Sen. Craig Bowser

Maddy summarySB 10 creates property tax exemptions in Kansas for specific personal property, directly affecting owners of off-road vehicles (not used on highways), motorized bicycles, electric-assisted mobility devices, trailers under 15,000 pounds for personal use, and marine equipment (including watercraft trailers and motors). The bill exempts these items from state property taxes starting in taxable years after December 31, 2025. It amends existing tax laws to formalize these exemptions and updates application procedures for property tax exemptions. This change applies only to qualifying personal-use equipment, not commercial or farm-related property.

Maddy summarySB 200 designates Kansas as a "Purple Heart State" to honor residents who have received the Purple Heart medal for combat wounds. It requires the governor to annually proclaim August 7 as "Purple Heart Day" (commemorating the medal's historical origins) and urges veterans' organizations to plan recognition events. The bill does not create new benefits or funding but establishes a ceremonial observance for Purple Heart recipients, with all Kansas residents encouraged to participate in commemorating their service. This is a symbolic measure with no substantive policy changes.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a constitutional amendment to Kansas that would limit how much property tax assessments can increase each year for most real estate and mobile homes. Under the new rules, the taxable value of these properties could rise by no more than 3% annually, unless the property is newly built, improved, sold, or reclassified. The amendment also allows the state legislature to create specific laws that freeze tax valuations for owner-occupied homes belonging to qualifying seniors. By embedding these limits in the state constitution, the change would establish a permanent cap on assessment growth rather than relying on temporary statutes.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution commends the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve office and acknowledges the patriotism of Kansas employers who support their employees serving in the National Guard and Reserve. The measure highlights the partnership between these groups, noting how employer policies like flexible leave and job protection help service members balance military duties with their civilian lives. By formally recognizing this collaboration, the resolution aims to strengthen the bond between the state, its service members, and their workplaces without altering any laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a commemorative resolution that honors Charlie Kirk, a political activist who founded Turning Point USA and was assassinated in 2025. It designates October 14, 2026, and every subsequent October 14 as Charlie Kirk Free Speech Day in Kansas to celebrate his legacy and promote free speech. The resolution does not create any new laws or change existing policies but instead encourages Kansans to observe the day by engaging in civil discourse.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally commemorates the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the United States Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026. The measure acknowledges previous centennial celebrations and notes that the State of Kansas is already planning related events through its Travel Kansas website. It directs the Secretary of the Senate to send a copy of the resolution to Senator Bowser, with no new laws or funding created.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 1719 is a commemorative measure that formally honors Danny J. Petersen, a Vietnam War veteran who received the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in 1970. The resolution details his bravery in saving wounded comrades and providing covering fire under heavy enemy attack while serving in the U.S. Army. This bill directly affects the Senate record by officially recognizing Petersen's sacrifice and listing his existing memorials, such as the named highway and his inscription on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution denounces a planned satanic worship ritual scheduled for March 28, 2025, on the grounds of the Kansas State Capitol. The bill expresses the Senate's disagreement with the event, which its sponsors characterize as anti-Catholic bigotry and an affront to Christian beliefs, while simultaneously acknowledging the First Amendment right to assemble. Additionally, the resolution condemns specific vandalism and hate speech incidents that occurred at St. Patrick Parish in Wichita on March 15, 2025. It calls on Kansans to promote unity and urges Governor Laura Kelly to condemn the planned ritual and the use of stolen property in the vandalism.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution formally acknowledges the contributions of Kansas Task Force 1 members who assisted in relief efforts following Hurricanes Helene and Milton in the Southeastern United States. The bill specifically honors these 36 responders, who hail from 22 different Kansas agencies, for their work in search and rescue, medical care, and transporting people and animals during difficult conditions. By passing this resolution, the Kansas Senate recognizes the outstanding service provided by these individuals but does not enact any new laws or policy changes.

Maddy summaryThis Senate resolution designates March 13, 2025, as Mental Health Advocacy Day at the Kansas Capitol. The measure formally acknowledges the presence of student groups and mental health organizations visiting the statehouse to promote awareness and discuss wellness programs. By issuing this recognition, the Senate highlights ongoing efforts to reduce stigma and improve access to behavioral health services for Kansans. The resolution does not alter laws or allocate funding but serves as a symbolic gesture to support these advocacy efforts.