The Flint Hills Wellness Coalition is hosting a town hall meeting on Thursday, January 16 from 6:30-8 pm in the auditorium of the Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Avenue, to discuss the current status of the local mental health system. Invited panel members include (subject to change):

Each panel member will offer opening remarks about their views of the status of the local mental health system. &nbsp;Following that, audience members will be invited to submit questions on cards to a moderator who will pose the questions to the members of the panel. This town hall is a follow-up to the white paper released in August 2025 developed by the Flint Hills Wellness Coalition in response to the local mental health system assessment conducted in October 2023. 

The Director of the Flint Hills Wellness Coaliion said that on Thursday, January 16 there will be a dialogue about the strengths and weaknesses of the local mental health system and to offer suggestions about ways it can be improved.

The Flint Hills Wellness Coalition is hosting a town hall meeting on Thursday, January 16 from 6:30-8 pm in the auditorium of the Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Avenue, to discuss the current status of the local mental health system. Invited panel members include (subject to change):<ul>
 <li>David Adams, Director, Riley County Emergency Medical Services</li><li>Dr. Jeremy Bennett, Emergency Medicine, Ascension Via Christi Hospital</li><li>Andrew Brookens, Director, Stormont Vail Health</li><li>Mark French, Captain, Riley County Jail</li><li>Nicole Gonzales, Behavioral Health Svcs Director, Konza Prairie Community Health Center</li><li>Carrie Hewins, Mental Health Liaison, USD 383</li><li>Scott Voos, Executive Director, Be Able</li><li>Sarah Wesch, PhD, Licensed Psychologist&nbsp;</li><li>Becky Woodward, Chief Clinical Officer, Pawnee Mental Health Services</li>
 </ul>Each panel member will offer opening remarks about their views of the status of the local mental health system. &nbsp;Following that, audience members will be invited to submit questions on cards to a moderator who will pose the questions to the members of the panel. This town hall is a follow-up to the white paper released in August 2025 developed by the Flint Hills Wellness Coalition in response to the local mental health system assessment conducted in October 2023. The Director of the Flint Hills Wellness Coaliion said that on Thursday, January 16 there will be a dialogue about the strengths and weaknesses of the local mental health system and to offer suggestions about ways it can be improved.

Focus will be on status of the local mental health system

The start of a new year is a time for many to set their intentions by making annual resolutions. The Kansas Legislature also has this opportunity as it begins its 2025 session with a new slate of legislators following the November election.

The question remains will this new beginning bring about a legislature focused on the bread-and-butter policies that are a priority for all Kansans, or will they double-down on divisive culture war issues? The legislature should resolve to improve the lives of all Kansans by focusing on three important policy goals.

First, the Kansas legislature should continue to prioritize water policy. In the past few years, Kansas has made important strides developing a collaborative water management vision, which encouraged the use of more efficient irrigation systems and technologies, aimed to improve water quality, and invested in water research at state universities. However, water usage and the preservation of the Ogallala Aquifer are long-term challenges that require continued attention and innovation if Kansas hopes to mitigate climate change’s impact and support the economic health of the state’s agricultural sector.

Second, legislators should work across party lines to adequately fund Kansas public schools. It is no secret that Kansas has faced challenges with school funding for years. The state’s education funding formula has been the subject of partisan fights, with legislators weighing calls for more equitable distribution of funds across districts with concerns over the cost of doing so. The state needs to find a way to adjust state funding formulas to provide more targeted resource distribution that prioritizes districts serving large populations of low-income students and students with disabilities. It also needs to invest in infrastructure improvements in aging schools, particularly in rural Kansas. Finally, Kansas teachers need a raise.

The third policy goal should be to expand healthcare access in Kansas. The most straight-forward way to achieve this goal is to expand Medicaid. Several states, including Kansas, were understandably concerned about the financial cost of expansion when the Affordable Care Act of 2010 was first passed by Congress. However, legitimate concern has become poisoned by partisan fights that prioritize scoring political points rather than serving Kansans.

Research has demonstrated that expansion leads to positive outcomes. Medicaid expansion increases access to health care services, particularly preventive care and mental health services, reducing health disparities for individuals and families. Medicaid expansion has not only been a boon for individuals, but also for communities. It has been linked to job creation in the

healthcare sector, especially in rural areas. Given these positive outcomes, it’s time for Kansas to join most states, including neighboring states, and expand Medicaid access.

With pressing issues like water usage and quality, education funding, and healthcare access, Kansans are hoping that their elected officials will work toward improving their lives in the upcoming year. Ultimately, the 2025 legislative session will reveal whether Kansas legislators are willing to rise above the political noise and focus on addressing these core challenges.

Brianne Heidbreder, PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.

By Brianne HeidbrederThe start of a new year is a time for many to set their intentions by making annual resolutions. The Kansas Legislature also has this opportunity as it begins its 2025 session with a new slate of legislators following the November election.The question remains will this new beginning bring about a legislature focused on the bread-and-butter policies that are a priority for all Kansans, or will they double-down on divisive culture war issues? The legislature should resolve to improve the lives of all Kansans by focusing on three important policy goals.First, the Kansas legislature should continue to prioritize water policy. In the past few years, Kansas has made important strides developing a collaborative water management vision, which encouraged the use of more efficient irrigation systems and technologies, aimed to improve water quality, and invested in water research at state universities. However, water usage and the preservation of the Ogallala Aquifer are long-term challenges that require continued attention and innovation if Kansas hopes to mitigate climate change’s impact and support the economic health of the state’s agricultural sector.Second, legislators should work across party lines to adequately fund Kansas public schools. It is no secret that Kansas has faced challenges with school funding for years. The state’s education funding formula has been the subject of partisan fights, with legislators weighing calls for more equitable distribution of funds across districts with concerns over the cost of doing so. The state needs to find a way to adjust state funding formulas to provide more targeted resource distribution that prioritizes districts serving large populations of low-income students and students with disabilities. It also needs to invest in infrastructure improvements in aging schools, particularly in rural Kansas. Finally, Kansas teachers need a raise.The third policy goal should be to expand healthcare access in Kansas. The most straight-forward way to achieve this goal is to expand Medicaid. Several states, including Kansas, were understandably concerned about the financial cost of expansion when the Affordable Care Act of 2010 was first passed by Congress. However, legitimate concern has become poisoned by partisan fights that prioritize scoring political points rather than serving Kansans.Research has demonstrated that expansion leads to positive outcomes. Medicaid expansion increases access to health care services, particularly preventive care and mental health services, reducing health disparities for individuals and families. Medicaid expansion has not only been a boon for individuals, but also for communities. It has been linked to job creation in thehealthcare sector, especially in rural areas. Given these positive outcomes, it’s time for Kansas to join most states, including neighboring states, and expand Medicaid access.With pressing issues like water usage and quality, education funding, and healthcare access, Kansans are hoping that their elected officials will work toward improving their lives in the upcoming year. Ultimately, the 2025 legislative session will reveal whether Kansas legislators are willing to rise above the political noise and focus on addressing these core challenges.Brianne Heidbreder, PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.

Legislative Resolutions for 2025

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Longtime coach Jack Hartman and Utah State star Wayne Estes, who was tragically killed while trying to provide help at the site of an auto accident after his final game, are among eight coaches and players who will be posthumously inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.

The Hall of Fame revealed its latest class Tuesday. The date of the induction ceremony has not been announced.

The other members include Dave Meyers, who helped UCLA win the NCAA title in 1973 and ‘75; Duquesne’s Sihugo Green, the first overall pick in the 1956 NBA draft; Lennie Rosenbluth, who led North Carolina to a 32-0 record and then 1957 NCAA title; New Mexico State's Sam Lacey, the fifth overall pick in the 1970 NBA draft; John Rudometkin, the first Southern California player to score more than 1,000 points in two seasons; and Tom Stith of St. Bonaventure, who average 26.5 points for his career.

Hartman, who played football and basketball at Oklahoma State, is perhaps the most high-profile member of the class. He played quarterback in the Canadian Football League after college before turning his attention to coaching, first as an assistant at his alma mater and later at Coffeyville (Kansas) Community College and Southern Illinois.

It was at Kansas State where Hartman made his biggest splash. He followed Tex Winter and Cotton Fitzsimmons in leading the Wildcats to four Elite Eights during 16 seasons, finishing first or second in the Big Eight in 10 of those years.

Hartman retired in 1986 with a 589–279 record. He died in 1998 at the age of 73.

Estes was just 21 when he died on Feb. 8, 1965. The 6-foot-6 forward had just scored 48 points for Utah State against Denver in his final game, pushing him past 2,000 points for his career, when he stopped at the scene of a car accident near campus. Estes was crossing the street when he accidentally touched a downed power line, fatally electrocuting him.

