (Thursday, April 1) at 4 p.m. The press conference is closed to the public. Fans may watch at&nbsp;<a href="http://goheels.com/">GoHeels.com</a>. Williams, a 1972 UNC graduate, just concluded his 18th&nbsp;season as the head coach at his alma mater. In addition to NCAA titles in 2005, 2009 and 2017, he led the Tar Heels to a 485-163 record, two other Final Fours, nine ACC regular-season championships and three ACC Tournament crowns. ROY WILLIAMS' CAREER HIGHLIGHTS • 48 seasons as a basketball coach, including 33 seasons as a college head coach (18 at UNC, 15 at Kansas), 10 as assistant coach at UNC and five as head coach at Owen High School in Black Mountain, N.C. • 2007 inductee to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame • Third all-time in wins by a Division I head coach with 903 • Reached 900 wins in fewer games (1,161) and seasons (33) than any coach in NCAA history • 903 wins in 33 seasons is 100 more than any other coach in NCAA history (803 by Mike Krzyzewski, 802 by Dean Smith) • Second-winningest coach in UNC history and third in Kansas history • Only coach in history with 400 wins at two schools • Sixth-highest winning percentage (.774) in NCAA history • Led UNC to three NCAA championships (2005, 2009, 2017) • Third to take teams to the NCAA Tournament at least 30 times • Consensus National Coach of the Decade (2000-09) • Led UNC and Kansas to nine Final Fours, fourth most all-time • Second in NCAA Tournament wins (79), second in No. 1 seeds (13), second in games (105),&nbsp;third in NCAA Tournament winning percentage (.745)&nbsp;and tied for fourth in NCAA championships • NCAA-record eight wins over Associated Press No. 1-ranked teams • Second in NCAA history in 30-win seasons (12) and tied for fourth in 20-win seasons (29) • Tied for fifth all-time with 18 regular-season conference championships • Third all-time in ACC regular-season wins (212) • Third-most ACC road wins (93) and fourth-highest ACC road winning percentage all-time (.604) • Second-most wins (208) in first 300 ACC regular-season games • 32 NBA first-round draft picks (22 at UNC, 10 at Kansas) • 52 former players in the NBA • Four National Players of the Year, six ACC Scholar-Athletes of the Year, 10 consensus first-team All-Americas, 17 first-team All-Americas and three Bob Cousy Award winners • Only coach to coach two Academic All-Americas of the Year (Jacque Vaughn at Kansas, Tyler Zeller at UNC) THE WILLIAMS RECORD Overall:&nbsp;903-264, 33 seasons (.774) Record at UNC:&nbsp;485-163, 18 seasons (.748) NCAA Championships (3):&nbsp;2005, 2009, 2017 at UNC Final Fours (9):&nbsp;1991, 1993, 2002, 2003 at Kansas; 2005, 2008, 2009, 2016, 2017 at UNC NCAA Tournament:&nbsp;79-27 (.745) NCAA Tournament at UNC:&nbsp;45-13 (.776) NCAA Finals:&nbsp;3-3 NCAA Finals at UNC:&nbsp;3-1 National Championship Games (6):&nbsp;1991, 2003 at Kansas; 2005, 2009, 2016, 2017 at UNC National Semifinals:&nbsp;6-3 National Semifinals at UNC:&nbsp;4-1 NCAA Elite 8s (13):&nbsp;1991, 1993, 1996, 2002, 2003 at Kansas; 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2016, 2017 at UNC NCAA Elite 8:&nbsp;9-4 (5-3 at UNC) NCAA Sweet 16s (19):&nbsp;1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 2001, 2002 and 2003 at Kansas; 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2019 at UNC NCAA Sweet 16:&nbsp;13-6 (8-2 at UNC) NCAA 2nd Round:&nbsp;19-10 (10-5 at UNC) NCAA 1st Round:&nbsp;29-1 (15-1 at UNC) Conference Regular-Season Titles (18):&nbsp;1991, 1992, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2002, 2003 at Kansas; 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2016, 2017, 2019 at UNC ACC Regular-Season:&nbsp;212-94 (.693) ACC Home:&nbsp;119-33 (.783) ACC Road:&nbsp;93-61 (.604) ACC Tournament:&nbsp;29-15 (.659) ACC Tournament Titles (3):&nbsp;2007, 2008, 2016 Conference Tournaments Titles (7):&nbsp;1992, 1997, 1998, 1999 at Kansas; 2007, 2008, 2016 at UNC Conference Tournaments (ACC and Big 8/12):&nbsp;52-25 Home:&nbsp;444-57 (.886) Home UNC Record:&nbsp;243-41 (.856) Smith Center UNC Record:&nbsp;241-40 (.858) Away UNC Record:&nbsp;123-77 (.615) Against Ranked Teams (AP poll):&nbsp;164-134 (most recent vs. Florida State, 3/12/21) Against No. 1-Ranked Teams:&nbsp;8-8

