LONDON (AP) — King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer and has begun treatment, Buckingham Palace said Monday. Less than 18 months into his reign, the 75-year-old monarch will suspend public duties but will continue with state business, and won't be handing over his constitutional roles as head of state.

The palace didn't say what form of cancer the king has, but said it's not related to the king’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/uk-princess-kate-abdominal-surgery-5fc9e0e3b59954a2cceb6b1a7edf31a7">recent treatment</a>&nbsp;for a benign prostate condition.

The palace said “a separate issue of concern was noted” during Charles' treatment for an enlarged prostate last month, when he spent three nights in a London hospital.

“Diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer,” it said in a statement.

“His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties,” the palace said. "Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual."

The king is being treated as an outpatient, the palace said.

It said Charles “remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.”

The palace added that the king "has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”

Charles became king in September 2022 when his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died at the age of 96.

News of the king's diagnosis comes as his daughter-in-law Kate, Princess of Wales, recovers from abdominal surgery that saw her hospitalized for about two weeks.

Kate is still taking a break from royal duties as she recovers. Her husband, Prince William, who is heir to the throne, also took time off to help look after the couple's three children, but is due to preside over an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace on Thursday.

The king personally called both the Prince of Wales and his second son, Prince Harry, — as well as his siblings Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward — to share news of his health.

Harry, who quit royal duties in 2020 and moved to California, has spoken to his father about the diagnosis and “will be traveling to UK to see His Majesty in the coming days,” said the office of Harry and his wife, Meghan.

U.K. political leaders sent messages of support. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak tweeted: “Wishing His Majesty a full and speedy recovery. I have no doubt he’ll be back to full strength in no time and I know the whole country will be wishing him well.”

U.S. President Joe Biden, traveling in Las Vegas on Monday, said he had just learned about Charles’s diagnosis and said he hopes to speak with him, “God willing.”

“I’m concerned about him,” Biden told reporters.

Charles departed from royal tradition with his openness about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kate-hospitalized-prince-william-royal-health-wales-b2ea543cfaf7a52b71ac3fbdf4a19cfa">his prostate condition.</a>&nbsp;For centuries Britain's royal family remained tight-lipped about health matters.

When U.K. monarchs had real power, news of illness was withheld for fear it might weaken their authority. The habit of secrecy lingered after royals became constitutional figureheads.

The British public wasn’t told that Charles’ grandfather, King George VI, had lung cancer before his death in February 1952 at the age of 56.

Pat Price, founder of the Catch Up With Cancer campaign, said millions shared the “collective concern” for the king's health.

“The King’s openness about his battle with cancer is a powerful reminder that one in two of us may face cancer at some point in our lives," Price said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683335060930.png" alt="File photo King Charles III&nbsp; photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>File photo King Charles III&nbsp; photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>LONDON (AP) — King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer and has begun treatment, Buckingham Palace said Monday. Less than 18 months into his reign, the 75-year-old monarch will suspend public duties but will continue with state business, and won't be handing over his constitutional roles as head of state.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A statement from Buckingham Palace: <a href="https://t.co/zmYuaWBKw6">https://t.co/zmYuaWBKw6</a> 📷 Samir Hussein <a href="https://t.co/xypBLHHQJb">pic.twitter.com/xypBLHHQJb</a>&mdash; The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalFamily/status/1754565735655887066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The palace didn't say what form of cancer the king has, but said it's not related to the king’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/uk-princess-kate-abdominal-surgery-5fc9e0e3b59954a2cceb6b1a7edf31a7">recent treatment</a>&nbsp;for a benign prostate condition.The palace said “a separate issue of concern was noted” during Charles' treatment for an enlarged prostate last month, when he spent three nights in a London hospital.“Diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer,” it said in a statement.“His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties,” the palace said. "Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual."The king is being treated as an outpatient, the palace said.It said Charles “remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.”The palace added that the king "has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”Charles became king in September 2022 when his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died at the age of 96.News of the king's diagnosis comes as his daughter-in-law Kate, Princess of Wales, recovers from abdominal surgery that saw her hospitalized for about two weeks.Kate is still taking a break from royal duties as she recovers. Her husband, Prince William, who is heir to the throne, also took time off to help look after the couple's three children, but is due to preside over an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace on Thursday.The king personally called both the Prince of Wales and his second son, Prince Harry, — as well as his siblings Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward — to share news of his health.Harry, who quit royal duties in 2020 and moved to California, has spoken to his father about the diagnosis and “will be traveling to UK to see His Majesty in the coming days,” said the office of Harry and his wife, Meghan.U.K. political leaders sent messages of support. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak tweeted: “Wishing His Majesty a full and speedy recovery. I have no doubt he’ll be back to full strength in no time and I know the whole country will be wishing him well.”U.S. President Joe Biden, traveling in Las Vegas on Monday, said he had just learned about Charles’s diagnosis and said he hopes to speak with him, “God willing.”“I’m concerned about him,” Biden told reporters.Charles departed from royal tradition with his openness about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kate-hospitalized-prince-william-royal-health-wales-b2ea543cfaf7a52b71ac3fbdf4a19cfa">his prostate condition.</a>&nbsp;For centuries Britain's royal family remained tight-lipped about health matters.When U.K. monarchs had real power, news of illness was withheld for fear it might weaken their authority. The habit of secrecy lingered after royals became constitutional figureheads.The British public wasn’t told that Charles’ grandfather, King George VI, had lung cancer before his death in February 1952 at the age of 56.Pat Price, founder of the Catch Up With Cancer campaign, said millions shared the “collective concern” for the king's health.“The King’s openness about his battle with cancer is a powerful reminder that one in two of us may face cancer at some point in our lives," Price said.___