Estes, who was the second-leading scorer in the nation behind Rick Barry that season, was posthumously given All-American honors by The Associated Press. The Aggies retired his No. 33 jersey and the school's practice facility, which opened in 2013, is named the Wayne Estes Center in his honor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735670756194.png" alt="Longtime coach Jack Hartman -photo courtesy KSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Longtime coach Jack Hartman -photo courtesy KSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Longtime coach Jack Hartman and Utah State star Wayne Estes, who was tragically killed while trying to provide help at the site of an auto accident after his final game, are among eight coaches and players who will be posthumously inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.The Hall of Fame revealed its latest class Tuesday. The date of the induction ceremony has not been announced.The other members include Dave Meyers, who helped UCLA win the NCAA title in 1973 and ‘75; Duquesne’s Sihugo Green, the first overall pick in the 1956 NBA draft; Lennie Rosenbluth, who led North Carolina to a 32-0 record and then 1957 NCAA title; New Mexico State's Sam Lacey, the fifth overall pick in the 1970 NBA draft; John Rudometkin, the first Southern California player to score more than 1,000 points in two seasons; and Tom Stith of St. Bonaventure, who average 26.5 points for his career.Hartman, who played football and basketball at Oklahoma State, is perhaps the most high-profile member of the class. He played quarterback in the Canadian Football League after college before turning his attention to coaching, first as an assistant at his alma mater and later at Coffeyville (Kansas) Community College and Southern Illinois.It was at Kansas State where Hartman made his biggest splash. He followed Tex Winter and Cotton Fitzsimmons in leading the Wildcats to four Elite Eights during 16 seasons, finishing first or second in the Big Eight in 10 of those years.Hartman retired in 1986 with a 589–279 record. He died in 1998 at the age of 73.Estes was just 21 when he died on Feb. 8, 1965. The 6-foot-6 forward had just scored 48 points for Utah State against Denver in his final game, pushing him past 2,000 points for his career, when he stopped at the scene of a car accident near campus. Estes was crossing the street when he accidentally touched a downed power line, fatally electrocuting him.Estes, who was the second-leading scorer in the nation behind Rick Barry that season, was posthumously given All-American honors by The Associated Press. The Aggies retired his No. 33 jersey and the school's practice facility, which opened in 2013, is named the Wayne Estes Center in his honor.

Former K-State coach named to National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame

Be careful on New Years Eve. Do not drink and drive.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735663710711.jpeg" alt="( Photo - Geary County Sheriff's Department )" />
 <figcaption>( Photo - Geary County Sheriff's Department )</figcaption>
 </figure>Be careful on New Years Eve. Do not drink and drive.

Avoid drinking and driving

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a vehicle burglary in Manhattan.

Just after 7p.m. Monday, officers filed a report of vehicle burglary in the 2700 block of Brookpark Drive, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 39-year-old man reported an unknown subject entered the victim's vehicle and took his Matthew's compound bow and camo Bushnell binoculars. 

Total estimated loss with this report is $2,250.&nbsp;Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a vehicle burglary in Manhattan.Just after 7p.m. Monday, officers filed a report of vehicle burglary in the 2700 block of Brookpark Drive, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 39-year-old man reported an unknown subject entered the victim's vehicle and took his Matthew's compound bow and camo Bushnell binoculars. Total estimated loss with this report is $2,250.&nbsp;Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: Suspect took compound bow, binoculars in burglary

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735657340306.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report December 31

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged road-rage incident in Manhattan and have made an arrest.

Just before 4p.m. on December 27, officers filed a report of aggravated battery in the 700 block of Fort Riley Blvd., according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 46-year-old man, 20-year-old woman and an 18-year-old woman&nbsp; reported a road-rage incident escalated. Officers report the alleged subject, a 60-year-old man, was also listed as a victim as he reported harm was threatened upon him after he pointed a gun in the direction of the three other victims. 

David Beck of Manhattan was arrested for criminal threat and aggravated assault. Total bond was set at $10,000. Beck is not longer in custody, according to the RCPD.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged road-rage incident in Manhattan and have made an arrest.Just before 4p.m. on December 27, officers filed a report of aggravated battery in the 700 block of Fort Riley Blvd., according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 46-year-old man, 20-year-old woman and an 18-year-old woman&nbsp; reported a road-rage incident escalated. Officers report the alleged subject, a 60-year-old man, was also listed as a victim as he reported harm was threatened upon him after he pointed a gun in the direction of the three other victims. David Beck of Manhattan was arrested for criminal threat and aggravated assault. Total bond was set at $10,000. Beck is not longer in custody, according to the RCPD.

Man jailed for alleged road-rage incident in Manhattan

TOPEKA, Kan. — Start 2025 on the right foot by joining a First Day Hike at a Kansas State Park! These guided hikes, organized annually by parks staff, encourage individuals and families to embrace the New Year with outdoor exploration and a connection to nature.

This year, more than 1,000 hikes will take place across the country, including 24 First Day Hike events hosted by Kansas State Parks. While the distance and rigor of the hikes will vary, each one aims to create a fun experience for all. Savor the beauty of our state parks' natural, cultural, and historical resources, and be inspired to continue taking advantage of these local treasures throughout 2025.

“This marks our 14th year of offering First Day Hikes in Kansas State Parks, and we’re thrilled to continue the tradition,” said Linda Lanterman, Kansas State Parks director. “These events are a fun, healthy way to kick off the New Year, beat cabin fever, and explore some of the most beautiful areas in our state.”

For a complete list of First Day Hike events in Kansas on Jan. 1, 2025, visit ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Special-Events/First-Day-Hikes.

Participants can choose from a variety of guided hikes that fit their comfort level, including scenic walks along lakes, exploring trails, and options best for wildlife viewing. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash. And if hiking isn’t for you, Kansas State Parks invite you to explore other fun activities, from boating and fishing to horseback riding, or enjoy a peaceful moment from a park picnic table or bench.

Kansas State Park staff recommend the following items for a successful First Day Hike:

Weather-appropriate clothing (hat, gloves, heavy coat, or raincoat)

Limited First Day Hike t-shirts will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. A vehicle permit will be required at all state park entrances; a daily vehicle permit can be purchased for $5 at each park.

First Day Hikes originated at the Blue Hills Reservation State Park in Massachusetts in 1992. The program has since expanded nationwide, with nearly all 50 states now participating.

For more information on First Day Hikes across the country, visit <a href="http://stateparks.org/special-programs/first-day-hikes">stateparks.org/special-programs/first-day-hikes</a>. And don’t forget to share your First Day Hike experiences on social media with #FirstDayHikes and #MyKSStatePark.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640699524150.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. — Start 2025 on the right foot by joining a First Day Hike at a Kansas State Park! These guided hikes, organized annually by parks staff, encourage individuals and families to embrace the New Year with outdoor exploration and a connection to nature.This year, more than 1,000 hikes will take place across the country, including 24 First Day Hike events hosted by Kansas State Parks. While the distance and rigor of the hikes will vary, each one aims to create a fun experience for all. Savor the beauty of our state parks' natural, cultural, and historical resources, and be inspired to continue taking advantage of these local treasures throughout 2025.“This marks our 14th year of offering First Day Hikes in Kansas State Parks, and we’re thrilled to continue the tradition,” said Linda Lanterman, Kansas State Parks director. “These events are a fun, healthy way to kick off the New Year, beat cabin fever, and explore some of the most beautiful areas in our state.”Where to ParticipateFor a complete list of First Day Hike events in Kansas on Jan. 1, 2025, visit ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Special-Events/First-Day-Hikes.What To ExpectParticipants can choose from a variety of guided hikes that fit their comfort level, including scenic walks along lakes, exploring trails, and options best for wildlife viewing. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash. And if hiking isn’t for you, Kansas State Parks invite you to explore other fun activities, from boating and fishing to horseback riding, or enjoy a peaceful moment from a park picnic table or bench.What To BringKansas State Park staff recommend the following items for a successful First Day Hike:WaterSnacksWeather-appropriate clothing (hat, gloves, heavy coat, or raincoat)Hiking shoesBinocularsHiking stickCameraLimited First Day Hike t-shirts will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. A vehicle permit will be required at all state park entrances; a daily vehicle permit can be purchased for $5 at each park.First Day Hikes originated at the Blue Hills Reservation State Park in Massachusetts in 1992. The program has since expanded nationwide, with nearly all 50 states now participating.For more information on First Day Hikes across the country, visit <a href="http://stateparks.org/special-programs/first-day-hikes">stateparks.org/special-programs/first-day-hikes</a>. And don’t forget to share your First Day Hike experiences on social media with #FirstDayHikes and #MyKSStatePark.

Kansas State Parks to offer New Year's Day hikes

The 22nd annual New Years Eve celebration in Manhattan's Aggieville district is set for Tuesday night.&nbsp;

There will be a new activity this year called the Little Apple Dance Battle that will run&nbsp; from 11:15 to 11:45 p.m. There will be music by DJ Dan. The set list will include Dancing Queen, Uptown Funk, 24K Magic, Pour Some Sugar On Me and Shout.&nbsp;

The first place winner will receive 500 cash with the winner determined&nbsp; based on the crowd vote.

