Kansas will have to plug a $1.3 
billion budget shortfall between now and June 2021, but the state will 
have to be careful about where it makes cuts.

By JIM MCLEAN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-04-22/5-things-a-1-3b-tax-shortfall-will-mean-for-kansas-after-the-coronavirus">Kansas News Service</a>

TOPEKA —&nbsp;Across the United States, the COVID-19 
pandemic is triggering state budget crises. Kansas is no exception, with
 tax collections expected to plummet by $1.3 billion between now and 
June 2021.

“This is more than just a little bump in the road,” 
said Gov. Laura Kelly, who over the next 15 months (or longer) will have
 to hash out with the Republican-led Legislature how to stay in the 
black. That’s because the Kansas Constitution prohibits deficit 
spending.

Here are the five things you need to know about Kansas’ budget situation.

When
 lawmakers left last month to shelter in their homes, Kansas was 
supposed to end the current fiscal year with more than $900 million in 
cash reserves. That’s all gone, plus policymakers will have to deal with
 a projected $650 million shortfall — approaching what Kansas saw after 
the 2008 financial crisis.

But the speed with which revenues are 
projected to fall off is “historic,” said J.G. Scott, who heads the 
legislature’s research staff and is part of the Consensus Revenue 
Estimating Group. That panel does revenue projections that are required 
for writing the state budget.

K-12 schools are
 the largest line-item in the state budget, $4 billion a year. But 
primary and secondary education tops the list of untouchables. To end a 
long-running legal battle last year, Kelly and lawmakers agreed on a 
bipartisan plan to increase funding for public schools by $90 million a 
year through the 2022-23 school year.

At $3.5 billion a year, Medicaid
 is the state’s second-largest expenditure. It’s difficult to cut 
because Kansas shares the cost of the program with the federal 
government, so there are rules about what services can be reduced. Even 
so, the state made targeted cuts in Medicaid during the Great Recession 
and again when Republican then-Gov. Sam Brownback’s cuts in income and 
business taxes sent state revenues crashing. Still, it’s unlikely Kelly 
will propose cuts to KanCare, given that expanding it to cover another 
130,000 low-income Kansans is one of her top priorities.

More than $2 billion of the Kansas Department of Transportation’s budget
 has been raided to plug holes in the state’s general operating budget 
to the point that the agency is known as the “bank of KDOT.” While Kelly
 is taking less each year and has pledged to end dipping into the 
agency’s budget by 2022, the pandemic could force her to extend that 
timetable. It also could threaten work promised under her new 10-year, 
$10 billion transportation program.

Over the last couple of decades, Kansas universities
 have seen budget cuts in lean years and halfway-helpful measures to 
make up for the cuts. That’s led public universities to raise tuition 
repeatedly: In the last 10 years, tuition revenue grew by $276 million, 
or 53%. State funding has increased by only $13 million (or 2%). And 
with other large expenditures considered off-limits, universities will 
likely once again be a target.

Kelly
 will look for one-time savings before restricting state services. One 
example, she said, would be to delay paying back money the state 
borrowed from itself in 2017, saving about $265 million between now and 
the end of the next budget year in June 2021.

Lawmakers could move
 another $25 million into the State General Fund by restoring Kelly’s 
proposed $158.7 million transfer from the State Highway Fund.

Lawmakers
 also could reconsider some of the spending increases they approved 
before the impact of the coronavirus on state revenues was clear. As 
just one example, they could reverse a decision to increase Medicaid 
reimbursement rates for nursing homes and people who provide in-home 
services to Kansans with disabilities. That would save the state another
 $12 million.

Kelly is meeting this week
 with the state’s budget director. The Legislature’s budget committees 
will also meet via video conference calls this week to start dealing 
with the projected revenue shortfall.

Lawmakers won’t return from their break Monday as scheduled, which means any budget won’t be approved for a while.

Some Republicans believe the budget crisis could worsen if Kelly doesn’t reopen the state soon.

“We
 need a plan to get our economy moving again and we need it soon,” said 
Senate President Susan Wagle, a candidate for the Republican nomination 
for U.S. Senate.

Kelly said she’ll release a plan early next week 
for “starting to reopen the state,” adding that she’s hopeful that 
Congress will repeat what it did during the 2008 recession to provide 
states with money to balance their budgets. But any federal aid that’s 
already been approved is only to be used to offset the cost of 
responding to the COVID-19 outbreak, not plugging holes in the state’s 
general operating budget.

Jim McLean is the senior 
correspondent for the Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, 
Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public Radio focused on 
health, the social determinants of health and their connection to public
 policy. You can reach him on Twitter @jmcleanks or email jim@kcur.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587650922523.png" alt="Kansas lawmakers and the governor will have to make choices as the coronavirus sends the state's tax revenues spiraling. Daniel Caudill / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Kansas lawmakers and the governor will have to make choices as the coronavirus sends the state's tax revenues spiraling. Daniel Caudill / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Kansas will have to plug a $1.3 
billion budget shortfall between now and June 2021, but the state will 
have to be careful about where it makes cuts.</h2>By JIM MCLEAN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-04-22/5-things-a-1-3b-tax-shortfall-will-mean-for-kansas-after-the-coronavirus">Kansas News Service</a>TOPEKA —&nbsp;Across the United States, the COVID-19 
pandemic is triggering state budget crises. Kansas is no exception, with
 tax collections expected to plummet by $1.3 billion between now and 
June 2021.“This is more than just a little bump in the road,” 
said Gov. Laura Kelly, who over the next 15 months (or longer) will have
 to hash out with the Republican-led Legislature how to stay in the 
black. That’s because the Kansas Constitution prohibits deficit 
spending.Here are the five things you need to know about Kansas’ budget situation.<h2>How bad is it?</h2>When
 lawmakers left last month to shelter in their homes, Kansas was 
supposed to end the current fiscal year with more than $900 million in 
cash reserves. That’s all gone, plus policymakers will have to deal with
 a projected $650 million shortfall — approaching what Kansas saw after 
the 2008 financial crisis.But the speed with which revenues are 
projected to fall off is “historic,” said J.G. Scott, who heads the 
legislature’s research staff and is part of the Consensus Revenue 
Estimating Group. That panel does revenue projections that are required 
for writing the state budget.<h2>What can’t Kansas cut?</h2>K-12 schools are
 the largest line-item in the state budget, $4 billion a year. But 
primary and secondary education tops the list of untouchables. To end a 
long-running legal battle last year, Kelly and lawmakers agreed on a 
bipartisan plan to increase funding for public schools by $90 million a 
year through the 2022-23 school year.At $3.5 billion a year, Medicaid
 is the state’s second-largest expenditure. It’s difficult to cut 
because Kansas shares the cost of the program with the federal 
government, so there are rules about what services can be reduced. Even 
so, the state made targeted cuts in Medicaid during the Great Recession 
and again when Republican then-Gov. Sam Brownback’s cuts in income and 
business taxes sent state revenues crashing. Still, it’s unlikely Kelly 
will propose cuts to KanCare, given that expanding it to cover another 
130,000 low-income Kansans is one of her top priorities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587650994725.png" alt="Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly says she knew the revenue estimates would be bad. Jim McLean photo" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly says she knew the revenue estimates would be bad. Jim McLean photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>What can Kansas cut or borrow from?</h2>More than $2 billion of the Kansas Department of Transportation’s budget
 has been raided to plug holes in the state’s general operating budget 
to the point that the agency is known as the “bank of KDOT.” While Kelly
 is taking less each year and has pledged to end dipping into the 
agency’s budget by 2022, the pandemic could force her to extend that 
timetable. It also could threaten work promised under her new 10-year, 
$10 billion transportation program.Over the last couple of decades, Kansas universities
 have seen budget cuts in lean years and halfway-helpful measures to 
make up for the cuts. That’s led public universities to raise tuition 
repeatedly: In the last 10 years, tuition revenue grew by $276 million, 
or 53%. State funding has increased by only $13 million (or 2%). And 
with other large expenditures considered off-limits, universities will 
likely once again be a target.<h2>What else can the Legislature do?</h2>Kelly
 will look for one-time savings before restricting state services. One 
example, she said, would be to delay paying back money the state 
borrowed from itself in 2017, saving about $265 million between now and 
the end of the next budget year in June 2021.Lawmakers could move
 another $25 million into the State General Fund by restoring Kelly’s 
proposed $158.7 million transfer from the State Highway Fund.Lawmakers
 also could reconsider some of the spending increases they approved 
before the impact of the coronavirus on state revenues was clear. As 
just one example, they could reverse a decision to increase Medicaid 
reimbursement rates for nursing homes and people who provide in-home 
services to Kansans with disabilities. That would save the state another
 $12 million.<h2>What’s next?</h2>Kelly is meeting this week
 with the state’s budget director. The Legislature’s budget committees 
will also meet via video conference calls this week to start dealing 
with the projected revenue shortfall.Lawmakers won’t return from their break Monday as scheduled, which means any budget won’t be approved for a while.Some Republicans believe the budget crisis could worsen if Kelly doesn’t reopen the state soon.“We
 need a plan to get our economy moving again and we need it soon,” said 
Senate President Susan Wagle, a candidate for the Republican nomination 
for U.S. Senate.Kelly said she’ll release a plan early next week 
for “starting to reopen the state,” adding that she’s hopeful that 
Congress will repeat what it did during the 2008 recession to provide 
states with money to balance their budgets. But any federal aid that’s 
already been approved is only to be used to offset the cost of 
responding to the COVID-19 outbreak, not plugging holes in the state’s 
general operating budget.Jim McLean is the senior 
correspondent for the Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, 
Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public Radio focused on 
health, the social determinants of health and their connection to public
 policy. You can reach him on Twitter @jmcleanks or email jim@kcur.org.

