Truth Report Week 2 2024

THE TRUTH REPORT

A Weekly Rundown of Important Activity in Topeka, from a Principled Perspective

Week Two - January 21, 2024

"This (tax) plan does benefit the bottom the most.

There is absolutely no reason not to return these resources to the people we serve."

-Senator Ty Masterson-

Topeka, KS- This week, Republicans have begun to make good on their promises to lower taxes and improve the lives of Kansas citizens. With many bills being introduced, this week has seen considerable movement in the right direction!

Tax Relief - HB 2284

Following House Speaker Dan Hawkins's State of the State response emphasizing a resolution to lower taxes, HB 2284 passed in the Senate on Wednesday the 17th. It was moved to the House, where it was passed on Thursday the 18th. HB 2284 is a dual rate tax plan that makes changes to income tax, lowers property tax, eliminates food sales tax, changes social security exemptions, gives an annual standard deduction and personal exemption increase and more!

Disincentivizing Gender Reassignment Surgeries - SB 353

SB 353 would allow a civil cause of action to be brought against a physician who performed gender reassignment surgery, including prescribing, dispensing, administering or in any way supplying medications that change, delay, impede, stop or reverse the normal process of puberty. Additionally, it would allow the license of a physician who performs a childhood gender reassignment to be revoked. This bill deters physicians from performing gender-reassignment surgeries because of the risks involved. SB 353 was introduced on Wednesday, January 17th and referred to the Committee on Public Health and Welfare.

Amendment to the Kansas Bill of Rights - HCR 5020

On Tuesday the 16th, HCR 5020 was introduced and then referred to the Committee on Federal and State Affairs where a hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, January 23rd. This bill proposes an amendment be made to section four of the Kansas Bill of Rights. It wants to recognize the possession and use of ammunition, firearm accessories and components as a part of one’s fundamental right to bear arms.

Ideological Bias in Universities - HB 2460

HB 2460 prohibits universities from basing decisions regarding acceptance, scholarships, hiring, and more on a person’s political or ideological viewpoints. The bill clarifies that universities may still educate on topics such as patriotism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Moreover, universities may enforce compliance with federal and state antidiscrimination laws and provide training on diversity, bias, and other such topics. The purpose of this bill is merely to leave such considerations out of decisions regarding a person’s inclusion in the university and their access to educational aid. HB 2460 was referred to the Committee on Higher Education Budget on January 9th.

Mark your Calendars and Join Us!

On Tuesday January 23rd, Americans for Prosperity will be leading an education rally in support of School Choice. This will be held in the rotunda from 10 A.M. to 3 P.M.
On Wednesday January 24th beginning at 9:00 at the Topeka Performing Arts Center (TPAC) there will be a March and Rally for Life, an event by Catholic Ignite and KFL.