SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a Kansas teacher for possible sexual relations with a student have made an arrest.

Earlier this month, police in Wichita were notified of the sexual relationship between 41-year-old Matthew McFarren, a teacher and coach at Trinity Academy,&nbsp;12345 E. 21st Street, in Wichita and a 16-year-old student, according to officer Charley Davidson.

On Saturday, police arrested McFarren on a requested charges of Unlawful Sexual Relations in violation of K.S.A. 21-5512.&nbsp;

Dr. Kneeland Brown, president of Trinity Academy, said in a media release the school is devastated at the news but cooperating with the investigation. "This alleged behavior runs directly counter to the school beliefs and values."

Two weeks ago, the school fired McFarren for a violation of expectations and school policy, according to the release.

&nbsp;The case has been presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office, according to Davidson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616444824202.png" alt="McFarren photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>McFarren photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a Kansas teacher for possible sexual relations with a student have made an arrest.Earlier this month, police in Wichita were notified of the sexual relationship between 41-year-old Matthew McFarren, a teacher and coach at Trinity Academy,&nbsp;12345 E. 21st Street, in Wichita and a 16-year-old student, according to officer Charley Davidson.On Saturday, police arrested McFarren on a requested charges of Unlawful Sexual Relations in violation of K.S.A. 21-5512.&nbsp;Dr. Kneeland Brown, president of Trinity Academy, said in a media release the school is devastated at the news but cooperating with the investigation. "This alleged behavior runs directly counter to the school beliefs and values."Two weeks ago, the school fired McFarren for a violation of expectations and school policy, according to the release.&nbsp;The case has been presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office, according to Davidson.

Kan. teacher accused of unlawful sex relations with student

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas legislators on Monday approved a measure that would give judges and prosecutors a little more than two years to clear a backlog of criminal cases that built up during the coronavirus pandemic.

The state House&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210322111607_550198/" target="_blank">voted 114-7</a>&nbsp;to pass a plan for clearing an estimated backlog of 5,000 criminal cases.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_hb2078_02_0000.pdf" target="_blank">The measure</a>&nbsp;goes next to Gov. Laura Kelly because the Senate&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210317204043_746422/" target="_blank">approved it</a>&nbsp;last week.

The House vote came just before the state Department of Health and Environment reported that more than 1 million COVID-19 vaccine shots have been administered in Kansas. The state also said 23% of its 2.9 million residents have had at least one shot.

The court-backlog bill would suspend until May 1, 2023, a state law designed to protect defendants’ constitutional right to a speedy trial. The law requires cases to come to trial within five months of a jailed defendant entering a plea and within six months if the defendant is free on bond.

The courts have the backlog because trials have been postponed during the pandemic. Prosecutors have worried that if the deadlines remain in effect, judges will be forced to release some offenders accused of violent crimes.

“It’s just not feasible, given the backlog that we have, that we’re going to get caught up quicker,” said House Judiciary Committee Chair Fred Patton, a Topeka Republican. “People who committed heinous crimes, we don’t want them walking free.”

The measure had broad support in the Republican-controlled Legislature, and the Democratic governor has expressed support for the idea. However, a few legislators, mostly GOP conservatives, had misgivings about not pressing the courts more aggressively to clear the backlog.

“If I was sitting in jail, I wouldn’t want to be waiting until that date to get a speedy trial,” said Republican Rep. Michael Houser, of Columbus, one of the no votes in the House.

Kansas has seen new COVID-19 cases drop to numbers as low as it saw in late June 2020. Most of the state’s 286 school districts have a majority of their students taking in-person classes, according to the State Department of Education.

But many Republican lawmakers argue that all parents who want their children taking in-person classes should have the option because it’s better for kids academically and emotionally. The House gave first-round approval Monday to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_sb63_02_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;that would require all districts to offer full-time in-person classes to all students by March 31.

It’s the second attempt to impose such a mandate. A proposal to set a March 26 deadline passed the Senate but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-kansas-school-boards-topeka-coronavirus-pandemic-bf81e60bd6228f52d7fa3e6a17b8a1f9">failed in the House</a>&nbsp;last week.

“The school-parents are watching, and they want someone to fight for their children,” said Rep. Sean Tarwater, a Stilwell Republican.

The House expects to take a final vote Tuesday on the measure. It would go next to the Senate, which could act on it as early as Tuesday.

Democrats argued that state lawmakers should trust locally elected school boards to make decisions on when it is safe to offer full-time, in-person classes.

“The last thing parents need is a hasty reopening,” said Democratic Rep. Stephanie Clayton of Overland Park.

The state health department reported that about 676,000 Kansas residents have had at least one COVID-19 shot, while roughly 342,000 have had a required second vaccine dose. The state averaged more than 23,300 shots per day for the seven days ending Monday.

The health department’s data showed that Kansas had an average of 272 new confirmed or probable cases a day for the seven days ending Monday, with an average of two additional deaths a day during that period.

The state added 615 cases to its pandemic total since Friday, bringing it to 300,125. It also reported eight additional deaths since Friday, to make the pandemic total 4,850.

The Kansas Department of Corrections said a 54-year-old employee died last week from COVID-19 complications, bringing its total staff deaths for the pandemic to six. David Warner worked at the minimum-security prison in Winfield in south-central Kansas, first as a corrections officer, then as an instructor for inmates awaiting release.

By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas legislators on Monday approved a measure that would give judges and prosecutors a little more than two years to clear a backlog of criminal cases that built up during the coronavirus pandemic.The state House&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210322111607_550198/" target="_blank">voted 114-7</a>&nbsp;to pass a plan for clearing an estimated backlog of 5,000 criminal cases.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_hb2078_02_0000.pdf" target="_blank">The measure</a>&nbsp;goes next to Gov. Laura Kelly because the Senate&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210317204043_746422/" target="_blank">approved it</a>&nbsp;last week.The House vote came just before the state Department of Health and Environment reported that more than 1 million COVID-19 vaccine shots have been administered in Kansas. The state also said 23% of its 2.9 million residents have had at least one shot.The court-backlog bill would suspend until May 1, 2023, a state law designed to protect defendants’ constitutional right to a speedy trial. The law requires cases to come to trial within five months of a jailed defendant entering a plea and within six months if the defendant is free on bond.The courts have the backlog because trials have been postponed during the pandemic. Prosecutors have worried that if the deadlines remain in effect, judges will be forced to release some offenders accused of violent crimes.“It’s just not feasible, given the backlog that we have, that we’re going to get caught up quicker,” said House Judiciary Committee Chair Fred Patton, a Topeka Republican. “People who committed heinous crimes, we don’t want them walking free.”The measure had broad support in the Republican-controlled Legislature, and the Democratic governor has expressed support for the idea. However, a few legislators, mostly GOP conservatives, had misgivings about not pressing the courts more aggressively to clear the backlog.“If I was sitting in jail, I wouldn’t want to be waiting until that date to get a speedy trial,” said Republican Rep. Michael Houser, of Columbus, one of the no votes in the House.Kansas has seen new COVID-19 cases drop to numbers as low as it saw in late June 2020. Most of the state’s 286 school districts have a majority of their students taking in-person classes, according to the State Department of Education.But many Republican lawmakers argue that all parents who want their children taking in-person classes should have the option because it’s better for kids academically and emotionally. The House gave first-round approval Monday to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_sb63_02_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill</a>&nbsp;that would require all districts to offer full-time in-person classes to all students by March 31.It’s the second attempt to impose such a mandate. A proposal to set a March 26 deadline passed the Senate but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-kansas-school-boards-topeka-coronavirus-pandemic-bf81e60bd6228f52d7fa3e6a17b8a1f9">failed in the House</a>&nbsp;last week.“The school-parents are watching, and they want someone to fight for their children,” said Rep. Sean Tarwater, a Stilwell Republican.The House expects to take a final vote Tuesday on the measure. It would go next to the Senate, which could act on it as early as Tuesday.Democrats argued that state lawmakers should trust locally elected school boards to make decisions on when it is safe to offer full-time, in-person classes.“The last thing parents need is a hasty reopening,” said Democratic Rep. Stephanie Clayton of Overland Park.The state health department reported that about 676,000 Kansas residents have had at least one COVID-19 shot, while roughly 342,000 have had a required second vaccine dose. The state averaged more than 23,300 shots per day for the seven days ending Monday.The health department’s data showed that Kansas had an average of 272 new confirmed or probable cases a day for the seven days ending Monday, with an average of two additional deaths a day during that period.The state added 615 cases to its pandemic total since Friday, bringing it to 300,125. It also reported eight additional deaths since Friday, to make the pandemic total 4,850.The Kansas Department of Corrections said a 54-year-old employee died last week from COVID-19 complications, bringing its total staff deaths for the pandemic to six. David Warner worked at the minimum-security prison in Winfield in south-central Kansas, first as a corrections officer, then as an instructor for inmates awaiting release.