What a $1.3B tax shortfall will mean for Kan. after the virus

ATLANTA (AP) — Scrambling to address voting concerns during a pandemic, election officials across the country are eliminating polling places or scaling back opportunities for people to cast ballots in person — a move raising concerns among voting rights groups and some Democrats who say some voters could be disenfranchised.

In Nevada, election officials will open only one polling place per county for its June primary. In Florida, county officials warn they may have to consolidate polling places across the state. In Ohio’s primary next week,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/77e1c1806b756e201ea22efe1af18583">only the disabled and the homeless</a>&nbsp;will be allowed to vote in person.

The closures come as many state officials are encouraging voters to vote by mail — and expanding opportunities to do so. Many election officials and health experts see mail-in and absentee voting as the best way to keep voters from spreading the coronavirus and to address a shortage of poll workers who are able to work without risking their health.

But advocates say some states are moving so quickly to embrace the shift to mail that they are not doing enough to accommodate certain voters, including the disabled, people who lack regular mail service, groups with little history of absentee voting or those who are simply unable to keep up with last-minute election changes and mail-in deadlines.

“Not everyone can or should vote by mail,” said Stacey Abrams, a former Democratic candidate for Georgia governor who now runs Fair Fight Action, a voting rights group.

The concerns over polling places largely have been overlooked in the fight over voting rights during the outbreak, which has so far centered on partisan disputes over mail-in and absentee voting.

<a href="https://apnews.com/e1a6172a1cd4429e379bba9216e6f8a3">Democrats and voting rights groups have filed lawsuits</a>&nbsp;seeking to expand mail and absentee voting options and pushed for an extra $2 billion to help states adjust their election systems. National Republicans are fighting those efforts, while President Donald Trump claims&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e45b0fd875cd2bf8be2b92330f37300f">without evidence</a>&nbsp;that mail-in voting is vulnerable to fraud.

But the challenge of securing in-person voting may prove just as contentious and just as likely to curb voter participation in the upcoming primaries, which are largely viewed as a dry run for November. In the chaotic recent Wisconsin election, where voters waited for hours to cast ballots,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/99f183ea43fd558e08393d2b064bb801">one expert estimated</a>&nbsp;that the closure of polling sites in Milwaukee and other cities may have kept as many as 100,000 people from casting ballots.

Last week, Democrats sued Nevada’s top election official, a Republican,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/94bbdeeccca2294554f9a56dc2222b01">for limiting each county to a single polling</a>&nbsp;location during the state’s June 9 primary, alleging that will channel 87% of the state’s voters into only two locations. Democrats, who count on big turnout at the polls in the populous county that contains Las Vegas, also sought changes to make mail voting simpler in a state where the overwhelming majority normally vote in person.

<a href="https://apnews.com/fb43f1165f8549381664ad559313a27a">A conflict is also brewing in swing state Florida,</a>&nbsp;where the nonpartisan county election coordinators have asked Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis to loosen rules on early voting and allow the consolidation of precinct polling stations for elections in August and November.

Democrats fear that polling places may close in Palm Beach and Broward counties, two dense areas that are their bases in the state. “Any diminution of access by reducing precincts or whatever should be avoided as much as possible,” said Terrie Rizzo, the chair of the Florida Democratic Party.

But the rush to eliminate in-person voting can be bipartisan. Democrats’ party-run primary in Wyoming was conducted exclusively by mail, as was its one in Alaska. Party officials said they took steps like allowing same-day registration that help compensate for lack of in-person options. Kansas Democrats agreed to eliminate polling places for their May primary. Party chairwoman Vicki Hiatt said in-person voting sites were “going to be too risky.”

Ohio, Hawaii, Idaho and New Jersey are also sharply limiting or abolishing in-person voting in coming elections.

Advocates acknowledge election officials are in a difficult position and support an increase in vote by mail for those who want it. But in-person voting, they say, provides an important “fail-safe” in the event of errors or mail delivery issues.

“I really don’t buy the argument that it can’t be done safely because grocery stores are open now, essential businesses are open right now,” said Sylvia Albert of Common Cause. “The businesses that are open now are considered essential and voting is essential.”

According to a new report from the liberal Center for American Progress and the NAACP, African-Americans are particularly reliant on in-person voting. In 2018, only 11% cast a ballot by mail — less than half the rate of whites and Latinos.

“There are going to be people who are going to be disenfranchised by moving entirely to a vote-by-mail system,” warned Center for American Progress’ Danielle Root.

Ohio’s April 28 primary eliminates in-person voting for all but those with disabilities or those without a home address. Anyone who fails to request an absentee ballot before the deadline or whose absentee ballot doesn’t arrive in time would not be able to vote in person.

That may include Katie Brickner, 39, who lives in a Cleveland suburb. Her absentee ballot application was returned to her last week as undeliverable after water somehow damaged the front of the envelope after she dropped it off with the post office. She immediately mailed another but is worried about getting her ballot back after hearing reports that it’s taking a few weeks for applications to be processed.

“I will have no voice in the election and it’s really important to me this year,” she said.

In Maryland, state election officials were poised to cancel in-person voting but decided to keep at least one polling place open in each of the state’s 24 counties after voting rights groups raised concerns.

In Idaho, state election officials said it “simply was not safe for voters, election workers or the larger community” to hold in-person voting for the May 19 primary. The state is mailing absentee ballot applications to voters who haven’t requested one and has partnered with local grocery stores who will be providing stamps for those who need them to return their completed ballots.

Still, the decision to eliminate in-person voting could still pose a barrier for some tribal members in the state. One county has reported the number of absentee ballot requests coming from the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes in southeastern Idaho as “critically low,” according to Randy’L Teton, tribal spokeswoman.

Teton worries the process for requesting an absentee ballot may pose a challenge for those used to voting in person.