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617287188189.png" alt="Coach Roy Williams courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Coach Roy Williams courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>CHAPEL HILL—<a href="https://goheels.com/coaches.aspx?rc=3643">Roy Williams</a>, who led the University of North Carolina to three NCAA championships, is retiring after 33 seasons and 903 wins as a college basketball head coach, according to a media release from the school. The 2007 Naismith Hall of Fame inductee will address the media at a press conference on&nbsp;<a href="https://goheels.com/coaches.aspx?rc=3643">Roy Williams</a>&nbsp;Court at the Dean E. Smith Center today (Thursday, April 1) at 4 p.m. The press conference is closed to the public. Fans may watch at&nbsp;<a href="http://goheels.com/">GoHeels.com</a>. Williams, a 1972 UNC graduate, just concluded his 18th&nbsp;season as the head coach at his alma mater. In addition to NCAA titles in 2005, 2009 and 2017, he led the Tar Heels to a 485-163 record, two other Final Fours, nine ACC regular-season championships and three ACC Tournament crowns. ROY WILLIAMS' CAREER HIGHLIGHTS • 48 seasons as a basketball coach, including 33 seasons as a college head coach (18 at UNC, 15 at Kansas), 10 as assistant coach at UNC and five as head coach at Owen High School in Black Mountain, N.C. • 2007 inductee to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame • Third all-time in wins by a Division I head coach with 903 • Reached 900 wins in fewer games (1,161) and seasons (33) than any coach in NCAA history • 903 wins in 33 seasons is 100 more than any other coach in NCAA history (803 by Mike Krzyzewski, 802 by Dean Smith) • Second-winningest coach in UNC history and third in Kansas history • Only coach in history with 400 wins at two schools • Sixth-highest winning percentage (.774) in NCAA history • Led UNC to three NCAA championships (2005, 2009, 2017) • Third to take teams to the NCAA Tournament at least 30 times • Consensus National Coach of the Decade (2000-09) • Led UNC and Kansas to nine Final Fours, fourth most all-time • Second in NCAA Tournament wins (79), second in No. 1 seeds (13), second in games (105),&nbsp;third in NCAA Tournament winning percentage (.745)&nbsp;and tied for fourth in NCAA championships • NCAA-record eight wins over Associated Press No. 1-ranked teams • Second in NCAA history in 30-win seasons (12) and tied for fourth in 20-win seasons (29) • Tied for fifth all-time with 18 regular-season conference championships • Third all-time in ACC regular-season wins (212) • Third-most ACC road wins (93) and fourth-highest ACC road winning percentage all-time (.604) • Second-most wins (208) in first 300 ACC regular-season games • 32 NBA first-round draft picks (22 at UNC, 10 at Kansas) • 52 former players in the NBA • Four National Players of the Year, six ACC Scholar-Athletes of the Year, 10 consensus first-team All-Americas, 17 first-team All-Americas and three Bob Cousy Award winners • Only coach to coach two Academic All-Americas of the Year (Jacque Vaughn at Kansas, Tyler Zeller at UNC) THE WILLIAMS RECORD Overall:&nbsp;903-264, 33 seasons (.774) Record at UNC:&nbsp;485-163, 18 seasons (.748) NCAA Championships (3):&nbsp;2005, 2009, 2017 at UNC Final Fours (9):&nbsp;1991, 1993, 2002, 2003 at Kansas; 2005, 2008, 2009, 2016, 2017 at UNC NCAA Tournament:&nbsp;79-27 (.745) NCAA Tournament at UNC:&nbsp;45-13 (.776) NCAA Finals:&nbsp;3-3 NCAA Finals at UNC:&nbsp;3-1 National Championship Games (6):&nbsp;1991, 2003 at Kansas; 2005, 2009, 2016, 2017 at UNC National Semifinals:&nbsp;6-3 National Semifinals at UNC:&nbsp;4-1 NCAA Elite 8s (13):&nbsp;1991, 1993, 1996, 2002, 2003 at Kansas; 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2016, 2017 at UNC NCAA Elite 8:&nbsp;9-4 (5-3 at UNC) NCAA Sweet 16s (19):&nbsp;1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 2001, 2002 and 2003 at Kansas; 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2019 at UNC NCAA Sweet 16:&nbsp;13-6 (8-2 at UNC) NCAA 2nd Round:&nbsp;19-10 (10-5 at UNC) NCAA 1st Round:&nbsp;29-1 (15-1 at UNC) Conference Regular-Season Titles (18):&nbsp;1991, 1992, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2002, 2003 at Kansas; 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2016, 2017, 2019 at UNC ACC Regular-Season:&nbsp;212-94 (.693) ACC Home:&nbsp;119-33 (.783) ACC Road:&nbsp;93-61 (.604) ACC Tournament:&nbsp;29-15 (.659) ACC Tournament Titles (3):&nbsp;2007, 2008, 2016 Conference Tournaments Titles (7):&nbsp;1992, 1997, 1998, 1999 at Kansas; 2007, 2008, 2016 at UNC Conference Tournaments (ACC and Big 8/12):&nbsp;52-25 Home:&nbsp;444-57 (.886) Home UNC Record:&nbsp;243-41 (.856) Smith Center UNC Record:&nbsp;241-40 (.858) Away UNC Record:&nbsp;123-77 (.615) Against Ranked Teams (AP poll):&nbsp;164-134 (most recent vs. Florida State, 3/12/21) Against No. 1-Ranked Teams:&nbsp;8-8

🏀 Former KU coach Roy Williams announces retirement

SHAWNEE COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities investigating a two-vehicle crash that killed a 7-month old baby and critically injured three others on Tuesday evening in Topeka have arrested the driver identified as&nbsp; Troy A. Vsetecka, 51, of Topeka, according to police department spokesperson Gretchen Spiker.

Just before 6p.m. Tuesday, police responded to the accident at the intersection of SW 5th Street and SW Polk Street in Topeka involving two vehicles, according to police Lt. Ron Ekis.

A preliminary investigation of the crash indicates the&nbsp;Vsetecka in an SUV was driving the wrong way on SW Polk Street at a high rate of speed when the vehicle crashed into a second dark gray colored vehicle.

In addition to the baby who died,&nbsp; three other adults were transported to a local hospital critical condition, according to&nbsp; Spiker.

Vsetecka was also hospitalized. Police arrested him after his release from the hospital Wednesday. He remains jailed on requested charges of Involuntary manslaughter, Aggravated battery, Failure To Stop Accident, Aggravated Endangering A Child, Speeding, Reckless driving, Driving Wrong Direction On One-Way Road, and Transport Open Container Of Liquid.

Police officers were not in pursuit of either vehicle prior to the crash, according to Spiker.

SHAWNEE COUNTY— A 7-month old baby died and three others were critically injured in a crash Tuesday evening in Topeka.&nbsp;

Just before 6p.m. Tuesday, police responded to the accident at the intersection of SW 5th Street and SW Polk Street in involving two vehicles, according to police Lt. Ron Ekis.

A preliminary investigation of the crash indicates the driver of a light colored SUV was driving the wrong way on SW Polk Street at a high rate of speed when it crashed into a second dark gray colored vehicle.

In addition to the baby,&nbsp; three other adults remain in critical, but stable condition at a local hospital, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Spiker.

The driver and single occupant of the light colored SUV is also in the hospital and remains in stable condition. Police officers were not in pursuit of either vehicle, according to Spiker.

The accident remains under investigation. Police have not released names of those involved.

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an accident critically four people.