The Apple Drop at midnight will be from the So Long Saloon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735611799375.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The 22nd annual New Years Eve celebration in Manhattan's Aggieville district is set for Tuesday night.&nbsp;There will be a new activity this year called the Little Apple Dance Battle that will run&nbsp; from 11:15 to 11:45 p.m. There will be music by DJ Dan. The set list will include Dancing Queen, Uptown Funk, 24K Magic, Pour Some Sugar On Me and Shout.&nbsp;The first place winner will receive 500 cash with the winner determined&nbsp; based on the crowd vote.The Apple Drop at midnight will be from the So Long Saloon.

Little Apple New Years Eve Celebration is scheduled in Aggieville

By&nbsp;ANNA KAMINSKI <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

While thousands of patients cross the border with medical cards in hand, countless more are buying recreational cannabis without a prescription. That’s unlikely to change as some Kansas lawmakers signal resistance to medical legalization in 2025.

TOPEKA — Thousands of Kansans are crossing the Missouri border with medical marijuana cards in hand, and that’s unlikely to change as Kansas lawmakers resist medical legalization in 2025.

Legislators&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/03/28/kansas-senate-committee-tables-medical-marijuana-bill-until-2025-legislative-session/" target="_blank">tabled</a>&nbsp;a medical marijuana bill in March and promised to revisit it at the beginning of the 2025 session, which begins Jan. 13. In October, a majority of medical marijuana committee members declined in a 5-4 vote to urge the Legislature to pass a medical marijuana bill.

Anyone can bring a bill for consideration at any time, said Sen. Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican, at the October committee meeting.

“But I think it would not be the place of this committee to force upon the Legislature a bill when a large number — well, quite a few of the committee — I think still have a lot of questions,” he said.

Thompson has been cautioning legislators against making a hasty decision for at least two&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/01/despite-high-hopes-success-of-kansas-marijuana-legislation-remains-unclear/" target="_blank">years</a>.

Nearly 2,200 Kansans are medical marijuana patients in Missouri, according to October data obtained through a public records request from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.

Outgoing Rep. Dennis “Boog” Highberger, a Lawrence Democrat, pointed to polls that show more than&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/11/01/kansans-support-marijuana-legalization-lawmakers-wont-bite/" target="_blank">70% of Kansans favor legalization</a>.

“I think if we don’t come back to this in January, it will just die or get punted until next year,” he said.

Medical and recreational sales in Missouri in 2024 have totaled more than $1.3 billion combined as of October, according to the state’s cannabis patient, caregiver and consumer&nbsp;<a href="https://health.mo.gov/safety/cannabis/stats.php" target="_blank">data</a>. Most of the sales, about $1.1 billion worth, were recreational, which began in February 2023.

Taxes gleaned from marijuana sales — 4% on medical and 6% on recreational — have funneled millions of dollars to Missouri’s veterans commission, public defense system and a substance use treatment program within the health department.

The Kansas Cannabis Chamber of Commerce has been watching the number of people taking Kansas dollars to Missouri, but its focus has shifted to hemp instead of marijuana after years of adversarial legislative sessions, said Erren Wright, the chamber’s board president.

Small businesses and community members are suffering, she said. All the while, she said legislators continue to act in bad faith.

“We’re really unhappy with the way Kansas is going about this,” Wright said.

Grace Hoge, a spokeswoman for Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly’s office, said medical marijuana legalization is a widely supported, “commonsense” policy.

“Gov. Kelly has been consistent in her belief that legalizing medical marijuana would improve Kansas’ overall health and economy and help those who suffer from chronic pain and serious illnesses,” Hoge said. “She will continue to support the passage of a Kansas-specific approach that is both feasible and well-regulated.”

Some legislators expressed interest at the October meeting in waiting to see the results of marijuana ballot measures in Nebraska and Florida in the 2024 general election.

Nebraska voters approved a medical marijuana program, joining the ranks of other Kansas neighbors Colorado, Missouri and Oklahoma. While&nbsp;<a href="https://floridaphoenix.com/2024/11/05/amendment-3-comes-up-short-of-the-60-required-for-passage/" target="_blank">a majority of Florida voters favored</a>&nbsp;a ballot measure to legalize recreational cannabis, it was 4 percentage points short of the required 60% threshold for passage. Recreational cannabis is permitted for people 21 and older in Missouri and Colorado.

Colorado doesn’t allow medical marijuana cardholders to live outside the state upon applying, said Mariah La Rue, a spokeswoman for the Colorado Center for Health and Environmental Data. Similarly, Oklahoma requires out-of-state medical marijuana cardholders to possess licenses from their own state.

The true number of Kansans crossing state lines to access some form of legal cannabis is unknown.

The Kansas Highway Patrol is aware of the exploration of legalized cannabis in and around Kansas, but it’s focused on impaired driving, said April McCollum, a spokeswoman for the patrol.

“We strive to provide our troopers and other officers both in and out of state with the most current and reliable methods for removing impaired drivers from our roadways,” she said. “We will continue to remain focused on these efforts.”

This story was originally published by&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/12/09/thousands-of-kansans-are-missouri-medical-marijuana-patients/" target="_blank">Kansas Reflector</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735571417635.png" alt="Kansas legislators tabled a medical marijuana bill in March and promised to revisit it at the beginning of the 2025 session, which begins Jan. 13. In October, a majority of medical marijuana committee members declined in a 5-4 vote to urge the Legislature to pass a medical marijuana bill. Tim Carpenter / Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Kansas legislators tabled a medical marijuana bill in March and promised to revisit it at the beginning of the 2025 session, which begins Jan. 13. In October, a majority of medical marijuana committee members declined in a 5-4 vote to urge the Legislature to pass a medical marijuana bill. Tim Carpenter / Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;ANNA KAMINSKI <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>While thousands of patients cross the border with medical cards in hand, countless more are buying recreational cannabis without a prescription. That’s unlikely to change as some Kansas lawmakers signal resistance to medical legalization in 2025.TOPEKA — Thousands of Kansans are crossing the Missouri border with medical marijuana cards in hand, and that’s unlikely to change as Kansas lawmakers resist medical legalization in 2025.Legislators&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/03/28/kansas-senate-committee-tables-medical-marijuana-bill-until-2025-legislative-session/" target="_blank">tabled</a>&nbsp;a medical marijuana bill in March and promised to revisit it at the beginning of the 2025 session, which begins Jan. 13. In October, a majority of medical marijuana committee members declined in a 5-4 vote to urge the Legislature to pass a medical marijuana bill.Anyone can bring a bill for consideration at any time, said Sen. Mike Thompson, a Shawnee Republican, at the October committee meeting.“But I think it would not be the place of this committee to force upon the Legislature a bill when a large number — well, quite a few of the committee — I think still have a lot of questions,” he said.Thompson has been cautioning legislators against making a hasty decision for at least two&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/01/despite-high-hopes-success-of-kansas-marijuana-legislation-remains-unclear/" target="_blank">years</a>.Nearly 2,200 Kansans are medical marijuana patients in Missouri, according to October data obtained through a public records request from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.Outgoing Rep. Dennis “Boog” Highberger, a Lawrence Democrat, pointed to polls that show more than&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/11/01/kansans-support-marijuana-legalization-lawmakers-wont-bite/" target="_blank">70% of Kansans favor legalization</a>.“I think if we don’t come back to this in January, it will just die or get punted until next year,” he said.Medical and recreational sales in Missouri in 2024 have totaled more than $1.3 billion combined as of October, according to the state’s cannabis patient, caregiver and consumer&nbsp;<a href="https://health.mo.gov/safety/cannabis/stats.php" target="_blank">data</a>. Most of the sales, about $1.1 billion worth, were recreational, which began in February 2023.Taxes gleaned from marijuana sales — 4% on medical and 6% on recreational — have funneled millions of dollars to Missouri’s veterans commission, public defense system and a substance use treatment program within the health department.The Kansas Cannabis Chamber of Commerce has been watching the number of people taking Kansas dollars to Missouri, but its focus has shifted to hemp instead of marijuana after years of adversarial legislative sessions, said Erren Wright, the chamber’s board president.Small businesses and community members are suffering, she said. All the while, she said legislators continue to act in bad faith.“We’re really unhappy with the way Kansas is going about this,” Wright said.Grace Hoge, a spokeswoman for Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly’s office, said medical marijuana legalization is a widely supported, “commonsense” policy.“Gov. Kelly has been consistent in her belief that legalizing medical marijuana would improve Kansas’ overall health and economy and help those who suffer from chronic pain and serious illnesses,” Hoge said. “She will continue to support the passage of a Kansas-specific approach that is both feasible and well-regulated.”<h2>Cannabis on all four corners</h2>Some legislators expressed interest at the October meeting in waiting to see the results of marijuana ballot measures in Nebraska and Florida in the 2024 general election.Nebraska voters approved a medical marijuana program, joining the ranks of other Kansas neighbors Colorado, Missouri and Oklahoma. While&nbsp;<a href="https://floridaphoenix.com/2024/11/05/amendment-3-comes-up-short-of-the-60-required-for-passage/" target="_blank">a majority of Florida voters favored</a>&nbsp;a ballot measure to legalize recreational cannabis, it was 4 percentage points short of the required 60% threshold for passage. Recreational cannabis is permitted for people 21 and older in Missouri and Colorado.Colorado doesn’t allow medical marijuana cardholders to live outside the state upon applying, said Mariah La Rue, a spokeswoman for the Colorado Center for Health and Environmental Data. Similarly, Oklahoma requires out-of-state medical marijuana cardholders to possess licenses from their own state.The true number of Kansans crossing state lines to access some form of legal cannabis is unknown.The Kansas Highway Patrol is aware of the exploration of legalized cannabis in and around Kansas, but it’s focused on impaired driving, said April McCollum, a spokeswoman for the patrol.“We strive to provide our troopers and other officers both in and out of state with the most current and reliable methods for removing impaired drivers from our roadways,” she said. “We will continue to remain focused on these efforts.”This story was originally published by&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/12/09/thousands-of-kansans-are-missouri-medical-marijuana-patients/" target="_blank">Kansas Reflector</a>.