“We’re going to need to explain this or delegate a family member that can help their grandma or grandpa on how to get through this,” Teton said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587385328985.png" alt="Democrats in Kansas are using a mail in ballot for the 2020 presidential primary" />
 <figcaption>Democrats in Kansas are using a mail in ballot for the 2020 presidential primary</figcaption>
 </figure>ATLANTA (AP) — Scrambling to address voting concerns during a pandemic, election officials across the country are eliminating polling places or scaling back opportunities for people to cast ballots in person — a move raising concerns among voting rights groups and some Democrats who say some voters could be disenfranchised.In Nevada, election officials will open only one polling place per county for its June primary. In Florida, county officials warn they may have to consolidate polling places across the state. In Ohio’s primary next week,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/77e1c1806b756e201ea22efe1af18583">only the disabled and the homeless</a>&nbsp;will be allowed to vote in person.The closures come as many state officials are encouraging voters to vote by mail — and expanding opportunities to do so. Many election officials and health experts see mail-in and absentee voting as the best way to keep voters from spreading the coronavirus and to address a shortage of poll workers who are able to work without risking their health.But advocates say some states are moving so quickly to embrace the shift to mail that they are not doing enough to accommodate certain voters, including the disabled, people who lack regular mail service, groups with little history of absentee voting or those who are simply unable to keep up with last-minute election changes and mail-in deadlines.“Not everyone can or should vote by mail,” said Stacey Abrams, a former Democratic candidate for Georgia governor who now runs Fair Fight Action, a voting rights group.The concerns over polling places largely have been overlooked in the fight over voting rights during the outbreak, which has so far centered on partisan disputes over mail-in and absentee voting.<a href="https://apnews.com/e1a6172a1cd4429e379bba9216e6f8a3">Democrats and voting rights groups have filed lawsuits</a>&nbsp;seeking to expand mail and absentee voting options and pushed for an extra $2 billion to help states adjust their election systems. National Republicans are fighting those efforts, while President Donald Trump claims&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e45b0fd875cd2bf8be2b92330f37300f">without evidence</a>&nbsp;that mail-in voting is vulnerable to fraud.But the challenge of securing in-person voting may prove just as contentious and just as likely to curb voter participation in the upcoming primaries, which are largely viewed as a dry run for November. In the chaotic recent Wisconsin election, where voters waited for hours to cast ballots,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/99f183ea43fd558e08393d2b064bb801">one expert estimated</a>&nbsp;that the closure of polling sites in Milwaukee and other cities may have kept as many as 100,000 people from casting ballots.Last week, Democrats sued Nevada’s top election official, a Republican,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/94bbdeeccca2294554f9a56dc2222b01">for limiting each county to a single polling</a>&nbsp;location during the state’s June 9 primary, alleging that will channel 87% of the state’s voters into only two locations. Democrats, who count on big turnout at the polls in the populous county that contains Las Vegas, also sought changes to make mail voting simpler in a state where the overwhelming majority normally vote in person.<a href="https://apnews.com/fb43f1165f8549381664ad559313a27a">A conflict is also brewing in swing state Florida,</a>&nbsp;where the nonpartisan county election coordinators have asked Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis to loosen rules on early voting and allow the consolidation of precinct polling stations for elections in August and November.Democrats fear that polling places may close in Palm Beach and Broward counties, two dense areas that are their bases in the state. “Any diminution of access by reducing precincts or whatever should be avoided as much as possible,” said Terrie Rizzo, the chair of the Florida Democratic Party.But the rush to eliminate in-person voting can be bipartisan. Democrats’ party-run primary in Wyoming was conducted exclusively by mail, as was its one in Alaska. Party officials said they took steps like allowing same-day registration that help compensate for lack of in-person options. Kansas Democrats agreed to eliminate polling places for their May primary. Party chairwoman Vicki Hiatt said in-person voting sites were “going to be too risky.”Ohio, Hawaii, Idaho and New Jersey are also sharply limiting or abolishing in-person voting in coming elections.Advocates acknowledge election officials are in a difficult position and support an increase in vote by mail for those who want it. But in-person voting, they say, provides an important “fail-safe” in the event of errors or mail delivery issues.“I really don’t buy the argument that it can’t be done safely because grocery stores are open now, essential businesses are open right now,” said Sylvia Albert of Common Cause. “The businesses that are open now are considered essential and voting is essential.”According to a new report from the liberal Center for American Progress and the NAACP, African-Americans are particularly reliant on in-person voting. In 2018, only 11% cast a ballot by mail — less than half the rate of whites and Latinos.“There are going to be people who are going to be disenfranchised by moving entirely to a vote-by-mail system,” warned Center for American Progress’ Danielle Root.Ohio’s April 28 primary eliminates in-person voting for all but those with disabilities or those without a home address. Anyone who fails to request an absentee ballot before the deadline or whose absentee ballot doesn’t arrive in time would not be able to vote in person.That may include Katie Brickner, 39, who lives in a Cleveland suburb. Her absentee ballot application was returned to her last week as undeliverable after water somehow damaged the front of the envelope after she dropped it off with the post office. She immediately mailed another but is worried about getting her ballot back after hearing reports that it’s taking a few weeks for applications to be processed.“I will have no voice in the election and it’s really important to me this year,” she said.In Maryland, state election officials were poised to cancel in-person voting but decided to keep at least one polling place open in each of the state’s 24 counties after voting rights groups raised concerns.In Idaho, state election officials said it “simply was not safe for voters, election workers or the larger community” to hold in-person voting for the May 19 primary. The state is mailing absentee ballot applications to voters who haven’t requested one and has partnered with local grocery stores who will be providing stamps for those who need them to return their completed ballots.Still, the decision to eliminate in-person voting could still pose a barrier for some tribal members in the state. One county has reported the number of absentee ballot requests coming from the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes in southeastern Idaho as “critically low,” according to Randy’L Teton, tribal spokeswoman.Teton worries the process for requesting an absentee ballot may pose a challenge for those used to voting in person.“We’re going to need to explain this or delegate a family member that can help their grandma or grandpa on how to get through this,” Teton said.___

As mail voting pushed, some fear loss of in-person option

MISSION, Kan. (AP) — State officials said Friday Kansas may be nearing or has already reached its peak in COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths, leaving the state to focus on the economic fallout of closing businesses to stem the spread.

Kansas saw the number of deaths drop Friday from 112 to 111 after an investigation determined one of the previously counted fatalities was not related to the coronavirus. Positive cases increased by 295 to 2,777. But the increase comes as the state, whose testing rate had been among the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f6828656a14b81e1b0d695662b58ec3e">lowest&nbsp;</a>in the nation, works to boost testing.

Gov. Laura Kelly said it appears the state is “headed toward the downhill slope of this journey.”

“We should be able to proceed with our transition from response to recovery next week as planned,” Kelly said. That includes working on a plan for spending federal aid, reopening the economy in phases and identifying a strategy for “addressing an imminent budget crisis.”

The National Governors Association is calling on Congress to approve $500 billion more for direct aid to states, and Kelly said such funding is critical. The emergency federal funding that has been approved so far can’t be used by state’s to plug holes in their budgets.

Kelly noted Kansas is facing a projected 8.1% shortfall in its next state budget after a new fiscal forecast slashed projections for expected tax collections over the next 15 months by nearly $1.37 billion, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/66bc36a2cf33d0b60df265bdd0b70a70">projections</a>&nbsp;released earlier this week.

“The Great Recession cuts were brutal, but they occurred gradually,” Kelly said, adding that without federal help, “Kansas will be forced to make all of those cuts in just one budget cycle.”

She said it is particularly crucial to protect education, health care and infrastructure spending.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness and death.

In Kansas, the cases are heavily concentrated in nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities, where there are 19 clusters and 63 deaths, 57% of the state’s total. Federal and state officials also are monitoring outbreaks in six meatpacking plants, where 250 are infected.

Dr. Lee Norman, the state’s health director, said the state is beginning to have the capacity not just to test the ill, but to conduct surveillance testing to determine the prevalence of the virus in different communities.

“One of the things we do not want to do is fly blind in terms of predicting and in terms of allocating resources,” Norman said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587774515099.png" alt="Dr. Lee Norman responds to a question during Friday's press conference" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Lee Norman responds to a question during Friday's press conference</figcaption>
 </figure>MISSION, Kan. (AP) — State officials said Friday Kansas may be nearing or has already reached its peak in COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths, leaving the state to focus on the economic fallout of closing businesses to stem the spread.Kansas saw the number of deaths drop Friday from 112 to 111 after an investigation determined one of the previously counted fatalities was not related to the coronavirus. Positive cases increased by 295 to 2,777. But the increase comes as the state, whose testing rate had been among the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f6828656a14b81e1b0d695662b58ec3e">lowest&nbsp;</a>in the nation, works to boost testing.Gov. Laura Kelly said it appears the state is “headed toward the downhill slope of this journey.”“We should be able to proceed with our transition from response to recovery next week as planned,” Kelly said. That includes working on a plan for spending federal aid, reopening the economy in phases and identifying a strategy for “addressing an imminent budget crisis.”The National Governors Association is calling on Congress to approve $500 billion more for direct aid to states, and Kelly said such funding is critical. The emergency federal funding that has been approved so far can’t be used by state’s to plug holes in their budgets.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587774640369.png" alt="On Friday afternoon, Governor Laura Kelly said, "The state is headed toward the downhill slope of this journey.”" />
 <figcaption>On Friday afternoon, Governor Laura Kelly said, "The state is headed toward the downhill slope of this journey.”</figcaption>
 </figure>Kelly noted Kansas is facing a projected 8.1% shortfall in its next state budget after a new fiscal forecast slashed projections for expected tax collections over the next 15 months by nearly $1.37 billion, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/66bc36a2cf33d0b60df265bdd0b70a70">projections</a>&nbsp;released earlier this week.“The Great Recession cuts were brutal, but they occurred gradually,” Kelly said, adding that without federal help, “Kansas will be forced to make all of those cuts in just one budget cycle.”She said it is particularly crucial to protect education, health care and infrastructure spending.For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness and death.In Kansas, the cases are heavily concentrated in nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities, where there are 19 clusters and 63 deaths, 57% of the state’s total. Federal and state officials also are monitoring outbreaks in six meatpacking plants, where 250 are infected.Dr. Lee Norman, the state’s health director, said the state is beginning to have the capacity not just to test the ill, but to conduct surveillance testing to determine the prevalence of the virus in different communities.“One of the things we do not want to do is fly blind in terms of predicting and in terms of allocating resources,” Norman said.

Officials: Kansas may be near peak in coronavirus deaths

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon in connection with a shooting incident.&nbsp;

Just after 6:30 a.m.&nbsp; Thursday, the Wichita Police Department Violent Crimes Community Response Team (VCCRT) officers and Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team executed a search warrant at a residence in the 1700 block of West Anita in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.