Plan approved for clearing COVID-19 backlog in Kansas courts

NEW YORK (AP) — The replacement for Rush Limbaugh is... Rush Limbaugh, at least in part.

Premiere Networks, the company that syndicated Limbaugh's afternoon program to some 600 radio stations across the country, said Monday that it would continue airing a series of guest hosts that play archival audio footage of the late personality. Limbaugh died of cancer on Feb. 17.

“No one can replace Rush Limbaugh, and Premiere Networks will continue to provide millions of loyal listeners with the voice of Rush for the long term,” said Rachel Nelson, company spokeswoman.

Through Limbaugh's absence for cancer treatments and since his death, the show has had guest hosts like Todd Herman, Ken Matthews and Brett Winterble, who guide listeners through clips of Limbaugh talking on various issues.

The announcement indicates there has been no serious erosion in listeners for the program in Limbaugh's physical absence, said Michael Harrison, publisher of the trade publication Talkers magazine.

There will almost certainly be an effort by competitors to siphon off some of the stations that Limbaugh held, and personalities like Dana Loesch, Dan Bongino and Erick Erickson are making those moves, Harrison said.

For Premiere, appointing a single host to replace Limbaugh would put a huge burden on that person, he said.

NEW YORK (AP) — The replacement for Rush Limbaugh is... Rush Limbaugh, at least in part.Premiere Networks, the company that syndicated Limbaugh's afternoon program to some 600 radio stations across the country, said Monday that it would continue airing a series of guest hosts that play archival audio footage of the late personality. Limbaugh died of cancer on Feb. 17.“No one can replace Rush Limbaugh, and Premiere Networks will continue to provide millions of loyal listeners with the voice of Rush for the long term,” said Rachel Nelson, company spokeswoman.Through Limbaugh's absence for cancer treatments and since his death, the show has had guest hosts like Todd Herman, Ken Matthews and Brett Winterble, who guide listeners through clips of Limbaugh talking on various issues.The announcement indicates there has been no serious erosion in listeners for the program in Limbaugh's physical absence, said Michael Harrison, publisher of the trade publication Talkers magazine.There will almost certainly be an effort by competitors to siphon off some of the stations that Limbaugh held, and personalities like Dana Loesch, Dan Bongino and Erick Erickson are making those moves, Harrison said.For Premiere, appointing a single host to replace Limbaugh would put a huge burden on that person, he said.

Rush Limbaugh's syndicator to keep his voice alive on radio

CHICAGO (AP) — A package containing 445 counterfeit designer purses and other items was seized at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport mail branch, officials said Friday.

The shipment from Thailand was intercepted March 18 by Customs and Border Protection officers, the agency reported.

The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the actual items would have topped $635,000, authorities said.

The bogus products were seized for violating trademark laws. They were being shipped to a home in Wichita, Kansas.

Items included 11 Louis Vuitton, 11 Gucci, eight Chanel and four Christian Dior handbags; 131 pairs of Chanel; 72 pairs of Gucci earrings; and 52 Chanel hairclips.

“As consumers increasingly purchase from online or third-party vendors, our officers are at the frontline to guard against defrauders expecting to make money selling fake merchandise,” said Shane Campbell, Customs and Border Protection area port director.

Consumers in the United States fall victim to about 20% of counterfeit goods illegally sold around the globe, according to the agency which added that the goods commonly are sold in underground outlets and on third-party e-commerce websites.

Nationally, customs officers seized more than 26,500 shipments in fiscal year 2020 that violated intellectual property rights. If those seized items were legitimate, their estimated value would have been close to $1.3 billion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616250508834.png" alt="photo U.S. Customs and Border Protection" />
 <figcaption>photo U.S. Customs and Border Protection</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) — A package containing 445 counterfeit designer purses and other items was seized at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport mail branch, officials said Friday.The shipment from Thailand was intercepted March 18 by Customs and Border Protection officers, the agency reported.The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the actual items would have topped $635,000, authorities said.The bogus products were seized for violating trademark laws. They were being shipped to a home in Wichita, Kansas.Items included 11 Louis Vuitton, 11 Gucci, eight Chanel and four Christian Dior handbags; 131 pairs of Chanel; 72 pairs of Gucci earrings; and 52 Chanel hairclips.“As consumers increasingly purchase from online or third-party vendors, our officers are at the frontline to guard against defrauders expecting to make money selling fake merchandise,” said Shane Campbell, Customs and Border Protection area port director.Consumers in the United States fall victim to about 20% of counterfeit goods illegally sold around the globe, according to the agency which added that the goods commonly are sold in underground outlets and on third-party e-commerce websites.Nationally, customs officers seized more than 26,500 shipments in fiscal year 2020 that violated intellectual property rights. If those seized items were legitimate, their estimated value would have been close to $1.3 billion.

Counterfeit purses, other items were shipped to Kansas

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The only Asian American lawmaker serving in the Kansas Legislature says he was physically threatened in a western Kansas bar by an out-of-state patron, who he said questioned if he had been carrying COVID-19.

State Rep. Rui Xu, a Westwood Democrat, said the man also, using an expletive, questioned why he was wearing a face mask. Many members of the Asian American community see the shootings at three Georgia massage businesses and spas that left eight people dead, six of them women of Asian descent, as a reminder of harassment and violence that have been occurring against Asian Americans since COVID-19 entered the country.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616456821351.png" alt="Rep. Rui Xu-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Rui Xu-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The only Asian American lawmaker serving in the Kansas Legislature says he was physically threatened in a western Kansas bar by an out-of-state patron, who he said questioned if he had been carrying COVID-19.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I just received this from the city of Russell. Again, I can’t speak highly enough of the town… the incident was obviously unfortunate, but it’s provided an opportunity to open up a conversation with a town I previously had no relationship with. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a> <a href="https://t.co/bM6BaCg5zi">pic.twitter.com/bM6BaCg5zi</a>&mdash; Rui Xu (@RuiXuKS) <a href="https://twitter.com/RuiXuKS/status/1374116723683627013?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>State Rep. Rui Xu, a Westwood Democrat, said the man also, using an expletive, questioned why he was wearing a face mask. Many members of the Asian American community see the shootings at three Georgia massage businesses and spas that left eight people dead, six of them women of Asian descent, as a reminder of harassment and violence that have been occurring against Asian Americans since COVID-19 entered the country.

Asian American Kan. lawmaker says he was threatened at bar

By STEPHEN KORANDA <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-03-22/kansas-considers-making-medical-marijuana-legal-but-very-hard-to-get">Kansas News Service</a>

TOPEKA, Kan.&nbsp;— Kansas stands among a <a href="https://www.ncsl.org/research/health/state-medical-marijuana-laws.aspx" target="_blank">shrinking handful of states</a> that makes cannabis an outlaw drug, even as a medical tool.

Lawmakers
 trying to overcome resistance to any legalization are looking at 
adopting medical marijuana rules so tight that, for instance, only 
patients who’ve been with specially certified doctors for a full year 
could get it.

A House committee is planning to debate<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2184/" target="_blank"> a bill </a>this
 week that borrows and tweaks strict limitations tried in other states. 
Backers hope the plan can overcome long-standing opposition from some 
conservative Republicans and law enforcement groups.

Republican Senate President Ty Masterson said he doesn’t want a system where anyone can get a marijuana recommendation.

“You
 don’t really believe we have that many 18-year-olds with glaucoma that 
need to smoke weed for a medical benefit,” he said. “That’s 
recreational.”

To win over people like Masterson, this year’s bill <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-02-26/medical-marijuana-for-kansas-proposed-with-tight-rules-in-hopes-of-winning-legalization" target="_blank">borrows restrictive policies</a> tried elsewhere.

From <a href="https://www.medicalmarijuana.ohio.gov/faqs" target="_blank">Ohio</a>,
 the latest Kansas plan takes the idea that only physicians with a 
specific certification could recommend marijuana for about two dozen 
conditions ranging from seizures to chronic pain. Plus, the marijuana 
could not be smoked, but would be available in other forms like edibles 
and oils.

