TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly on Wednesday vetoed a bill favored by many Republican lawmakers that could have encouraged some people to stick longer with short-term health coverage that critics label “junk insurance.”

The bill’s backers said it simply would have given people who buy limited duration health insurance more protection against premium increases or coverage changes. Such plans, lasting up to a year, offer lower premiums than comprehensive plans but don’t cover pre-existing medical conditions and other items such as medications or maternity care.

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/ccrb_sb29_02_stld.pdf" target="_blank">The bill</a>&nbsp;would have allowed a consumer to buy new plans for two additional years without having the insurer reconsider the terms. Backers strongly object to the term “junk insurance.”

Kelly advocates&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-medical-marijuana-kansas-marijuana-medicaid-a11663e4684db69315b71f1db5353013">expanding the state’s Medicaid program</a>&nbsp;for the needy to cover up to 165,000 additional Kansas residents and said lawmakers should do that “if they want to get serious about improving access to health care.” But many Republicans oppose Medicaid expansion, and Kelly has been unable to get a bill through the GOP-controlled Legislature.

“Junk insurance – which doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions or provide consumer protections – is just that, ‘junk,’” Kelly said in her veto message.

Some critics of the bill were worried because in 2019, Kelly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/8c6f552e504e490b8ce2cd7d753e1995">didn’t block</a>&nbsp;a GOP measure to permit the Kansas Farm Bureau to offer health coverage that doesn’t comply with the federal Affordable Care Act, letting it become law without her signature. No Democrats voted for the final version of this year’s bill.

Critics said the bill did not represent an improvement over existing rules for short-term plans because companies still can decline later to sell new policies to the same consumers.

“Short-term health plans pose serious and often underestimated risks to people facing illness and discriminate against people who’ve experienced cancer,” said Dana Bacon, a lobbyist for the Leukemia &amp; Lymphoma Society.

The bill passed the Senate earlier this month on a party-line&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210507150401_849820/" target="_blank">29-11 vote,</a>&nbsp;giving supporters two votes more than the two-thirds majority needed to override a veto. But the vote in the House was&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210507115434_172015/" target="_blank">68-51,</a>&nbsp;leaving supporters well short of the 84 needed for a veto override.

Supporters of the bill said short-term plans are mainly for people who are between jobs, employed but trying to find insurance on their own, waiting for an employer’s coverage to start, or retiring before they’re eligible for federal Medicare coverage for people 65 or older.

They said companies are up front about what’s covered and what’s not and are regulated by the state.

“It is a very much a niche product,” said Senate Insurance Committee Chair Jeff Longbine, an Emporia Republican. “It really comes down to the consumer being able to choose what they can afford, and if this is what they can afford, it’s certainly better than being uninsured.”

State Sen. Beverly Gossage, a Eudora Republican and insurance agent who championed the bill, said Kelly misunderstood the measure and the issues involved. She said the measure improves an existing option for consumers.

She said about 1,800 Kansas residents have short-term plans, and they’re in middle-class families that don’t qualify for enough of a subsidy to make comprehensive plans in the federal government’s online insurance marketplace affordable.

Gossage argued that even people wary of short-term plans should support the measure.

“It’s just that you have some people that, the minute you say, ‘Wait a minute; I’ve heard about these plans; they don’t cover pre-existing conditions,’ their fingers go in their ears and they start to say, ”La, la, la, la, la,” she said. “They don’t hear anything else you say.”

By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly on Wednesday vetoed a bill favored by many Republican lawmakers that could have encouraged some people to stick longer with short-term health coverage that critics label “junk insurance.”The bill’s backers said it simply would have given people who buy limited duration health insurance more protection against premium increases or coverage changes. Such plans, lasting up to a year, offer lower premiums than comprehensive plans but don’t cover pre-existing medical conditions and other items such as medications or maternity care.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Junk insurance plans don’t cover preexisting conditions and don’t protect consumers. They’re bad for Kansas families and our workforce – that’s why I’ve vetoed this bill. <a href="https://t.co/GUBQCCqzWs">pic.twitter.com/GUBQCCqzWs</a>&mdash; Governor Laura Kelly (@GovLauraKelly) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovLauraKelly/status/1395438088361545731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/ccrb_sb29_02_stld.pdf" target="_blank">The bill</a>&nbsp;would have allowed a consumer to buy new plans for two additional years without having the insurer reconsider the terms. Backers strongly object to the term “junk insurance.”Kelly advocates&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-medical-marijuana-kansas-marijuana-medicaid-a11663e4684db69315b71f1db5353013">expanding the state’s Medicaid program</a>&nbsp;for the needy to cover up to 165,000 additional Kansas residents and said lawmakers should do that “if they want to get serious about improving access to health care.” But many Republicans oppose Medicaid expansion, and Kelly has been unable to get a bill through the GOP-controlled Legislature.“Junk insurance – which doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions or provide consumer protections – is just that, ‘junk,’” Kelly said in her veto message.Some critics of the bill were worried because in 2019, Kelly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/8c6f552e504e490b8ce2cd7d753e1995">didn’t block</a>&nbsp;a GOP measure to permit the Kansas Farm Bureau to offer health coverage that doesn’t comply with the federal Affordable Care Act, letting it become law without her signature. No Democrats voted for the final version of this year’s bill.Critics said the bill did not represent an improvement over existing rules for short-term plans because companies still can decline later to sell new policies to the same consumers.“Short-term health plans pose serious and often underestimated risks to people facing illness and discriminate against people who’ve experienced cancer,” said Dana Bacon, a lobbyist for the Leukemia &amp; Lymphoma Society.The bill passed the Senate earlier this month on a party-line&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210507150401_849820/" target="_blank">29-11 vote,</a>&nbsp;giving supporters two votes more than the two-thirds majority needed to override a veto. But the vote in the House was&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20210507115434_172015/" target="_blank">68-51,</a>&nbsp;leaving supporters well short of the 84 needed for a veto override.Supporters of the bill said short-term plans are mainly for people who are between jobs, employed but trying to find insurance on their own, waiting for an employer’s coverage to start, or retiring before they’re eligible for federal Medicare coverage for people 65 or older.They said companies are up front about what’s covered and what’s not and are regulated by the state.“It is a very much a niche product,” said Senate Insurance Committee Chair Jeff Longbine, an Emporia Republican. “It really comes down to the consumer being able to choose what they can afford, and if this is what they can afford, it’s certainly better than being uninsured.”State Sen. Beverly Gossage, a Eudora Republican and insurance agent who championed the bill, said Kelly misunderstood the measure and the issues involved. She said the measure improves an existing option for consumers.She said about 1,800 Kansas residents have short-term plans, and they’re in middle-class families that don’t qualify for enough of a subsidy to make comprehensive plans in the federal government’s online insurance marketplace affordable.Gossage argued that even people wary of short-term plans should support the measure.“It’s just that you have some people that, the minute you say, ‘Wait a minute; I’ve heard about these plans; they don’t cover pre-existing conditions,’ their fingers go in their ears and they start to say, ”La, la, la, la, la,” she said. “They don’t hear anything else you say.”

Governor vetoes bill on what she calls 'junk insurance'

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Computer issues with the system that provides check-in services for multiple airlines caused delays and long check-in lines across the nation on Friday morning.

Sabre, the company that several airlines use for flight bookings, said it experienced an outage that affected several customers.

“However, the issue is now fully resolved, and we will take all necessary measures to prevent a recurrence,” the company said in a statement.

The problem affected American Airlines, JetBlue and Alaska Airlines.

“Earlier today, Sabre had a technical issue that impacted multiple carriers,” American Airlines said in a statement. “This issue has been resolved and our systems are back online. We apologize to our customers for the inconvenience.”

Alaska Airlines said the Sabre system went down and some planes unable to board. Just before 6 a.m., the airline also said it was “back up and running.”

Even though the system had been restored, there were still reports of long lines at some airports hours later.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Computer issues with the system that provides check-in services for multiple airlines caused delays and long check-in lines across the nation on Friday morning.Sabre, the company that several airlines use for flight bookings, said it experienced an outage that affected several customers.“However, the issue is now fully resolved, and we will take all necessary measures to prevent a recurrence,” the company said in a statement.The problem affected American Airlines, JetBlue and Alaska Airlines.“Earlier today, Sabre had a technical issue that impacted multiple carriers,” American Airlines said in a statement. “This issue has been resolved and our systems are back online. We apologize to our customers for the inconvenience.”Alaska Airlines said the Sabre system went down and some planes unable to board. Just before 6 a.m., the airline also said it was “back up and running.”Even though the system had been restored, there were still reports of long lines at some airports hours later.