During the execution of the warrant, police arrested 33-year-old Dontreal Banks and&nbsp;recovered a rifle, handgun, heroin, ecstasy, and ammunition.&nbsp; They also located a vehicle was that&nbsp; believed to have been involved in an April shooting incident.

Banks is currently is a federal parolee and was released into the custody of the United States Marshall’s Service on&nbsp;federal firearm and drug charges, and a federal parole violation, stemming from ongoing gun investigations, according to Davidson.

In addition, Banks has been arrested and convicted of charges that include robbery, criminal possession of a firearm, criminal discharge of a firearm, and possession of drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587740036918.png" alt="Banks is being held in Butler County" />
 <figcaption>Banks is being held in Butler County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon in connection with a shooting incident.&nbsp;Just after 6:30 a.m.&nbsp; Thursday, the Wichita Police Department Violent Crimes Community Response Team (VCCRT) officers and Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team executed a search warrant at a residence in the 1700 block of West Anita in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.During the execution of the warrant, police arrested 33-year-old Dontreal Banks and&nbsp;recovered a rifle, handgun, heroin, ecstasy, and ammunition.&nbsp; They also located a vehicle was that&nbsp; believed to have been involved in an April shooting incident.Banks is currently is a federal parolee and was released into the custody of the United States Marshall’s Service on&nbsp;federal firearm and drug charges, and a federal parole violation, stemming from ongoing gun investigations, according to Davidson.In addition, Banks has been arrested and convicted of charges that include robbery, criminal possession of a firearm, criminal discharge of a firearm, and possession of drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

SWAT team helps arrest Kansas man on federal weapons charges 

KEARNY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 11a.m. Friday in Kearny County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Chevy Astro van driven by Ronald J. Rindels, 62, Hugoton, was westbound on Road 160 two miles south of Deerfield. The van t left the roadway to the north. 

The driver overcorrected. The van&nbsp; came back onto the roadway, entered the south ditch,&nbsp; rolled and came to rest on the roof.

Rindels was pronounced dead at the scene. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

KEARNY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 11a.m. Friday in Kearny County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Chevy Astro van driven by Ronald J. Rindels, 62, Hugoton, was westbound on Road 160 two miles south of Deerfield. The van t left the roadway to the north. The driver overcorrected. The van&nbsp; came back onto the roadway, entered the south ditch,&nbsp; rolled and came to rest on the roof.Rindels was pronounced dead at the scene. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after van rolls

SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting that took the life of 30-year-old Blake Mayes of Wichita.

Police are asking the public for help locating&nbsp; 36-year-old Bobbie Williams-Cox of Topeka, KS, 51-year-old William Moore of Wichita, and 28-year-old Jesse Sweeney of Wichita, in connection with the fatal shooting.

Just after 7 p.m. Thursday, police responded to a shooting call at a home in the 200 block of North Charles in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp;

Upon arrival, police found Mayes on the front porch of the home with a gunshot wound to his body.&nbsp; EMS transported him to an area hospital where he died.

The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred at the home between Mayes and three other known individuals.&nbsp; During the disturbance, Mayes was shot one time, causing his fatal injuries.

Police released no additional details Friday afternoon.

SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting and have identified the victim as 30-year-old Blake Mayes of Wichita.

Just after 7 p.m. Thursday, police responded to a shooting call at a home in the 200 block of North Charles in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp; 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587762685888.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SweeneySEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting that took the life of 30-year-old Blake Mayes of Wichita.Police are asking the public for help locating&nbsp; 36-year-old Bobbie Williams-Cox of Topeka, KS, 51-year-old William Moore of Wichita, and 28-year-old Jesse Sweeney of Wichita, in connection with the fatal shooting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587762640613.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MooreJust after 7 p.m. Thursday, police responded to a shooting call at a home in the 200 block of North Charles in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587762609853.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WilliamsUpon arrival, police found Mayes on the front porch of the home with a gunshot wound to his body.&nbsp; EMS transported him to an area hospital where he died.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587752049994.png" alt="Police on the scene of Thursday's fatal shooting -<a href="https://www.kwch.com/content/news/Man-critically-injured-in-W-Wichita-shooting-569911421.html">photo courtesy KWCH</a>" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of Thursday's fatal shooting -<a href="https://www.kwch.com/content/news/Man-critically-injured-in-W-Wichita-shooting-569911421.html">photo courtesy KWCH</a></figcaption>
 </figure>The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred at the home between Mayes and three other known individuals.&nbsp; During the disturbance, Mayes was shot one time, causing his fatal injuries.Police released no additional details Friday afternoon.-------SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting and have identified the victim as 30-year-old Blake Mayes of Wichita.Just after 7 p.m. Thursday, police responded to a shooting call at a home in the 200 block of North Charles in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp; Upon arrival, police found Mayes on the front porch of the home with a gunshot wound to his body.&nbsp; EMS transported him to an area hospital where he died.The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred at the home between Mayes and three other known individuals.&nbsp; During the disturbance, Mayes was shot one time, causing his fatal injuries.Police released no additional details Friday afternoon.

Police search for 3 suspects after fatal shooting at Kan. home

TOPEKA — Kansas Governor Laura Kelly opened Friday's press conference with the latest coronavirus numbers from the KDHE. The state has 295 new cases of the virus in 76 of the state's 105 counties. The largest one day increase.

The state also reported one less death from Thursday's report.&nbsp; The total number of deaths dropped from 112 to 111 due to a misdiagnosis, according to Kelly.&nbsp;

The governor said she is ready to turn her attention from virus response to recovery next week. This will involved three efforts that will begin to move simultaneously.&nbsp;

First Kelly and her team are working to develop a plan related to the Cares Act, "that ensures we get federal dollars into the Kansas economy as quickly as possible," she said.

Second, Kelly will announce guidance on safely reopening&nbsp; the Kansas economy in phases. Once the plan is finalized, she will share it next week.

Third, Kelly said she and her team must identify a strategy for managing state cash flow and addressing the impending budget crisis. "The slowdown on the economy brought on by the spread of Covid-19 has caused our state's budget situation to deteriorate rapidly.

 If we want to protect all the progress we've made in our schools, infrastructure and more, then Kansas will need help to make it through this in the form of more flexible state aid. If the federal government fails to act, we will be forced to make very deep cuts to critical services."

&nbsp;Kelly said she sent a letter to members of Kansas’ federal delegation to commend them for supporting the latest coronavirus emergency relief package, which provides economic support for small businesses, hospitals and COVID-19 testing capacity. The letter also conveys the urgent need for additional federal support in the form of direct, flexible state aid.

“Although federal aid made available up to this point will enhance Kansas’ immediate coronavirus response efforts, it lacks the flexibility necessary to adequately meet the needs of Kansas communities for the duration of this pandemic,” Kelly said in the letter. “COVID-19 will continue to impose unprecedented economic and public health challenges for at least another 12 to 18 months, and I write to urge your support for additional relief in the form of direct state aid.”

Kelly said it is critical to understand that the $1 billion budget shortfall Kansas faces today as a result of the coronavirus is far different than what happened as a result of the Great Recession, which resulted in $1 billion worth of cuts.

“Although those cuts were brutal, they occurred gradually. This gave communities time to adapt and prioritize, so they could limit the damage to Kansas families as much as possible,” she said in the letter. “That is not the situation Kansas faces today. Never before has the state confronted such a rapid, steep fiscal drop due to unforeseen and uncontrollable circumstances.”

Kelly thanked the federal delegation for its work on behalf of the people of Kansas, but expressed that she is gravely concerned that states are prohibited from using COVID-19 relief funds, such as those included in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, to supplant lost general fund revenue.