Just before 6p.m. Tuesday, police responded to a serious injury accident at the intersection of SW 5th Street and SW Polk Street in Topeka involving two vehicles, according to police Lt. Ron Ekis. Four occupants were transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Officers are on scene investigating the accident and the circumstances leading up to the accident. Police asked the public to avoid the area of 5th street from Taylor to Polk and the 400 Blk of SW Polk as the area is closed to vehicle and foot traffic, according to Ekis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617272054628.png" alt="Vsetecka photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Vsetecka photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities investigating a two-vehicle crash that killed a 7-month old baby and critically injured three others on Tuesday evening in Topeka have arrested the driver identified as&nbsp; Troy A. Vsetecka, 51, of Topeka, according to police department spokesperson Gretchen Spiker.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617206593208.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the fatal crash photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the fatal crash photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 6p.m. Tuesday, police responded to the accident at the intersection of SW 5th Street and SW Polk Street in Topeka involving two vehicles, according to police Lt. Ron Ekis.A preliminary investigation of the crash indicates the&nbsp;Vsetecka in an SUV was driving the wrong way on SW Polk Street at a high rate of speed when the vehicle crashed into a second dark gray colored vehicle.In addition to the baby who died,&nbsp; three other adults were transported to a local hospital critical condition, according to&nbsp; Spiker.Vsetecka was also hospitalized. Police arrested him after his release from the hospital Wednesday. He remains jailed on requested charges of Involuntary manslaughter, Aggravated battery, Failure To Stop Accident, Aggravated Endangering A Child, Speeding, Reckless driving, Driving Wrong Direction On One-Way Road, and Transport Open Container Of Liquid.Police officers were not in pursuit of either vehicle prior to the crash, according to Spiker.------<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617206171163.png" alt="Police on the scene of the crash investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the crash investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY— A 7-month old baby died and three others were critically injured in a crash Tuesday evening in Topeka.&nbsp;Just before 6p.m. Tuesday, police responded to the accident at the intersection of SW 5th Street and SW Polk Street in involving two vehicles, according to police Lt. Ron Ekis.A preliminary investigation of the crash indicates the driver of a light colored SUV was driving the wrong way on SW Polk Street at a high rate of speed when it crashed into a second dark gray colored vehicle.In addition to the baby,&nbsp; three other adults remain in critical, but stable condition at a local hospital, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Spiker.The driver and single occupant of the light colored SUV is also in the hospital and remains in stable condition. Police officers were not in pursuit of either vehicle, according to Spiker.The accident remains under investigation. Police have not released names of those involved.----------SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an accident critically four people.Just before 6p.m. Tuesday, police responded to a serious injury accident at the intersection of SW 5th Street and SW Polk Street in Topeka involving two vehicles, according to police Lt. Ron Ekis. Four occupants were transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.Officers are on scene investigating the accident and the circumstances leading up to the accident. Police asked the public to avoid the area of 5th street from Taylor to Polk and the 400 Blk of SW Polk as the area is closed to vehicle and foot traffic, according to Ekis.

Driver in Kan. crash that killed baby moved from hospital to jail

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?510371-1/president-biden-announces-2-trillion-infrastructure-jobs-plan">Click here</a> to watch the President's anouncement

PITTSBURGH (AP) — President Joe Biden outlined a huge $2.3 trillion plan Wednesday to reengineer the nation’s infrastructure in what he billed as “a once-in-a-generation investment in America” that would undo his predecessor’s signature legislative achievement — giant tax cuts for corporations — in the process.

Speaking at a carpenters union training center in Pittsburgh, Biden drew comparisons between his hard-hatted proposed transformation of the U.S. economy and the space race — and promised results as grand in scale as the New Deal or Great Society programs that shaped the 20th century.

“It’s not a plan that tinkers around the edges,” Biden said. “It’s a once-in-a-generation investment in America unlike anything we’ve seen or done since we built the interstate highway system and the space race decades ago. In fact, it’s the largest American jobs investment since World War II. It will create millions of jobs, good-paying jobs.”

White House officials say the spending would generate those jobs as the country shifts away from fossil fuels and combats the perils of climate change. It is also an effort to compete with the technology and public investments made by China, which has the world’s second-largest economy and is fast gaining on the United States’ dominant position.

“I’m convinced that if we act now, in 50 years people are going to look back and say this is the moment when America won the future,” Biden said.

The Democratic president’s infrastructure projects would be financed by higher corporate taxes — a trade-off that could lead to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donald-trump-politics-climate-climate-change-c14bb6ce360a43e6239abfe087758e5c">fierce resistance from the business community and thwart attempts to work with Republican lawmakers</a>. Biden hopes to pass&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-nancy-pelosi-bills-archive-063cdac72af44b98b338842416c50752">an infrastructure plan by summer</a>, which could mean relying solely on the slim Democratic majorities in the House and the Senate.

The higher corporate taxes would aim to raise the necessary piles of money over 15 years and then reduce the deficit going forward. In doing so, Biden would undo the 2017 tax overhaul by President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans and lift the corporate tax rate to 28% from the 21% rate.

“Ninety-one Fortune 500 Companies, including Amazon, pay not a single solitary penny in income tax,” Biden said.

Wednesday’s announcement will be followed in coming weeks by Biden pushing a companion bill of roughly equal size for investments in child care, family tax credits and other domestic programs. That nearly $2 trillion package would be paid for by tax hikes on wealthy individuals and families.

“Wall Street didn’t build this country,” Biden said. “You, the great middle class, built this country. And unions built the middle class.”

Biden’s choice of Pittsburgh for unveiling the plan carried important economic and political resonance. He not only won Pittsburgh and its surrounding county to help secure the presidency, but he launched his campaign there in 2019. The city famed for steel mills that powered America’s industrial rise has steadily pivoted toward technology and health care, drawing in college graduates in a sign of how economies can change.

The White House says the largest chunk of the proposal&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-politics-corporate-taxes-00c9edd7b759a8787ea1bb31f48f4016">includes $621 billion for roads, bridges, public transit, electric vehicle charging stations and other transportation infrastructure</a>. The spending would push the country away from internal combustion engines that the auto industry views as increasingly antiquated technology.

