Sen. Doug Shane

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes adding a constitutional amendment to Kansas to explicitly state that only U.S. citizens who are at least 18 years old and live in their local voting area are eligible to vote. The key provision clarifies residency requirements by allowing exceptions for people who temporarily move away, such as those voting in presidential elections or relocating within the state during an election cycle. If passed by the legislature and approved by voters, the change would codify these specific voter qualifications into the state constitution.

Maddy summarySB 202 transfers all current and future teachers in Kansas from the KPERS 3 retirement plan (established in 2015) to the older KPERS 2 plan (established in 2009). It affects all teachers, including those currently enrolled in KPERS 3, with the transfer automatic on January 1, 2026, and new teachers hired on or after July 1, 2025, starting directly in KPERS 2. The bill ensures teachers retain all prior service credit and benefits under the new plan, with no reduction in benefits compared to their previous plan, and employer contributions will offset the administrative costs of the transfer.

Maddy summarySB 102 clarifies the specific identifying information that must be included in mandatory reports of child abuse or neglect and increases the penalty for failing to report such incidents from a misdemeanor to a felony. The bill affects mandatory reporters, including medical professionals, teachers, child care workers, and mental health providers, requiring them to provide precise details when reporting to the secretary for children and families. It also amends coroner reporting procedures to ensure child death information is shared with the secretary for children and families following specific protocols for suspicious circumstances.

Maddy summarySB 145 requires Kansas' secretary for children and families to immediately notify law enforcement agencies when a report of child abuse or neglect is received. It also allows law enforcement agencies to request resources, such as personnel or information, from the secretary's office to assist in investigating these cases. These provisions apply to all reports of child abuse or neglect handled by the child welfare agency, improving coordination between law enforcement and child welfare during investigations.

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 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 summaryThis Senate resolution honors Dr. David J. Spittal as he retires from his role as president of MidAmerica Nazarene University. It highlights his achievements during his tenure, including securing accreditation, raising millions for scholarships, and helping the university receive a federal grant to improve student support services. The bill formally acknowledges his contributions to the university and the broader Kansas community, noting that nearly 18,000 students have graduated under his leadership.