Kansas Common Sense
Our Farmers Deserve a New Farm Bill
Mar 25 2024
Urging the Passage of a New Farm Bill
This week, I spoke on the Senate floor on National Agriculture Day to highlight the importance of passing a new and updated Farm Bill. Agriculture is an incredibly difficult industry as farmers and ranchers face challenges from weather events, economic shocks and supply chain shortages. Added to these challenges are inflationary prices and falling farm profitability with a 25% drop in 2023 compared to 2022. This is unsustainable, and these challenges don't just impact farmers, but ultimately the American consumers trying to feed their families.
I was troubled to read a report from the Senate Committee on Agriculture, which indicated that the Chair of the committee is fine with scrapping negotiations for a new Farm Bill and continuing with outdated policies from previous Farm Bills. In that same report, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack expressed his support for that decision. Our farmers deserve, and more importantly, need better.
With agriculture being Kansas’ largest economic driver with a total output contribution of $81 billion and supporting more than 250,000 jobs, a new Farm Bill would provide certainty of risk management and revenue protection programs. This would help farmers, especially future generations of farmers, depend on the government and resources available. I hope that we as leaders can get back to the table and produce a Farm Bill that provides meaningful and real relief for Kansas producers and protects our country from the challenges that we face.
You can watch my floor speech here.
Speaking at the 2024 Ogallala Aquifer Summit
On Monday, I spoke at the 2024 Ogallala Aquifer Summit in Liberal to address conserving our ground water supply in the High Plains region. We need collaborative partnerships committed to sustainable solutions that will protect this natural resource for future generations. We must work to conserve water resources, while ensuring the doors of agriculture businesses in our Kansas towns and communities remain open. I enjoyed hearing and learning about new innovative ways to preserve the quality and quantity of the Ogallala Aquifer. Protecting our natural resources, like water, is crucial for farmers and ranchers who keep our state and nation fed.
Thank you to Dwane Roth, Susan Metzger and Amy Kremen for organizing this important event and for all the farmers, ranchers and agriculture leaders for attending.
You can read more about the summit here.
Introducing Legislation on World Down Syndrome Day
To recognize World Down Syndrome Day and acknowledge the significant joy and contributions the Down syndrome community brings to our lives, my colleague Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) and I introduced the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act of 2024. This bill would reauthorize the INLUCDE project until 2030, which is run by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The NIH coordinates and organizes Down syndrome research across all NIH agencies.
INCLUDE research initiatives are focused on investigating conditions that impact individuals with Down syndrome, like Alzheimer’s, and works to discover why these conditions are prevalent in individuals with Down syndrome. Research supported by the NIH has helped improve and extend the lives of individuals with Down syndrome, and while there is still much to learn, I look forward to seeing this legislation support further research.
Protecting U.S. Athletes with SafeSport
On Wednesday, I joined the Commerce Committee oversight hearing about the U.S. Center for SafeSport, which was created by Congress to address sexual abuse of U.S. Olympic athletes. In 2020, my bill, the Empowering Olympic, Paralympic, and Amateur Athlete Act (EOPAAA), was enacted, providing SafeSport with additional resources to train and investigate accusations of abuse. While the witnesses at the hearing said Olympic athletes are safer today than they were prior to the enactment of EOPAAA, it is clear to me that more work needs to be done to ensure SafeSport earns the trust of athletes, potentially through increased transparency and more efficient, thorough investigations. I will continue to work with my colleagues to make sure the systems in place are keeping athletes safe.
You can watch my questioning in the committee here.
Expanding College Degree Programs in Southwest Kansas
In Garden City, I joined Newman University, Garden City Community College and members of the community to celebrate a recent partnership between Newman and area community colleges. This unique partnership offers degrees in nursing, education, agribusiness and business. In addition to creating access to new degrees, Newman University is also offering large scholarships for graduates of the Community Colleges in Garden City, Dodge City and Liberal by matching financial aid.
I appreciate the leadership of Newman University and the Community Colleges for making certain that all Kansans have access to quality education. Thank you to Newman University’s Vice President of Academic Advancement Dr. Alden Stout, Dean of the School of Education and Social Work Jessica Bird and Garden City Community College President Dr. Ryan Ruda for your leadership in addressing these challenges.
You can read more about the programs in KWCH.