Check in problems causes delays at airports nationwide

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House on Thursday narrowly approved $1.9 billion to fortify the Capitol after the Jan. 6 insurrection, as Democrats pushed past Republican opposition to try to harden the complex with retractable fencing and a quick-response force following the most violent domestic attack on Congress in history.

The bill’s 213-212 passage came a day after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-riots-capitol-siege-government-and-politics-3443b4d60621679dd5b42b3d3502d59d">House approved the formation of an independent commission</a>&nbsp;to investigate the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/capitol-siege">deadly mob siege</a>&nbsp;by President Donald Trump’s supporters, who battled police to storm the building in a failed attempt to overturn Democrat Joe Biden’s election.

The two measures now face an uncertain outcome in the evenly divided Senate as most Republicans have objected to both. Tensions are running high at the Capitol, with Democrats growing exasperated with Republicans who refuse to acknowledge the severity of the insurrection because of what appears to be their devotion to Trump — and fears of crossing him.

“We have a major political party in the country that’s ignoring it — we’re trying to solve a problem, they clearly don’t want to sit down and talk about it,” said Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Ohio, chairman of an appropriations subcommittee handling legislative branch security.

At the same time, the idea of bolstered security at the Capitol saddened many lawmakers who said they see no other choice because of the ongoing threats on Congress. Several leading liberal Democrats opposed the security money over concerns about policing, as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democratic leaders worked the floor during votes to ensure passage.

Together, the package of bills stemming from the domestic assault by Trump supporters on the Capitol reminded some lawmakers of the changes that emerged from the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Then, a landmark commission investigated the attack’s root causes and authorities hardened the security apparatus across the federal government.

Thursday’s vote capped two days of emotionally wrenching debate as the political divide, particularly in the House, has widened in the months since the January assault.

House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro recalled her own experience being trapped in the House gallery that day as the attackers tried to break in, calling her husband to tell him she was OK after Capitol Police told her to duck on the floor.

“This bill is not about politics, it’s not about settling scores,” DeLauro said. “It’s about ensuring that every person who comes into the Capitol is safe and is protected.”

Republicans argued that the spending bill is too expensive and no fencing is needed. Many of them said lawmakers should be spending money on border security, not Capitol security.

Rep. Lance Gooden, R-Texas, contended that Democrats would rather spend money on a wall “around this building in D.C.” than they would on finishing a border wall advocated by Trump.

Already, National Guard troops have been protecting the building for months and public access is severely limited. Though razor-wire-topped fencing that stood as a stark reminder of the siege has been removed, an extended perimeter fence remains in place, cutting off access to the lush grounds popular with the public.

The Democrats who opposed the security legislation were some of the most liberal in the House. Some have expressed the view that police treat people of color unfairly. Democratic Reps. Cori Bush of Missouri, Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts and Ilhan Omar of Minnesota voted against it.

Omar said she had “not been convinced of the importance of the money.”

Democratic Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, Jamaal Bowman of New York and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan voted “present,” effectively saving the measure from going down to defeat.

The chairwoman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington, said the lawmakers “wanted to make sure that there were accountability measures” on the security funds. She voted for the bill.

Senate Democrats will not be able to pass either bill on their own in the evenly split 50-50 Senate and could have trouble persuading enough Republicans to vote with them after Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell announced he would oppose the inquiry. Ten GOP senators would need to join Democrats to meet the 60-vote threshold needed to advance legislation. Changes could be made to win over their support.

Months in the making, the emergency spending package incorporates the recommendations from an outside panel of experts to beef up security after the mob attack.

The bill includes money for new fencing — either retractable or “pop in,” according to Democrats — that would protect the grounds. The legislation bars money from being used for permanent above-ground fencing, reflecting the wishes of most members of Congress that the area should be open to the public.

Other changes would fortify windows and doors, install new security vestibules and cameras, and protect members with increased security at home and in Washington, as threats against them have doubled in the last year. There is also money to protect federal judges who are prosecuting the rioters and have received threats, and to repay the Capitol Police and other federal agencies for their efforts on Jan. 6.

Some lawmakers have objected to the proposal for the National Guard to maintain a “quick response force” nearby after it took hours for Guard troops to arrive Jan. 6 as attackers were brutally beating officers.

Leading Republicans on the armed services committees in the House and Senate oppose relying on the troops for the work of protecting the Capitol.

The National Guard Association of the United States said in a statement that the Guard should only be used for law enforcement as a “last resort.”

Democrats said they, too, are uneasy with many of the military-like measures, but say they have little choice but to protect the building. The delays in sending the Guard to the Capitol have been blamed in part for the failure to contain the violence. Five people died, including a Trump supporter shot and killed by police as she tried to climb through a broken window to access the House chamber, and a police officer who fought off the mob and died later.

“We’ve never had a quick response for us here — you know, we’ve never had an insurrection, either,” Ryan said. “So thinking has to evolve in order to try to solve some of these problems.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House on Thursday narrowly approved $1.9 billion to fortify the Capitol after the Jan. 6 insurrection, as Democrats pushed past Republican opposition to try to harden the complex with retractable fencing and a quick-response force following the most violent domestic attack on Congress in history.The bill’s 213-212 passage came a day after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-riots-capitol-siege-government-and-politics-3443b4d60621679dd5b42b3d3502d59d">House approved the formation of an independent commission</a>&nbsp;to investigate the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/capitol-siege">deadly mob siege</a>&nbsp;by President Donald Trump’s supporters, who battled police to storm the building in a failed attempt to overturn Democrat Joe Biden’s election.The two measures now face an uncertain outcome in the evenly divided Senate as most Republicans have objected to both. Tensions are running high at the Capitol, with Democrats growing exasperated with Republicans who refuse to acknowledge the severity of the insurrection because of what appears to be their devotion to Trump — and fears of crossing him.“We have a major political party in the country that’s ignoring it — we’re trying to solve a problem, they clearly don’t want to sit down and talk about it,” said Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Ohio, chairman of an appropriations subcommittee handling legislative branch security.At the same time, the idea of bolstered security at the Capitol saddened many lawmakers who said they see no other choice because of the ongoing threats on Congress. Several leading liberal Democrats opposed the security money over concerns about policing, as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democratic leaders worked the floor during votes to ensure passage.Together, the package of bills stemming from the domestic assault by Trump supporters on the Capitol reminded some lawmakers of the changes that emerged from the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Then, a landmark commission investigated the attack’s root causes and authorities hardened the security apparatus across the federal government.Thursday’s vote capped two days of emotionally wrenching debate as the political divide, particularly in the House, has widened in the months since the January assault.House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro recalled her own experience being trapped in the House gallery that day as the attackers tried to break in, calling her husband to tell him she was OK after Capitol Police told her to duck on the floor.“This bill is not about politics, it’s not about settling scores,” DeLauro said. “It’s about ensuring that every person who comes into the Capitol is safe and is protected.”Republicans argued that the spending bill is too expensive and no fencing is needed. Many of them said lawmakers should be spending money on border security, not Capitol security.Rep. Lance Gooden, R-Texas, contended that Democrats would rather spend money on a wall “around this building in D.C.” than they would on finishing a border wall advocated by Trump.Already, National Guard troops have been protecting the building for months and public access is severely limited. Though razor-wire-topped fencing that stood as a stark reminder of the siege has been removed, an extended perimeter fence remains in place, cutting off access to the lush grounds popular with the public.The Democrats who opposed the security legislation were some of the most liberal in the House. Some have expressed the view that police treat people of color unfairly. Democratic Reps. Cori Bush of Missouri, Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts and Ilhan Omar of Minnesota voted against it.Omar said she had “not been convinced of the importance of the money.”Democratic Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, Jamaal Bowman of New York and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan voted “present,” effectively saving the measure from going down to defeat.The chairwoman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington, said the lawmakers “wanted to make sure that there were accountability measures” on the security funds. She voted for the bill.Senate Democrats will not be able to pass either bill on their own in the evenly split 50-50 Senate and could have trouble persuading enough Republicans to vote with them after Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell announced he would oppose the inquiry. Ten GOP senators would need to join Democrats to meet the 60-vote threshold needed to advance legislation. Changes could be made to win over their support.Months in the making, the emergency spending package incorporates the recommendations from an outside panel of experts to beef up security after the mob attack.The bill includes money for new fencing — either retractable or “pop in,” according to Democrats — that would protect the grounds. The legislation bars money from being used for permanent above-ground fencing, reflecting the wishes of most members of Congress that the area should be open to the public.Other changes would fortify windows and doors, install new security vestibules and cameras, and protect members with increased security at home and in Washington, as threats against them have doubled in the last year. There is also money to protect federal judges who are prosecuting the rioters and have received threats, and to repay the Capitol Police and other federal agencies for their efforts on Jan. 6.Some lawmakers have objected to the proposal for the National Guard to maintain a “quick response force” nearby after it took hours for Guard troops to arrive Jan. 6 as attackers were brutally beating officers.Leading Republicans on the armed services committees in the House and Senate oppose relying on the troops for the work of protecting the Capitol.The National Guard Association of the United States said in a statement that the Guard should only be used for law enforcement as a “last resort.”Democrats said they, too, are uneasy with many of the military-like measures, but say they have little choice but to protect the building. The delays in sending the Guard to the Capitol have been blamed in part for the failure to contain the violence. Five people died, including a Trump supporter shot and killed by police as she tried to climb through a broken window to access the House chamber, and a police officer who fought off the mob and died later.“We’ve never had a quick response for us here — you know, we’ve never had an insurrection, either,” Ryan said. “So thinking has to evolve in order to try to solve some of these problems.”___

By 1 vote, House approves $1.9B to fortify U.S. Capitol 

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects following a chase in a stolen vehicle.&nbsp;

Just before 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, a deputy sheriff attempted to stop a stolen vehicle near Meridian and McCormick in Sedgwick County, according to Lt. Benjamin Blick.