The Kansas plan borrows an idea from <a href="https://www.nj.gov/health/medicalmarijuana/physicians/" target="_blank">New Jersey’s medical marijuana law</a>
 and makes it even more limiting. Patients would need to see one of 
those certified physicians for a year before getting a recommendation 
for marijuana. State regulators could also create alternate ways to establish that physician relationship in the future.

The
 limits have attracted support from some Republicans. Democratic Gov. 
Laura Kelly has also said she supports legalizing medical marijuana. She
 proposed <a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-medical-marijuana-kansas-marijuana-medicaid-a11663e4684db69315b71f1db5353013" target="_blank">using revenue from medical cannabis to pay for Medicaid expansion</a>, but that bill isn’t getting traction.

Under
 the plan being considered in the House, Kansas would legalize medicinal
 marijuana with some of the tighter rules in the country. Even with 
that, it still must overcome opposition from some conservative 
Republicans and influential law enforcement groups.

Law 
enforcement groups say because marijuana is illegal under federal law, 
state legalization establishes a conflict. It also creates other issues,
 like requiring a database so officers can verify medical marijuana ID 
cards.

In Ohio, a law that was nearly as restrictive as the Kansas proposal overcame opposition and took effect two years ago.

“We
 thought we were late to the dance. You guys are way behind us,” said 
Ohio advocate Mary Jane Borden, who helped the Ohio Rights Group push 
for that state’s law.

Borden said the tight rules in Ohio create 
some challenges. In some areas, there’s a shortage of doctors with a 
marijuana certification and places to buy cannabis.

Kansas could 
end up in the same spot, leaving people in rural areas with no practical
 place to get a doctor’s recommendation or supplies.

“I would really consider, ‘How do you reach the people?’” Borden said, “‘the suffering patients, in those outlying counties?’”

In Ohio, <a href="https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/2019/02/07/ohios-medical-marijuana-patient-registry-triples-second-month/2799791002/" target="_blank">the most common use</a> for medical marijuana is treatment of chronic pain.

Eric
 Voth is a retired Kansas physician who specialized in internal 
medicine, pain and addiction. He said claims of pain can be a loophole. 
He said the law should have additional oversight to regulate physicians 
recommending medical cannabis.

“First of all, what constitutes the
 pain?” Voth said in an interview. “What is required for the diagnosis …
 and the supervision?”

Voth wants most of the uses in the bill 
removed and restrictions added for the use of marijuana to treat pain. 
He’d also only allow lower concentrations of THC, the chemical that 
makes people high.

Most of all, Voth is telling lawmakers not to give in to the legalization movement.

“I’d hold it up as a badge of honor,” Voth said, “to say we’ve held back this tidal wave.”

Stephen Koranda is the Statehouse reporter for Kansas Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Stephen_Koranda" target="_blank">@Stephen_Koranda</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616440141392.png" alt="Nomin Ujiyediin / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Nomin Ujiyediin / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEPHEN KORANDA <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-03-22/kansas-considers-making-medical-marijuana-legal-but-very-hard-to-get">Kansas News Service</a>TOPEKA, Kan.&nbsp;— Kansas stands among a <a href="https://www.ncsl.org/research/health/state-medical-marijuana-laws.aspx" target="_blank">shrinking handful of states</a> that makes cannabis an outlaw drug, even as a medical tool.Lawmakers
 trying to overcome resistance to any legalization are looking at 
adopting medical marijuana rules so tight that, for instance, only 
patients who’ve been with specially certified doctors for a full year 
could get it.A House committee is planning to debate<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/hb2184/" target="_blank"> a bill </a>this
 week that borrows and tweaks strict limitations tried in other states. 
Backers hope the plan can overcome long-standing opposition from some 
conservative Republicans and law enforcement groups.Republican Senate President Ty Masterson said he doesn’t want a system where anyone can get a marijuana recommendation.“You
 don’t really believe we have that many 18-year-olds with glaucoma that 
need to smoke weed for a medical benefit,” he said. “That’s 
recreational.”To win over people like Masterson, this year’s bill <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-02-26/medical-marijuana-for-kansas-proposed-with-tight-rules-in-hopes-of-winning-legalization" target="_blank">borrows restrictive policies</a> tried elsewhere.From <a href="https://www.medicalmarijuana.ohio.gov/faqs" target="_blank">Ohio</a>,
 the latest Kansas plan takes the idea that only physicians with a 
specific certification could recommend marijuana for about two dozen 
conditions ranging from seizures to chronic pain. Plus, the marijuana 
could not be smoked, but would be available in other forms like edibles 
and oils.The Kansas plan borrows an idea from <a href="https://www.nj.gov/health/medicalmarijuana/physicians/" target="_blank">New Jersey’s medical marijuana law</a>
 and makes it even more limiting. Patients would need to see one of 
those certified physicians for a year before getting a recommendation 
for marijuana. State regulators could also create alternate ways to establish that physician relationship in the future.The
 limits have attracted support from some Republicans. Democratic Gov. 
Laura Kelly has also said she supports legalizing medical marijuana. She
 proposed <a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-medical-marijuana-kansas-marijuana-medicaid-a11663e4684db69315b71f1db5353013" target="_blank">using revenue from medical cannabis to pay for Medicaid expansion</a>, but that bill isn’t getting traction.Under
 the plan being considered in the House, Kansas would legalize medicinal
 marijuana with some of the tighter rules in the country. Even with 
that, it still must overcome opposition from some conservative 
Republicans and influential law enforcement groups.Law 
enforcement groups say because marijuana is illegal under federal law, 
state legalization establishes a conflict. It also creates other issues,
 like requiring a database so officers can verify medical marijuana ID 
cards.In Ohio, a law that was nearly as restrictive as the Kansas proposal overcame opposition and took effect two years ago.“We
 thought we were late to the dance. You guys are way behind us,” said 
Ohio advocate Mary Jane Borden, who helped the Ohio Rights Group push 
for that state’s law.Borden said the tight rules in Ohio create 
some challenges. In some areas, there’s a shortage of doctors with a 
marijuana certification and places to buy cannabis.Kansas could 
end up in the same spot, leaving people in rural areas with no practical
 place to get a doctor’s recommendation or supplies.“I would really consider, ‘How do you reach the people?’” Borden said, “‘the suffering patients, in those outlying counties?’”In Ohio, <a href="https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/2019/02/07/ohios-medical-marijuana-patient-registry-triples-second-month/2799791002/" target="_blank">the most common use</a> for medical marijuana is treatment of chronic pain.Eric
 Voth is a retired Kansas physician who specialized in internal 
medicine, pain and addiction. He said claims of pain can be a loophole. 
He said the law should have additional oversight to regulate physicians 
recommending medical cannabis.“First of all, what constitutes the
 pain?” Voth said in an interview. “What is required for the diagnosis …
 and the supervision?”Voth wants most of the uses in the bill 
removed and restrictions added for the use of marijuana to treat pain. 
He’d also only allow lower concentrations of THC, the chemical that 
makes people high.Most of all, Voth is telling lawmakers not to give in to the legalization movement.“I’d hold it up as a badge of honor,” Voth said, “to say we’ve held back this tidal wave.”Stephen Koranda is the Statehouse reporter for Kansas Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Stephen_Koranda" target="_blank">@Stephen_Koranda</a>.

Kan. considers making medical marijuana legal, but very hard to get

GEARY COUNTY —The Junction City Police Department and the Junction City Animal Shelter are asking for help identifying the driver of the vehicle shown in the video.

Just before 8:30a.m. Monday, a vehicle dumped a great Dane puppy at the animal shelter.&nbsp;

Police believe the car is a Ford Fusion. 

If you have any information about this individual please contact the Junction City Police Department at 785 762 5912 or&nbsp;or send a message to the Police Departments Facebook page.

GEARY COUNTY —The Junction City Police Department and the Junction City Animal Shelter are asking for help identifying the driver of the vehicle shown in the video.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=420&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FJCPDKS%2Fvideos%2F926082904861500%2F&show_text=false&width=560" width="560" height="420" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Just before 8:30a.m. Monday, a vehicle dumped a great Dane puppy at the animal shelter.&nbsp;Police believe the car is a Ford Fusion. If you have any information about this individual please contact the Junction City Police Department at 785 762 5912 or&nbsp;or send a message to the Police Departments Facebook page.