TOPEKA — Kansas Governor Laura Kelly opened Friday's press conference with the latest coronavirus numbers from the KDHE. The state has 295 new cases of the virus in 76 of the state's 105 counties. The largest one day increase.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F2345585855750206%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The state also reported one less death from Thursday's report.&nbsp; The total number of deaths dropped from 112 to 111 due to a misdiagnosis, according to Kelly.&nbsp;The governor said she is ready to turn her attention from virus response to recovery next week. This will involved three efforts that will begin to move simultaneously.&nbsp;First Kelly and her team are working to develop a plan related to the Cares Act, "that ensures we get federal dollars into the Kansas economy as quickly as possible," she said.Second, Kelly will announce guidance on safely reopening&nbsp; the Kansas economy in phases. Once the plan is finalized, she will share it next week.Third, Kelly said she and her team must identify a strategy for managing state cash flow and addressing the impending budget crisis. "The slowdown on the economy brought on by the spread of Covid-19 has caused our state's budget situation to deteriorate rapidly. If we want to protect all the progress we've made in our schools, infrastructure and more, then Kansas will need help to make it through this in the form of more flexible state aid. If the federal government fails to act, we will be forced to make very deep cuts to critical services."&nbsp;Kelly said she sent a letter to members of Kansas’ federal delegation to commend them for supporting the latest coronavirus emergency relief package, which provides economic support for small businesses, hospitals and COVID-19 testing capacity. The letter also conveys the urgent need for additional federal support in the form of direct, flexible state aid.“Although federal aid made available up to this point will enhance Kansas’ immediate coronavirus response efforts, it lacks the flexibility necessary to adequately meet the needs of Kansas communities for the duration of this pandemic,” Kelly said in the letter. “COVID-19 will continue to impose unprecedented economic and public health challenges for at least another 12 to 18 months, and I write to urge your support for additional relief in the form of direct state aid.”Kelly said it is critical to understand that the $1 billion budget shortfall Kansas faces today as a result of the coronavirus is far different than what happened as a result of the Great Recession, which resulted in $1 billion worth of cuts.“Although those cuts were brutal, they occurred gradually. This gave communities time to adapt and prioritize, so they could limit the damage to Kansas families as much as possible,” she said in the letter. “That is not the situation Kansas faces today. Never before has the state confronted such a rapid, steep fiscal drop due to unforeseen and uncontrollable circumstances.”Kelly thanked the federal delegation for its work on behalf of the people of Kansas, but expressed that she is gravely concerned that states are prohibited from using COVID-19 relief funds, such as those included in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, to supplant lost general fund revenue.

🎥 Kan. Gov., KDHE Secretary update fight against virus

FINNEY COUNTY — One person died in an accident just after 10a.m. Friday in Finney County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Chevy Cruze driven by Norma O. Santoyo, 40, Garden City, was&nbsp;northbound on U.S. 83 five miles south of U.S. 50.

The Chevy crossed the center line of the highway struck a 2005 Kenworth semi driven by&nbsp; Santiago&nbsp; Tena-Meza, 32, Garden City.

Santoyo was pronounced dead at the scene. A private vehicle transported Tena-Meza to the hospital in Garden City.

Santoyo was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

FINNEY COUNTY — One person died in an accident just after 10a.m. Friday in Finney County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Chevy Cruze driven by Norma O. Santoyo, 40, Garden City, was&nbsp;northbound on U.S. 83 five miles south of U.S. 50.The Chevy crossed the center line of the highway struck a 2005 Kenworth semi driven by&nbsp; Santiago&nbsp; Tena-Meza, 32, Garden City.Santoyo was pronounced dead at the scene. A private vehicle transported Tena-Meza to the hospital in Garden City.Santoyo was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dies after crash with semi

ALBANY,&nbsp; N.Y. —To end his daily press conference Friday, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo shared a letter he received from a farmer in northeast Kansas.&nbsp;

According to Cuomo, the farmer's wife is ill and he is aging.&nbsp;

"He sent me 1 of 5 N95 masks he has from farming to pass on to a doctor or nurse in New York. This is humanity at its best. I share his letter as inspiration."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fast forward to 22:05 to listen to Cuomo read the letter.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly also shared comments about the letter on social media and said, "This incredible example of kindness and generosity is the epitome of what it means to be a Kansan. I am so proud to be the governor of this great state."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587753434953.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ALBANY,&nbsp; N.Y. —To end his daily press conference Friday, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo shared a letter he received from a farmer in northeast Kansas.&nbsp;According to Cuomo, the farmer's wife is ill and he is aging.&nbsp;"He sent me 1 of 5 N95 masks he has from farming to pass on to a doctor or nurse in New York. This is humanity at its best. I share his letter as inspiration."&nbsp;&nbsp;Fast forward to 22:05 to listen to Cuomo read the letter.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Holding a briefing with updates on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coronavirus</a>. Watch Live: <a href="https://t.co/G8ZpT8sfoR">https://t.co/G8ZpT8sfoR</a>&mdash; Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) <a href="https://twitter.com/NYGovCuomo/status/1253708565212041216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly also shared comments about the letter on social media and said, "This incredible example of kindness and generosity is the epitome of what it means to be a Kansan. I am so proud to be the governor of this great state."

New York governor shares letter from Kansas farmer

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 295 to a total of 2777, the state health department reported Thursday afternoon.

This is the largest 24-hour increase in the number of positive cases in Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 295 to a total of 2777, the state health department reported Thursday afternoon.This is the largest 24-hour increase in the number of positive cases in Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 111.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587748419291.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump signed a $484 billion&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/cb7434b815304c50a25a1d9dfd876637">bill</a>&nbsp;Friday to aid employers and hospitals under stress from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;pandemic that has killed more than 50,000 Americans and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e928d091f81f75b9bc8830c7370f41fb">devastated broad swaths</a>&nbsp;of the economy.

The bill is the latest effort by the federal government to help keep afloat businesses that have had to close or dramatically alter their operations as states try to slow the spread of the virus. Over the past five weeks, roughly 26 million people have filed for jobless aid, or about 1 in 6 U.S. workers.

Trump thanked Congress for “answering my call” to provide the critical assistance and said it was “a tremendous victory.” But easy passage of this aid installment belies a potentially bumpier path ahead for future legislation to address the crisis.

The measure&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f322f977f6aa82d76f5707d4eaefb84d">passed Congress almost unanimously</a>&nbsp;Thursday as lawmakers gathered in Washington as a group for the first time since March 27. They followed stricter social distancing rules while seeking to prove they can do their work despite the COVID-19 crisis.

Lawmakers’ face masks and bandannas added a somber tone to their effort to aid a nation staggered by the health crisis and devastating economic costs of the pandemic.

“Millions of people out of work,” said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif. “This is really a very, very, very sad day. We come to the floor with nearly 50,000 deaths, a huge number of people impacted, and the uncertainty of it all.”

Anchoring the bill is the Trump administration’s $250 billion request to replenish a fund to help small- and medium-size businesses with payroll, rent and other expenses. This program provides forgivable loans so businesses can continue paying workers while forced to stay closed for social distancing and stay-at-home orders.

The legislation contains $100 billion demanded by Democrats for hospitals and a nationwide testing program, along with $60 billion for small banks and an alternative network of community development banks that focus on development in urban neighborhoods and rural areas ignored by many lenders. There’s also $60 billion for small-business loans and grants delivered through the Small Business Administration’s existing disaster aid program.

Passage of more coronavirus relief is likely in the weeks ahead. Supporters are already warning that the business-backed Payroll Protection Program will exhaust the new $250 billion almost immediately. Launched just weeks ago, the program quickly reached its lending limit after approving nearly 1.7 million loans. That left thousands of small businesses in limbo as they sought help.

Pelosi and allies said the next measure will distribute more relief to individuals, extend more generous jobless benefits into the fall, provide another round of direct payments to most people and help those who are laid off afford health insurance through COBRA.

Democrats tried to win another round of funding for state and local governments in Thursday’s bill but were rebuffed by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., who says he’s going to try pump the brakes on runaway deficit spending. McConnell says he doesn’t want to bail out Democratic-governed states for fiscal problems that predated the pandemic, but there’s plenty of demand for state fiscal relief among Republicans, too.

After the Senate passed the bill Tuesday, McConnell said Republicans would entertain no more coronavirus rescue legislation until the Senate returns to Washington in May. He promised rank-and-file Republicans greater say in the future legislation, rather than leaving it in the hands of bipartisan leaders.

Pelosi attacked McConnell for at first opposing adding any money to his original $250 billion package and saying cash-strapped states should be allowed to declare bankruptcy, a move that they currently cannot do and that would threaten a broad range of state services. McConnell’s comments provoked an outcry — including from GOP governors — and he later tempered his remarks.

The four coronavirus relief bills approved so far by Congress would deliver at least $2.4 trillion for business relief, testing and treatment, and direct payments to individuals and the unemployed, according to the Congressional Budget Office. The deficit is virtually certain to breach $3 trillion this year.