The driver, later identified as 40-year-old convicted felon Benjamin Busby fled in the vehicle and sheriff's deputies pursued.&nbsp; 

The pursuit ended in the West High School parking lot when the Busby and a passenger later identified as 25-year-old Arianna Harrod ran from the vehicle on foot.&nbsp; 

Deputies ultimately located and arrested Busby and Harrod.&nbsp;

She was found in possession of drugs and a firearm stolen from Wichita at the time of her arrest, according to Blick. The vehicle was stolen from Park City.&nbsp;

Busby, who was wanted on outstanding warrants, was transported to a local hospital after his arrest. Just after 8p.m. Wednesday he <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=122111">was booked into jail on</a> requested charges of possession of stolen property, interference with law enforcement; obstruct felony warrant service, failure to comply, failure to appear and flee or attempt to elude.

Harrod was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail for violations of the Offender Registration Act.&nbsp; Both are from Wichita.

Busby has nine previous convictions that include burglary, theft, flee or elude and for drug possession, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621442511991.png" alt="Harrod photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Harrod photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects following a chase in a stolen vehicle.&nbsp;Just before 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, a deputy sheriff attempted to stop a stolen vehicle near Meridian and McCormick in Sedgwick County, according to Lt. Benjamin Blick.The driver, later identified as 40-year-old convicted felon Benjamin Busby fled in the vehicle and sheriff's deputies pursued.&nbsp; The pursuit ended in the West High School parking lot when the Busby and a passenger later identified as 25-year-old Arianna Harrod ran from the vehicle on foot.&nbsp; Deputies ultimately located and arrested Busby and Harrod.&nbsp;She was found in possession of drugs and a firearm stolen from Wichita at the time of her arrest, according to Blick. The vehicle was stolen from Park City.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621513388157.png" alt="Officials booked Busby into the Sedgwick County jail Wednesday evening.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Officials booked Busby into the Sedgwick County jail Wednesday evening.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Busby, who was wanted on outstanding warrants, was transported to a local hospital after his arrest. Just after 8p.m. Wednesday he <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=122111">was booked into jail on</a> requested charges of possession of stolen property, interference with law enforcement; obstruct felony warrant service, failure to comply, failure to appear and flee or attempt to elude.Harrod was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail for violations of the Offender Registration Act.&nbsp; Both are from Wichita.Busby has nine previous convictions that include burglary, theft, flee or elude and for drug possession, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.-------

Kan. man arrested in school parking lot released from hospital

KANSAS CITY(AP) — The City Council of Kansas City on Thursday approved two new ordinances that reallocate a part of the police department's budget to a new fund that would be used to focus on new strategies for combatting violent crime.

The approval came swiftly, just hours after Mayor Quinton Lucas announced the new ordinances, which reallocate about $44 million in police department funding to a new Community Services and Prevention Fund. The city manager will negotiate with police officials over how the money is spent, with an emphasis on community engagement, prevention, mental health services and other public services.

Lucas said in a news conference the changes are also aimed at increasing police accountability in a city where elected officials have almost no say in how the police department spends it money.

The department is overseen by a Board of Police Commissioners, which includes the mayor and four members appointed by the Missouri governor. The board determines how police funds are spent.

Since social justice protests erupted last year in response to George Floyd's death in Minneapolis, residents in Kansas City have ask for several things, Lucas said.

“(They've said) we want our community to be safer, we want to have a positive relationship with law enforcement, we want them to listen to us, hear from us, we want everyone to do better,” he said. "This is us recognizing that we must do better and we can do better, as a city, as city leadership and as a police department."

Lucas said in the past the city has increased funding for the police department to hire more officers, rather than looking at more creative ways to address violent crime. The approach has not worked as the city continues to have too many murders and tragedy for too many families, he said.

The ordinances come days after Police Chief Rick Smith wrote in a blog that the department needs more funding because it is facing a serious shortage of officers. He also said if more funding is not approved, community outreach programs such as the Police Athletic League and youth programs would have to be cut so officers can be used to respond to 911 calls.

The police department received $238 million in the current year budget. In his blog, Smith asked citizens to urge the city council to allocate some of the $97.5 million the city received from the federal American Rescue Plan Act to police.

Smith also said budget problems have prevented the department from having a new police recruit class since February of 2020. The proposals introduced Thursday would include $3 million for a new class of recruits, bringing total redirected spending to almost $48 million.

Smith said in a statement Thursday that he was “disheartened” Lucas and the eight council co-sponsors had not notified the police department before announcing the ordinances, and had not mentioned them at Board of Police Commissioners meetings.

"The Mayor and the other sponsoring council members have not previously mentioned this proposal, so our discussions about it are just beginning,” Smith said.

Four city council members who represent mostly suburban Kansas City areas north of the Missouri river also said they had not been notified before Lucas held his news conference. They all voted against the ordinances, saying the city needs more, not fewer, officers. They also expressed concern that the council had not had time to vet the proposals or have public discussions on them.

Councilman Dan Fowler, who represents a part of the city in Platte County, said police already have difficulty closing cases because of a lack of officers and staff.

“I support change, we all do,” Fowler said. “I support working collaboratively to come up with creative solutions to solve complex issues, and these are complex issues. I don't support change without a plan, and that is what is happening here.”

Lucas did not respond during the council meeting to the complaints that the council members and police chief were not notified.

The ordinance reducing the police budget by $44 million gives it 20% of the city’s general fund revenue, which is the minimum required by state law.

Lucas emphasized the changes are reallocations, not a defunding of the police department, if the police board agrees to negotiate over the use of the funds. He noted the board is not under legal obligation to negotiate a contract on how the money is spent.

The city already has a contract with the police department over parking enforcement, as well as with other governmental entities, such as the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority.

In the last year, several civil rights advocates have strongly criticized Lucas, the city council and the police department — including demanding that Smith resign or be fired.

One of those critics, Gwen Grant, president and CEO of the Urban League of Kansas City, said the ordinances proposed Thursday are “a refreshing change of course” that would use tax dollars to address the root causes of violent crime and to make the city safer.