Police: Car dumps puppy at Kan. animal shelter

TOPEKA, Kan. – Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) Secretary Jeff Zmuda announced Monday that a staff member at the Winfield Correctional Facility (WCF) died on Thursday, March 18 due to complications from COVID-19. This is the first WCF staff death related to the virus and the sixth KDOC staff death, according to a media release.

David Warner, 54, had more than eight years of service to the KDOC. He was hired in 2010 at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility (HCF) as a corrections officer before his promotion to pre-release instructor. In 2015 he was hired at WCF, working as a corrections officer and pre-release instructor.

“David truly made a difference in the lives he touched through his work,” Zmuda said. “He spread love and joy to everyone he met, and he was a beloved member of our KDOC family. Please join me in keeping his family and his colleagues at both Winfield and Hutchinson in our thoughts and prayers.”

A celebration of life will be held Wednesday, March 24 at 6:30 p.m. at the West Kansas Avenue Church of God in Arkansas City, Kansas.

“I am saddened to learn of the passing of David Warner who worked at Winfield Correctional Facility,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “He was a dedicated, selfless public servant, and I send my deepest sympathies to David’s family, friends and colleagues.”

Memorials have been established in Warner’s name for the Cowley County Humane Society and for Eagle’s Nest. Contributions may be made through Miles Funeral Service.

The KDOC Peer Support Team will be available for any staff members who need additional support in dealing with this loss.

TOPEKA, Kan. – Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) Secretary Jeff Zmuda announced Monday that a staff member at the Winfield Correctional Facility (WCF) died on Thursday, March 18 due to complications from COVID-19. This is the first WCF staff death related to the virus and the sixth KDOC staff death, according to a media release.David Warner, 54, had more than eight years of service to the KDOC. He was hired in 2010 at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility (HCF) as a corrections officer before his promotion to pre-release instructor. In 2015 he was hired at WCF, working as a corrections officer and pre-release instructor.“David truly made a difference in the lives he touched through his work,” Zmuda said. “He spread love and joy to everyone he met, and he was a beloved member of our KDOC family. Please join me in keeping his family and his colleagues at both Winfield and Hutchinson in our thoughts and prayers.”A celebration of life will be held Wednesday, March 24 at 6:30 p.m. at the West Kansas Avenue Church of God in Arkansas City, Kansas.“I am saddened to learn of the passing of David Warner who worked at Winfield Correctional Facility,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “He was a dedicated, selfless public servant, and I send my deepest sympathies to David’s family, friends and colleagues.”Memorials have been established in Warner’s name for the Cowley County Humane Society and for Eagle’s Nest. Contributions may be made through Miles Funeral Service.The KDOC Peer Support Team will be available for any staff members who need additional support in dealing with this loss.

6th Kan. corrections staff member dies due to COVID-19

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating alleged counterfeiting in northeast Kansas have a suspect in custody.

On March 20,&nbsp; police arrested 28-year-old Robert B. Lynch of Atchison, on a District Court warrant for counterfeiting currency and theft, according to police chief Mike Wilson.

The arrest is in connection to a $100 counterfeit bill used in a transaction at a business in Atchison December 17.

Lynch remains jailed on requested charges of counterfeiting; retail value $25,000 or more; 1,000 or more items bearing marks; or 3rd or sub.violation, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616419148843.png" alt="Lynch photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Lynch photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating alleged counterfeiting in northeast Kansas have a suspect in custody.On March 20,&nbsp; police arrested 28-year-old Robert B. Lynch of Atchison, on a District Court warrant for counterfeiting currency and theft, according to police chief Mike Wilson.The arrest is in connection to a $100 counterfeit bill used in a transaction at a business in Atchison December 17.Lynch remains jailed on requested charges of counterfeiting; retail value $25,000 or more; 1,000 or more items bearing marks; or 3rd or sub.violation, according to online jail records.

Kansas man accused of using fake $100 bill

TOPEKA — The Kansas Corporation Commission has received reports that an individual, claiming to work for the KCC, is calling Kansans asking if they need assistance paying their natural gas bills. Not much information is currently available about these calls. However, the KCC wants to alert the public that any unsolicited call from a person claiming to be a KCC employee offering utility payment assistance is not legitimate. If you receive a call like this, please do not share any personal or financial information.&nbsp;

The KCC has a Consumer Protection Division that ratepayers can contact when they need assistance. The staff is available between 8 am and 5 pm Monday through Friday by calling 800-662-0027 or 785-271-3140 or sending an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:public.affairs@kcc.ks.gov">public.affairs@kcc.ks.gov</a>. There is also a link to utility assistance programs on the KCC’s website at<a href="https://kcc.ks.gov/public-affairs-and-consumer-protection/utility-weatherization-related-assistance-programs">https://kcc.ks.gov/public-affairs-and-consumer-protection/utility-weatherization-related-assistance-programs</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578753970104.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — The Kansas Corporation Commission has received reports that an individual, claiming to work for the KCC, is calling Kansans asking if they need assistance paying their natural gas bills. Not much information is currently available about these calls. However, the KCC wants to alert the public that any unsolicited call from a person claiming to be a KCC employee offering utility payment assistance is not legitimate. If you receive a call like this, please do not share any personal or financial information.&nbsp;The KCC has a Consumer Protection Division that ratepayers can contact when they need assistance. The staff is available between 8 am and 5 pm Monday through Friday by calling 800-662-0027 or 785-271-3140 or sending an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:public.affairs@kcc.ks.gov">public.affairs@kcc.ks.gov</a>. There is also a link to utility assistance programs on the KCC’s website at<a href="https://kcc.ks.gov/public-affairs-and-consumer-protection/utility-weatherization-related-assistance-programs">https://kcc.ks.gov/public-affairs-and-consumer-protection/utility-weatherization-related-assistance-programs</a>.

KCC warns consumers to beware of utility assistance scam

By BRENT MARTIN <a href="https://stjosephpost.com">St. Joseph Post</a>

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — Repairs to Missouri River levees damaged by the 2019 flood
have been nearly completed, though some stubborn problems will not be fixed
until after summer.

Colonel Bill Hannan, Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers’ Kansas City office, says the 2019 flood did such extensive damage to
Missouri River levees, some significant levees have yet to be repaired.

“We should have the Corning levee repaired by April, the Holt (County)
10 by May, but the Holt 9 is the one that just due to circumstances,
assessments, the non-federal sponsor requirements that go into repairing these
levees; that one has been awarded,” Hannan tells St. Joseph Post. “The
contractor should start work here soon, but we expect, just because the amount
of damage to this levee system is extensive, repairs will be complete on Holt 9
probably in September.”

That levee has drawn attention from both federal, state, and
local officials. Atchison County authorities have called for a change when the
levee is rebuilt. But, Hannan points out federal law limits the Corps in its
response, authorizing only that the Corps rebuild levees to their pre-flood
condition. Efforts are underway to change the law and allow the Corps more
flexibility to deal with structures which could cause recurring flooding.

Much work has gone into repairing the levee which protects
Rushville and Sugar Lake. The Corps has had to work with the USDA Natural Resources
Conservation Service to acquire needed easements to repair the levee which
broke in 2019, flooding the area and cutting off the route between St. Joseph
and Atchison, Kansas when it overflowed U.S. 59. Hannan says work to restore
that levee should begin this month or early next month.

Approximately 70% of the repairs to the levees damaged in 2019
has been completed, restoring protection to slightly more than 90% of the
residents and property along the Missouri River in northwest Missouri.

Hannan says the Corps also discovered extensive damage to the
navigation channel when Missouri River levels fell enough this winter to fully
inspect the channel.

“The good news for repairs on navigation is going into this
season we have $74 million total that was allocated to us in this last budget
to work on all 734 miles,” Hannan says. “It’s not everything we need, but it’s
going to be a really good start to get all those priority areas fixed.”

Hannan says the Corps is working with members of Congress and
others in Washington to secure the rest of the money needed to fully restore
the nine-foot navigation channel of the Missouri River.

Hannan says the 2019 flood did more damage to the channel than
the Corps anticipated.

“It turned out to be worse than we thought,” Hannan says. “We
had done some survey and some assessments based on the ’93 and 2011 floods and
how our structures came up to, but once we actually inspected them this winter
during our low-water inspection, it did turn out worse than we expected.”

Hannan says the Corps expects a normal barge season on the
Missouri this year.