Thousands of Kansans are buying medical marijuana in Missouri

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735522036259.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735571171142.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report December 29, 30

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">SHERMAN SMITH</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/12/20/kansas-faces-constitutional-crisis-with-rural-attorney-shortage-supreme-court-justice-says/?emci=90c2989c-44bf-ef11-88ce-0022482a93af&amp;emdi=5cf0ff54-82bf-ef11-88ce-0022482a93af&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas Supreme Court Justice K.J. Wall said Friday the state is “approaching a constitutional crisis” with a shortage of attorneys in rural areas, and that “equity and justice” are at&nbsp; stake.

Wall spoke at a news conference in Concordia as a committee tasked with studying the crisis over the past two years&nbsp;<a href="https://kscourts.gov/KSCourts/media/KsCourts/court%20administration/Rural-Justice-Initiative/Kansas-Rural-Justice-Initiative-Committee-Final-Report.pdf" target="_blank">unveiled a report</a>&nbsp;that offers recommendations for attracting more attorneys to practice in rural areas. The report also presents stark data: Outside of the state’s five most-populous counties, just 21% of active attorneys serve 45% of the state’s population.

One-third of the attorneys in those 100 rural counties are over the age of 60.

“The problem is serious, and it is not going to get better without intervention and affirmative action,” Wall said.

Kansas Supreme Court Chief Justice Marla Luckert established the Rural Justice Initiative Committee on Dec. 1, 2022. The&nbsp;<a href="https://kscourts.gov/About-the-Courts/Court-Administration/Committees/Kansas-Rural-Justice-Initiative-Committee" target="_blank">35-member committee</a>&nbsp;included judges, legislators, attorneys, educators, business leaders, and organizations that serve victims of sexual or domestic violence.

Luckert said at Friday’s news conference that she formed the committee after hearing from judges who said they couldn’t find attorneys who were qualified or willing to take cases, from attorneys who wanted to retire but didn’t want to leave their communities without legal help, and from local governments that struggled to hire a city or county attorney.

She said “we knew we had a crisis,” but she wanted to know “how pervasive” it was.

“I think we found that it was even worse than we thought it would be,” Luckert said.

Data from the committee’s 84-page report shows 1,401 attorneys work in rural Kansas counties, where more than 1.3 million people live. In comparison, there are more Kansas attorneys working in Kansas City, Missouri.

Two Kansas counties — Wichita and Hodgeman, in west-central Kansas — have no attorneys at all. Seven more have no attorneys under the age of 60.

In 47 counties, there is less than one attorney per 1,000 people.

“Rural judges struggle to find attorneys in cases where the right to counsel is guaranteed by constitution or statute — cases where a person’s very liberty or right to parent their child is at stake,” the report found. “Attorneys are turning away potential clients each week because they cannot meet the demand in their communities.”

The report said barriers for attorneys working in rural areas include the balance between staggering student loan debt and lower incomes, a lack of business skills, and challenges of finding child care, housing, health care and reliable Wi-Fi.

The report makes 10 recommendations for addressing the problem. They include establishing programs to pay tuition or repay student loans for attorneys who attend law school in Kansas and practice in a rural part of the state.

Other proposals include developing a professional organization for rural attorneys to collaborate on recruitment and retention, supporting outreach efforts for K-12 students in rural Kansas, working with the Kansas Department of Commerce and Office of Rural Prosperity to help attorneys manage their businesses, and establishing a standing committee to monitor the results.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735053694304.png" alt="Kansas Supreme Court Justice K.J. Wall takes the oath of office on Jan. 9, 2023. Wall says the problem of not having enough attorneys in rural counties won’t get better without intervention. Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Supreme Court Justice K.J. Wall takes the oath of office on Jan. 9, 2023. Wall says the problem of not having enough attorneys in rural counties won’t get better without intervention. Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">SHERMAN SMITH</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/12/20/kansas-faces-constitutional-crisis-with-rural-attorney-shortage-supreme-court-justice-says/?emci=90c2989c-44bf-ef11-88ce-0022482a93af&amp;emdi=5cf0ff54-82bf-ef11-88ce-0022482a93af&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas Supreme Court Justice K.J. Wall said Friday the state is “approaching a constitutional crisis” with a shortage of attorneys in rural areas, and that “equity and justice” are at&nbsp; stake.Wall spoke at a news conference in Concordia as a committee tasked with studying the crisis over the past two years&nbsp;<a href="https://kscourts.gov/KSCourts/media/KsCourts/court%20administration/Rural-Justice-Initiative/Kansas-Rural-Justice-Initiative-Committee-Final-Report.pdf" target="_blank">unveiled a report</a>&nbsp;that offers recommendations for attracting more attorneys to practice in rural areas. The report also presents stark data: Outside of the state’s five most-populous counties, just 21% of active attorneys serve 45% of the state’s population.One-third of the attorneys in those 100 rural counties are over the age of 60.“The problem is serious, and it is not going to get better without intervention and affirmative action,” Wall said.Kansas Supreme Court Chief Justice Marla Luckert established the Rural Justice Initiative Committee on Dec. 1, 2022. The&nbsp;<a href="https://kscourts.gov/About-the-Courts/Court-Administration/Committees/Kansas-Rural-Justice-Initiative-Committee" target="_blank">35-member committee</a>&nbsp;included judges, legislators, attorneys, educators, business leaders, and organizations that serve victims of sexual or domestic violence.Luckert said at Friday’s news conference that she formed the committee after hearing from judges who said they couldn’t find attorneys who were qualified or willing to take cases, from attorneys who wanted to retire but didn’t want to leave their communities without legal help, and from local governments that struggled to hire a city or county attorney.She said “we knew we had a crisis,” but she wanted to know “how pervasive” it was.“I think we found that it was even worse than we thought it would be,” Luckert said.Data from the committee’s 84-page report shows 1,401 attorneys work in rural Kansas counties, where more than 1.3 million people live. In comparison, there are more Kansas attorneys working in Kansas City, Missouri.Two Kansas counties — Wichita and Hodgeman, in west-central Kansas — have no attorneys at all. Seven more have no attorneys under the age of 60.In 47 counties, there is less than one attorney per 1,000 people.“Rural judges struggle to find attorneys in cases where the right to counsel is guaranteed by constitution or statute — cases where a person’s very liberty or right to parent their child is at stake,” the report found. “Attorneys are turning away potential clients each week because they cannot meet the demand in their communities.”The report said barriers for attorneys working in rural areas include the balance between staggering student loan debt and lower incomes, a lack of business skills, and challenges of finding child care, housing, health care and reliable Wi-Fi.The report makes 10 recommendations for addressing the problem. They include establishing programs to pay tuition or repay student loans for attorneys who attend law school in Kansas and practice in a rural part of the state.Other proposals include developing a professional organization for rural attorneys to collaborate on recruitment and retention, supporting outreach efforts for K-12 students in rural Kansas, working with the Kansas Department of Commerce and Office of Rural Prosperity to help attorneys manage their businesses, and establishing a standing committee to monitor the results.

Kansas faces ‘constitutional crisis’ with rural attorney shortage

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Dan Murray with NFIB-Kansas notes that his members are looking for property tax relief, and the 2025 Kansas Legislature will have to be careful about how it provides that help.

"The statewide mill levy is what you're referring to in terms of what is used to help fund K-12 education," Murray said. "They are able to reduce that, and they have done so in the past. It's at 20 mills in its current rate. It has been, I think, as high as 35 mills. Over time, they've reduced it, and they can do so again, but they have to strike a balance with funding the formula in a way that doesn't upset the apple cart with the Supreme Court. So they would have to do some state general fund transfers to make up for the property tax decrease at the statewide mill levy."

There are other policy provisions that can shine a light on the other levels of government that have more influence over property taxes.

"There was a statute that was passed and we modified it that did restrict what the local units of government could do in terms of raising property taxes, but they provided in that some language that gave them exceptions, for example, emergency police and fire infrastructure," Murray said. "It really didn't have the impact that we thought it might because they were able to kind of carve themselves out of it. That's where I think it's hard to pin down. I think ultimately, at the end of the day, it's important for voters at the local level to be involved and understand what their property taxes rates are doing and have their voice heard both at local meetings and at the voting booth."

The legislature is going to try to craft its own budget to counter that from the governor's office in 2025. It remains to be seen how that will change the final product.