An additional $111 billion would go to replace lead water pipes and upgrade sewers. Broadband internet would blanket the country for $100 billion. Separately, $100 billion would upgrade the power grid to deliver clean electricity. Homes would get retrofitted, schools modernized, workers trained and hospitals renovated under the plan, which also seeks to strengthen U.S. manufacturing.

The new construction could keep the economy running hot, coming on the heels of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-first-prime-time-speech-next-phase-pandemic-85d1ae52bc61abffd3ae91c324e58308">Biden’s $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package.&nbsp;</a>Economists already estimate it could push growth above 6% this year.

To keep companies from shifting profits overseas to avoid taxation, a 21% global minimum tax would be imposed. The tax code would also be updated so that companies could not merge with foreign businesses and avoid taxes by moving their headquarters to a tax haven. And among other provisions, it would increase IRS audits of corporations.

Biden appealed for Republicans and the business community to join him in negotiations on the bill, but the legislative prospects for Biden’s twin proposals already appear to hinge on Democrats coming up with the votes on their own through the budget reconciliation process, which requires just a simple majority in the 50-50 Senate.

“I’m going to bring Republicans into the Oval Office, listen to them, what they have to say and be open to other ideas,” Biden said. “We’ll have a good faith negotiation. Any Republican who wants to help get this done. But we have to get it done.”

Democratic leaders embraced Biden’s plan Wednesday. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York said it would create millions of jobs.

“I look forward to working with President Biden to pass a big, bold plan that will drive America forward for decades to come,” Schumer said at an event in Buffalo.

But Republican opposition to Biden’s ambitious proposal came swiftly, and with resolve for the long brawl ahead.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell dismissed the package as nothing more than a “Trojan horse” for tax hikes.

Republicans on Capitol Hill view the fight as a defining moment for the parties, framing it as a choice between Democrats intent on relying on government to solve the nation’s problems and a GOP that believes the private sector can best unleash the nation’s potential.

Smarting over Biden’s intent to undo the 2017 tax cuts has only solidified what could amount to a wall of GOP opposition.

The business community favors updating U.S. infrastructure but dislikes higher tax rates. U.S. Chamber of Commerce Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer Neil Bradley said in a statement that “we applaud the Biden administration for making infrastructure a top priority. However, we believe the proposal is dangerously misguided when it comes to how to pay for infrastructure.” The Business Roundtable, a group of CEOs, would rather have infrastructure funded with user fees such as tolls.

Trump, in a statement, blasted his successor’s proposal, claiming it “would be among the largest self-inflicted economic wounds in history.”

Infrastructure spending usually holds the promise of juicing economic growth, but by how much remains a subject of political debate. Commutes and shipping times could be shortened, while public health would be improved and construction jobs would bolster consumer spending.

Standard &amp; Poor’s chief U.S. economist, Beth Ann Bovino, estimated last year that a $2.1 trillion boost in infrastructure spending could add as much as $5.7 trillion in income to the entire economy over a decade. Those kinds of analyses have led liberal Democrats in Congress such as Washington Rep. Pramila Jayapal to conclude, “The economic consensus is that infrastructure pays for itself over time.”

But the Biden administration is taking a more cautious approach than some Democrats might like. After $1.9 trillion in pandemic aid and $4 trillion in relief last year, the administration is trying to avoid raising the national debt to levels that would trigger higher interest rates and make it harder to repay.

Biden’s efforts may also be complicated by demands from a handful of Democratic lawmakers who say they cannot support the bill unless it addresses the $10,000 cap on individuals’ state and local tax deductions put in place under Trump and a Republican-led Congress.