“We know for sure right now we think we’ll have no issues with
the first half of the season, at least for flows, and then second half of the
season, they’ll make that call here in July,” Hannan says. “We will still, I
think, based on the damage to structures that we saw last season and through our
assessments over the winter, there’s a high risk we will have some areas that
we’re going to have to immediately get after and start repairs on that won’t be
meeting that nine-foot depth requirement.” 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616439920718.jpeg" alt="Sandbagging on the Elwood, Kansas, side of the Missouri River saved Elwood and Rosecrans Memorial Airport. Photo courtesy of the Air National Guard" />
 <figcaption>Sandbagging on the Elwood, Kansas, side of the Missouri River saved Elwood and Rosecrans Memorial Airport. Photo courtesy of the Air National Guard</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTIN <a href="https://stjosephpost.com">St. Joseph Post</a>ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — Repairs to Missouri River levees damaged by the 2019 flood
have been nearly completed, though some stubborn problems will not be fixed
until after summer.Colonel Bill Hannan, Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers’ Kansas City office, says the 2019 flood did such extensive damage to
Missouri River levees, some significant levees have yet to be repaired.“We should have the Corning levee repaired by April, the Holt (County)
10 by May, but the Holt 9 is the one that just due to circumstances,
assessments, the non-federal sponsor requirements that go into repairing these
levees; that one has been awarded,” Hannan tells St. Joseph Post. “The
contractor should start work here soon, but we expect, just because the amount
of damage to this levee system is extensive, repairs will be complete on Holt 9
probably in September.”That levee has drawn attention from both federal, state, and
local officials. Atchison County authorities have called for a change when the
levee is rebuilt. But, Hannan points out federal law limits the Corps in its
response, authorizing only that the Corps rebuild levees to their pre-flood
condition. Efforts are underway to change the law and allow the Corps more
flexibility to deal with structures which could cause recurring flooding.Much work has gone into repairing the levee which protects
Rushville and Sugar Lake. The Corps has had to work with the USDA Natural Resources
Conservation Service to acquire needed easements to repair the levee which
broke in 2019, flooding the area and cutting off the route between St. Joseph
and Atchison, Kansas when it overflowed U.S. 59. Hannan says work to restore
that levee should begin this month or early next month.Approximately 70% of the repairs to the levees damaged in 2019
has been completed, restoring protection to slightly more than 90% of the
residents and property along the Missouri River in northwest Missouri.Hannan says the Corps also discovered extensive damage to the
navigation channel when Missouri River levels fell enough this winter to fully
inspect the channel.“The good news for repairs on navigation is going into this
season we have $74 million total that was allocated to us in this last budget
to work on all 734 miles,” Hannan says. “It’s not everything we need, but it’s
going to be a really good start to get all those priority areas fixed.”Hannan says the Corps is working with members of Congress and
others in Washington to secure the rest of the money needed to fully restore
the nine-foot navigation channel of the Missouri River.Hannan says the 2019 flood did more damage to the channel than
the Corps anticipated.“It turned out to be worse than we thought,” Hannan says. “We
had done some survey and some assessments based on the ’93 and 2011 floods and
how our structures came up to, but once we actually inspected them this winter
during our low-water inspection, it did turn out worse than we expected.”Hannan says the Corps expects a normal barge season on the
Missouri this year.“We know for sure right now we think we’ll have no issues with
the first half of the season, at least for flows, and then second half of the
season, they’ll make that call here in July,” Hannan says. “We will still, I
think, based on the damage to structures that we saw last season and through our
assessments over the winter, there’s a high risk we will have some areas that
we’re going to have to immediately get after and start repairs on that won’t be
meeting that nine-foot depth requirement.”

Repairs to Missouri River levees damaged in flood nearly complete

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced Kansas has administered over one million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, and launched the <a href="https://vimeo.com/showcase/8278178">“Roll Up Your Sleeves” campaign</a> to share the importance of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. This news comes on the heels of Governor Kelly’s announcement that the state will move into Phase 3 and Phase 4 Monday, March 22.

“We administered over one million doses and we'll keep getting vaccines into arms so our kids can get back in the classrooms, Kansans can get back to work, and life can get back to normal”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said. 

“With the increased vaccine supply coming to Kansas, we are working to make sure every Kansan gets vaccinated. This vaccine campaign is designed to show every Kansas what the science has proven - that vaccines are safe and will protect all of us from COVID-19."

The <a href="https://vimeo.com/showcase/8278178">“Roll Up Your Sleeves” campaign</a> will feature broadcast, cable, digital and radio ads. The ads, created by Topeka-based company MB Piland, feature local Kansans who are committed to their community. The campaign will run through the end of June. Ads will also be aired in Spanish.

Reminder: Starting March 22, Kansans in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.TeIo5dZNq2x6YPzTCW6MJKVYTN4XjZr4EiYeaAd_Xc8/s/1303160919/br/100464677501-l" target="_blank">Phase 3 &amp; 4</a>&nbsp;of the Vaccine Prioritization Plan are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Kansans will not be required to bring medical records or “proof” of their health condition. Instead, they will be asked to abide by the honor system and self-attest that they fall in Phase 3 &amp; 4 based on the following:

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/">Click here</a> for more information on COVID-19 vaccines in Kansas and to find a local provider with vaccines available.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616439035492.png" alt="Image from the "Roll Up Your Sleeve"campaign" />
 <figcaption>Image from the "Roll Up Your Sleeve"campaign</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced Kansas has administered over one million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, and launched the <a href="https://vimeo.com/showcase/8278178">“Roll Up Your Sleeves” campaign</a> to share the importance of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. This news comes on the heels of Governor Kelly’s announcement that the state will move into Phase 3 and Phase 4 Monday, March 22.“We administered over one million doses and we'll keep getting vaccines into arms so our kids can get back in the classrooms, Kansans can get back to work, and life can get back to normal”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said. “With the increased vaccine supply coming to Kansas, we are working to make sure every Kansan gets vaccinated. This vaccine campaign is designed to show every Kansas what the science has proven - that vaccines are safe and will protect all of us from COVID-19."The <a href="https://vimeo.com/showcase/8278178">“Roll Up Your Sleeves” campaign</a> will feature broadcast, cable, digital and radio ads. The ads, created by Topeka-based company MB Piland, feature local Kansans who are committed to their community. The campaign will run through the end of June. Ads will also be aired in Spanish.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610104544544.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Reminder: Starting March 22, Kansans in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.TeIo5dZNq2x6YPzTCW6MJKVYTN4XjZr4EiYeaAd_Xc8/s/1303160919/br/100464677501-l" target="_blank">Phase 3 &amp; 4</a>&nbsp;of the Vaccine Prioritization Plan are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Kansans will not be required to bring medical records or “proof” of their health condition. Instead, they will be asked to abide by the honor system and self-attest that they fall in Phase 3 &amp; 4 based on the following:<ul>
 <li>Those aged 16 through 64 with serious medical conditions that increase the risk for severe illness from COVID-19, including:</li><li>Cancer;</li><li>Down Syndrome;</li><li>Certain heart conditions;</li><li>Type 2 diabetes;</li><li>Other serious illnesses;</li><li>And pregnant women.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Those aged 16 through 64 with other medical conditions that increase the risk for severe illness from COVID-19, such as:&nbsp;Asthma;Cystic fibrosis;Liver disease;Type 1 diabetes;Neurologic conditions like dementia;And other medical risks.  &nbsp;</li><li>Asthma;</li><li>Cystic fibrosis;</li><li>Liver disease;</li><li>Type 1 diabetes;</li><li>Neurologic conditions like dementia;</li><li>And other medical risks.  &nbsp;</li><li>And other non-health care workers in critical infrastructure who&nbsp;cannot work remotely, including:Agricultural and food workers not included in previous phases;Workers performing in-person activities indoors;Utility workers;Social service and government workers not included in previous phases;Logistics workers, such as truck transportation workers and couriers;Water and wastewater workers;Shelter, housing, and finance workers;And information technology and communication workers.</li><li>Agricultural and food workers not included in previous phases;</li><li>Workers performing in-person activities indoors;</li><li>Utility workers;</li><li>Social service and government workers not included in previous phases;</li><li>Logistics workers, such as truck transportation workers and couriers;</li><li>Water and wastewater workers;</li><li>Shelter, housing, and finance workers;</li><li>And information technology and communication workers.</li>
 </ul><a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/">Click here</a> for more information on COVID-19 vaccines in Kansas and to find a local provider with vaccines available.&nbsp;

Kansas begins phase 3 and 4 of vaccination plan

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Canadian Pacific Railway’s acquisition of Kansas City Southern means Minneapolis will no longer be the company’s U.S. headquarters, but what impact that will have on its employees in the Twin Cities is still unknown. 