Award from the Blinded Veterans Association
On Thursday, I met with the Blinded Veterans Association (BVA) to discuss how Congress can best support veterans with blindness and low vision in Kansas and across the country. We discussed their concerns regarding blind and low-vision veterans being improperly handled at VA facilities, guide dogs being at risk due to issues with other service dogs and the lack of accessibility when trying to receive care through VA, both in-person and for telehealth appointments.
During our meeting, I was honored to receive the Blinded Veterans Associations “Guiding Legislator of the Year” Award from Paul Mimms, the National President of BVA. I want to thank all of BVA’s National Board members including Timothy Hornik, the National Executive Director for Kansas, for taking the time to meet with me to discuss how we all can best serve our nation’s heroes.
Announcing Federal Resources for Kansas
Finney County
On Monday morning, I met with the Finney County Commissioners ahead of their regularly scheduled meeting to announce $10 million in federal resources that I helped secure for the Kansas Department of Transportation to continue the expansion of U.S. Highway 50 between Garden City and Dodge City. Connecting these two hubs in western Kansas will enhance safety and promote long-term regional economic growth. This four-lane project will help existing community challenges.
Thank you to Commission Chair Gerry Shutlz, County Administrator Robert Reece, County Clerk Dory Munyon, former Commissioner Roman Halbur and Commissioners Duane Drees, Larry Jones, Lon Pishny and Dave Jones for their hospitality and for allowing me to share this news.
Meade County Sheriff
I stopped in Meade County on Monday to share news of $91,000 in federal resources I helped secure to assist the department in purchasing body-worn cameras and to upgrade aging technology in their patrol vehicles. Body-worn cameras are a critical tool for law enforcement officers and have contributed to a reduction in use of force incidents across the country.
Thank you to County Commissioners Janne Frydendall and Randy Leis, Sheriff Douglas Ritter and the deputies and staff of the Meade County Sheriff’s Office for joining me for this announcement
Meetings with Kansans
Leading Technologies Composites
This week, I had the opportunity to meet with Brad Murray and Dean Richardson of Leading Technologies Composites (LTC), a Wichita-based company that produces life-saving body and vehicle armor for the Department of Defense and law enforcement. We discussed the ongoing capabilities being delivered by LTC. They are working with SOCOM to provide leading-edge research into thinner and lighter-weight body armor. We also discussed LTC’s recent investment in a new Wichita facility to compete to produce the Army’s new helmet.
I am grateful for the companies based in our state that deliver products that protect our men and women in law enforcement and the military and for Brad and Dean taking the time to meet with me.
TRIO Legislative Breakfast
On Wednesday morning, I attended the Kansas TRIO Programs’ Annual Legislative Breakfast. TRIO programs operate in 19 Kansas postsecondary schools and provide services to students from low-income and disadvantaged backgrounds, students with disabilities, adult learners and veterans to support them in achieving their goal of completing higher education. I had the opportunity to meet Kansas TRIO participants Summerdawn Klain, Troy Begay, Liliana Kester, Micheal Conrad and Sadie Allrad, who are all currently studying at Haskell Indian Nations University.
Thank you to Emporia State’s Julie Cayton for organizing the event and to the Kansas TRIO staffs for hosting the breakfast. As a first-generation college graduate, I recognize the effectiveness of TRIO programs at our schools and have seen their success firsthand.
McPherson Housing Coalition
It was great to meet with the McPherson Housing Coalition (MHC) on Wednesday during their first ever trip to Washington, DC. We discussed the important role that transitional housing plays in getting people out of homelessness and into stable living situations. The McPherson Housing Coalition works with other local nonprofits to build houses for those in need. Cities of all sizes across Kansas struggle with affordable housing availability, but groups like MHC allow families access to a roof over their heads, job resources and a sense of community.
Thank you to Chris Goodson and Karolyn Moore for taking the time to meet and discuss these crucial issues.
Valley Hope
On Wednesday, I met with leaders of the Valley Hope Addiction Treatment and Recovery Center to hear updates on their plan to expand the Atchison facility. For more than 50 years, Valley Hope has been offering those seeking treatment with onsite detox, licensed clinicians, individual therapy and 12-step sessions and group counseling. We were also joined by former Kansas Senator Pat Roberts who is assisting Valley Hope with fundraising efforts for their Atchison expansion project.
Thank you to Senator Roberts, Valley Hope’s Executive Director Meghan O’Connor and Valley Hope’s Assistant Director Kortney Poire for the work you do and for taking the time to meet with me.
Fort Hays Honor Society
It was great to meet with Honor Society students from Fort Hays State University (FHSU) this week. I enjoyed hearing about the courses of study these bright individuals are pursuing at FHSU and how their extracurricular activities and internships are shaping their post-graduation plans.