With a narrow majority in the House, those Democrats could conceivably quash any bill that doesn’t significantly lift the cap or repeal it entirely.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617228468283.png" alt="President Biden said “It’s a once-in-a-generation investment in America unlike anything we’ve seen or done since we built the interstate highway system." Photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Biden said “It’s a once-in-a-generation investment in America unlike anything we’ve seen or done since we built the interstate highway system." Photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?510371-1/president-biden-announces-2-trillion-infrastructure-jobs-plan">Click here</a> to watch the President's anouncementPITTSBURGH (AP) — President Joe Biden outlined a huge $2.3 trillion plan Wednesday to reengineer the nation’s infrastructure in what he billed as “a once-in-a-generation investment in America” that would undo his predecessor’s signature legislative achievement — giant tax cuts for corporations — in the process.Speaking at a carpenters union training center in Pittsburgh, Biden drew comparisons between his hard-hatted proposed transformation of the U.S. economy and the space race — and promised results as grand in scale as the New Deal or Great Society programs that shaped the 20th century.“It’s not a plan that tinkers around the edges,” Biden said. “It’s a once-in-a-generation investment in America unlike anything we’ve seen or done since we built the interstate highway system and the space race decades ago. In fact, it’s the largest American jobs investment since World War II. It will create millions of jobs, good-paying jobs.”White House officials say the spending would generate those jobs as the country shifts away from fossil fuels and combats the perils of climate change. It is also an effort to compete with the technology and public investments made by China, which has the world’s second-largest economy and is fast gaining on the United States’ dominant position.“I’m convinced that if we act now, in 50 years people are going to look back and say this is the moment when America won the future,” Biden said.The Democratic president’s infrastructure projects would be financed by higher corporate taxes — a trade-off that could lead to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donald-trump-politics-climate-climate-change-c14bb6ce360a43e6239abfe087758e5c">fierce resistance from the business community and thwart attempts to work with Republican lawmakers</a>. Biden hopes to pass&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-nancy-pelosi-bills-archive-063cdac72af44b98b338842416c50752">an infrastructure plan by summer</a>, which could mean relying solely on the slim Democratic majorities in the House and the Senate.The higher corporate taxes would aim to raise the necessary piles of money over 15 years and then reduce the deficit going forward. In doing so, Biden would undo the 2017 tax overhaul by President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans and lift the corporate tax rate to 28% from the 21% rate.“Ninety-one Fortune 500 Companies, including Amazon, pay not a single solitary penny in income tax,” Biden said.Wednesday’s announcement will be followed in coming weeks by Biden pushing a companion bill of roughly equal size for investments in child care, family tax credits and other domestic programs. That nearly $2 trillion package would be paid for by tax hikes on wealthy individuals and families.“Wall Street didn’t build this country,” Biden said. “You, the great middle class, built this country. And unions built the middle class.”Biden’s choice of Pittsburgh for unveiling the plan carried important economic and political resonance. He not only won Pittsburgh and its surrounding county to help secure the presidency, but he launched his campaign there in 2019. The city famed for steel mills that powered America’s industrial rise has steadily pivoted toward technology and health care, drawing in college graduates in a sign of how economies can change.The White House says the largest chunk of the proposal&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-politics-corporate-taxes-00c9edd7b759a8787ea1bb31f48f4016">includes $621 billion for roads, bridges, public transit, electric vehicle charging stations and other transportation infrastructure</a>. The spending would push the country away from internal combustion engines that the auto industry views as increasingly antiquated technology.An additional $111 billion would go to replace lead water pipes and upgrade sewers. Broadband internet would blanket the country for $100 billion. Separately, $100 billion would upgrade the power grid to deliver clean electricity. Homes would get retrofitted, schools modernized, workers trained and hospitals renovated under the plan, which also seeks to strengthen U.S. manufacturing.The new construction could keep the economy running hot, coming on the heels of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-first-prime-time-speech-next-phase-pandemic-85d1ae52bc61abffd3ae91c324e58308">Biden’s $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package.&nbsp;</a>Economists already estimate it could push growth above 6% this year.To keep companies from shifting profits overseas to avoid taxation, a 21% global minimum tax would be imposed. The tax code would also be updated so that companies could not merge with foreign businesses and avoid taxes by moving their headquarters to a tax haven. And among other provisions, it would increase IRS audits of corporations.Biden appealed for Republicans and the business community to join him in negotiations on the bill, but the legislative prospects for Biden’s twin proposals already appear to hinge on Democrats coming up with the votes on their own through the budget reconciliation process, which requires just a simple majority in the 50-50 Senate.“I’m going to bring Republicans into the Oval Office, listen to them, what they have to say and be open to other ideas,” Biden said. “We’ll have a good faith negotiation. Any Republican who wants to help get this done. But we have to get it done.”Democratic leaders embraced Biden’s plan Wednesday. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York said it would create millions of jobs.“I look forward to working with President Biden to pass a big, bold plan that will drive America forward for decades to come,” Schumer said at an event in Buffalo.But Republican opposition to Biden’s ambitious proposal came swiftly, and with resolve for the long brawl ahead.Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell dismissed the package as nothing more than a “Trojan horse” for tax hikes.Republicans on Capitol Hill view the fight as a defining moment for the parties, framing it as a choice between Democrats intent on relying on government to solve the nation’s problems and a GOP that believes the private sector can best unleash the nation’s potential.Smarting over Biden’s intent to undo the 2017 tax cuts has only solidified what could amount to a wall of GOP opposition.The business community favors updating U.S. infrastructure but dislikes higher tax rates. U.S. Chamber of Commerce Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer Neil Bradley said in a statement that “we applaud the Biden administration for making infrastructure a top priority. However, we believe the proposal is dangerously misguided when it comes to how to pay for infrastructure.” The Business Roundtable, a group of CEOs, would rather have infrastructure funded with user fees such as tolls.Trump, in a statement, blasted his successor’s proposal, claiming it “would be among the largest self-inflicted economic wounds in history.”Infrastructure spending usually holds the promise of juicing economic growth, but by how much remains a subject of political debate. Commutes and shipping times could be shortened, while public health would be improved and construction jobs would bolster consumer spending.Standard &amp; Poor’s chief U.S. economist, Beth Ann Bovino, estimated last year that a $2.1 trillion boost in infrastructure spending could add as much as $5.7 trillion in income to the entire economy over a decade. Those kinds of analyses have led liberal Democrats in Congress such as Washington Rep. Pramila Jayapal to conclude, “The economic consensus is that infrastructure pays for itself over time.”But the Biden administration is taking a more cautious approach than some Democrats might like. After $1.9 trillion in pandemic aid and $4 trillion in relief last year, the administration is trying to avoid raising the national debt to levels that would trigger higher interest rates and make it harder to repay.Biden’s efforts may also be complicated by demands from a handful of Democratic lawmakers who say they cannot support the bill unless it addresses the $10,000 cap on individuals’ state and local tax deductions put in place under Trump and a Republican-led Congress.With a narrow majority in the House, those Democrats could conceivably quash any bill that doesn’t significantly lift the cap or repeal it entirely.___

🎥  Pres. Biden's $2.3T infrastructure plan a 'win the future'

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republicans in the Kansas Senate made a point Wednesday of publicly opposing Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s plan for encouraging counties to retain COVID-19 mask mandates.

The Senate&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210331200651_424452/" target="_blank">voted 29-11</a>&nbsp;along party lines for a resolution urging legislative leaders to revoke any order issued by Kelly setting a statewide mask policy. The House&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-kansas-topeka-coronavirus-pandemic-0d9044c2ebe2fbe0170f8395819fd1f4">passed a similar resolution</a>&nbsp;Tuesday, also along party lines.

GOP senators argued that a statewide policy is unnecessary because of declining numbers of new COVID-19 cases in recent months. Democrats argued that a state policy still will help check the spread of the virus.

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/ccrb_sb40_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">A new law</a>&nbsp;extended a state of emergency for the coronavirus pandemic from March 31 until May 28, but it also allows eight top legislative leaders to rescind orders issued by the governor. Six of the leaders currently are Republicans and have said they intend to revoke a mask order.

Kelly issued such an order&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/EO-20-68-Face-Coverings-protocol-Executed-2.pdf" target="_blank">in November</a>&nbsp;that expired Wednesday, and she has said she will issue a new order Thursday.