Palace: King Charles III diagnosed with cancer 

BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after midnight&nbsp;&nbsp;Feb. 2, a sheriff's deputy stopped a 2010 Mercedes-Benz for an alleged traffic violation on US 56 Highway, just inside the east city limits of Great Bend, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir. The driver was identified as Paul Scott Ringering, age 54 of Ellinwood.

The Sheriff’s deputy became suspicious of potential drug activity and Sheriff’s Office K9 Maxx was called to the scene. Maxx indicated the presence of controlled substances. Further investigation revealed marijuana and methamphetamine inside the vehicle. Ringering was placed under arrest and transported to the Barton County Jail. During the course of the booking process it was found Ringering had more methamphetamine as well as cocaine concealed on his person.

Ringering was booked into the Barton County Jail on requested charges of possession of controlled substances, possession of drug paraphernalia, distribution of controlled substances as well as trafficking contraband into a correctional facility.

Ringering remains in the Barton County Jail in lieu of a $50,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707150550505.jpeg" alt="Photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just after midnight&nbsp;&nbsp;Feb. 2, a sheriff's deputy stopped a 2010 Mercedes-Benz for an alleged traffic violation on US 56 Highway, just inside the east city limits of Great Bend, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir. The driver was identified as Paul Scott Ringering, age 54 of Ellinwood.The Sheriff’s deputy became suspicious of potential drug activity and Sheriff’s Office K9 Maxx was called to the scene. Maxx indicated the presence of controlled substances. Further investigation revealed marijuana and methamphetamine inside the vehicle. Ringering was placed under arrest and transported to the Barton County Jail. During the course of the booking process it was found Ringering had more methamphetamine as well as cocaine concealed on his person.Ringering was booked into the Barton County Jail on requested charges of possession of controlled substances, possession of drug paraphernalia, distribution of controlled substances as well as trafficking contraband into a correctional facility.Ringering remains in the Barton County Jail in lieu of a $50,000 bond.

Cocaine, meth discovered during Kansas traffic stop

SALINE COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is stopping more drivers traveling well above the posted speed limit.

On Monday morning, in heavy fog on Interstate 135 in Saline County, Lieutenant Proffitt stopped a motorist driving 116 mph, according to a social media report from KHP Trooper Ben Gardner.

"It’s just one traffic stop of what has been frequently occurring, with our Troopers stopping vehicles speeding well over 100 mph"

The driver was traveling 41 mph over the speed limit and faces a $468.00 fine, according to the ticket. "A reminder to all to drive responsibly."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707147987922.png" alt="KHP photo" />
 <figcaption>KHP photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is stopping more drivers traveling well above the posted speed limit.On Monday morning, in heavy fog on Interstate 135 in Saline County, Lieutenant Proffitt stopped a motorist driving 116 mph, according to a social media report from KHP Trooper Ben Gardner."It’s just one traffic stop of what has been frequently occurring, with our Troopers stopping vehicles speeding well over 100 mph"The driver was traveling 41 mph over the speed limit and faces a $468.00 fine, according to the ticket. "A reminder to all to drive responsibly."