"The Kansas House and Senate this off season created a legislative budget committee in a new process where they will attempt to create their own budget relative to what the governor presents to the legislature in January," Murray said. "What has been a customary practice is that the governor creates a budget, presents it to the legislature within of course, the 90 days of their session, they have to come up with a response to that budget through their appropriations process. They now are seeking to create their own budget apart from what the governor does. It's a hefty task and something they're kind of tipping their toe in the water on."

The Governor's State of the State message is scheduled for January 15.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600954270300.png" alt="National Federation of Independent Business " />
 <figcaption>National Federation of Independent Business </figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Dan Murray with NFIB-Kansas notes that his members are looking for property tax relief, and the 2025 Kansas Legislature will have to be careful about how it provides that help."The statewide mill levy is what you're referring to in terms of what is used to help fund K-12 education," Murray said. "They are able to reduce that, and they have done so in the past. It's at 20 mills in its current rate. It has been, I think, as high as 35 mills. Over time, they've reduced it, and they can do so again, but they have to strike a balance with funding the formula in a way that doesn't upset the apple cart with the Supreme Court. So they would have to do some state general fund transfers to make up for the property tax decrease at the statewide mill levy."There are other policy provisions that can shine a light on the other levels of government that have more influence over property taxes."There was a statute that was passed and we modified it that did restrict what the local units of government could do in terms of raising property taxes, but they provided in that some language that gave them exceptions, for example, emergency police and fire infrastructure," Murray said. "It really didn't have the impact that we thought it might because they were able to kind of carve themselves out of it. That's where I think it's hard to pin down. I think ultimately, at the end of the day, it's important for voters at the local level to be involved and understand what their property taxes rates are doing and have their voice heard both at local meetings and at the voting booth."The legislature is going to try to craft its own budget to counter that from the governor's office in 2025. It remains to be seen how that will change the final product."The Kansas House and Senate this off season created a legislative budget committee in a new process where they will attempt to create their own budget relative to what the governor presents to the legislature in January," Murray said. "What has been a customary practice is that the governor creates a budget, presents it to the legislature within of course, the 90 days of their session, they have to come up with a response to that budget through their appropriations process. They now are seeking to create their own budget apart from what the governor does. It's a hefty task and something they're kind of tipping their toe in the water on."The Governor's State of the State message is scheduled for January 15.

Murray: State can give a little help with property tax

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/amandahernandez/">AMANDA HERNANDEZ</a>

CHICAGO — Shoplifting rates in the three largest U.S. cities — New York, Los Angeles and Chicago — remain higher than they were before the pandemic, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://counciloncj.org/between-the-aisles-a-closer-look-at-shoplifting-trends/" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;last month from the nonpartisan research group Council on Criminal Justice.

The sharp rise in retail theft in recent years has made shoplifting a hot-button issue, especially for politicians looking to address public safety concerns in their communities.

Since 2020, when viral videos of smash-and-grab robberies flooded social media during the COVID-19 pandemic, many Americans have expressed fears that crime is out of control. Polls show that perceptions have improved recently, but a majority of Americans&nbsp;<a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/652763/smaller-majorities-say-crime-serious-increasing.aspx" target="_blank">still say</a>&nbsp;crime is worse than in previous years.

“There is this sense of brazenness that people have — they can just walk in and steal stuff. … That hurts the consumer, and it hurts the company,” said Alex Piquero, a criminology professor at the University of Miami and former director of the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics, in an interview.

“That’s just the world we live in,” he said. “We need to get people to realize that you have to obey the law.”

At least eight states — Arizona, California, Florida, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, New York and Vermont — passed a total of 14 bills in 2024 aimed at tackling retail theft, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. The measures range from redefining retail crimes and adjusting penalties to allowing cross-county aggregation of theft charges and protecting retail workers.

Major retailers have responded to rising theft since 2020 by locking up merchandise, upgrading security cameras, hiring private security firms and even closing stores.

Still, the report indicates that shoplifting remains a stubborn problem.

In Chicago, the rate of reported shoplifting incidents remained below pre-pandemic levels throughout 2023 — but surged by 46% from January to October 2024 compared with the same period a year ago.

Shoplifting in Los Angeles was 87% higher in 2023 than in 2019. Police reports of shoplifting from January to October 2024 were lower than in 2023. Los Angeles adopted a new crime reporting system in March 2024, which has likely led to an undercount, according to the report.

In New York, shoplifting rose 48% from 2021 to 2022, then dipped slightly last year. Still, the shoplifting rate was 55% higher in 2023 than in 2019. This year, the shoplifting rate increased by 3% from January to September compared with the same period last year.

While shoplifting rates tend to rise in November and December, which coincides with in-person holiday shopping, data from the Council on Criminal Justice’s sample of 23 U.S. cities shows higher rates in the first half of 2024 compared with 2023.

Researchers found it surprising that rates went up despite retailers doing more to fight shoplifting. Experts say the spike might reflect improved reporting efforts rather than a spike in theft.

“As retailers have been paying more attention to shoplifting, we would not expect the numbers to increase,” said Ernesto Lopez, the report’s author and a senior research specialist with the council. “It makes it a challenge to understand the trends of shoplifting.”

In downtown Chicago on a recent early afternoon, potential shoppers shuffled through the streets and nearby malls, browsing for gifts ahead of the holidays.

Edward Johnson, a guard at The Shops at North Bridge, said that malls have become quieter in the dozen or so years he has worked in mall security, with the rise of online retailers. As for shoplifters, Johnson said there isn’t a single type of person to look out for — they can come from any background.

“I think good-hearted people see something they can’t afford and figure nothing is lost if they take something from the store,” Johnson said as he patrolled the mall, keeping an eye out for lost or suspicious items.

Between 2018 and 2023, most shoplifting in Chicago was reported in the downtown area, as well as in the Old Town, River North and Lincoln Park neighborhoods, according to a separate&nbsp;<a href="https://counciloncj.org/shoplifting-trends-in-time-and-space-a-study-of-two-major-american-cities/" target="_blank">analysis</a>&nbsp;by the Council on Criminal Justice.

Newly sworn-in Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke this month lowered the threshold for charging retail theft as a felony in the county, which includes Chicago, from $1,000 to $300, aligning it with state law.

“It sends a signal that she’s taking it seriously,” Rob Karr, the president and CEO of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, told Stateline.

Nationally, retailers are worried about organized theft. The National Retail Federation’s latest&nbsp;<a href="https://nrf.com/research/national-retail-security-survey-2023" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;attributed 36% of the $112.1 billion in lost merchandise in 2022 to “external theft,” which includes organized retail crime.

Organized retail crime typically involves coordinated efforts by groups to steal items with the intent to resell them for a profit. Commonly targeted goods include high-demand items such as baby formula, laundry detergent and electronics.

The same report found that retailers’ fear of violence associated with theft also is on the rise, with more retailers taking a “hands-off approach.” More than 41% of respondents to the organization’s 2023 survey, up from 38% in 2022, reported that no employee is authorized to try and stop a shoplifter.

The federation’s reporting has come under criticism. It&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/08/business/organized-shoplifting-retail-crime-theft-retraction.html" target="_blank">retracted</a>&nbsp;a claim last year that attributed nearly half of lost merchandise in 2021 to organized retail crime; such theft accounted for only about 5%. The group announced this fall it will no longer publish its reports on lost merchandise.

Policy experts say shoplifting and organized retail theft can significantly harm critical industries, drive up costs for consumers and reduce sales tax revenue for states. Those worries have driven recent state-level action to boost penalties for shoplifting.

California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/08/16/governor-newsom-signs-landmark-legislative-package-cracking-down-on-retail-crime-and-property-theft/" target="_blank">signed</a>&nbsp;a package of 10 bills into law in August aimed at addressing retail theft. These measures make repeated theft convictions a felony, allow aggregation of crimes across multiple counties to be charged as a single felony, and permit police to arrest suspects for retail theft even if the crime wasn’t witnessed directly by an officer. In September, Newsom&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/09/12/governor-newsom-signs-smash-and-grab-bill-to-strengthen-felony-sentences-for-large-scale-theft-offenses/" target="_blank">signed</a>&nbsp;an additional bill that imposes steeper felony penalties for large-scale theft offenses.

California voters also overwhelmingly&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2024/11/19/even-blue-states-are-embracing-a-tougher-approach-to-crime/" target="_blank">approved</a>&nbsp;a ballot measure in November that increases penalties for specific drug-related and theft crimes. Under the new law, people who are convicted of theft at least twice may face felony charges on their third offense, regardless of the stolen item’s value.

“With these changes in the law, really it comes down to making sure that law enforcement is showing up to our stores in a timely manner, and that the prosecutors and the [district attorneys] are prosecuting,” Rachel Michelin, the president and CEO of the California Retailers Association, told Stateline. “That’s the only way we’re going to deter retail theft in our communities.”

In New Jersey, a bipartisan&nbsp;<a href="https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A4755" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;making its way through the legislature would increase penalties for leading a shoplifting ring and allow extended sentences for repeat offenders.