State law leaves the final decision about mask mandates to counties. But Kelly’s planned order would require their elected county commissions to take a specific public vote to opt out of a statewide policy.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republicans in the Kansas Senate made a point Wednesday of publicly opposing Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s plan for encouraging counties to retain COVID-19 mask mandates.The Senate&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210331200651_424452/" target="_blank">voted 29-11</a>&nbsp;along party lines for a resolution urging legislative leaders to revoke any order issued by Kelly setting a statewide mask policy. The House&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-kansas-topeka-coronavirus-pandemic-0d9044c2ebe2fbe0170f8395819fd1f4">passed a similar resolution</a>&nbsp;Tuesday, also along party lines.GOP senators argued that a statewide policy is unnecessary because of declining numbers of new COVID-19 cases in recent months. Democrats argued that a state policy still will help check the spread of the virus.<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/ccrb_sb40_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">A new law</a>&nbsp;extended a state of emergency for the coronavirus pandemic from March 31 until May 28, but it also allows eight top legislative leaders to rescind orders issued by the governor. Six of the leaders currently are Republicans and have said they intend to revoke a mask order.Kelly issued such an order&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/EO-20-68-Face-Coverings-protocol-Executed-2.pdf" target="_blank">in November</a>&nbsp;that expired Wednesday, and she has said she will issue a new order Thursday.State law leaves the final decision about mask mandates to counties. But Kelly’s planned order would require their elected county commissions to take a specific public vote to opt out of a statewide policy.

Republicans in Kansas Senate oppose statewide mask policy

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a violent attack and have a suspect in custody.

Just after&nbsp;9:30 a.m. Wednesday, police were dispatched to the area of SE 10th Ave. and SE Branner Trafficway in Topeka on a report of a stabbing, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Spiker.

Upon arrival, officers located an adult female victim with injuries believed to be consistent with a stabbing.&nbsp;American Medical Response transported her to a local hospital for treatment of&nbsp;non-life threatening injuries.

A short time later, officers located the suspect identified as Sean A. Coble, 31 of Topeka in the 1900 block of SE Adams Street. They arrested and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for Aggravated Battery.

The victim and suspect are known to one another and the incident is believed to be domestic in nature, according to police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617228066231.png" alt="Coble photo Shawnee&nbsp; Co." />
 <figcaption>Coble photo Shawnee&nbsp; Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a violent attack and have a suspect in custody.Just after&nbsp;9:30 a.m. Wednesday, police were dispatched to the area of SE 10th Ave. and SE Branner Trafficway in Topeka on a report of a stabbing, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Spiker.Upon arrival, officers located an adult female victim with injuries believed to be consistent with a stabbing.&nbsp;American Medical Response transported her to a local hospital for treatment of&nbsp;non-life threatening injuries.A short time later, officers located the suspect identified as Sean A. Coble, 31 of Topeka in the 1900 block of SE Adams Street. They arrested and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for Aggravated Battery.The victim and suspect are known to one another and the incident is believed to be domestic in nature, according to police.

Kansas man jailed after violent knife attack on woman

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced that COVID-19 testing will continue to be available at no-cost through the end of 2021 to everyone at community testing sites across the state, according to a media release from her office.

“More than 800,000 Kansans have received at least one shot, but we know that testing is still a critical and necessary tool until every Kansan is vaccinated,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Accelerating vaccinations and increasing testing in tandem will help save lives and keep schools and businesses open. It’s how we get back to normal.”&nbsp;

To-date, over 3.3 million PCR and antigen COVID-19 tests have been conducted in Kansas. Over 1.3 million Kansans have been tested at least once.

The State recently launched a “Know Before You Go” campaign to remind Kansans that testing continues to be available. Kansans are encouraged to get tested before going or coming back from anywhere, even if they show no symptoms. This includes visiting family, friends, going on vacation, going shopping, or even going somewhere local. Tests are one of the easiest ways Kansans can protect themselves, their families, coworkers, and members of the community.

To schedule a test, please visit kdheks.gov/coronavirus to find the testing site closest to you. No-cost testing is available to everyone at community testing sites across the state. Additionally, ask your workplace or school if testing is available on-site.

Free testing is available for all K-12 schools and school-related activities in Kansas. For more information, school administrations should send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:COVID-19@ks.gov" target="_blank">COVID-19@ks.gov</a>.

To continue to support testing, the State has increased internal lab capacity, volunteer testing sites are being piloted, state-contracted lab relationships have been extended through the end of June, and 90+ community testing partners have been guaranteed funding through the end of 2021.

“We continue to explore ways to make testing easier for Kansans and provide greater access to testing throughout the State,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“For example, rapid antigen tests, which produce results in ~15 minutes, are now more widely available throughout the State and additional mass testing locations will begin to offer antigen testing starting next week.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Positivity rates in Kansas have also been trending in the right direction. Kansas’s positivity rate for March 2021 to date is 2.8%, which is ~75% lower than Kansas’s positivity rate at the beginning of 2021.

“We hope this favorable trend will continue into 2021. There is hope on the horizon,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced that COVID-19 testing will continue to be available at no-cost through the end of 2021 to everyone at community testing sites across the state, according to a media release from her office.“More than 800,000 Kansans have received at least one shot, but we know that testing is still a critical and necessary tool until every Kansan is vaccinated,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Accelerating vaccinations and increasing testing in tandem will help save lives and keep schools and businesses open. It’s how we get back to normal.”&nbsp;To-date, over 3.3 million PCR and antigen COVID-19 tests have been conducted in Kansas. Over 1.3 million Kansans have been tested at least once.The State recently launched a “Know Before You Go” campaign to remind Kansans that testing continues to be available. Kansans are encouraged to get tested before going or coming back from anywhere, even if they show no symptoms. This includes visiting family, friends, going on vacation, going shopping, or even going somewhere local. Tests are one of the easiest ways Kansans can protect themselves, their families, coworkers, and members of the community.To schedule a test, please visit kdheks.gov/coronavirus to find the testing site closest to you. No-cost testing is available to everyone at community testing sites across the state. Additionally, ask your workplace or school if testing is available on-site.Free testing is available for all K-12 schools and school-related activities in Kansas. For more information, school administrations should send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:COVID-19@ks.gov" target="_blank">COVID-19@ks.gov</a>.To continue to support testing, the State has increased internal lab capacity, volunteer testing sites are being piloted, state-contracted lab relationships have been extended through the end of June, and 90+ community testing partners have been guaranteed funding through the end of 2021.“We continue to explore ways to make testing easier for Kansans and provide greater access to testing throughout the State,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“For example, rapid antigen tests, which produce results in ~15 minutes, are now more widely available throughout the State and additional mass testing locations will begin to offer antigen testing starting next week.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Positivity rates in Kansas have also been trending in the right direction. Kansas’s positivity rate for March 2021 to date is 2.8%, which is ~75% lower than Kansas’s positivity rate at the beginning of 2021.“We hope this favorable trend will continue into 2021. There is hope on the horizon,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.