"It is time that the KCPD be held to account for their inefficient and ineffective expenditures, which have failed to substantively address the proliferation of violent crime in our community,” Grant said in a statement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621591891245.png" alt="Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas answers questions following Thursday's Council meeting. Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas answers questions following Thursday's Council meeting. Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY(AP) — The City Council of Kansas City on Thursday approved two new ordinances that reallocate a part of the police department's budget to a new fund that would be used to focus on new strategies for combatting violent crime.The approval came swiftly, just hours after Mayor Quinton Lucas announced the new ordinances, which reallocate about $44 million in police department funding to a new Community Services and Prevention Fund. The city manager will negotiate with police officials over how the money is spent, with an emphasis on community engagement, prevention, mental health services and other public services.Lucas said in a news conference the changes are also aimed at increasing police accountability in a city where elected officials have almost no say in how the police department spends it money.The department is overseen by a Board of Police Commissioners, which includes the mayor and four members appointed by the Missouri governor. The board determines how police funds are spent.Since social justice protests erupted last year in response to George Floyd's death in Minneapolis, residents in Kansas City have ask for several things, Lucas said.“(They've said) we want our community to be safer, we want to have a positive relationship with law enforcement, we want them to listen to us, hear from us, we want everyone to do better,” he said. "This is us recognizing that we must do better and we can do better, as a city, as city leadership and as a police department."Lucas said in the past the city has increased funding for the police department to hire more officers, rather than looking at more creative ways to address violent crime. The approach has not worked as the city continues to have too many murders and tragedy for too many families, he said.The ordinances come days after Police Chief Rick Smith wrote in a blog that the department needs more funding because it is facing a serious shortage of officers. He also said if more funding is not approved, community outreach programs such as the Police Athletic League and youth programs would have to be cut so officers can be used to respond to 911 calls.The police department received $238 million in the current year budget. In his blog, Smith asked citizens to urge the city council to allocate some of the $97.5 million the city received from the federal American Rescue Plan Act to police.Smith also said budget problems have prevented the department from having a new police recruit class since February of 2020. The proposals introduced Thursday would include $3 million for a new class of recruits, bringing total redirected spending to almost $48 million.Smith said in a statement Thursday that he was “disheartened” Lucas and the eight council co-sponsors had not notified the police department before announcing the ordinances, and had not mentioned them at Board of Police Commissioners meetings."The Mayor and the other sponsoring council members have not previously mentioned this proposal, so our discussions about it are just beginning,” Smith said.Four city council members who represent mostly suburban Kansas City areas north of the Missouri river also said they had not been notified before Lucas held his news conference. They all voted against the ordinances, saying the city needs more, not fewer, officers. They also expressed concern that the council had not had time to vet the proposals or have public discussions on them.Councilman Dan Fowler, who represents a part of the city in Platte County, said police already have difficulty closing cases because of a lack of officers and staff.“I support change, we all do,” Fowler said. “I support working collaboratively to come up with creative solutions to solve complex issues, and these are complex issues. I don't support change without a plan, and that is what is happening here.”Lucas did not respond during the council meeting to the complaints that the council members and police chief were not notified.The ordinance reducing the police budget by $44 million gives it 20% of the city’s general fund revenue, which is the minimum required by state law.Lucas emphasized the changes are reallocations, not a defunding of the police department, if the police board agrees to negotiate over the use of the funds. He noted the board is not under legal obligation to negotiate a contract on how the money is spent.The city already has a contract with the police department over parking enforcement, as well as with other governmental entities, such as the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority.In the last year, several civil rights advocates have strongly criticized Lucas, the city council and the police department — including demanding that Smith resign or be fired.One of those critics, Gwen Grant, president and CEO of the Urban League of Kansas City, said the ordinances proposed Thursday are “a refreshing change of course” that would use tax dollars to address the root causes of violent crime and to make the city safer."It is time that the KCPD be held to account for their inefficient and ineffective expenditures, which have failed to substantively address the proliferation of violent crime in our community,” Grant said in a statement.

City Council adopts controversial change to KCPD funding

WASHINGTON — Federal Communications Commission Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel on Thursday announced the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program enrolled more than one million households in the first week of the program’s debut.  Households in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and American Samoa are benefitting from the subsidy program initiated by Congress. 

“The high demand we’ve seen for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program demonstrates what many of us already knew to be true – too many families are struggling to get online, even in 2021.  Help is here.  As an agency, we’re continuing to focus our efforts on reaching as many communities as possible, so they can get the support they need,” said Rosenworcel. 

Over 900 broadband providers have agreed to take part in the program. &nbsp;The benefit is available to eligible new, prior, and existing customers of participating providers.&nbsp; Customers can sign up by contacting a participating provider, enroll online at https://www.getemergencybroadband.org, or sign up via mail.&nbsp; To learn more or learn where to access a mail-in application, call (833) 511-0311.

Households can qualify several ways such as through their use of existing assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, Lifeline or if a child relies on reduced-price school meals programs.&nbsp; The Emergency Broadband Benefit is also available to households who are eligible for a broadband provider’s existing COVID relief program, to those who have received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year, and to those low-income households who suffered a large loss in income during the pandemic due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584977952684.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FCCWASHINGTON — Federal Communications Commission Acting Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel on Thursday announced the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program enrolled more than one million households in the first week of the program’s debut. Households in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and American Samoa are benefitting from the subsidy program initiated by Congress. “The high demand we’ve seen for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program demonstrates what many of us already knew to be true – too many families are struggling to get online, even in 2021. Help is here. As an agency, we’re continuing to focus our efforts on reaching as many communities as possible, so they can get the support they need,” said Rosenworcel. Over 900 broadband providers have agreed to take part in the program. &nbsp;The benefit is available to eligible new, prior, and existing customers of participating providers.&nbsp; Customers can sign up by contacting a participating provider, enroll online at https://www.getemergencybroadband.org, or sign up via mail.&nbsp; To learn more or learn where to access a mail-in application, call (833) 511-0311.Households can qualify several ways such as through their use of existing assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, Lifeline or if a child relies on reduced-price school meals programs.&nbsp; The Emergency Broadband Benefit is also available to households who are eligible for a broadband provider’s existing COVID relief program, to those who have received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year, and to those low-income households who suffered a large loss in income during the pandemic due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020.

FCC: Over 1M US households apply for internet assistance program

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas public school district is trying to figure out how to keep school board meetings accessible online without hindering public comments after YouTube concluded that a video of a recent meeting spread misinformation about COVID-19 and removed it.

The Shawnee Mission school board’s meeting Monday saw several parents and a Kansas lawmaker call for the district to remove its mask mandate.

Several residents of the district in Johnson County have spread misinformation about COVID-19 and mask-wearing at county, city and school board meetings during the past year.

But district spokesman David Smith said it was the first time that the district learned a video was removed.

More than two dozen residents gathered before the meeting to protest the district’s mask mandate, which officials have said will stay in place. State Sen. Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican who’s argued for ending coronavirus pandemic restrictions, was in the crowd and spoke during public comments.

YouTube’s community guidelines list COVID-19 fallacies it will remove, including that the virus is not real or that children cannot get infected.

Smith said the district is still talking about how to manage the issue.

“We really don’t want to lose our ability to broadcast,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620223298685.jpeg" alt="State Sen. Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican who’s argued for ending coronavirus pandemic restrictions, was in the crowd and spoke during public comments - photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican who’s argued for ending coronavirus pandemic restrictions, was in the crowd and spoke during public comments - photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas public school district is trying to figure out how to keep school board meetings accessible online without hindering public comments after YouTube concluded that a video of a recent meeting spread misinformation about COVID-19 and removed it.The Shawnee Mission school board’s meeting Monday saw several parents and a Kansas lawmaker call for the district to remove its mask mandate.Several residents of the district in Johnson County have spread misinformation about COVID-19 and mask-wearing at county, city and school board meetings during the past year.But district spokesman David Smith said it was the first time that the district learned a video was removed.More than two dozen residents gathered before the meeting to protest the district’s mask mandate, which officials have said will stay in place. State Sen. Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican who’s argued for ending coronavirus pandemic restrictions, was in the crowd and spoke during public comments.YouTube’s community guidelines list COVID-19 fallacies it will remove, including that the virus is not real or that children cannot get infected.Smith said the district is still talking about how to manage the issue.“We really don’t want to lose our ability to broadcast,” he said.

YouTube bans Kan. school board's video over COVID comments

ELLSWORTH – A Kansas man has been sentenced to more than 29 years in prison for his conviction on three counts of rape, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.

Dalton Eberhart, 20, of Wilson, was sentenced today in Ellsworth County District Court by District Judge Steven Johnson to serve 350 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections. Eberhart had pleaded guilty to the charges in February. In addition, Johnson sentenced Eberhart to lifetime post-release supervision and registration as a sex offender, according to a news release from Schmidt's office.

The crimes took place between June 2019 and May 2020. The case was investigated by the Wilson Police Department, Ellsworth County Sheriff’s Office and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590011023759.png" alt="Eberhart photo Ellsworth Co." />
 <figcaption>Eberhart photo Ellsworth Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLSWORTH – A Kansas man has been sentenced to more than 29 years in prison for his conviction on three counts of rape, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.Dalton Eberhart, 20, of Wilson, was sentenced today in Ellsworth County District Court by District Judge Steven Johnson to serve 350 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections. Eberhart had pleaded guilty to the charges in February. In addition, Johnson sentenced Eberhart to lifetime post-release supervision and registration as a sex offender, according to a news release from Schmidt's office.The crimes took place between June 2019 and May 2020. The case was investigated by the Wilson Police Department, Ellsworth County Sheriff’s Office and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

Kansas man sentenced for 3 counts of rape 

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teen who was stopped after high-speed chase on Interstate 70.

Just after 5 a.m. Thursday, a Dickinson County Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to stop a 2020 Nissan Versa traveling west on Interstate 70 just west of Solomon for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Brian Hornaday.

The driver, later identified as a 14-year-old juvenile girl refused to stop and accelerated to speeds in excess of 110 mph.&nbsp; The Deputy pursued the vehicle into Saline County where the Saline County Sheriff’s Office and Salina Police Department assisted.&nbsp; Near the 9th Street exit in Saline County, Stop Sticks were successfully deployed, allowing a safe ending to the pursuit.

Deputies took the juvenile driver into custody without further incident.&nbsp; Further investigation revealed the juvenile had been reported as missing since April 10, 2021 from Topeka and the vehicle being driven by&nbsp; had recently been stolen from Junction City.&nbsp; This incident remains under investigation, according to Hornaday.