Congratulations to Jessalyn Kirchhoff, Peyton Niernberger, Alicia Feyerherm, Saskia Steiner, Ines Steema and Eleanora Yadanar on their outstanding academic achievements and thank you for taking the time to connect with me.
Kansas Association of Conservation Districts
On Wednesday, I met with the leadership of the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts (KACD)and welcomed the new Kansas State Conservationist David Doctorian. KACD echoed my urgency to pass a Farm Bill this Congress that provides certainty to producers and bolsters conservation efforts throughout Kansas. Hiring at the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is one of many challenges nationwide and in Kansas. With many positions still open, additional burdens are added on producers and conservationists as they try to complete their work. In the Agriculture Appropriations bill, I pushed for additional funding to ensure we fill these positions as soon as possible and directed USDA to prioritize hiring NRCS field operators ahead of those in the headquarters.
Thank you to Dan Meyerhoff, Brytnni Miller, Darly, Donohue, and David for joining me in D.C. and pushing for a Farm Bill reauthorization.
Nex-Tech
On Thursday, I met with Nex-Tech, a Lenora-based telecommunications company that provides broadband internet service throughout Northwest and Central Kansas. We discussed my work on the Universal Service Fund (USF) Working Group, which is examining USF programs for potential reform. The USF is critical for rural telecommunications companies like Nex-Tech, and it is important that these programs have stable funding and serve people who need them most. Thank you to Nex-Tech’s CEO Jimmy Todd and Director of Corporate Development Daron Jamison for meeting with me.
U.S. Travel Association
This week, I met with the U.S. Travel Association and corresponding members from Kansas. We discussed the ways in which the Senate can be helpful in Kansas’ tourism recovery since COVID-19, including rail expansion, airport infrastructure and advancing the FAA Reauthorization Act. I was happy to share that my bill, the Visa Processing Improvement Act, would greatly aid the travel and tourism industry in Kansas and across the country by helping expedite the processing times for nonimmigrant visas. I look forward to continuing to help this industry get back on its feet, so that travelers around the world can experience all that Kansas has to offer.
National Funeral Directors Association
On Thursday, I met with funeral directors from Kansas who were with the National Funeral Directors Association to share updates on their industry. Funeral directors and homes are working with people experiencing an incredibly difficult and emotional time in life and offer families and friends help, comfort and various services. We discussed how changing regulations to allow funeral expenses to be an eligible expense under Health Savings Accounts would help Kansans who suddenly need to plan and pay for a funeral.
Thank you to Justin Smith of Derby, Joshua Meyer of Concordia, CaMille Gates of Wichita and Marty Mendicki of Parsons for the way you help Kansans during difficult times and for taking time to visit.
Kansas Army Corps of Engineers
This week, I met with Colonel Travis Rayfield, Commander of the Kansas City District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which manages water resources throughout the northern portion of our state. We discussed the recently completed study of the Kansas River watershed, reservoir sediment issues and water resource development projects underway in the state. Water is a critical resource in the state, and the Army Corps is an important partner in making certain our communities are safe from flooding and our reservoirs and waterways are maintained.
Thank you to Colonel Rayfield for taking the time to meet with me.
Visits Across Kansas
Sublette High School
On Monday morning, I visited Sublette High School. During my tour, I met with the government and agriculture classes and teachers and learned about students’ plans for the future. Thank you to Principal Bobby Murphy, Superintendent Rex Richardson, and students CT Vaugan, Lexi Wright and Gage Lee for the great hospitality and tour of the school.
Feeders Meeting Luncheon
During my time in Liberal, I enjoyed lunch with a group of local cattlemen with the Kansas Livestock Association on Monday. I appreciated the opportunity to learn more about the challenges facing the industry and their efforts in conservation to ensure continued success in the industry in the region. Thank you for inviting me to join.
Minneola Hospital
On Monday evening, I visited Minneola District Hospital, and it was my first visit back to the facility since it underwent major renovations to expand the ability to care for Kansans. As a critical access hospital, the facility is a crucial access to care point for the community and offers emergency services, acute care and swing bed services and both inpatient and outpatient lab services, imaging services and physical therapy.
Thank you to CEO Debbie Bruner, Clark County Commissioner Dustin McPhail, Iroquois Center Board of Directors member Carol Tedford and the doctors and staff who met with me during the tour.