The $25 billion deal in cash and stock was announced Sunday. It creates the first rail network linking the United States, Mexico and Canada. 

Railway officials say Kansas City, Missouri will be designated as the new U.S. headquarters for Canadian Pacific Kansas City, or CPKC. The combined company would operate about 20,000 miles of railway, employ 20,000 people and generate annual revenue of about $8.7 billion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616420049280.png" alt="Photo courtesy Canadian Pacific Railway" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Canadian Pacific Railway</figcaption>
 </figure>MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Canadian Pacific Railway’s acquisition of Kansas City Southern means Minneapolis will no longer be the company’s U.S. headquarters, but what impact that will have on its employees in the Twin Cities is still unknown. The $25 billion deal in cash and stock was announced Sunday. It creates the first rail network linking the United States, Mexico and Canada. Railway officials say Kansas City, Missouri will be designated as the new U.S. headquarters for Canadian Pacific Kansas City, or CPKC. The combined company would operate about 20,000 miles of railway, employ 20,000 people and generate annual revenue of about $8.7 billion.

Merger: Railway's US headquarters will move to Kansas City

TOPEKA—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal weekend accident have identified the victims as 46-year-old Anthony Vardys and 47-year-old Tamara L. Vardys both of Topeka, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Spiker.

Just after 10p.m. Saturday, first responders were dispatched to Highway 24 and NE Meriden Road on a report of an injury accident involving a motorcycle and a truck, according to police Lt. Matt Danielson. Both the motorcycle and the truck were transporting two occupants.

The driver of the motorcycle sustained life-threatening injuries in the crash. American Medical Response transported the driver to a local hospital where he later died from injuries. The passenger of the motorcycle was pronounced dead at the scene. 

The occupants in the other vehicle were not injured. The area surrounding Highway 24 and NE Meriden Road were closed while officers investigated.&nbsp;&nbsp;

TOPEKA—Two people died in an accident just after 10.pm. Saturday in North Topeka.

First responders were dispatched to Highway 24 and NE Meriden Road on a report of an injury accident involving a motorcycle and a truck, according to police Lt. Matt Danielson. Both the motorcycle and the truck were transporting two occupants.

The driver of the motorcycle sustained life-threatening injuries in the crash. American Medical Response transported the driver to a local hospital where the victim later died from injuries. The passenger of the motorcycle was pronounced dead at the scene. 

The occupants in the other vehicle were not injured. The area surrounding Highway 24 and NE Meriden Road were closed while officers investigated.&nbsp; Police have not released names of the victims.

TOPEKA—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal weekend accident have identified the victims as 46-year-old Anthony Vardys and 47-year-old Tamara L. Vardys both of Topeka, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Spiker.Just after 10p.m. Saturday, first responders were dispatched to Highway 24 and NE Meriden Road on a report of an injury accident involving a motorcycle and a truck, according to police Lt. Matt Danielson. Both the motorcycle and the truck were transporting two occupants.The driver of the motorcycle sustained life-threatening injuries in the crash. American Medical Response transported the driver to a local hospital where he later died from injuries. The passenger of the motorcycle was pronounced dead at the scene. The occupants in the other vehicle were not injured. The area surrounding Highway 24 and NE Meriden Road were closed while officers investigated.&nbsp;&nbsp;--------------TOPEKA—Two people died in an accident just after 10.pm. Saturday in North Topeka.First responders were dispatched to Highway 24 and NE Meriden Road on a report of an injury accident involving a motorcycle and a truck, according to police Lt. Matt Danielson. Both the motorcycle and the truck were transporting two occupants.The driver of the motorcycle sustained life-threatening injuries in the crash. American Medical Response transported the driver to a local hospital where the victim later died from injuries. The passenger of the motorcycle was pronounced dead at the scene. The occupants in the other vehicle were not injured. The area surrounding Highway 24 and NE Meriden Road were closed while officers investigated.&nbsp; Police have not released names of the victims.

Police ID Kan. man, woman who died after motorcycle, truck crash 

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 615 to a total of 300,125, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4850, an increase of 8.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 615 to a total of 300,125, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4850, an increase of 8.<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616433091766.png" alt="Monday March 22, KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Monday March 22, KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a 5 day search.

On March 15, a 37-year-old Salina woman went to the Salina Police Department lobby to report that her ex-boyfriend, Joshua Barrett, 33, of Salina, had taken her white 1999 GMC Yukon. She told police that she had parked the vehicle in the 500 block of Charles in Salina, according to Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning that 

The woman told police that when she went to retrieve the SUV, Barrett pulled her out of the vehicle by her hair and also took her cell phone.

Just before 6am. March 16, police were sent to the 2300 block of Edward Street in regard to a domestic disturbance with the same woman and Barrett, according to Forrester. Barrett was reported to have left on foot carrying a hatchet.

Officers located the stolen Yukon leaving the area at a high rate of speed. The Yukon had a tag that was registered to a 1991 Chevrolet pickup.

Officers attempted to stop the vehicle on East Magnolia Road, but it continued east and officer initiated a pursuit in the 2400 block of South Simpson Road. Speeds reached approximately 90 mph and the officer discontinued the pursuit due to road conditions.

Later that morning, Saline County Sheriff's deputies were sent to South Woodward Road and East Farrelly Road -- southeast of Salina -- as the Yukon was reportedly hidden in a tree row at that location.

 Deputies saw Barrett in the driver’s seat and as they approached, he drove away and was able to elude law enforcement personnel as the road conditions were poor due to recent rains.

Just before 6:30a.m. Saturday, police&nbsp; were sent to the 2300 block of Edward for the report of Barrett lying on the back porch of a residence, according to Forrester, 

Officers took Barrett into custody. He had the key to the Yukon in his possession. He is being held on&nbsp;requested charges that include Aggravated robbery, Felony theft, Domestic violence battery, Misdemeanor flee and elude, Felony flee and elude, Reckless driving, Felony interference with law enforcement, Speeding making an improper turn and two counts of illegal display of tag.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616431239990.png" alt="Joshua Barrett has four previous convictions for burglary, for theft, criminal damage to property and driving while habitual violator, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Joshua Barrett has four previous convictions for burglary, for theft, criminal damage to property and driving while habitual violator, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a 5 day search. On March 15, a 37-year-old Salina woman went to the Salina Police Department lobby to report that her ex-boyfriend, Joshua Barrett, 33, of Salina, had taken her white 1999 GMC Yukon. She told police that she had parked the vehicle in the 500 block of Charles in Salina, according to Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning that The woman told police that when she went to retrieve the SUV, Barrett pulled her out of the vehicle by her hair and also took her cell phone.Just before 6am. March 16, police were sent to the 2300 block of Edward Street in regard to a domestic disturbance with the same woman and Barrett, according to Forrester. Barrett was reported to have left on foot carrying a hatchet.Officers located the stolen Yukon leaving the area at a high rate of speed. The Yukon had a tag that was registered to a 1991 Chevrolet pickup.Officers attempted to stop the vehicle on East Magnolia Road, but it continued east and officer initiated a pursuit in the 2400 block of South Simpson Road. Speeds reached approximately 90 mph and the officer discontinued the pursuit due to road conditions.Later that morning, Saline County Sheriff's deputies were sent to South Woodward Road and East Farrelly Road -- southeast of Salina -- as the Yukon was reportedly hidden in a tree row at that location. Deputies saw Barrett in the driver’s seat and as they approached, he drove away and was able to elude law enforcement personnel as the road conditions were poor due to recent rains.Just before 6:30a.m. Saturday, police&nbsp; were sent to the 2300 block of Edward for the report of Barrett lying on the back porch of a residence, according to Forrester, Officers took Barrett into custody. He had the key to the Yukon in his possession. He is being held on&nbsp;requested charges that include Aggravated robbery, Felony theft, Domestic violence battery, Misdemeanor flee and elude, Felony flee and elude, Reckless driving, Felony interference with law enforcement, Speeding making an improper turn and two counts of illegal display of tag.

Police arrest Kan. felon after 5 day search, 90mph chase

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities continue their investigation of an accident that involved a pair of police vehicles.

While investigating a fatal Saturday night street racing accident in Wichita, officers were blocking traffic on Greenwich with patrol cars so the critical accident team could process the fatal accident scene, according to officer Charley Davidson.

Police observed a 28-year-old man driving a 2000 blue Ford F-250 northbound on Greenwich at a high rate of speed. An Eastborough officer assisting in blocking traffic flashed her flashlight to get the driver’s attention but was unsuccessful.