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teen who was stopped after high-speed chase on Interstate 70.Just after 5 a.m. Thursday, a Dickinson County Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to stop a 2020 Nissan Versa traveling west on Interstate 70 just west of Solomon for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Brian Hornaday.The driver, later identified as a 14-year-old juvenile girl refused to stop and accelerated to speeds in excess of 110 mph.&nbsp; The Deputy pursued the vehicle into Saline County where the Saline County Sheriff’s Office and Salina Police Department assisted.&nbsp; Near the 9th Street exit in Saline County, Stop Sticks were successfully deployed, allowing a safe ending to the pursuit.Deputies took the juvenile driver into custody without further incident.&nbsp; Further investigation revealed the juvenile had been reported as missing since April 10, 2021 from Topeka and the vehicle being driven by&nbsp; had recently been stolen from Junction City.&nbsp; This incident remains under investigation, according to Hornaday.

Sheriff: 14-year-old Kan. girl captured after 110mph chase

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans are rebelling against the requirement that they wear a mask on the House floor, stoking tensions with majority Democrats who are refusing to change the rules following updated guidance from federal health officials.

Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., led an effort Wednesday to get the Office of the Attending Physician to update its guidance for mask wearing for vaccinated lawmakers and staff while they are in the House chamber and in committee hearing rooms, but Democrats defeated it along a party-line vote of 218-210.

Lawmakers can remove their masks when speaking on the House floor, but otherwise must keep it on when they are in the chamber. There is no requirement for wearing masks in the Senate chamber.

Democratic lawmakers say they are tired of the requirements, too, but they worry that some of their Republican colleagues have declined to be vaccinated and could spread the virus.

Some GOP lawmakers opted to go without a mask during votes Tuesday, with a few taking particular care to stand in the well of the chamber to ensure that spectators, colleagues and C-SPAN’s cameras could not miss them.

Their defiance could come at a financial cost. Lawmakers who refuse to wear masks are subject to a fine of $500 for the first offense. Subsequent offenses can result in a $2,500 fine. In practice, however, the House sergeant-at-arms is providing a warning for the first offense.

Seven lawmakers will be getting such warnings, according to a list obtained by The Associated Press: Reps. Lauren Boebert of Colorado, Thomas Massie of Kentucky, Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, Chip Roy of Texas, Bob Good of Virginia, Louie Gohmert of Texas and Mary Miller of Illinois

Three more had already received a warning and will be fined $500. They are Reps. Brian Mast of Florida, Mariannette Miller-Meeks of Iowa and Beth Van Duyne of Texas. They will be subject to a fine of $2,500 for additional offenses.

McCarthy followed up on their protests with a resolution that stated the mask mandate “hinders the ability of the House to properly and effectively conduct the people’s business.”

The resolution stated that those who have not received the vaccine “pose no real threat to those who have been vaccinated.” And it called on the attending physician of the House to consult with the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and provide updated mask guidelines.

The mask revolt in the House has been brewing for months, with some Republicans chafing at the extra safety precautions imposed during the pandemic and bolstered after the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. Democrats imposed mask requirements last year when many Republicans, defying public health guidance, refused to wear face coverings.

The complaints from some Republicans have grown louder now that the CDC has altered its mask guidelines, saying it’s safe for fully vaccinated people to skip face coverings and social distancing in virtually all situations.

The CDC guidelines say all people should still wear masks in crowded indoor locations such as airplanes, buses, hospitals and prisons. Lawmakers and others in the Capitol have stopped wearing masks when moving around the building.

Drew Hammill, a spokesman for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, said the Office of the Attending Physician has been consistently conferring with the CDC, and as recently as Tuesday. He said new guidance issued Wednesday states the mask requirement is “entirely consistent” with the CDC’s recommendations and has ensured that the House can debate and pass legislation safely and effectively.

“If Minority Leader McCarthy wants to be maskless on the Floor of the House of Representatives, he should get to work vaccinating his Members,” Hammill wrote.

At one point Tuesday, Boebert, Taylor-Greene and Massie stood together unmasked for several minutes in the well of the House. Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland went over and spoke with them. The conversation appeared cordial.

Raskin told reporters that he can’t wait to take his mask off during House floor proceedings. “The reason we can’t take our masks off is because so many Republicans are not vaccinated and are refusing to do it,” he said.

After Tuesday’s votes, several of the Republicans who declined to wear a mask gathered outside the Capitol for a group picture.

Massie said Wednesday that he had previously contracted COVID-19 and recovered. He said he is “immune” and that “part of the reason you know they’re not following the science here is they don’t care if you have the antibody.”

The CDC states on its website that people should get vaccinated even if they had already had COVID-19.

“That’s because experts do not yet know how long you are protected from getting sick again after recovering from COVID-19. Even if you have already recovered from COVID-19, it is possible — although rare — that you could be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 again,” the CDC says.

Massie said he was prepared to test the mask requirement again.

“I can’t afford to be fined into poverty, but if I’m not willing to spend $500 defending freedom, I don’t belong here,” he said.

Roy said that if any lawmakers or staff members have health concerns, they have the ability to get vaccinated and to wear a mask. Meanwhile, he said the availability of vaccines and the data about their effectiveness shows “that we can engage out in the world” and Americans should see their lawmakers doing that.

“Contrary to some people’s public view and the caricature of myself and others, I’m not looking to, you know, nuke the place,” Roy said. “What I’m looking to do is raise issues, consistently sort of push back and represent my constituents who are tired of this.”

Taylor-Greene took to the House floor again on Wednesday without her mask. She remained in the chamber for much of the day and at times positioned herself in a chair behind the Republican lawmakers who spoke on the floor, which ensured she would be seen by television viewers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621513031110.png" alt="Seven members of the House of Representatives already received a warning. Three others received the warning and will be fined $500, according to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Seven members of the House of Representatives already received a warning. Three others received the warning and will be fined $500, according to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans are rebelling against the requirement that they wear a mask on the House floor, stoking tensions with majority Democrats who are refusing to change the rules following updated guidance from federal health officials.Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., led an effort Wednesday to get the Office of the Attending Physician to update its guidance for mask wearing for vaccinated lawmakers and staff while they are in the House chamber and in committee hearing rooms, but Democrats defeated it along a party-line vote of 218-210.Lawmakers can remove their masks when speaking on the House floor, but otherwise must keep it on when they are in the chamber. There is no requirement for wearing masks in the Senate chamber.Democratic lawmakers say they are tired of the requirements, too, but they worry that some of their Republican colleagues have declined to be vaccinated and could spread the virus.Some GOP lawmakers opted to go without a mask during votes Tuesday, with a few taking particular care to stand in the well of the chamber to ensure that spectators, colleagues and C-SPAN’s cameras could not miss them.Their defiance could come at a financial cost. Lawmakers who refuse to wear masks are subject to a fine of $500 for the first offense. Subsequent offenses can result in a $2,500 fine. In practice, however, the House sergeant-at-arms is providing a warning for the first offense.Seven lawmakers will be getting such warnings, according to a list obtained by The Associated Press: Reps. Lauren Boebert of Colorado, Thomas Massie of Kentucky, Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, Chip Roy of Texas, Bob Good of Virginia, Louie Gohmert of Texas and Mary Miller of IllinoisThree more had already received a warning and will be fined $500. They are Reps. Brian Mast of Florida, Mariannette Miller-Meeks of Iowa and Beth Van Duyne of Texas. They will be subject to a fine of $2,500 for additional offenses.McCarthy followed up on their protests with a resolution that stated the mask mandate “hinders the ability of the House to properly and effectively conduct the people’s business.”The resolution stated that those who have not received the vaccine “pose no real threat to those who have been vaccinated.” And it called on the attending physician of the House to consult with the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and provide updated mask guidelines.The mask revolt in the House has been brewing for months, with some Republicans chafing at the extra safety precautions imposed during the pandemic and bolstered after the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. Democrats imposed mask requirements last year when many Republicans, defying public health guidance, refused to wear face coverings.The complaints from some Republicans have grown louder now that the CDC has altered its mask guidelines, saying it’s safe for fully vaccinated people to skip face coverings and social distancing in virtually all situations.The CDC guidelines say all people should still wear masks in crowded indoor locations such as airplanes, buses, hospitals and prisons. Lawmakers and others in the Capitol have stopped wearing masks when moving around the building.Drew Hammill, a spokesman for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, said the Office of the Attending Physician has been consistently conferring with the CDC, and as recently as Tuesday. He said new guidance issued Wednesday states the mask requirement is “entirely consistent” with the CDC’s recommendations and has ensured that the House can debate and pass legislation safely and effectively.“If Minority Leader McCarthy wants to be maskless on the Floor of the House of Representatives, he should get to work vaccinating his Members,” Hammill wrote.At one point Tuesday, Boebert, Taylor-Greene and Massie stood together unmasked for several minutes in the well of the House. Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland went over and spoke with them. The conversation appeared cordial.Raskin told reporters that he can’t wait to take his mask off during House floor proceedings. “The reason we can’t take our masks off is because so many Republicans are not vaccinated and are refusing to do it,” he said.After Tuesday’s votes, several of the Republicans who declined to wear a mask gathered outside the Capitol for a group picture.Massie said Wednesday that he had previously contracted COVID-19 and recovered. He said he is “immune” and that “part of the reason you know they’re not following the science here is they don’t care if you have the antibody.”The CDC states on its website that people should get vaccinated even if they had already had COVID-19.“That’s because experts do not yet know how long you are protected from getting sick again after recovering from COVID-19. Even if you have already recovered from COVID-19, it is possible — although rare — that you could be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 again,” the CDC says.Massie said he was prepared to test the mask requirement again.“I can’t afford to be fined into poverty, but if I’m not willing to spend $500 defending freedom, I don’t belong here,” he said.Roy said that if any lawmakers or staff members have health concerns, they have the ability to get vaccinated and to wear a mask. Meanwhile, he said the availability of vaccines and the data about their effectiveness shows “that we can engage out in the world” and Americans should see their lawmakers doing that.“Contrary to some people’s public view and the caricature of myself and others, I’m not looking to, you know, nuke the place,” Roy said. “What I’m looking to do is raise issues, consistently sort of push back and represent my constituents who are tired of this.”Taylor-Greene took to the House floor again on Wednesday without her mask. She remained in the chamber for much of the day and at times positioned herself in a chair behind the Republican lawmakers who spoke on the floor, which ensured she would be seen by television viewers.

