Capitol Briefing Capitol briefing from Kansas by Scott Rothschild
Kansas lawmakers hear updates on state budget policy and agency actions as reporter Scott Rothschild files condensed notes from the Capitol. Key officials, committee chairs, and session dates are highlighted in a daily briefing format.
Conservative Republicans push changes on judges and school finance
Conservative Republicans seek more executive and legislative influence over appellate court appointments and push bills limiting political advocacy by teacher and public employee groups. The House may debate the advocacy bill this week while a constitutional amendment on appointments is set for Senate debate. The topic ties to court rulings ordering school funding increases in 2005 and this year, fueling GOP anger and calls for elected lawmakers to control finance.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Senate
House
Kansas Supreme Court
Sam Brownback
Kansas National Education Association
Kansas Board of Regents
Federal and State Affairs Committee
Conservatives push for ballot overhauls of Kansas judiciary
Conservative Republicans in Kansas press a constitutional amendment to end attorney screened nominating commissions for the state Court of Appeals and Supreme Court. Gov Brownback allies back governor appointments with Senate confirmation. House and Senate judiciary panels back changes, but two thirds in both chambers and voter approval loom. Critics warn of reduced checks and democratic legitimacy, while supporters say courts must reflect a rightward shift in state government.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Pera
Kansas
State Court of Appeals
Supreme Court
Sam Brownback
Senate
House
Judiciary Committees
Jim Ward
Wichita
House Judiciary Committee
Lance Kinzer
Court of Appeals
Kansas Bar Association
GOP
Kansas _ University law
Stephen Ware
Bar
Ware
Brownback
Susan Wagle
Sen
David Haley
Senate Judiciary Committee
Haley
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Scott Rothschild
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Peggy Mast
Emporia
Action On Arts
Edvard Munch
Kansas Arts Commission
John Young
Lawrence Memorial Hospital
Maine Street
LMH
Maine St
Lawrence
CQLMH
Healthy Heart Fair
LMH Laboratory