“This bill is going after a formally organized band of criminals that deliver such destruction to a critical business in our community. We have to act. We have to create a deterrence,” Democratic Assemblymember Joseph Danielsen, one of the bill’s prime sponsors, said in an interview with Stateline.

The legislation would allow extended sentences for people convicted of shoplifting three times within 10 years or within 10 years of their release from prison, and would increase penalties to 10 to 20 years in prison for leading a retail crime ring.

The bill also would allow law enforcement to aggregate the value of stolen goods over the course of a year to charge serial shoplifters with more serious offenses. Additionally, the bill would increase penalties for assaults committed against retail workers, and would require retailers to train employees on detecting gift card scams.

Maryland legislators considered a similar&nbsp;<a href="https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0100?ys=2024rs" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;during this year’s legislative session that would have defined organized retail theft and made it a felony.

The bill didn’t make it out of committee, but Cailey Locklair, president of the Maryland Retailers Alliance, said the group hopes to reintroduce the bill next year and propose another that would target gift card fraud.

Better, more thorough reporting from retailers is essential to truly understanding shoplifting trends and its full impact, in part because some retail-related crimes, such as gift card fraud, are frequently underreported, according to Lopez, of the Council on Criminal Justice.

Measuring crime across jurisdictions is&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2023/10/27/politicians-love-to-cite-crime-data-its-often-wrong/" target="_blank">notoriously difficult</a>, and the council does not track organized retail theft specifically because law enforcement typically doesn’t identify it as such at the time of arrest — if an arrest even occurs — requiring further investigation, Lopez said.

The council’s latest report found conflicting trends in the FBI’s national crime reporting systems.

The FBI’s older system, the Summary Reporting System, known as SRS, suggests that reported shoplifting hadn’t gone up through 2023, remaining on par with 2019 levels. In contrast, the FBI’s National Incident-Based Reporting System, or NIBRS, shows a 93% increase in shoplifting over the same period.

The discrepancy may stem from the type of law enforcement agencies that have adopted the latter system, Lopez said. Some of those communities may have higher levels of shoplifting or other types of property crime, which could be what is driving the spike, Lopez said.

Despite the discrepancies and varying levels of shoplifting across the country, Lopez said, it’s important for retailers to report these incidents, as doing so could help allocate law enforcement resources more effectively.

“All law enforcement agencies have limited resources, and having the most accurate information allows for not just better policy, but also better implementation — better use of strategic resources,” Lopez said.

<a href="https://stateline.org/" target="_blank">Stateline</a>&nbsp;is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@stateline.org">info@stateline.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734810837526.png" alt="Photo courtesy WBZ" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy WBZ</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/amandahernandez/">AMANDA HERNANDEZ</a>CHICAGO — Shoplifting rates in the three largest U.S. cities — New York, Los Angeles and Chicago — remain higher than they were before the pandemic, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://counciloncj.org/between-the-aisles-a-closer-look-at-shoplifting-trends/" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;last month from the nonpartisan research group Council on Criminal Justice.The sharp rise in retail theft in recent years has made shoplifting a hot-button issue, especially for politicians looking to address public safety concerns in their communities.Since 2020, when viral videos of smash-and-grab robberies flooded social media during the COVID-19 pandemic, many Americans have expressed fears that crime is out of control. Polls show that perceptions have improved recently, but a majority of Americans&nbsp;<a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/652763/smaller-majorities-say-crime-serious-increasing.aspx" target="_blank">still say</a>&nbsp;crime is worse than in previous years.“There is this sense of brazenness that people have — they can just walk in and steal stuff. … That hurts the consumer, and it hurts the company,” said Alex Piquero, a criminology professor at the University of Miami and former director of the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics, in an interview.“That’s just the world we live in,” he said. “We need to get people to realize that you have to obey the law.”At least eight states — Arizona, California, Florida, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, New York and Vermont — passed a total of 14 bills in 2024 aimed at tackling retail theft, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. The measures range from redefining retail crimes and adjusting penalties to allowing cross-county aggregation of theft charges and protecting retail workers.Major retailers have responded to rising theft since 2020 by locking up merchandise, upgrading security cameras, hiring private security firms and even closing stores.Still, the report indicates that shoplifting remains a stubborn problem.In Chicago, the rate of reported shoplifting incidents remained below pre-pandemic levels throughout 2023 — but surged by 46% from January to October 2024 compared with the same period a year ago.Shoplifting in Los Angeles was 87% higher in 2023 than in 2019. Police reports of shoplifting from January to October 2024 were lower than in 2023. Los Angeles adopted a new crime reporting system in March 2024, which has likely led to an undercount, according to the report.In New York, shoplifting rose 48% from 2021 to 2022, then dipped slightly last year. Still, the shoplifting rate was 55% higher in 2023 than in 2019. This year, the shoplifting rate increased by 3% from January to September compared with the same period last year.While shoplifting rates tend to rise in November and December, which coincides with in-person holiday shopping, data from the Council on Criminal Justice’s sample of 23 U.S. cities shows higher rates in the first half of 2024 compared with 2023.Researchers found it surprising that rates went up despite retailers doing more to fight shoplifting. Experts say the spike might reflect improved reporting efforts rather than a spike in theft.“As retailers have been paying more attention to shoplifting, we would not expect the numbers to increase,” said Ernesto Lopez, the report’s author and a senior research specialist with the council. “It makes it a challenge to understand the trends of shoplifting.”<h2>Impact on retailers, communities</h2>In downtown Chicago on a recent early afternoon, potential shoppers shuffled through the streets and nearby malls, browsing for gifts ahead of the holidays.Edward Johnson, a guard at The Shops at North Bridge, said that malls have become quieter in the dozen or so years he has worked in mall security, with the rise of online retailers. As for shoplifters, Johnson said there isn’t a single type of person to look out for — they can come from any background.“I think good-hearted people see something they can’t afford and figure nothing is lost if they take something from the store,” Johnson said as he patrolled the mall, keeping an eye out for lost or suspicious items.Between 2018 and 2023, most shoplifting in Chicago was reported in the downtown area, as well as in the Old Town, River North and Lincoln Park neighborhoods, according to a separate&nbsp;<a href="https://counciloncj.org/shoplifting-trends-in-time-and-space-a-study-of-two-major-american-cities/" target="_blank">analysis</a>&nbsp;by the Council on Criminal Justice.Newly sworn-in Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke this month lowered the threshold for charging retail theft as a felony in the county, which includes Chicago, from $1,000 to $300, aligning it with state law.“It sends a signal that she’s taking it seriously,” Rob Karr, the president and CEO of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, told Stateline.Nationally, retailers are worried about organized theft. The National Retail Federation’s latest&nbsp;<a href="https://nrf.com/research/national-retail-security-survey-2023" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;attributed 36% of the $112.1 billion in lost merchandise in 2022 to “external theft,” which includes organized retail crime.Organized retail crime typically involves coordinated efforts by groups to steal items with the intent to resell them for a profit. Commonly targeted goods include high-demand items such as baby formula, laundry detergent and electronics.The same report found that retailers’ fear of violence associated with theft also is on the rise, with more retailers taking a “hands-off approach.” More than 41% of respondents to the organization’s 2023 survey, up from 38% in 2022, reported that no employee is authorized to try and stop a shoplifter.The federation’s reporting has come under criticism. It&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/08/business/organized-shoplifting-retail-crime-theft-retraction.html" target="_blank">retracted</a>&nbsp;a claim last year that attributed nearly half of lost merchandise in 2021 to organized retail crime; such theft accounted for only about 5%. The group announced this fall it will no longer publish its reports on lost merchandise.<h2>Increased penalties</h2>Policy experts say shoplifting and organized retail theft can significantly harm critical industries, drive up costs for consumers and reduce sales tax revenue for states. Those worries have driven recent state-level action to boost penalties for shoplifting.California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/08/16/governor-newsom-signs-landmark-legislative-package-cracking-down-on-retail-crime-and-property-theft/" target="_blank">signed</a>&nbsp;a package of 10 bills into law in August aimed at addressing retail theft. These measures make repeated theft convictions a felony, allow aggregation of crimes across multiple counties to be charged as a single felony, and permit police to arrest suspects for retail theft even if the crime wasn’t witnessed directly by an officer. In September, Newsom&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/09/12/governor-newsom-signs-smash-and-grab-bill-to-strengthen-felony-sentences-for-large-scale-theft-offenses/" target="_blank">signed</a>&nbsp;an additional bill that imposes steeper felony penalties for large-scale theft offenses.California voters also overwhelmingly&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2024/11/19/even-blue-states-are-embracing-a-tougher-approach-to-crime/" target="_blank">approved</a>&nbsp;a ballot measure in November that increases penalties for specific drug-related and theft crimes. Under the new law, people who are convicted of theft at least twice may face felony charges on their third offense, regardless of the stolen item’s value.“With these changes in the law, really it comes down to making sure that law enforcement is showing up to our stores in a timely manner, and that the prosecutors and the [district attorneys] are prosecuting,” Rachel Michelin, the president and CEO of the California Retailers Association, told Stateline. “That’s the only way we’re going to deter retail theft in our communities.”In New Jersey, a bipartisan&nbsp;<a href="https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A4755" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;making its way through the legislature would increase penalties for leading a shoplifting ring and allow extended sentences for repeat offenders.“This bill is going after a formally organized band of criminals that deliver such destruction to a critical business in our community. We have to act. We have to create a deterrence,” Democratic Assemblymember Joseph Danielsen, one of the bill’s prime sponsors, said in an interview with Stateline.The legislation would allow extended sentences for people convicted of shoplifting three times within 10 years or within 10 years of their release from prison, and would increase penalties to 10 to 20 years in prison for leading a retail crime ring.The bill also would allow law enforcement to aggregate the value of stolen goods over the course of a year to charge serial shoplifters with more serious offenses. Additionally, the bill would increase penalties for assaults committed against retail workers, and would require retailers to train employees on detecting gift card scams.Maryland legislators considered a similar&nbsp;<a href="https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0100?ys=2024rs" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;during this year’s legislative session that would have defined organized retail theft and made it a felony.The bill didn’t make it out of committee, but Cailey Locklair, president of the Maryland Retailers Alliance, said the group hopes to reintroduce the bill next year and propose another that would target gift card fraud.<h2>Retail theft data</h2>Better, more thorough reporting from retailers is essential to truly understanding shoplifting trends and its full impact, in part because some retail-related crimes, such as gift card fraud, are frequently underreported, according to Lopez, of the Council on Criminal Justice.Measuring crime across jurisdictions is&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2023/10/27/politicians-love-to-cite-crime-data-its-often-wrong/" target="_blank">notoriously difficult</a>, and the council does not track organized retail theft specifically because law enforcement typically doesn’t identify it as such at the time of arrest — if an arrest even occurs — requiring further investigation, Lopez said.The council’s latest report found conflicting trends in the FBI’s national crime reporting systems.The FBI’s older system, the Summary Reporting System, known as SRS, suggests that reported shoplifting hadn’t gone up through 2023, remaining on par with 2019 levels. In contrast, the FBI’s National Incident-Based Reporting System, or NIBRS, shows a 93% increase in shoplifting over the same period.The discrepancy may stem from the type of law enforcement agencies that have adopted the latter system, Lopez said. Some of those communities may have higher levels of shoplifting or other types of property crime, which could be what is driving the spike, Lopez said.Despite the discrepancies and varying levels of shoplifting across the country, Lopez said, it’s important for retailers to report these incidents, as doing so could help allocate law enforcement resources more effectively.“All law enforcement agencies have limited resources, and having the most accurate information allows for not just better policy, but also better implementation — better use of strategic resources,” Lopez said.<a href="https://stateline.org/" target="_blank">Stateline</a>&nbsp;is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@stateline.org">info@stateline.org</a>.