Republicans rebel against mask requirement in House chamber

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue the search for a woman reported injured in an accident and vehicle fire Wednesday on Interstate 70 near Abilene.

"We are waiting for additional information from the suspect who remains hospitalized," according to Sheriff Brian Hornaday. "

Just after 12:30 a.m. Wednesday, deputies responded to reports of a vehicle on fire on I-70 at Abilene. Upon arrival, deputies found a 2001 Toyota Camry on fire with no occupants in the car.

Further investigation found that the Camry had hit a guardrail near the location of the fire and began an extensive search of the area by the Kansas Highway Patrol, Saline County Sheriff’s Office and the Geary County Sheriff’s Office.

The Dickinson Co. Sheriff’s office said just before 3:40 a.m., officials found the driver, Brandon M. Howard, 29, of Kansas City, Mo., about a quarter-mile away from the scorched vehicle. After making contact, Howard attempted to run from officers and was quickly apprehended.

According to officials, Howard was treated at the scene and transported to Salina Regional Health Center for injuries he got during the collision with the guardrail.

During the investigation, deputies said they learned that there was a second person in the car at the time of the crash. They said the only identification they have regarding the second person is the name “Sarah” and that she could have sustained injuries from the crash. Sarah is believed to live in the Salina area.

Authorities have checked with hospitals and motels in the area but have not located the reported Sarah.&nbsp; "All we have the the suspect's word," said&nbsp; Hornaday.

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are searching for a woman who may go by the name of Sarah after information was revealed that she may have been injured in a collision that started a vehicle fire along Interstate 70 early Wednesday morning in Dickinson County, according to Sheriff Brian Hornaday.

Just after 12:30 a.m., deputies responded to reports of a vehicle on fire on I-70 at Abilene. Upon arrival, deputies found a 2001 Toyota Camry on fire with no occupants in the car.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621447363227.png" alt="Sarah photo Dickinson Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Sarah photo Dickinson Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue the search for a woman reported injured in an accident and vehicle fire Wednesday on Interstate 70 near Abilene."We are waiting for additional information from the suspect who remains hospitalized," according to Sheriff Brian Hornaday. "Just after 12:30 a.m. Wednesday, deputies responded to reports of a vehicle on fire on I-70 at Abilene. Upon arrival, deputies found a 2001 Toyota Camry on fire with no occupants in the car.Further investigation found that the Camry had hit a guardrail near the location of the fire and began an extensive search of the area by the Kansas Highway Patrol, Saline County Sheriff’s Office and the Geary County Sheriff’s Office.The Dickinson Co. Sheriff’s office said just before 3:40 a.m., officials found the driver, Brandon M. Howard, 29, of Kansas City, Mo., about a quarter-mile away from the scorched vehicle. After making contact, Howard attempted to run from officers and was quickly apprehended.According to officials, Howard was treated at the scene and transported to Salina Regional Health Center for injuries he got during the collision with the guardrail.During the investigation, deputies said they learned that there was a second person in the car at the time of the crash. They said the only identification they have regarding the second person is the name “Sarah” and that she could have sustained injuries from the crash. Sarah is believed to live in the Salina area.Authorities have checked with hospitals and motels in the area but have not located the reported Sarah.&nbsp; "All we have the the suspect's word," said&nbsp; Hornaday.--------DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are searching for a woman who may go by the name of Sarah after information was revealed that she may have been injured in a collision that started a vehicle fire along Interstate 70 early Wednesday morning in Dickinson County, according to Sheriff Brian Hornaday.Just after 12:30 a.m., deputies responded to reports of a vehicle on fire on I-70 at Abilene. Upon arrival, deputies found a 2001 Toyota Camry on fire with no occupants in the car.Further investigation found that the Camry had hit a guardrail near the location of the fire and began an extensive search of the area by the Kansas Highway Patrol, Saline County Sheriff’s Office and the Geary County Sheriff’s Office.The Dickinson Co. Sheriff’s office said just before 3:40 a.m., officials found the driver, Brandon M. Howard, 29, of Kansas City, Mo., about a quarter-mile away from the scorched vehicle. After making contact, Howard attempted to run from officers and was quickly apprehended.According to officials, Howard was treated at the scene and transported to Salina Regional Health Center for injuries he got during the collision with the guardrail.During the investigation, deputies said they learned that there was a second person in the car at the time of the crash. They said the only identification they have regarding the second person is the name “Sarah” and that she could have sustained injuries from the crash. Sarah is believed to live in the Salina area.

Sheriff: Search continues for woman reported injured in Kan. crash

HAMILTON COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 1a.m. Thursday in Hamilton County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford F150 driven by Donovan&nbsp;Seeber, 27, Syracuse,&nbsp; was northbound on Kansas 27 one mile south of U.S. 50.

The pickup traveled left of center and collided head-on with a 2014 Peterbilt semi driven by Robert McGregor, 66, Wellington, Colorado.

Seeber was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Fellers Mortuary.&nbsp; EMS transported McGregor to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. The KHP did not report Seeber's seat belt usage.&nbsp; McGregor was properly restrained at the time of the accident.

HAMILTON COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 1a.m. Thursday in Hamilton County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford F150 driven by Donovan&nbsp;Seeber, 27, Syracuse,&nbsp; was northbound on Kansas 27 one mile south of U.S. 50.The pickup traveled left of center and collided head-on with a 2014 Peterbilt semi driven by Robert McGregor, 66, Wellington, Colorado.Seeber was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Fellers Mortuary.&nbsp; EMS transported McGregor to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. The KHP did not report Seeber's seat belt usage.&nbsp; McGregor was properly restrained at the time of the accident.

Kan. man dead, another injured in head-on semi crash

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Another mountain lion sighting has been captured on a doorbell camera in the Wichita area, and Kansas wildlife officials suspect it’s the same big cat caught on camera last week sauntering through a Wichita alley.

Police in the Wichita suburb of Andover said the most recent video was captured just before 11 p.m. Tuesday, showing the puma padding along a sidewalk in front of a house in Andover. That’s about 12 miles away from the site in Wichita’s Riverside neighborhood where a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wichita-ac9198fd4e82e7435225c8074936e0f8">doorbell camera showed a cougar</a>&nbsp;trotting through an alley around 4 a.m. May 10.

Kansas Department of Wildlife Research Biologist Matt Peek confirmed the cat in the latest video is a mountain lion and likely the same one as spotted last week, as it would be rare to have two pumas sharing the same territory.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620829476424.png" alt="The mountain lion is likely the same one as spotted last week, according to the Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks -photo courtesy KAKE" />
 <figcaption>The mountain lion is likely the same one as spotted last week, according to the Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks -photo courtesy KAKE</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Another mountain lion sighting has been captured on a doorbell camera in the Wichita area, and Kansas wildlife officials suspect it’s the same big cat caught on camera last week sauntering through a Wichita alley.Police in the Wichita suburb of Andover said the most recent video was captured just before 11 p.m. Tuesday, showing the puma padding along a sidewalk in front of a house in Andover. That’s about 12 miles away from the site in Wichita’s Riverside neighborhood where a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wichita-ac9198fd4e82e7435225c8074936e0f8">doorbell camera showed a cougar</a>&nbsp;trotting through an alley around 4 a.m. May 10.Kansas Department of Wildlife Research Biologist Matt Peek confirmed the cat in the latest video is a mountain lion and likely the same one as spotted last week, as it would be rare to have two pumas sharing the same territory.