Among the candidates for aid in the next bill is the Postal Service, which has more than 600,000 workers but is getting clobbered by COVID-19-related revenue losses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587752873806.png" alt="Missouri Senator Roy Blunt attended Friday's bill signing with President Trump- image courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Senator Roy Blunt attended Friday's bill signing with President Trump- image courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump signed a $484 billion&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/cb7434b815304c50a25a1d9dfd876637">bill</a>&nbsp;Friday to aid employers and hospitals under stress from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;pandemic that has killed more than 50,000 Americans and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e928d091f81f75b9bc8830c7370f41fb">devastated broad swaths</a>&nbsp;of the economy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587747168706.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The bill is the latest effort by the federal government to help keep afloat businesses that have had to close or dramatically alter their operations as states try to slow the spread of the virus. Over the past five weeks, roughly 26 million people have filed for jobless aid, or about 1 in 6 U.S. workers.Trump thanked Congress for “answering my call” to provide the critical assistance and said it was “a tremendous victory.” But easy passage of this aid installment belies a potentially bumpier path ahead for future legislation to address the crisis.The measure&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f322f977f6aa82d76f5707d4eaefb84d">passed Congress almost unanimously</a>&nbsp;Thursday as lawmakers gathered in Washington as a group for the first time since March 27. They followed stricter social distancing rules while seeking to prove they can do their work despite the COVID-19 crisis.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587665990231.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>Lawmakers’ face masks and bandannas added a somber tone to their effort to aid a nation staggered by the health crisis and devastating economic costs of the pandemic.“Millions of people out of work,” said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif. “This is really a very, very, very sad day. We come to the floor with nearly 50,000 deaths, a huge number of people impacted, and the uncertainty of it all.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587665950744.png" alt="House Speaker Nancy Pelosi during Thursday's House session -image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>House Speaker Nancy Pelosi during Thursday's House session -image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>Anchoring the bill is the Trump administration’s $250 billion request to replenish a fund to help small- and medium-size businesses with payroll, rent and other expenses. This program provides forgivable loans so businesses can continue paying workers while forced to stay closed for social distancing and stay-at-home orders.The legislation contains $100 billion demanded by Democrats for hospitals and a nationwide testing program, along with $60 billion for small banks and an alternative network of community development banks that focus on development in urban neighborhoods and rural areas ignored by many lenders. There’s also $60 billion for small-business loans and grants delivered through the Small Business Administration’s existing disaster aid program.Passage of more coronavirus relief is likely in the weeks ahead. Supporters are already warning that the business-backed Payroll Protection Program will exhaust the new $250 billion almost immediately. Launched just weeks ago, the program quickly reached its lending limit after approving nearly 1.7 million loans. That left thousands of small businesses in limbo as they sought help.Pelosi and allies said the next measure will distribute more relief to individuals, extend more generous jobless benefits into the fall, provide another round of direct payments to most people and help those who are laid off afford health insurance through COBRA.Democrats tried to win another round of funding for state and local governments in Thursday’s bill but were rebuffed by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., who says he’s going to try pump the brakes on runaway deficit spending. McConnell says he doesn’t want to bail out Democratic-governed states for fiscal problems that predated the pandemic, but there’s plenty of demand for state fiscal relief among Republicans, too.After the Senate passed the bill Tuesday, McConnell said Republicans would entertain no more coronavirus rescue legislation until the Senate returns to Washington in May. He promised rank-and-file Republicans greater say in the future legislation, rather than leaving it in the hands of bipartisan leaders.Pelosi attacked McConnell for at first opposing adding any money to his original $250 billion package and saying cash-strapped states should be allowed to declare bankruptcy, a move that they currently cannot do and that would threaten a broad range of state services. McConnell’s comments provoked an outcry — including from GOP governors — and he later tempered his remarks.The four coronavirus relief bills approved so far by Congress would deliver at least $2.4 trillion for business relief, testing and treatment, and direct payments to individuals and the unemployed, according to the Congressional Budget Office. The deficit is virtually certain to breach $3 trillion this year.Among the candidates for aid in the next bill is the Postal Service, which has more than 600,000 workers but is getting clobbered by COVID-19-related revenue losses.___

Trump signs $484 billion measure to aid employers, hospitals

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two teens in connection with an alleged car theft.

&nbsp;Early Thursday, a 2013 Chevrolet Sonic was reported stolen from a residence in the 300 block of North 10th Street in Saline, according to&nbsp;Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester. The keys had been left in the car.

Later Thursday, officers were dispatched to the 100 block of North Chicago in Salina for the report of a blue passenger car that had crashed into a fence and a tree, according to Forrester.

Witnesses told police that a girl and two boys fled from the accident scene.

An officer spotted a 14-year-old girl running nearby in the 100 block of North West Place. She advised the officer that the driver of the vehicle was Marquez Ruffin, 19, of Salina, and that there was also a 16-year-old boy in the vehicle.

After conducting an investigation, police arrested Ruffin on requested of Felony theft, Two counts of aggravated endangerment of a child, Two counts of contributing to a child’s misconduct, Duty to report a crash with unattended property, Reckless driving

Police also arrested the 14-year-old girl on a requested charge&nbsp; of felony theft, according to Forrester.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587736583056.jpeg" alt="Marquez Ruffin -photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Marquez Ruffin -photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two teens in connection with an alleged car theft.&nbsp;Early Thursday, a 2013 Chevrolet Sonic was reported stolen from a residence in the 300 block of North 10th Street in Saline, according to&nbsp;Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester. The keys had been left in the car.Later Thursday, officers were dispatched to the 100 block of North Chicago in Salina for the report of a blue passenger car that had crashed into a fence and a tree, according to Forrester.Witnesses told police that a girl and two boys fled from the accident scene.An officer spotted a 14-year-old girl running nearby in the 100 block of North West Place. She advised the officer that the driver of the vehicle was Marquez Ruffin, 19, of Salina, and that there was also a 16-year-old boy in the vehicle.After conducting an investigation, police arrested Ruffin on requested of Felony theft, Two counts of aggravated endangerment of a child, Two counts of contributing to a child’s misconduct, Duty to report a crash with unattended property, Reckless drivingPolice also arrested the 14-year-old girl on a requested charge&nbsp; of felony theft, according to Forrester.

Police catch 2 Kansas teens after crash in stolen car

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The financial squeeze of the new coronavirus outbreak has led Children’s Mercy hospital in Kansas City to furlough nearly 600 employees for up to two months,

The furloughs will begin Sunday and even top executives will see a pay cut. That cut ranges from 20% for hospital vice presidents to 30% for CEO Paul Kempinski.

The virus has led to a significant drop in patients coming in for other ailments, as elective procedures were suspended and outpatient clinic visits limited last month to prepare for a surge in COVID-19, Kempinski said. That’s costing the hospital net revenue of about $1 million a day.

“COVID-19 is having a crushing, negative impact on patient care access, our employees and our financial performance,” Kempinski said.

The hospital had already taken several cost-saving measures. It eliminated more than 200 vacant positions and suspended most of its capital spending.

Being furloughed allows employees to file for unemployment benefits, Kempinski said, and the hospital will continue to pay their health insurance premiums.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The financial squeeze of the new coronavirus outbreak has led Children’s Mercy hospital in Kansas City to furlough nearly 600 employees for up to two months,The furloughs will begin Sunday and even top executives will see a pay cut. That cut ranges from 20% for hospital vice presidents to 30% for CEO Paul Kempinski.The virus has led to a significant drop in patients coming in for other ailments, as elective procedures were suspended and outpatient clinic visits limited last month to prepare for a surge in COVID-19, Kempinski said. That’s costing the hospital net revenue of about $1 million a day.“COVID-19 is having a crushing, negative impact on patient care access, our employees and our financial performance,” Kempinski said.The hospital had already taken several cost-saving measures. It eliminated more than 200 vacant positions and suspended most of its capital spending.Being furloughed allows employees to file for unemployment benefits, Kempinski said, and the hospital will continue to pay their health insurance premiums.

Children's Mercy Hospital furloughs 600 employees

'How to' webinar focuses on EBT/SNAP payments

OLATHE – An upcoming free webinar aims to provide farmers’ market growers and direct marketing farmers and ranchers an opportunity to expand their potential customer base by implementing electronic benefit transfer/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (EBT/SNAP) and other electronic payments.Kansas State University and the University of Missouri extension are hosting the webinar from 11 a.m. to noon on Tuesday to outline the MarketLink free EBT/SNAP equipment program.Food safety specialist Londa Nwadike, who holds dual appointments with both universities, said that farmers market and direct marketing farmers may qualify to receive free equipment that enables them to accept EBT/SNAP payments, with options for processing other electronic payments, too.

Tuesday's webinar will teach participants how to access and use this benefit.Registration for the&nbsp;<a href="https://mailer.missouri.edu/42N5-AEMV-1WZSH7-89ZRU-1/c.aspx">free webinar is available online</a>. Prior to the webinar, Nwadike urged growers to get a head start by using an assessment tool to help determine&nbsp;<a href="https://marketlink.org/apply">eligibility to receive free equipment.</a>MarketLink is a program of the National Association of Farmers Market Nutrition Programs. In partnership with the USDA and Novo Dia Group, MarketLink helps farmers and markets with the SNAP retailer application and connects them with free app-based SNAP electronic benefit transfer processing equipment.