New shoplifting data explains why they’re locking up the toothpaste

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-gets-an-f-in-gun-legislation-national-report-says/?emci=67ef80f7-8dbd-ef11-88d0-000d3a9d5840&amp;emdi=af9cdaff-efbd-ef11-88ce-0022482a93af&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/"></a>TOPEKA — Nearly 500 people die annually in Kansas from gun violence, and the state ranks low in gun legislation, according to a yearly ranking.

<a href="https://giffords.org/lawcenter/resources/scorecard/">Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence</a>, a national gun safety nonprofit, gave Kansas an F grade for gun regulation in its annual scorecard that evaluates the strength of the 50 states’ firearm laws.

The strength of Kansas’ gun laws ranks among the lowest in the country at 42nd.

“Kansas has some of the weakest laws in the country when it comes to gun violence, which is why we gave it an F this year,” said Emma Brown, executive director of the center, in a news release.

She continued: “Gun violence is now the No. 1 killer of children in the United States. That is unacceptable.”

The report pointed to Kansas’ lack of universal background checks, legislation involving “gun industry accountability” and violence intervention programs. It also recommended the Legislature repeal “stand your ground” laws, which permit people to use deadly force if they believe it’s to defend themselves.

Kansas excels in only one category — mental health reporting — according to the center. State officials are required to abide by certain mental health record reporting requirements, which can be used when evaluating firearm transfers. Often, mental health reporting is submitted to a national database when courts order treatment or an involuntary commitment to a psychiatric facility.

The center drew a correlation between weakened gun laws and increases in gun deaths across the country. Kansas sees almost 17 gun deaths per 100,000 people or 473 deaths annually. The highest rate is 29 per 100,000 in Mississippi and the lowest is around 4 per 100,000 in Massachusetts.

A February mass shooting that left one person dead and more than a dozen others injured at a Kansas City parade celebrating the Chiefs Super Bowl win was a signal to some&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/02/19/democrats-hope-to-put-gun-safety-measure-on-ballot-following-kansas-city-mass-shooting/" target="_blank">Missouri</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/03/07/in-wake-of-mass-shooting-kansas-lawmakers-spar-over-gun-rights-preservation-bill/">Kansas</a>&nbsp;lawmakers either to restrict or loosen state gun laws.&nbsp;

“In 2024, 28 states passed 88 gun safety laws, bringing the total number of new gun safety laws since the Sandy Hook massacre in 2012 to over 700,” the center’s report said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735433692707.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-gets-an-f-in-gun-legislation-national-report-says/?emci=67ef80f7-8dbd-ef11-88d0-000d3a9d5840&amp;emdi=af9cdaff-efbd-ef11-88ce-0022482a93af&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/"></a>TOPEKA — Nearly 500 people die annually in Kansas from gun violence, and the state ranks low in gun legislation, according to a yearly ranking.<a href="https://giffords.org/lawcenter/resources/scorecard/">Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence</a>, a national gun safety nonprofit, gave Kansas an F grade for gun regulation in its annual scorecard that evaluates the strength of the 50 states’ firearm laws.The strength of Kansas’ gun laws ranks among the lowest in the country at 42nd.“Kansas has some of the weakest laws in the country when it comes to gun violence, which is why we gave it an F this year,” said Emma Brown, executive director of the center, in a news release.She continued: “Gun violence is now the No. 1 killer of children in the United States. That is unacceptable.”The report pointed to Kansas’ lack of universal background checks, legislation involving “gun industry accountability” and violence intervention programs. It also recommended the Legislature repeal “stand your ground” laws, which permit people to use deadly force if they believe it’s to defend themselves.Kansas excels in only one category — mental health reporting — according to the center. State officials are required to abide by certain mental health record reporting requirements, which can be used when evaluating firearm transfers. Often, mental health reporting is submitted to a national database when courts order treatment or an involuntary commitment to a psychiatric facility.The center drew a correlation between weakened gun laws and increases in gun deaths across the country. Kansas sees almost 17 gun deaths per 100,000 people or 473 deaths annually. The highest rate is 29 per 100,000 in Mississippi and the lowest is around 4 per 100,000 in Massachusetts.A February mass shooting that left one person dead and more than a dozen others injured at a Kansas City parade celebrating the Chiefs Super Bowl win was a signal to some&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/02/19/democrats-hope-to-put-gun-safety-measure-on-ballot-following-kansas-city-mass-shooting/" target="_blank">Missouri</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/03/07/in-wake-of-mass-shooting-kansas-lawmakers-spar-over-gun-rights-preservation-bill/">Kansas</a>&nbsp;lawmakers either to restrict or loosen state gun laws.&nbsp;“In 2024, 28 states passed 88 gun safety laws, bringing the total number of new gun safety laws since the Sandy Hook massacre in 2012 to over 700,” the center’s report said.Kansas was not one of those states.

Kansas gets an F in gun legislation, national report says

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735424885707.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report December 28

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/dylan-lysen">DYLAN LYSEN</a> Kansas News Service/<a href="https://www.kcur.org/housing-development-section/2024-12-17/housing-prices-in-kansas-have-exploded-here-are-three-ideas-to-make-homes-affordable?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=Dylan%20Lysen%20of%20the%20Kansas%20News%20Service%20tells%20us%20about%20the%20ideas%20under%20consideration&amp;utm_campaign=KNS%20Newsletter">KCUR</a>

Home and rental prices have skyrocketed in recent years because of a housing shortage. That’s leading to a rise in homelessness and could be hurting the economy.

KANSAS CITY — A housing shortage in Kansas has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/housing-development-section/2024-10-03/a-home-costs-more-than-ever-in-kansas-the-2008-housing-crisis-is-part-of-the-reason" target="_blank">sparked skyrocketing home prices</a>, making it much harder to purchase a home. State lawmakers have taken notice and are considering ways to create more affordable housing.

A special committee in the Legislature reviewed the situation in Kansas and suggested several ideas that may be able to alleviate some of the problems. But none of the ideas include large new programs or major state funding.

Republican Rep. Sean Tarwater of Stilwell, who led the committee, said the state approved&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksrevenue.gov/prtaxcredits-affordable.html" target="_blank">affordable housing initiatives</a>&nbsp;in recent years. He said those changes have not had enough time to make a significant difference yet.

“We've got to be cognizant of the programs that we currently have before we start piling on new programs,” Tarwater said, “and we’ve got to make sure the ones we have work.”