Police mark 2nd video sighting of mountain lion near Wichita

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Two drivers were killed and one driver’s teenage daughter was seriously injured in a crash in suburban Kansas City earlier this week, authorities said.

The crash happened Tuesday evening, when a speeding Porsche tried to pass a car on U.S. 40 in Independence, crossed over into incoming traffic and hit another car head-on.

The impact killed the driver of the Porsche, whose name had not been released by early Thursday, as well as Christina Pappas, who was driving the other car, officials said. Pappas’ daughter, 19-year-old MaKaila Pappas, was hospitalized with broken legs, a broken arm and broken ribs.

A passenger in the Porsche was also injured.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621523105236.png" alt="Vehicle involved in the fatal crash -photo courtesy Fox4Kansas City" />
 <figcaption>Vehicle involved in the fatal crash -photo courtesy Fox4Kansas City</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — Two drivers were killed and one driver’s teenage daughter was seriously injured in a crash in suburban Kansas City earlier this week, authorities said.The crash happened Tuesday evening, when a speeding Porsche tried to pass a car on U.S. 40 in Independence, crossed over into incoming traffic and hit another car head-on.The impact killed the driver of the Porsche, whose name had not been released by early Thursday, as well as Christina Pappas, who was driving the other car, officials said. Pappas’ daughter, 19-year-old MaKaila Pappas, was hospitalized with broken legs, a broken arm and broken ribs.A passenger in the Porsche was also injured.

Mom killed, teen daughter injured in Kansas City crash

FINNEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man and woman in connection with the murder of a Colorado man on May 14, according to a media release from the <a href="https://cbi.colorado.gov/news-article/two-arrested-in-la-junta-homicide">Colorado Bureau of Investigation.</a>

Matthew Perez, 39,  Garden City is being held on a requested charge of First Degree Murder and Nikki Olivas, 32, Garden City faces a charge of Accessory to First Degree Murder in connection to the murder of 49-year-old Ernesto Apodaca.

He was shot inside of his vehicle parked in front of his apartment building located in the 600 block of Sunrise Avenue in the Morningside Heights&nbsp; neighborhood of La Junta, Colorado on Friday evening.

Officers arrested Perez and Olivas in rural Finney County, Kansas without incident. Authorities also located the suspect vehicle.

Perez and Olivas are currently being held without bond in the Finney County Sheriff’s Office Detention Facility pending extradition to Otero County.&nbsp;

It’s believed Apodaca and Perez are known to one another; however, the circumstances surrounding the shooting are part of the active investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621506858741.png" alt="Perez photo Finney County" />
 <figcaption>Perez photo Finney County</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man and woman in connection with the murder of a Colorado man on May 14, according to a media release from the <a href="https://cbi.colorado.gov/news-article/two-arrested-in-la-junta-homicide">Colorado Bureau of Investigation.</a>Matthew Perez, 39, Garden City is being held on a requested charge of First Degree Murder and Nikki Olivas, 32, Garden City faces a charge of Accessory to First Degree Murder in connection to the murder of 49-year-old Ernesto Apodaca.He was shot inside of his vehicle parked in front of his apartment building located in the 600 block of Sunrise Avenue in the Morningside Heights&nbsp; neighborhood of La Junta, Colorado on Friday evening.Officers arrested Perez and Olivas in rural Finney County, Kansas without incident. Authorities also located the suspect vehicle.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621507016239.png" alt="Olivas photo Finney" />
 <figcaption>Olivas photo Finney</figcaption>
 </figure>Perez and Olivas are currently being held without bond in the Finney County Sheriff’s Office Detention Facility pending extradition to Otero County.&nbsp;It’s believed Apodaca and Perez are known to one another; however, the circumstances surrounding the shooting are part of the active investigation.

SW Kansas couple accused of murder in Colorado

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers who 
missed the recent tax-filing deadline who are due a refund that there is
 no penalty for filing late. Those who owe and missed the deadline 
without requesting an extension should file quickly to limit penalties 
and interest.

Extra time to file and pay any taxes due without penalties and interest is available for some taxpayers. Included are:

The only way to get a refund is to file a tax return. There is no 
penalty for filing after the deadline if a refund is due. Use electronic
 filing options including IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> available on IRS.gov through October 15 to prepare and file returns electronically.

COVID-19 continues to cause delays in some IRS services. If a 
taxpayer filed a paper tax return, the IRS will process it in the order 
it was received. Taxpayers should not file a second tax return or call 
the IRS. The IRS issues more than nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21
 days. However, it's possible a tax return may require <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/tax-season-refund-frequently-asked-questions">additional review</a> and take longer.

Taxpayers can track a refund using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a> tool on IRS.gov, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> and by phone at <a href="tel:800-829-1954">800-829-1954</a>.
 Taxpayers need the primary Social Security number on the tax return, 
the filing status and the expected refund amount. The tool updates once 
daily, usually overnight, so there's no need to check more frequently. 
The Where's My Refund?&nbsp;tool cannot be used to track Economic Impact 
Payments.

Normally, taxpayers should file their tax return, or request an 
extension, and pay any taxes they owe by the deadline to avoid penalties
 and interest. An extension to file is not an extension to pay. 
Penalties and interest will apply to taxes owed after May 17.

Even if a taxpayer can't afford to immediately pay the taxes they 
owe, they should still file a tax return as soon as possible to reduce 
possible penalties. The IRS has more information for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/what-if-i-cant-pay-my-taxes">taxpayers who owe the IRS, but cannot afford to pay</a>.

Ordinarily, the failure to file penalty is 5% of the tax owed for 
each month or part of a month that a tax return is late, up to five 
months, reduced by the failure to pay penalty amount for any month where
 both penalties apply. If a return is filed more than 60 days after the 
due date, the minimum penalty is either $435 or 100% of the unpaid tax, 
whichever is less. Filing and paying as much as possible is important 
because the late-filing penalty and late-payment penalty add up quickly.
 The failure to pay penalty rate is generally 0.5% of unpaid tax owed 
for each month or part of a month until the tax is fully paid or until 
25% is reached. The rate is subject to change. For more information see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/understanding-penalties-and-interest">IRS.gov/penalties</a>.

Taxpayers who have a history of filing and paying on time often 
qualify for penalty relief. A taxpayer will usually qualify if they have
 filed and paid timely for the past three years and meet other 
requirements. For more information, see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/penalty-relief-due-to-first-time-penalty-abatement-or-other-administrative-waiver">first-time penalty abatement</a> page on IRS.gov.

Interest is charged on tax and penalties until the balance is <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">paid in full</a>.

Those who owe taxes can pay with IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a>, by <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-your-taxes-by-debit-or-credit-card">debit or credit card</a> or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application">apply online for a payment plan (including an installment agreement)</a>. For more electronic payment options visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">IRS.gov/payments</a>.
 They are secure and easy to use. Taxpayers paying electronically 
receive immediate confirmation when they submit their payment. With 
Direct Pay and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)</a>, taxpayers can opt in to receive email notifications about their payments.

The IRS offers tips to help taxpayers choose a tax return preparer wisely. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">Choosing a Tax Professional</a> page has information about tax return preparer <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/understanding-tax-return-preparer-credentials-and-qualifications">credentials and qualification</a>s and guidance on avoiding unscrupulous tax return preparers

The <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>
 can help taxpayers find tax return preparers who hold a professional 
credential recognized by the IRS or who have completed the requirements 
for the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/annual-filing-season-program">Annual Filing Season Program</a>.