More information about MarketLink is&nbsp;<a href="https://marketlink.org/">available online</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585328523337.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>'How to' webinar focuses on EBT/SNAP payments</h2>K-State Research &amp; ExtensionOLATHE – An upcoming free webinar aims to provide farmers’ market growers and direct marketing farmers and ranchers an opportunity to expand their potential customer base by implementing electronic benefit transfer/Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (EBT/SNAP) and other electronic payments.Kansas State University and the University of Missouri extension are hosting the webinar from 11 a.m. to noon on Tuesday to outline the MarketLink free EBT/SNAP equipment program.Food safety specialist Londa Nwadike, who holds dual appointments with both universities, said that farmers market and direct marketing farmers may qualify to receive free equipment that enables them to accept EBT/SNAP payments, with options for processing other electronic payments, too.Tuesday's webinar will teach participants how to access and use this benefit.Registration for the&nbsp;<a href="https://mailer.missouri.edu/42N5-AEMV-1WZSH7-89ZRU-1/c.aspx">free webinar is available online</a>. Prior to the webinar, Nwadike urged growers to get a head start by using an assessment tool to help determine&nbsp;<a href="https://marketlink.org/apply">eligibility to receive free equipment.</a>MarketLink is a program of the National Association of Farmers Market Nutrition Programs. In partnership with the USDA and Novo Dia Group, MarketLink helps farmers and markets with the SNAP retailer application and connects them with free app-based SNAP electronic benefit transfer processing equipment.More information about MarketLink is&nbsp;<a href="https://marketlink.org/">available online</a>.

Webinar planned this week for farmers market, direct marketing farmers

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House is pitching “emerging” research on the benefits of sunlight and humidity in diminishing the threat of the coronavirus as President Donald Trump encourages states to move to reopen their economies.

Past studies have not found good evidence that the warmer temperatures and higher humidity of spring and summer will help tamp down the spread of the virus.

But William Bryan of the Department of Homeland Security said at a White House briefing Thursday that there are “emerging results” from new research that suggest solar light has a powerful effect in killing the virus on surfaces and in the air. He said scientists have seen a similar effect from higher temperatures and humidity. A biocontainment lab in Maryland has been conducting testing on the virus since February, Bryan said.

“The virus is dying at a much more rapid pace just from exposure to higher temperatures and just from exposure to humidity,” Bryan said.

Bryan said having more knowledge about this could help governors when making decisions about how and when to open their state economies. However, he stressed that the emerging results of the light and heat studies do not replace social distancing recommendations.

Trump, who has consistently looked for hopeful news about containing the virus, was asked if it was dangerous to make people think they would be safe by going outside in the heat, considering that so many people have died in Florida.

“I hope people enjoy the sun. And if it has an impact, that’s great,” Trump replied, adding, “It’s just a suggestion from a brilliant lab by a very, very smart, perhaps brilliant man.”

“I’m here to present ideas, because we want ideas to get rid of this thing. And if heat is good, and if sunlight is good, that’s a great thing as far as I’m concerned,” the president said.

Trump noted that the researchers were also looking at the effects of disinfectants on the virus and wondered aloud if they could be injected into people, saying the virus “does a tremendous number on the lungs, so it would be interesting to check that.” Bryan said there was no consideration of that.

The president has often talked up prospects for new therapies and offered rosy timelines for the development of a vaccine.

Earlier in the month, scientific advisers told the White House there’s no good evidence yet that the heat and humidity of summer will rein in the virus without continued public health measures.

Researchers convened by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine analyzed studies done so far to test virus survival under different laboratory conditions as well as tracking where and how COVID-19 has spread so far.

“Given that countries currently in ‘summer’ climates, such as Australia and Iran, are experiencing rapid virus spread, a decrease in cases with increases in humidity and temperature elsewhere should not be assumed,” the researchers wrote earlier in April in response to questions from the White House Office of Science and Technology.

In addition, the report cited the global lack of immunity to the new virus and concluded, “if there is an effect of temperature and humidity on transmission, it may not be as apparent as with other respiratory viruses for which there is at least some preexisting partial immunity.”

They noted that during 10 previous flu pandemics, regardless of what season they started, all had a peak second wave about six months after the virus first emerged.

In March, Dr. Michael Ryan, the World Health Organization’s emergencies chief. said, “We have to assume that the virus will continue to have the capacity to spread, and it’s a false hope to say yes, it will just disappear in the summertime like influenza.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587725492311.png" alt="President Trump and William Bryan, Science and Technology Director at the Department of Homeland Security" />
 <figcaption>President Trump and William Bryan, Science and Technology Director at the Department of Homeland Security</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House is pitching “emerging” research on the benefits of sunlight and humidity in diminishing the threat of the coronavirus as President Donald Trump encourages states to move to reopen their economies.Past studies have not found good evidence that the warmer temperatures and higher humidity of spring and summer will help tamp down the spread of the virus.But William Bryan of the Department of Homeland Security said at a White House briefing Thursday that there are “emerging results” from new research that suggest solar light has a powerful effect in killing the virus on surfaces and in the air. He said scientists have seen a similar effect from higher temperatures and humidity. A biocontainment lab in Maryland has been conducting testing on the virus since February, Bryan said.“The virus is dying at a much more rapid pace just from exposure to higher temperatures and just from exposure to humidity,” Bryan said.Bryan said having more knowledge about this could help governors when making decisions about how and when to open their state economies. However, he stressed that the emerging results of the light and heat studies do not replace social distancing recommendations.Trump, who has consistently looked for hopeful news about containing the virus, was asked if it was dangerous to make people think they would be safe by going outside in the heat, considering that so many people have died in Florida.“I hope people enjoy the sun. And if it has an impact, that’s great,” Trump replied, adding, “It’s just a suggestion from a brilliant lab by a very, very smart, perhaps brilliant man.”“I’m here to present ideas, because we want ideas to get rid of this thing. And if heat is good, and if sunlight is good, that’s a great thing as far as I’m concerned,” the president said.Trump noted that the researchers were also looking at the effects of disinfectants on the virus and wondered aloud if they could be injected into people, saying the virus “does a tremendous number on the lungs, so it would be interesting to check that.” Bryan said there was no consideration of that.The president has often talked up prospects for new therapies and offered rosy timelines for the development of a vaccine.Earlier in the month, scientific advisers told the White House there’s no good evidence yet that the heat and humidity of summer will rein in the virus without continued public health measures.Researchers convened by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine analyzed studies done so far to test virus survival under different laboratory conditions as well as tracking where and how COVID-19 has spread so far.“Given that countries currently in ‘summer’ climates, such as Australia and Iran, are experiencing rapid virus spread, a decrease in cases with increases in humidity and temperature elsewhere should not be assumed,” the researchers wrote earlier in April in response to questions from the White House Office of Science and Technology.In addition, the report cited the global lack of immunity to the new virus and concluded, “if there is an effect of temperature and humidity on transmission, it may not be as apparent as with other respiratory viruses for which there is at least some preexisting partial immunity.”They noted that during 10 previous flu pandemics, regardless of what season they started, all had a peak second wave about six months after the virus first emerged.In March, Dr. Michael Ryan, the World Health Organization’s emergencies chief. said, “We have to assume that the virus will continue to have the capacity to spread, and it’s a false hope to say yes, it will just disappear in the summertime like influenza.”

White House: Heat, humidity could help fight virus

Protesters ringed the state Capitol in Topeka to press Gov. Laura Kelly for an end to her stay-at-home order.

By Jim McLean and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/people/nomin-ujiyediin">Nomin Ujiyediin</a>, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-04-23/protesters-tell-gov-kelly-her-shutdown-is-a-bigger-threat-to-kansas-than-coronavirus">Kansas News Service</a>

TOPEKA, Kansas —&nbsp;Protesters angry about the stay-at-home order in Kansas and the tens of thousands of people it’s tossed from work rallied at the state Capitol Thursday.

They clogged traffic on the four blocks that ring the Statehouse for more than an hour, honking on horns, calling out slogans on bullhorns and pressing Gov. Laura Kelly to reopen businesses in the state.

“The virus is not as bad as originally thought. It’s time to get back to work,” said Neil Melton, a Prairie Village Republican who challenged then Rep. Barbara Bollier in the 2014 primary. “The virus is going to run its course regardless of what we do or don’t do.”

The demonstrators argued that the social and economic harm of the coronavirus-driven shutdown cratering the state and national economies now outweighs the threat from the pandemic.

More than 100 protesters gathered on the Capitol lawn. Perhaps multiples of that joined the demonstration by ever-so-slowly circling the Statehouse on 10th Avenue, Jackson Street, Eighth Avenue and Harrison Street in sedans, SUVs and pickup trucks, horns blaring.

“Nothing justifies the loss of liberty,” said Dale Pratt of Derby, 44, who took a day off from his factory job and brought his 5- and 11-year-old sons to Topeka. “It’s not whether one side is right and one is wrong. We have the right to disagree. We have the right to make poor decisions.”