The F-250 side-swiped an occupied Wichita police F-350 truck and an unoccupied Wichita Police Ford Explorer patrol vehicle, causing the F-250 to overturn, according to Davidson.

The driver and his 35-year-old female passenger sustained only minor injuries. No officers were injured.&nbsp;&nbsp;Alcohol is believed to be a factor in this accident, according to officer Davidson.

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities continue their investigation of an accident that involved a pair of police vehicles.While investigating a fatal Saturday night street racing accident in Wichita, officers were blocking traffic on Greenwich with patrol cars so the critical accident team could process the fatal accident scene, according to officer Charley Davidson.Police observed a 28-year-old man driving a 2000 blue Ford F-250 northbound on Greenwich at a high rate of speed. An Eastborough officer assisting in blocking traffic flashed her flashlight to get the driver’s attention but was unsuccessful.The F-250 side-swiped an occupied Wichita police F-350 truck and an unoccupied Wichita Police Ford Explorer patrol vehicle, causing the F-250 to overturn, according to Davidson.The driver and his 35-year-old female passenger sustained only minor injuries. No officers were injured.&nbsp;&nbsp;Alcohol is believed to be a factor in this accident, according to officer Davidson.

Alcohol a factor after Kan. police vehicles struck during investigation

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service announced today that the 
next batch of Economic Impact Payments will be issued to taxpayers this 
week, with many of these coming by paper check or prepaid debit card.

For taxpayers receiving direct deposit, this batch of payments began 
processing on Friday and will have an official pay date of Wednesday, 
March 24, with some people seeing these in their accounts earlier, 
potentially as provisional or pending deposits. A large number of this 
latest batch of payments will also be mailed, so taxpayers who do not 
receive a direct deposit by March 24 should watch the mail carefully in 
the coming weeks for a paper check or a prepaid debit card, known as an 
Economic Impact Payment Card, or EIP Card.

No action is needed by most people to obtain this round of Economic Impact Payments (EIPs). People can check the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment">Get My Payment</a>&nbsp;tool on IRS.gov on to see if the their payment has been scheduled.

"The IRS continues to send the third round of stimulus payments in 
record time," said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. "Since this new set of
 payments will include more mailed payments, we urge people to carefully
 watch their mail for a check or debit card in the coming weeks."

Following enactment of the American Rescue Plan Act on March 11, the 
IRS moved quickly to start delivering the third round of Economic Impact
 Payments. The IRS initiated the first batch of the $1,400 stimulus 
payments, mostly by direct deposit, on March 12.

Today marks the second batch of payments, with additional payments 
anticipated on a weekly basis going forward. The vast majority of 
taxpayers receiving EIPs will receive it by direct deposit. In addition,
 the IRS and the Bureau of the Fiscal Service leveraged data in their 
systems to convert many payments to direct deposits that otherwise would
 have been sent as paper checks or debit cards. This accelerated the 
disbursement of these payments by weeks.

Watch the mail for paper checks, EIP Cards

Taxpayers should note that the form of payment for the third EIP may 
be different than earlier stimulus payments. More people are receiving 
direct deposits, while those receiving them in the mail may get either a
 paper check or an EIP Card – which may be different than how they 
received their previous stimulus payments. IRS and the Treasury 
Department urge eligible people who have not received a direct deposit 
to watch their mail carefully during this period.

Paper checks will arrive by mail in a white envelope from the U.S. 
Department of the Treasury. For those taxpayers who received their tax 
refund by mail, this paper check will look similar, but will be labeled 
as an "Economic Impact Payment" in the memo field.

The EIP Card will also come in a white envelope prominently 
displaying the seal of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The card has
 the Visa name on the front and the issuing bank,&nbsp;MetaBank, N.A. on the 
back. Information included with the card will explain that this is an 
Economic Impact Payment. Each mailing will include instructions on how 
to securely activate and use the card. It is important to note that none
 of the EIP cards issued for any of the three rounds is reloadable; 
recipients will receive a separate card and will not be able to reload 
funds onto an existing card. EIP Cards are safe, convenient, and secure.
 EIP Card recipients can make purchases online or in stores anywhere 
Visa Debit Cards are accepted. They can get cash from domestic 
in-network ATMs, transfer funds to a personal bank account, and obtain a
 replacement EIP Card if needed without incurring any fees. They can 
also check their card balance online, through a mobile app, or by phone 
without incurring fees. The EIP Card provides consumer protections 
against fraud, loss, and other errors. The EIP Card is sponsored by the 
Bureau of the Fiscal Service and is issued by Treasury's financial 
agent,&nbsp;MetaBank, N.A. The IRS does not determine who receives a prepaid 
debit card.

More information about these cards is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eipcard.com/">EIPcard.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service announced today that the 
next batch of Economic Impact Payments will be issued to taxpayers this 
week, with many of these coming by paper check or prepaid debit card.For taxpayers receiving direct deposit, this batch of payments began 
processing on Friday and will have an official pay date of Wednesday, 
March 24, with some people seeing these in their accounts earlier, 
potentially as provisional or pending deposits. A large number of this 
latest batch of payments will also be mailed, so taxpayers who do not 
receive a direct deposit by March 24 should watch the mail carefully in 
the coming weeks for a paper check or a prepaid debit card, known as an 
Economic Impact Payment Card, or EIP Card.No action is needed by most people to obtain this round of Economic Impact Payments (EIPs). People can check the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment">Get My Payment</a>&nbsp;tool on IRS.gov on to see if the their payment has been scheduled."The IRS continues to send the third round of stimulus payments in 
record time," said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. "Since this new set of
 payments will include more mailed payments, we urge people to carefully
 watch their mail for a check or debit card in the coming weeks."Following enactment of the American Rescue Plan Act on March 11, the 
IRS moved quickly to start delivering the third round of Economic Impact
 Payments. The IRS initiated the first batch of the $1,400 stimulus 
payments, mostly by direct deposit, on March 12.Today marks the second batch of payments, with additional payments 
anticipated on a weekly basis going forward. The vast majority of 
taxpayers receiving EIPs will receive it by direct deposit. In addition,
 the IRS and the Bureau of the Fiscal Service leveraged data in their 
systems to convert many payments to direct deposits that otherwise would
 have been sent as paper checks or debit cards. This accelerated the 
disbursement of these payments by weeks.<h2>Watch the mail for paper checks, EIP Cards</h2>Taxpayers should note that the form of payment for the third EIP may 
be different than earlier stimulus payments. More people are receiving 
direct deposits, while those receiving them in the mail may get either a
 paper check or an EIP Card – which may be different than how they 
received their previous stimulus payments. IRS and the Treasury 
Department urge eligible people who have not received a direct deposit 
to watch their mail carefully during this period.Paper checks will arrive by mail in a white envelope from the U.S. 
Department of the Treasury. For those taxpayers who received their tax 
refund by mail, this paper check will look similar, but will be labeled 
as an "Economic Impact Payment" in the memo field.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616432859263.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The EIP Card will also come in a white envelope prominently 
displaying the seal of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The card has
 the Visa name on the front and the issuing bank,&nbsp;MetaBank, N.A. on the 
back. Information included with the card will explain that this is an 
Economic Impact Payment. Each mailing will include instructions on how 
to securely activate and use the card. It is important to note that none
 of the EIP cards issued for any of the three rounds is reloadable; 
recipients will receive a separate card and will not be able to reload 
funds onto an existing card. EIP Cards are safe, convenient, and secure.
 EIP Card recipients can make purchases online or in stores anywhere 
Visa Debit Cards are accepted. They can get cash from domestic 
in-network ATMs, transfer funds to a personal bank account, and obtain a
 replacement EIP Card if needed without incurring any fees. They can 
also check their card balance online, through a mobile app, or by phone 
without incurring fees. The EIP Card provides consumer protections 
against fraud, loss, and other errors. The EIP Card is sponsored by the 
Bureau of the Fiscal Service and is issued by Treasury's financial 
agent,&nbsp;MetaBank, N.A. The IRS does not determine who receives a prepaid 
debit card.More information about these cards is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eipcard.com/">EIPcard.com</a>.

IRS: Next round of stimulus payments via check or debit cards

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Three people — including a firefighter — were injured in a two-alarm fire that destroyed an apartment building in Kansas City, Kansas, officials said.