Still, the state has a long way to go. Housing advocates estimate it would take several thousand new homes built each year just to meet demand. And construction costs keep rising as well. So it could take years before the shortage is resolved.

The lack of housing is also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/housing-development-section/2024-09-24/forget-the-stereotypes-many-homeless-kansans-have-jobs-but-cant-afford-a-place-to-live" target="_blank">contributing to rising homelessness</a>&nbsp;in the state. While home prices are rising, so are home and apartment rental costs. Advocates serving the homeless say Kansas had the sixth highest rent price increase in the country in 2023. Data in Johnson County also shows more than half of homeless people there have some sort of income, but still can’t afford a place to live.

The housing shortage may also hurt the economy. Republican Rep. Leah Howell said she’s heard from business owners who are having a hard time filling positions because new employees can’t find housing.

Here are some of the ideas the committee is recommending:

Federal tax credits for affordable housing projects are not new but were not regularly utilized. Housing development in Kansas took off once the state joined in on providing its own tax credits.

The Legislature enacted the Affordable Housing Tax Credit in 2022, which can be coupled with federal benefits to further incentivize developers to build more affordable housing in the state. The Kansas Housing Resources Corporation, which oversees those state tax credits, shows that it helped develop nearly 5,000 homes over the last two years.

The committee suggested looking at whether the state can find more opportunities to couple state tax credits with federal funding opportunities to create an even larger impact.

But lawmakers said they also want to review whether some incentives should be spread out, rather than coupled with the federal funding or connected to other state tax credits, to make sure they are dispersed and support more housing projects.

Kansas zoning laws are currently based on land use. Some communities want to create more mixed-use zoning, like allowing multi-story buildings with businesses on the ground floor and apartments above.

Jamie Sauder, who is the president of the Kansas Association of Realtors and a city commissioner in Emporia, said his community tried creating a new comprehensive plan that would have implemented form-based zoning. That focuses more on the appearance of a property, rather than its use. So buildings can be mixed-use.

However, the city and Lyon County could not enact the plan, because state law requires land-use zoning. So a property can only have one use, like commercial or residential. Mixed-use zoning is allowed, but it usually requires a special permit. That also gives people in the community an extra chance to block a project they don’t like.

Sauder said amending the state law could allow cities to enact form-based zoning. That and streamlining could allow more housing development. He said form-based zoning also promotes housing density and makes property more affordable.

“It puts more people using the same amount of infrastructure (together),” Sauder said, “which means it's cheaper. Property taxes go down.”

Republican Sen. Renee Erickson of Augusta said she wants the Legislature to consider reworking state zoning laws to allow more flexibility for cities to create local solutions.

But she said she wants lawmakers to be careful and not go too far. She said any changes should not restrict a community’s local control of zoning.

When a landlord begins an eviction process in court, they must provide notice to the renter and then file a lawsuit. However, that filing is a public court record and can be held against a renter when they try to find new housing, even if they are never formally evicted.

For instance, a renter could fall behind on paying rent and a landlord could then file an eviction notice. The renter could resolve the issue and the eviction case does not proceed in court. But that filing is still on the renter’s record, and a landlord of a different property could point to that as a reason to disqualify them.

Christina Ashie Guidry, director of policy and planning for United Community Services of Johnson County, told lawmakers that it’s unfair to renters who are never formally evicted. She said landlords in Kansas file more than 14,000 eviction filings each year, but only half of them are finalized.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735208729897.png" alt="Kansas lawmakers have taken some action on addressing the state's housing shortage. In 2022, they approved new state tax credits that match federal tax credits for affordable housing, which were used to build these Mission 43 housing units in Kansas City, Kansas. Photo by Dylan Lysen/ Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Kansas lawmakers have taken some action on addressing the state's housing shortage. In 2022, they approved new state tax credits that match federal tax credits for affordable housing, which were used to build these Mission 43 housing units in Kansas City, Kansas. Photo by Dylan Lysen/ Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/dylan-lysen">DYLAN LYSEN</a> Kansas News Service/<a href="https://www.kcur.org/housing-development-section/2024-12-17/housing-prices-in-kansas-have-exploded-here-are-three-ideas-to-make-homes-affordable?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=Dylan%20Lysen%20of%20the%20Kansas%20News%20Service%20tells%20us%20about%20the%20ideas%20under%20consideration&amp;utm_campaign=KNS%20Newsletter">KCUR</a><h2>Home and rental prices have skyrocketed in recent years because of a housing shortage. That’s leading to a rise in homelessness and could be hurting the economy.</h2>KANSAS CITY — A housing shortage in Kansas has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/housing-development-section/2024-10-03/a-home-costs-more-than-ever-in-kansas-the-2008-housing-crisis-is-part-of-the-reason" target="_blank">sparked skyrocketing home prices</a>, making it much harder to purchase a home. State lawmakers have taken notice and are considering ways to create more affordable housing.A special committee in the Legislature reviewed the situation in Kansas and suggested several ideas that may be able to alleviate some of the problems. But none of the ideas include large new programs or major state funding.Republican Rep. Sean Tarwater of Stilwell, who led the committee, said the state approved&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksrevenue.gov/prtaxcredits-affordable.html" target="_blank">affordable housing initiatives</a>&nbsp;in recent years. He said those changes have not had enough time to make a significant difference yet.“We've got to be cognizant of the programs that we currently have before we start piling on new programs,” Tarwater said, “and we’ve got to make sure the ones we have work.”Still, the state has a long way to go. Housing advocates estimate it would take several thousand new homes built each year just to meet demand. And construction costs keep rising as well. So it could take years before the shortage is resolved.The lack of housing is also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/housing-development-section/2024-09-24/forget-the-stereotypes-many-homeless-kansans-have-jobs-but-cant-afford-a-place-to-live" target="_blank">contributing to rising homelessness</a>&nbsp;in the state. While home prices are rising, so are home and apartment rental costs. Advocates serving the homeless say Kansas had the sixth highest rent price increase in the country in 2023. Data in Johnson County also shows more than half of homeless people there have some sort of income, but still can’t afford a place to live.The housing shortage may also hurt the economy. Republican Rep. Leah Howell said she’s heard from business owners who are having a hard time filling positions because new employees can’t find housing.<h2>Here are some of the ideas the committee is recommending:</h2><h2>Reviewing tax incentives</h2>Federal tax credits for affordable housing projects are not new but were not regularly utilized. Housing development in Kansas took off once the state joined in on providing its own tax credits.The Legislature enacted the Affordable Housing Tax Credit in 2022, which can be coupled with federal benefits to further incentivize developers to build more affordable housing in the state. The Kansas Housing Resources Corporation, which oversees those state tax credits, shows that it helped develop nearly 5,000 homes over the last two years.The committee suggested looking at whether the state can find more opportunities to couple state tax credits with federal funding opportunities to create an even larger impact.But lawmakers said they also want to review whether some incentives should be spread out, rather than coupled with the federal funding or connected to other state tax credits, to make sure they are dispersed and support more housing projects.<h2>Reworking state zoning law</h2>Kansas zoning laws are currently based on land use. Some communities want to create more mixed-use zoning, like allowing multi-story buildings with businesses on the ground floor and apartments above.Jamie Sauder, who is the president of the Kansas Association of Realtors and a city commissioner in Emporia, said his community tried creating a new comprehensive plan that would have implemented form-based zoning. That focuses more on the appearance of a property, rather than its use. So buildings can be mixed-use.However, the city and Lyon County could not enact the plan, because state law requires land-use zoning. So a property can only have one use, like commercial or residential. Mixed-use zoning is allowed, but it usually requires a special permit. That also gives people in the community an extra chance to block a project they don’t like.Sauder said amending the state law could allow cities to enact form-based zoning. That and streamlining could allow more housing development. He said form-based zoning also promotes housing density and makes property more affordable.“It puts more people using the same amount of infrastructure (together),” Sauder said, “which means it's cheaper. Property taxes go down.”Republican Sen. Renee Erickson of Augusta said she wants the Legislature to consider reworking state zoning laws to allow more flexibility for cities to create local solutions.But she said she wants lawmakers to be careful and not go too far. She said any changes should not restrict a community’s local control of zoning.<h2>Sealing eviction filings</h2>When a landlord begins an eviction process in court, they must provide notice to the renter and then file a lawsuit. However, that filing is a public court record and can be held against a renter when they try to find new housing, even if they are never formally evicted.For instance, a renter could fall behind on paying rent and a landlord could then file an eviction notice. The renter could resolve the issue and the eviction case does not proceed in court. But that filing is still on the renter’s record, and a landlord of a different property could point to that as a reason to disqualify them.Christina Ashie Guidry, director of policy and planning for United Community Services of Johnson County, told lawmakers that it’s unfair to renters who are never formally evicted. She said landlords in Kansas file more than 14,000 eviction filings each year, but only half of them are finalized.“It stays on your record, publicly searchable, forever,” Ashie Guidry said. “That is despite the fact that half of these cases are never prosecuted.”The committee recommended sealing the election filings in court, meaning they won’t be publicly viewable.That won’t create more housing, but it may provide relief to low-income renters who have previously faced eviction and are struggling to find a home.

Local