Almost none of the protesters wore masks. A group of six people mounting a counterdemonstration did, and four of them wore medical scrubs.

“I’m here protecting my people,” said Francisca Alonyo, a nursing student at Washburn University in Topeka. “I’m here to show solidarity with those who are staying home and keeping social distancing.”

A small counterprotest outside the Capitol took place while a much larger crowd called for opening up the Kansas economy. photo by Nomin Ujiyediin

The event was organized on Facebook by the Kansas City Area Preparedness Network, a community dedicated to bracing for an impending social collapse by stockpiling food, ammunition and other supplies. It was also organized by the Convention of States Kansas, a conservative civil liberties group.

Dubbed “Operation Gridlock Topeka,” the protest was also backed by the Facebook group Open Up Kansas!. On its page, that group said: “It is time to open Kansas back up for business. ... WE THE PEOPLE of Kansas can be safe, responsible, and LOUD!”

Jaebyrd Wells, a science fiction author from Wichita who also writes poetry, said Thursday that the protestors represented a wide range of political opinion. She’s a Trump supporter.

“There are liberals out here. There’s conservatives out here. There’s people that don’t support Trump that are out here,” she said. “People want to work and feed their families, so we’re all organizers of this. We’re all feeling each other’s pain.”

The governor issued executive orders in March&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/governor-kelly-signs-executive-orders-limiting-gatherings-providing-essential-function-framework-for-local-communities/" target="_blank">limiting gatherings to 10 people</a>&nbsp;and defining “essential businesses” that would remain open in the event of a stay-at-home order.

Kelly also ordered&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/governor-kelly-issues-temporary-statewide-stay-home-order-in-ongoing-effort-to-combat-covid-19/" target="_blank">Kansans to stay at home</a>&nbsp;unless they are buying food or other supplies, exercising while social distancing, seeking or providing medical care or working in an essential job. Her order has been extended until midnight May 3, although the limits on her emergency powers may mean it effective expires two days earlier.

Public health agencies and medical experts across the world have warned that social distancing is the only way to slow the spread of the coronavirus and avoid overwhelming hospitals.

But in Kansas, some Republican officials have pushed back on the governor’s orders, arguing that they stifle the economy and violate people’s right to worship.

At a news conference about state efforts to stem the coronavirus outbreak after the protests, Kelly said she’s balancing the economic harm against public safety.

“I understand their frustration. I’m just as frustrated with this. I wish I could just snap my fingers and be over with this,” the governor said. “But … we have to pay attention to the science.”

<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/poll-most-americans-support-coronavirus-social-distancing-measures-2020-4" target="_blank">Polls suggest most Americans say it’s too early</a>&nbsp;end shutdowns. Even among Republicans, there’s more&nbsp;<a href="https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/do-most-republicans-agree-with-people-protesting-stay-at-home-orders/" target="_blank">opposition to protests</a>&nbsp;like the one in Topeka on Thursday than support.

Emporia State University political scientist Michael Smith said polling and other data he’s seen show most Kansans back Kelly’s efforts to check the spread of the virus.

“Obviously, the detractors are very passionate,” he said, “but they’re not in the majority.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587679047074.png" alt="Protesters mounted a slow-moving caravan around the Statehouse Thursday to push for an end to Gov. Laura Kelly's stay-at-home order.- Credit Nomin Ujiyediin Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Protesters mounted a slow-moving caravan around the Statehouse Thursday to push for an end to Gov. Laura Kelly's stay-at-home order.- Credit Nomin Ujiyediin Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Protesters ringed the state Capitol in Topeka to press Gov. Laura Kelly for an end to her stay-at-home order.</h2>By Jim McLean and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/people/nomin-ujiyediin">Nomin Ujiyediin</a>, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-04-23/protesters-tell-gov-kelly-her-shutdown-is-a-bigger-threat-to-kansas-than-coronavirus">Kansas News Service</a>TOPEKA, Kansas —&nbsp;Protesters angry about the stay-at-home order in Kansas and the tens of thousands of people it’s tossed from work rallied at the state Capitol Thursday.They clogged traffic on the four blocks that ring the Statehouse for more than an hour, honking on horns, calling out slogans on bullhorns and pressing Gov. Laura Kelly to reopen businesses in the state.“The virus is not as bad as originally thought. It’s time to get back to work,” said Neil Melton, a Prairie Village Republican who challenged then Rep. Barbara Bollier in the 2014 primary. “The virus is going to run its course regardless of what we do or don’t do.”The demonstrators argued that the social and economic harm of the coronavirus-driven shutdown cratering the state and national economies now outweighs the threat from the pandemic.More than 100 protesters gathered on the Capitol lawn. Perhaps multiples of that joined the demonstration by ever-so-slowly circling the Statehouse on 10th Avenue, Jackson Street, Eighth Avenue and Harrison Street in sedans, SUVs and pickup trucks, horns blaring.“Nothing justifies the loss of liberty,” said Dale Pratt of Derby, 44, who took a day off from his factory job and brought his 5- and 11-year-old sons to Topeka. “It’s not whether one side is right and one is wrong. We have the right to disagree. We have the right to make poor decisions.”Almost none of the protesters wore masks. A group of six people mounting a counterdemonstration did, and four of them wore medical scrubs.“I’m here protecting my people,” said Francisca Alonyo, a nursing student at Washburn University in Topeka. “I’m here to show solidarity with those who are staying home and keeping social distancing.”<figure>
 <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/fce5168/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6000x4000+0+0/resize/880x587!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F00%2F5b%2F5b7ff04b4558adcab87121c93aa8%2F2020-04-23-covidprotest-03.JPG" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A small counterprotest outside the Capitol took place while a much larger crowd called for opening up the Kansas economy. photo by Nomin UjiyediinThe event was organized on Facebook by the Kansas City Area Preparedness Network, a community dedicated to bracing for an impending social collapse by stockpiling food, ammunition and other supplies. It was also organized by the Convention of States Kansas, a conservative civil liberties group.Dubbed “Operation Gridlock Topeka,” the protest was also backed by the Facebook group Open Up Kansas!. On its page, that group said: “It is time to open Kansas back up for business. ... WE THE PEOPLE of Kansas can be safe, responsible, and LOUD!”Jaebyrd Wells, a science fiction author from Wichita who also writes poetry, said Thursday that the protestors represented a wide range of political opinion. She’s a Trump supporter.“There are liberals out here. There’s conservatives out here. There’s people that don’t support Trump that are out here,” she said. “People want to work and feed their families, so we’re all organizers of this. We’re all feeling each other’s pain.”The governor issued executive orders in March&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/governor-kelly-signs-executive-orders-limiting-gatherings-providing-essential-function-framework-for-local-communities/" target="_blank">limiting gatherings to 10 people</a>&nbsp;and defining “essential businesses” that would remain open in the event of a stay-at-home order.Kelly also ordered&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.kansas.gov/governor-kelly-issues-temporary-statewide-stay-home-order-in-ongoing-effort-to-combat-covid-19/" target="_blank">Kansans to stay at home</a>&nbsp;unless they are buying food or other supplies, exercising while social distancing, seeking or providing medical care or working in an essential job. Her order has been extended until midnight May 3, although the limits on her emergency powers may mean it effective expires two days earlier.Public health agencies and medical experts across the world have warned that social distancing is the only way to slow the spread of the coronavirus and avoid overwhelming hospitals.But in Kansas, some Republican officials have pushed back on the governor’s orders, arguing that they stifle the economy and violate people’s right to worship.At a news conference about state efforts to stem the coronavirus outbreak after the protests, Kelly said she’s balancing the economic harm against public safety.“I understand their frustration. I’m just as frustrated with this. I wish I could just snap my fingers and be over with this,” the governor said. “But … we have to pay attention to the science.”<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/poll-most-americans-support-coronavirus-social-distancing-measures-2020-4" target="_blank">Polls suggest most Americans say it’s too early</a>&nbsp;end shutdowns. Even among Republicans, there’s more&nbsp;<a href="https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/do-most-republicans-agree-with-people-protesting-stay-at-home-orders/" target="_blank">opposition to protests</a>&nbsp;like the one in Topeka on Thursday than support.Emporia State University political scientist Michael Smith said polling and other data he’s seen show most Kansans back Kelly’s efforts to check the spread of the virus.“Obviously, the detractors are very passionate,” he said, “but they’re not in the majority.”Jim McLean is the senior correspondent for the Kansas News Service. You can reach him on Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/jmcleanks" target="_blank">@jmcleanks</a>&nbsp;or email jim (at) kcur (dot) org.Nomin Ujiyediin reports on criminal justice and social welfare for the Kansas News Service. Follow her on Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/nominuj?lang=en" target="_blank">@NominUJ</a>&nbsp;or email nomin (at) kcur (dot) org.