The fire broke out Sunday morning in a two-story home that had been converted into four apartments on North 14th Street. When firefighters arrived, flames were visible coming from the home, and two people jumped from the second story to escape the fire. Both were taken to a hospital with minor burns and are expected to recover, officials said.

A firefighter was injured when a porch on the building collapsed, officials said. He was taken to a hospital for treatment of a broken foot.

Officials are investigating to determine the cause of the fire.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616420480856.png" alt="Fire crews were dispatched to the fire just after 7:30 Sunday morning. Incident was upgraded to a 2nd Alarm. Photo courtesy KCK Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Fire crews were dispatched to the fire just after 7:30 Sunday morning. Incident was upgraded to a 2nd Alarm. Photo courtesy KCK Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Three people — including a firefighter — were injured in a two-alarm fire that destroyed an apartment building in Kansas City, Kansas, officials said.The fire broke out Sunday morning in a two-story home that had been converted into four apartments on North 14th Street. When firefighters arrived, flames were visible coming from the home, and two people jumped from the second story to escape the fire. Both were taken to a hospital with minor burns and are expected to recover, officials said.A firefighter was injured when a porch on the building collapsed, officials said. He was taken to a hospital for treatment of a broken foot.Officials are investigating to determine the cause of the fire.

3 injured including firefighter in Kan. apartment fire

DICKINSON COUNTY —A controlled burn in the 500 Block of Old Highway 40 in Dickson County got out of control and temporarily shut down portions of Interstate 70 on Sunday.

Just before 12:30p.m. sheriff's deputies responded to Interstate 70 near Fair Road after report of the out of control grass fire, according to Dickinson County Sheriff's Sgt. Brent Gering.

Solomon Fire Department was first to arrive on scene and quickly requested mutual aid.&nbsp; Grant Township Fire Department and Abilene Fire Department responded to assist.&nbsp; 

Due to high winds blowing north, the fire moved rapidly across a field, causing large amounts of smoke to cross Interstate 70 resulting in zero visibility.&nbsp; 

Due to the smoke, two non-injury motor vehicle accidents occurred.&nbsp; Each accident involved three vehicles.&nbsp; The Kansas Highway Patrol, Abilene Police Department and Chapman Police Department responded to Interstate 70 and assisted the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office with closing Interstate 70 between Solomon Road and Abilene.

&nbsp;East and westbound traffic was temporarily diverted to allow a safe area for firefighters to work and to prevent further accidents.&nbsp; 

Multiple Fire Departments from across the region assisted including Saline County Districts 1 and 5, Fort Riley Fire Department, Grant Township Fire Department, Solomon Fire Department, Longford Rural Fire Department, Ottawa County Fire Department, Dickinson County District 1 Fire Department and Abilene Fire Department.&nbsp; 

The fire was extinguished just before 3p.m. and Interstate 70 reopened for normal traffic, according to Gering.

DICKINSON COUNTY —Firefighters responded to a Dickinson County grass fire Sunday afternoon.

Authorities have released few details. Kansas Department of Transportation officials did issue a smoke hazard alert for drivers traveling both directions on Interstate 70 west of Abilene to Solomon.&nbsp;Crews from Saline, Ottawa and Dickinson County were assisting. The fire was reported under control just after 2:30p.m.

Check the Post for more information as it becomes availalble.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616354619240.png" alt="Eastbound vehicles traveling through the smoke on I-70 at Abilene just after 2:15p.m. on Sunday-image KanDrive" />
 <figcaption>Eastbound vehicles traveling through the smoke on I-70 at Abilene just after 2:15p.m. on Sunday-image KanDrive</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —A controlled burn in the 500 Block of Old Highway 40 in Dickson County got out of control and temporarily shut down portions of Interstate 70 on Sunday.Just before 12:30p.m. sheriff's deputies responded to Interstate 70 near Fair Road after report of the out of control grass fire, according to Dickinson County Sheriff's Sgt. Brent Gering.Solomon Fire Department was first to arrive on scene and quickly requested mutual aid.&nbsp; Grant Township Fire Department and Abilene Fire Department responded to assist.&nbsp; Due to high winds blowing north, the fire moved rapidly across a field, causing large amounts of smoke to cross Interstate 70 resulting in zero visibility.&nbsp; <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616355170072.png" alt="A line of vehicles exit I-70 westbound at Solomon just after 2:30p.m. Sunday -image KanDrive" />
 <figcaption>A line of vehicles exit I-70 westbound at Solomon just after 2:30p.m. Sunday -image KanDrive</figcaption>
 </figure>Due to the smoke, two non-injury motor vehicle accidents occurred.&nbsp; Each accident involved three vehicles.&nbsp; The Kansas Highway Patrol, Abilene Police Department and Chapman Police Department responded to Interstate 70 and assisted the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office with closing Interstate 70 between Solomon Road and Abilene.&nbsp;East and westbound traffic was temporarily diverted to allow a safe area for firefighters to work and to prevent further accidents.&nbsp; Multiple Fire Departments from across the region assisted including Saline County Districts 1 and 5, Fort Riley Fire Department, Grant Township Fire Department, Solomon Fire Department, Longford Rural Fire Department, Ottawa County Fire Department, Dickinson County District 1 Fire Department and Abilene Fire Department.&nbsp; The fire was extinguished just before 3p.m. and Interstate 70 reopened for normal traffic, according to Gering.-----------DICKINSON COUNTY —Firefighters responded to a Dickinson County grass fire Sunday afternoon.Authorities have released few details. Kansas Department of Transportation officials did issue a smoke hazard alert for drivers traveling both directions on Interstate 70 west of Abilene to Solomon.&nbsp;Crews from Saline, Ottawa and Dickinson County were assisting. The fire was reported under control just after 2:30p.m.Check the Post for more information as it becomes availalble.

Sheriff: 2 accidents on I-70 due to smoke from grass fire

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — With college basketball’s March Madness underway, Kansas legislators moved closer toward legalizing sports betting, though big disagreements remained over where fans should be able to place wagers.

A state House committee approved a bill that would allow sports betting at four state-owned casinos, racetracks, as many as 1,200 retail stores that sell Kansas Lottery tickets, online and through apps linked to casinos, tracks and the lottery. It next goes to the full House for debate, possibly as early as this week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616182018042.png" alt="Members of the House Federal and State Affairs Committee during Friday's meeting-image House YouTube channel" />
 <figcaption>Members of the House Federal and State Affairs Committee during Friday's meeting-image House YouTube channel</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — With college basketball’s March Madness underway, Kansas legislators moved closer toward legalizing sports betting, though big disagreements remained over where fans should be able to place wagers.A state House committee approved a bill that would allow sports betting at four state-owned casinos, racetracks, as many as 1,200 retail stores that sell Kansas Lottery tickets, online and through apps linked to casinos, tracks and the lottery. It next goes to the full House for debate, possibly as early as this week.<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210303182646_827854/" target="_blank">The Senate approved</a>&nbsp;sports betting earlier this month, but&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_sb84_02_0000.pdf" target="_blank">its proposal</a>&nbsp;would limit live, online and app wagering to four state-owned casinos, which are operated by private companies under contracts with the lottery. If the House approves a bill, negotiators for the two chambers would have to resolve the differences over who gets to offer wagering.A federal law barred sports betting in Kansas and most states until the U.S. Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f3fa1f71b8f44378a7e2c51d321b13b4">struck it down&nbsp;</a>in 2018. Twenty-five states now allow sports betting, according to the American Gaming Association.“One of the main reasons that we’re trying to do sports betting is there is a huge black market,” said Sen. Jeff Longbine, an Emporia Republican. “We would rather have them in a legal, regulated environment.”Kansas officials do not believe the state’s take from sports betting would be large, perhaps only several million dollars a year.But even in a conservative-led, Republican-controlled Legislature, many lawmakers want to tap into wagering that’s already occurring in other states or illegally. The University of Kansas has one of college basketball’s premiere men’s programs, Kansas State University’s football team is regularly competitive, and the Kansas City Chiefs are riding high.The state lottery’s oversight of sports betting would be required under the Kansas Constitution, just as it is for casinos other than those operated by Native American tribes.Supporters of the Senate plan argue that limiting live, online and mobile-app betting to state-owned casino means they — not the lottery — assume the risk of losing money on big events such as the March Madness college basketball tournament or the Super Bowl.However, Rep. John Barker, an Abilene Republican and the House committee’s chair, questioned whether allowing lottery retailers to take wagers would expose the state to much actual risk.“Over an extended period of time, the odds are always with the house,” Barker said.