No-cost COVID testing in Kan.extended through end of 2021

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Two Kansas City police officers already charged with felony assault in a 2019 arrest have been sued by a community activist claiming they used excessive force against him while arresting him in a separate incident.

Troy Robertson alleges in a lawsuit filed Tuesday that Officers Charles Prichard and Matthew Brummett threw him on a car hood, handcuffed, hit him several times and knelt on him while arresting him in August 2019.

Robertson, who has staged protests for peace in east Kansas City for years, said he not breaking any laws and was asking officers to honk to support his cause when the confrontation began. He is seeking $5 million in damages.

Police spokeswoman Donna Drake said the department does not comment on pending lawsuits.

Officers Prichard and Brummett pleaded not guilty last year to felony assault in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arrests-kansas-city-kansas-5a481c1754bf92d30d3a93636b6560b7">arrest of Breona Hill&nbsp;</a>in 2019. Court records say a video of Hill's arrest showed officers pushing her face into the sidewalk and kneeling on her.

Two other lawsuits pertaining to Hill's arrest have been filed against the officers. They are on hold pending the outcome of the criminal case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589657213001.png" alt="Officers Charles Prichard and Matthew Brummett during the 2019 arrest&nbsp; of Breona HIll -image from the video courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Officers Charles Prichard and Matthew Brummett during the 2019 arrest&nbsp; of Breona HIll -image from the video courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — Two Kansas City police officers already charged with felony assault in a 2019 arrest have been sued by a community activist claiming they used excessive force against him while arresting him in a separate incident.Troy Robertson alleges in a lawsuit filed Tuesday that Officers Charles Prichard and Matthew Brummett threw him on a car hood, handcuffed, hit him several times and knelt on him while arresting him in August 2019.Robertson, who has staged protests for peace in east Kansas City for years, said he not breaking any laws and was asking officers to honk to support his cause when the confrontation began. He is seeking $5 million in damages.Police spokeswoman Donna Drake said the department does not comment on pending lawsuits.Officers Prichard and Brummett pleaded not guilty last year to felony assault in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arrests-kansas-city-kansas-5a481c1754bf92d30d3a93636b6560b7">arrest of Breona Hill&nbsp;</a>in 2019. Court records say a video of Hill's arrest showed officers pushing her face into the sidewalk and kneeling on her.Two other lawsuits pertaining to Hill's arrest have been filed against the officers. They are on hold pending the outcome of the criminal case.

Lawsuit accuses 2 Kansas City officers of excessive force

WILSON COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Fredonia Police Department, and the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office arrested two individuals this week related to the distribution of illegal narcotics.

Just after 5p.m. Tuesday, authorities conducted search warrants at 811 N. 15th&nbsp;Street in Fredonia, according to a media release from the KBI.

Methamphetamine, with an approximate street value of $24,000, as well as marijuana and other narcotics were discovered. They also located over $9,000 in cash.

Andrew D. Black, 38, of Fredonia was arrested on requested charges of possession with the intent to sell methamphetamine, possession with the intent to sell marijuana, possession with the intent to sell narcotics, possession of drug sales paraphernalia, and possession of drug use paraphernalia.

Stephanie M. Hanson, 21, also of Fredonia, was arrested on requested charges of possession with the intent to sell methamphetamine, possession with the intent to sell marijuana, possession with the intent to sell narcotics, possession of drug sales paraphernalia, and possession of drug use paraphernalia.

Following their arrests, Black and Hanson were booked into the Wilson County Jail.&nbsp;

The joint operation represented a coordinated law enforcement effort to reduce the accessibility of illegal drugs impacting southeast Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617221555522.png" alt="Black photo Wilson Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Black photo Wilson Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>WILSON COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Fredonia Police Department, and the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office arrested two individuals this week related to the distribution of illegal narcotics.Just after 5p.m. Tuesday, authorities conducted search warrants at 811 N. 15th&nbsp;Street in Fredonia, according to a media release from the KBI.Methamphetamine, with an approximate street value of $24,000, as well as marijuana and other narcotics were discovered. They also located over $9,000 in cash.Andrew D. Black, 38, of Fredonia was arrested on requested charges of possession with the intent to sell methamphetamine, possession with the intent to sell marijuana, possession with the intent to sell narcotics, possession of drug sales paraphernalia, and possession of drug use paraphernalia.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617221614709.png" alt="Hanson photo Wilson Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Hanson photo Wilson Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>Stephanie M. Hanson, 21, also of Fredonia, was arrested on requested charges of possession with the intent to sell methamphetamine, possession with the intent to sell marijuana, possession with the intent to sell narcotics, possession of drug sales paraphernalia, and possession of drug use paraphernalia.Following their arrests, Black and Hanson were booked into the Wilson County Jail.&nbsp;The joint operation represented a coordinated law enforcement effort to reduce the accessibility of illegal drugs impacting southeast Kansas.

KBI, Postal Inspection Service help make Kan. drug bust

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting in Manhattan.

Just before 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, the Riley County Communications Center received a report of shots fired outside of Dillard’s in the 100 block of Manhattan Town Center in Manhattan, according to police spokesperson Aaron Wintermote.

When officers arrived on scene, they identified a 20-year-old female and a 21-year-old male that were involved in an isolated altercation with a 33-year-old male, who was later located at a secondary scene near the intersection of 3rd&nbsp;St. and Kearney St. in Manhattan. 

The 33-year-old male was found to be suffering from apparent gunshot wounds and was transported to Via Christi for treatment of his injuries, then later transported to Stormont Vail in Topeka.