Taxpayers have fundamental rights under the law that protect taxpayers when they interact with the IRS. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxpayer-bill-of-rights">Taxpayer Bill of Rights</a> presents these rights in 10 categories. IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-1">Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer</a>, highlights these rights and the agency's obligation to protect them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers who 
missed the recent tax-filing deadline who are due a refund that there is
 no penalty for filing late. Those who owe and missed the deadline 
without requesting an extension should file quickly to limit penalties 
and interest.<h2>Extra time to file and pay any taxes due without penalties and interest is available for some taxpayers. Included are:</h2><ul>
 <li>Members of the military who served or are currently in a combat zone. They may qualify for an <a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p3#idm139848472538848">additional extension of at least 180 days</a> to file and pay taxes.</li><li>Support personnel in combat zones or a contingency operation in support of the Armed Forces. They may also <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/extension-of-deadlines-combat-zone-service">qualify for a filing and payment extension</a> of at least 180 days.</li><li>Some disaster victims. Those who qualify have <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/disaster-assistance-and-emergency-relief-for-individuals-and-businesses">more time to file and pay</a> what they owe.</li>
 </ul><h2>Here are some tips for late filers:</h2><h2>File to get a tax refund</h2>The only way to get a refund is to file a tax return. There is no 
penalty for filing after the deadline if a refund is due. Use electronic
 filing options including IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> available on IRS.gov through October 15 to prepare and file returns electronically.COVID-19 continues to cause delays in some IRS services. If a 
taxpayer filed a paper tax return, the IRS will process it in the order 
it was received. Taxpayers should not file a second tax return or call 
the IRS. The IRS issues more than nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21
 days. However, it's possible a tax return may require <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/tax-season-refund-frequently-asked-questions">additional review</a> and take longer.Taxpayers can track a refund using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a> tool on IRS.gov, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> and by phone at <a href="tel:800-829-1954">800-829-1954</a>.
 Taxpayers need the primary Social Security number on the tax return, 
the filing status and the expected refund amount. The tool updates once 
daily, usually overnight, so there's no need to check more frequently. 
The Where's My Refund?&nbsp;tool cannot be used to track Economic Impact 
Payments.<h2>File to reduce penalties and interest</h2>Normally, taxpayers should file their tax return, or request an 
extension, and pay any taxes they owe by the deadline to avoid penalties
 and interest. An extension to file is not an extension to pay. 
Penalties and interest will apply to taxes owed after May 17.Even if a taxpayer can't afford to immediately pay the taxes they 
owe, they should still file a tax return as soon as possible to reduce 
possible penalties. The IRS has more information for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/what-if-i-cant-pay-my-taxes">taxpayers who owe the IRS, but cannot afford to pay</a>.Ordinarily, the failure to file penalty is 5% of the tax owed for 
each month or part of a month that a tax return is late, up to five 
months, reduced by the failure to pay penalty amount for any month where
 both penalties apply. If a return is filed more than 60 days after the 
due date, the minimum penalty is either $435 or 100% of the unpaid tax, 
whichever is less. Filing and paying as much as possible is important 
because the late-filing penalty and late-payment penalty add up quickly.
 The failure to pay penalty rate is generally 0.5% of unpaid tax owed 
for each month or part of a month until the tax is fully paid or until 
25% is reached. The rate is subject to change. For more information see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/understanding-penalties-and-interest">IRS.gov/penalties</a>.Taxpayers who have a history of filing and paying on time often 
qualify for penalty relief. A taxpayer will usually qualify if they have
 filed and paid timely for the past three years and meet other 
requirements. For more information, see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/penalty-relief-due-to-first-time-penalty-abatement-or-other-administrative-waiver">first-time penalty abatement</a> page on IRS.gov.Interest is charged on tax and penalties until the balance is <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">paid in full</a>.<h2>Pay taxes due electronically</h2>Those who owe taxes can pay with IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a>, by <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-your-taxes-by-debit-or-credit-card">debit or credit card</a> or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application">apply online for a payment plan (including an installment agreement)</a>. For more electronic payment options visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">IRS.gov/payments</a>.
 They are secure and easy to use. Taxpayers paying electronically 
receive immediate confirmation when they submit their payment. With 
Direct Pay and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)</a>, taxpayers can opt in to receive email notifications about their payments.<h2>Selecting a tax professional</h2>The IRS offers tips to help taxpayers choose a tax return preparer wisely. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">Choosing a Tax Professional</a> page has information about tax return preparer <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/understanding-tax-return-preparer-credentials-and-qualifications">credentials and qualification</a>s and guidance on avoiding unscrupulous tax return preparersThe <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>
 can help taxpayers find tax return preparers who hold a professional 
credential recognized by the IRS or who have completed the requirements 
for the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/annual-filing-season-program">Annual Filing Season Program</a>.<h2>Taxpayer Bill of Rights</h2>Taxpayers have fundamental rights under the law that protect taxpayers when they interact with the IRS. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxpayer-bill-of-rights">Taxpayer Bill of Rights</a> presents these rights in 10 categories. IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-1">Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer</a>, highlights these rights and the agency's obligation to protect them.

IRS: Despite May 17 deadline, still time to get refund, cut penalties

By BRIAN GRIMMETT <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/state-will-help-kansas-school-districts-pay-winter-heat-bills-were-10x-higher-normal">Kansas News Service</a>

In a typical February, the small <a href="https://www.usd329.com/o/usd-329" target="_blank">Wabaunsee school district</a> just west of Topeka pays a natural gas utility bill of about $4,300. This year its bill was more than $53,000.

It’s
 not because classrooms were cranking up the heat. Wabaunsee is just one
 of hundreds of school districts in Kansas hit by an unprecedented spike
 in wholesale natural gas prices during February’s record-setting winter
 storm. Now the state is stepping in with $20 million in loans to help.&nbsp;

“For
 a lot of districts you’re talking about their entire annual budget for 
natural gas being used really to pay for an eight-day period,” said 
Austin Harris, the director of member engagement at the Kansas 
Association of School Boards.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621453816112.png" alt="Snow falls on a school crossing sign in Kansas City on Oct. 26, 2020. Carlos Moreno" />
 <figcaption>Snow falls on a school crossing sign in Kansas City on Oct. 26, 2020. Carlos Moreno</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRIAN GRIMMETT <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/state-will-help-kansas-school-districts-pay-winter-heat-bills-were-10x-higher-normal">Kansas News Service</a>In a typical February, the small <a href="https://www.usd329.com/o/usd-329" target="_blank">Wabaunsee school district</a> just west of Topeka pays a natural gas utility bill of about $4,300. This year its bill was more than $53,000.It’s
 not because classrooms were cranking up the heat. Wabaunsee is just one
 of hundreds of school districts in Kansas hit by an unprecedented spike
 in wholesale natural gas prices during February’s record-setting winter
 storm. Now the state is stepping in with $20 million in loans to help.&nbsp;“For
 a lot of districts you’re talking about their entire annual budget for 
natural gas being used really to pay for an eight-day period,” said 
Austin Harris, the director of member engagement at the Kansas 
Association of School Boards.During those eight days, 
temperatures across much of the state and central part of the United 
States reached well below zero. Wichita, for example, set a record for 
consecutive days with a high below 20 degrees.The extreme cold 
not only increased the demand for natural gas, but also broke some of 
the infrastructure that transports the gas to customers. This created a 
huge imbalance in the supply of natural gas and the demand.During
 the height of the winter storm, the wholesale natural gas price went 
from about $2.50 per unit to more than $650 per unit.“No one anywhere could have anticipated that kind of an increase,” Kansas State Treasurer Lynn Rogers said.The
 spike caused businesses, school districts and cities exposed to 
wholesale prices to see their bills increase 10 to 15 times normal. Many
 smaller cities can’t afford that.The Legislature <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb88/">quickly passed a plan</a>
 making $100 million dollars available in low interest loans to the 
cities impacted. They’ve issued about $80 million dollars so far.State officials are now <a href="https://www.kansascash.ks.gov/fin_serv.html" target="_blank">using the remaining $20 million</a> of that fund to open up loans to school districts and businesses.The
 loans would be issued by local banks, but funded by the state. School 
districts and businesses can get as much as $500,000 to be paid back 
within three years.“These loans are going to be paid back, the 
state is not going to be at risk,” Rogers said. “But it is an issue that
 we don’t have a lot of resources to keep doing this each and every 
year.”Even with the loan programs, the spike in natural gas 
prices will have long-lasting impacts. The Wabaunsee school district 
said even with spreading out the extra cost over several years, it has 
to pay $1,000 more a month than usual. That’s real money for a small 
district of about 450 students.Larger school districts aren’t immune, either. The <a href="https://www.usd497.org/Page/1" target="_blank">Lawrence School District</a>
 saw its bill go from $54,000 to $498,000. A district spokeswoman said 
it is currently in negotiations with its supplier for price reductions. 
Because there is potential for a lawsuit, she wouldn’t comment any 
further.Harris said figuring all of this out will be a slow process for some districts and could last through the end of the year.“Everyone is kind of scrambling to figure out how they cover the costs,” Harris said, “and what resources are available.”The
 Kansas attorney general has opened an investigation into whether 
natural gas companies illegally price gouged during the winter storm and
 took advantage of customers during a time of emergency.“It’s 
really on the shoulders of the attorney general to make sure that this 
doesn’t happen again,” Rogers said, “and the folks that gouged will be 
paying for this or pay us back.”Brian Grimmett reports on 
the environment, energy and natural resources for KMUW in Wichita and 
the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/briangrimmett?lang=en">@briangrimmett</a> or email him at grimmett@kmuw.org.