Western Kansas Irrigation Filtration Trailer
While at the Ogallala summit, I enjoyed the opportunity to tour Western Kansas Irrigation’s filtration trailer. The innovative technology in the trailer is being utilized at feedlots and dairies throughout the region to make the most out of water pumped from the aquifer. By filtering excess water used in these operations, this trailer allows water to be reused and repurposed. This significantly reduces the amount of water used for daily tasks and helps to preserve this valuable natural resource.
Thanks to Jas Dale and Eloy Daquera with Western Kansas Irrigation for taking the time to visit with me and for all the work you do.
Remembering Phil Howe
This week, I gave a speech on the Senate Floor to commemorate the life of Phil Howe. Phil was a longtime and well-respected individual in his hometown of Manhattan, achieving numerous milestones and accomplishments. In 1969, Phil chartered and founded the Kansas State Bank, a statewide financial institution which today is valued at nearly $1 billion. Later in his life, Phil was able to establish the Howe Community Foundation, which continues to positively impact the lives of many across our state. I will fondly remember Mr. Howe as a man of outstanding moral character, defined by his kind and compassionate heart. Robba and I send our thoughts and prayers out to the Howe family.
You can watch my floor speech here.
Capitol Tour
Jordan Adam of Riverton
Keeley Adams of Riverton
Ellie Adams of Riverton
Melody Hail of Riverton
Jeremy Long of Downs
Austin Rice of Downs
Taylor Criswell of Downs
Jorden Schoen of Downs
Kylie Camacho of Downs
Grace Smith of Downs
Kaden Goheen of Downs
Acacia Otte of Downs
Cassi Walsh of Cawker City
Lauren Brummet of Cawker City
Tyea Schlaefli of Cawker City
Ian Kresin of Cawker City
Ashley Kurtz of Topeka
Cindy Kurtz of Topeka
Delores Longnecker of Salina
Clayton Anderson of Lawrence
Carly Cook of Lawrence
Grace Lahr of Lawrence
Emily Depew of Lawrence
Larry Frieden of Hezelton
Eva Frieden of Hezelton
Nex-Tech
Jimmy Todd of Lenora
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
John Campbell of Leawood
MORAC
Melissa Sieben of Lawrence
Tom Poer of Overland Park
Sarah White of Kansas City
Ellen Parker of Lenexa
American Farm Bureau Federation
Laura Haffner of Hays
Kansas Chapter of the United Postmasters and Managers of America
Ashley Martinez of Hiawatha
Lacey Whiting of Chase
Christopher Johnson of Council Grove
Steven O’Connor of Salina
US Canola Association
Mike Stamm of Manhattan
Headache on the Hill
Darcy Bonjour of Chanute
Donna Vierthaler of Wichita
American Podiatric Medical Association
Corin Wilde of Pittsburg
Sarah Russell of Overland Park
Leading Technology Composites
Brad Murray of Wichita
Dean Richardson of Wichita
US Travel Association
Holly Lofton of Lindsborg
Megan Welsh of Dodge City
Melissa Dixon of Hays
Alan Carr of Kansas City
Julie Roller Weeks of Abilene
Kansas Association of Conservation Districts
Dan Meyerhoff of Hays
Brytnni Miller of Larned
Daryl Donohue of Fredonia
David Doctorian of Salina
Security Benefit
John Guyot of Topeka
Zoe Gruber of Topeka
Bike Walk KC
Michael Kelley of Kansas City
McPherson Housing Coalition
Karolyn Moore of McPherson
Chris Goodson of McPherson
Kerrey Moore of McPherson
Kip Goodson of McPherson
National Down Syndrome Society
Anita Raghavan of Wichita
Tavrick Lawless of Wichita
Safe States Injury and Violence Prevention Network
Daina Zolck of Wamego
Fort Hays State University Honor Society
Jessalyn Kirchhoff of Hays
Alicia Feyerherm of Hays
Peyton Niernberger of Hays
Eleanora Yadanar of Hays
Ines Steeman of Hays
Saskia Steiner of Hays
National Funeral Directors Association
Joshua Meyer of Concordia
Marty Mendicki of Parsons
Justin Smith of Derby
Camille Gates of Wichita
Blinded Veterans Association
Timothy Hornik of Lawrence
WSU Tech
Elise James of Wichita
Council of Chief State School Officers
Jake Steel of Topeka
Dean Zajic of Topeka
Society of Women Engineers
Gwen Belt of Eudora
Affiliated Distributors
Steve Adams of Overland Park
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