Officers were still on scene, as this is an active investigation. No suspect has been arrested at this time. There is no threat to the public.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617238867679.png" alt="Police on the scene of the Wednesday evening investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the Wednesday evening investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting in Manhattan.Just before 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, the Riley County Communications Center received a report of shots fired outside of Dillard’s in the 100 block of Manhattan Town Center in Manhattan, according to police spokesperson Aaron Wintermote.When officers arrived on scene, they identified a 20-year-old female and a 21-year-old male that were involved in an isolated altercation with a 33-year-old male, who was later located at a secondary scene near the intersection of 3rd&nbsp;St. and Kearney St. in Manhattan. The 33-year-old male was found to be suffering from apparent gunshot wounds and was transported to Via Christi for treatment of his injuries, then later transported to Stormont Vail in Topeka.Officers were still on scene, as this is an active investigation. No suspect has been arrested at this time. There is no threat to the public.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police: Man wounded in shooting outside mall in Manhattan 

TOPEKA, KAN. – A Kansas man has been indicted on a federal charge accusing him of tampering with a public water system, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard.

WYATT A. TRAVNICHEK,&nbsp;22, of Ellsworth County, Kansas is charged with one count of tampering with a public water system and one count of reckless damage to a protected computer during unauthorized access.

“Our office is committed to maintaining and improving its partnership with the state of Kansas in the administration and implementation of the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard. “Drinking water that is considered safe is essential to the protection of the public’s health.”

The indictment alleges that on or about March 27, 2019, in the District of Kansas, Travnichek knowingly accessed the Ellsworth County Rural Water District’s protected computer system without authorization. During this unauthorized access, it is alleged Travnichek performed activities that shut down the processes at the facility which affect the facilities cleaning and disinfecting procedures with the intention of harming the Ellsworth Rural Water District No. 1, also known as Post Rock Rural Water District.

“By illegally tampering with a public drinking water system, the defendant threatened the safety and health of an entire community,” said Lance Ehrig, Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Kansas. “EPA and its law enforcement partners are committed to upholding the laws designed to protect our drinking water systems from harm or threat of harm. Today’s indictment sends a clear message that individuals who intentionally violate these laws will be vigorously prosecuted.”

Upon conviction, the alleged crimes carry the following penalties:

Tampering with a Public Water System: Up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.

Reckless Damage to a Protected Computer During Unauthorized Access: Up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.

TOPEKA, KAN. – A Kansas man has been indicted on a federal charge accusing him of tampering with a public water system, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard.WYATT A. TRAVNICHEK,&nbsp;22, of Ellsworth County, Kansas is charged with one count of tampering with a public water system and one count of reckless damage to a protected computer during unauthorized access.“Our office is committed to maintaining and improving its partnership with the state of Kansas in the administration and implementation of the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Duston Slinkard. “Drinking water that is considered safe is essential to the protection of the public’s health.”The indictment alleges that on or about March 27, 2019, in the District of Kansas, Travnichek knowingly accessed the Ellsworth County Rural Water District’s protected computer system without authorization. During this unauthorized access, it is alleged Travnichek performed activities that shut down the processes at the facility which affect the facilities cleaning and disinfecting procedures with the intention of harming the Ellsworth Rural Water District No. 1, also known as Post Rock Rural Water District.“By illegally tampering with a public drinking water system, the defendant threatened the safety and health of an entire community,” said Lance Ehrig, Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Kansas. “EPA and its law enforcement partners are committed to upholding the laws designed to protect our drinking water systems from harm or threat of harm. Today’s indictment sends a clear message that individuals who intentionally violate these laws will be vigorously prosecuted.”Upon conviction, the alleged crimes carry the following penalties:Tampering with a Public Water System: Up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.Reckless Damage to a Protected Computer During Unauthorized Access: Up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.

Indictment: Man tampered with Ellsworth Co. water system computer

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities including the Salina Police Department SWAT team arrested a person on the Salina Most Wanted list Wednesday afternoon.

Just after noon, officers arrested 30-year-old Andre Jerome Satterfield at a residence in the 200 block of Indiana Avenue, According to a social media report from Salina Police.

"The SWAT Team was utilized due to Satterfield’s history of violence," the police Facebook post noted. "Satterfield was also believed to be armed. Satterfield exited the resident shortly after our arrival and was taken into custody without incident."

Satterfield was wanted for multiple active warrants including&nbsp; District court, fail to appear; domestic battery, criminal threat.&nbsp; District court, parole violation; distributing marijuana, use communication facility in felony, distributing cocaine, interference with a law enforcement officer, domestic battery. District court, fail to appear; aggravated kidnapping, kidnapping, possession of a weapon by felon, aggravated assault, domestic battery, endanger child, reckless driving, damage to property, violation of a protection order. $100,000 cash surety bond. District court, fail to appear; speeding, driving while suspended. $1,500 cash/surety Municipal Court, fail to appear; FTA. $50 cash.Municipal court, fail to appear; FTA. $500, according to police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617223167312.jpeg" alt="Salina Police Department SWAT team responded to an arrest in east-central Salina Wednesday afternoon.Photo Salina Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Salina Police Department SWAT team responded to an arrest in east-central Salina Wednesday afternoon.Photo Salina Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities including the Salina Police Department SWAT team arrested a person on the Salina Most Wanted list Wednesday afternoon.Just after noon, officers arrested 30-year-old Andre Jerome Satterfield at a residence in the 200 block of Indiana Avenue, According to a social media report from Salina Police.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1601817968206.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Satterfield has numerous drug convictions and one for domestic battery, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections-&nbsp;Photo Saline County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Satterfield has numerous drug convictions and one for domestic battery, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections-&nbsp;Photo Saline County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>"The SWAT Team was utilized due to Satterfield’s history of violence," the police Facebook post noted. "Satterfield was also believed to be armed. Satterfield exited the resident shortly after our arrival and was taken into custody without incident."Satterfield was wanted for multiple active warrants including&nbsp; District court, fail to appear; domestic battery, criminal threat.&nbsp; District court, parole violation; distributing marijuana, use communication facility in felony, distributing cocaine, interference with a law enforcement officer, domestic battery. District court, fail to appear; aggravated kidnapping, kidnapping, possession of a weapon by felon, aggravated assault, domestic battery, endanger child, reckless driving, damage to property, violation of a protection order. $100,000 cash surety bond. District court, fail to appear; speeding, driving while suspended. $1,500 cash/surety Municipal Court, fail to appear; FTA. $50 cash.Municipal court, fail to appear; FTA. $500, according to police.