As we end 2023 and look to 2024, a number of things come to mind that would make it a brighter year for all Kansans.
First, expanding Medicaid would allow thousands now uninsured to obtain a minimal level of healthcare and do a lot to help shore up our healthcare delivery system in Kansas. Don’t fall for the smoke and mirrors from some who tell you that it would prevent disabled people from getting on the rolls, or that it would remove incentive for someone to find a job. It’s just not true.
Next, as per the Kansas constitution, our legislature needs to fully fund and support the Public Schools. Private Schools are just that, private! A private business that does not need State funding to make a profit. Forget vouchers for private schools, they make enough money. And for those who use the false flag argument that it’s about parent’s rights to decide where their tax money goes, I know a lot of folks who don’t have children in schools who could say they have a right to where their education tax dollars go.
And to top off the New Year, lets talk about the Ad Valorem tax reductions! For the past 20 years, the Republican controlled Legislature has refused to follow Kansas law which sent a portion of State tax dollars back to the Counties. Those funds are then directly applied to lowering property tax levies. This time-tested partnership—started in 1937 and cancelled in 2003—provides dollar for dollar reductions in property tax bills. Like most of you, my tax bill went up in 2023! Why? To pay for services the State formerly provided or funded, that have been dumped on local county government. In 2001 the Legislature stopped giving the counties and cities their share of cigarette and alcohol tax review. In 2006 the Legislature repealed the property tax on commercial/industrial machinery and equipment, which shifted the tax burden of paying for police, fire, street repairs and other services onto homeowners and small commercial businesses. And the cuts keep coming. Dollars owed but not paid to cities and counties since 2001 is is estimated at more than $3.5-billion. When your city or county commission says they are short on funds, now you know why.
There is hope for a new day in Kansas, it’s coming in November of 2024! Until then, may you have a Safe and Happy New Year!