KHP: Troopers frequently stopping vehicles traveling over 100mph

JOHNSON COUNTY—A man is going to prison for a series of burglary sex&nbsp; crimes.&nbsp;

Last week, Judge Thomas Sutherland sentenced 23-year-old&nbsp;William Louis Elliot to just over 22-years in prison, according to the Johnson County District Attorney.

In November, a jury found Elliott guilty of aggravated sodomy by force, rape, sexual battery and aggravated burglary.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 2018, police arrested Elliott for breaking into three homes through unlocked doors in Shawnee.&nbsp;

Two of the incidents occurred near 75th and Goddard streets and the third near 55th and Caenen streets, according to a media release from Shawnee Police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699106600413.png" alt="Elliott-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Elliott-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—A man is going to prison for a series of burglary sex&nbsp; crimes.&nbsp;Last week, Judge Thomas Sutherland sentenced 23-year-old&nbsp;William Louis Elliot to just over 22-years in prison, according to the Johnson County District Attorney.In November, a jury found Elliott guilty of aggravated sodomy by force, rape, sexual battery and aggravated burglary.&nbsp;&nbsp;In 2018, police arrested Elliott for breaking into three homes through unlocked doors in Shawnee.&nbsp;Two of the incidents occurred near 75th and Goddard streets and the third near 55th and Caenen streets, according to a media release from Shawnee Police.

Man sentenced for 3 Kan. home-invasion burglary, sex assaults

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senators on Sunday released a highly anticipated $118 billion package that pairs border enforcement policy with wartime aid for Ukraine, Israel and other U.S. allies, setting off a long-shot effort to push the bill through&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-ukraine-trump-a8601ec6629ddc5b769028ca99ad9879">heavy skepticism from Republicans</a>, including House Speaker Mike Johnson.

<a href="https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/emergency_national_security_supplemental_bill_text.pdf">Click here to read </a>the full text of the bill

The proposal could be the best chance for President Joe Biden to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-ukraine-israel-budget-3762a0bdf00653e3c8a38175d3c3d3cb">resupply Ukraine with wartime aid</a>&nbsp;— a major foreign policy goal that is shared with both the Senate’s top Democrat, Sen. Chuck Schumer, and top Republican, Sen. Mitch McConnell. The Senate was expected this week to hold a key test vote on the legislation, but it faces a wall of opposition from conservatives.

With Congress stalled on approving $60 billion in Ukraine aid, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-money-congress-weapons-dd5076b30bf8fab5c914a1222186e7f0">U.S. has halted shipments</a>&nbsp;of ammunition and missiles to Kyiv, leaving Ukrainian soldiers outgunned as they try to beat back Russia’s invasion.

Senators have been working for months on the carefully negotiated compromise intended to overcome opposition from conservatives who have tired of funding Ukraine’s fight. But the coming days will be a crucial test of whether congressional leaders can once again muscle their members to support the package designed to assert American strength — and commitment — around the world. They will also be balancing one of the most fraught issues in American politics — border and immigration legislation.

Biden said in a statement that the Senate proposal “allows the United States to continue our vital work, together with partners all around the world, to stand up for Ukraine’s freedom and support its ability to defend itself against Russia’s aggression.”

And on the border, Biden said that the immigration system has been broken for too long, and it’s time to fix it. “It will make our country safer, make our border more secure, treat people fairly and humanely while preserving legal immigration, consistent with our values as a nation,” Biden said.

The proposal would overhaul the asylum system at the border with faster and tougher enforcement, as well as give presidents new powers to immediately expel migrants if authorities become overwhelmed with the number of people applying for asylum. The new bill would also invest in U.S. defense manufacturing, send $14 billion in military aid to Israel, steer nearly $5 billion to allies in the Asia-Pacific, and provide humanitarian assistance to civilians caught in conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.

In a call with reporters after releasing the legislation, Schumer said he has never worked so closely with McConnell. He called the bill a “monumental step” toward strengthening national security at home and abroad.

Without the Ukraine aid, Schumer said, he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin “could be rolling over Ukraine and even into Eastern Europe.”

McConnell said in a statement that the Senate must be “prepared to act.”

“America’s sovereignty is being tested here at home, and our credibility is being tested by emboldened adversaries around the world,” McConnell said. “The challenges we face will not resolve themselves, nor will our adversaries wait for America to muster the resolve to meet them.”

In a bid to overcome opposition from House Republicans,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-border-security-congress-0c35bad8790ccbbeed1bc14057457648">McConnell had insisted last year</a>&nbsp;that border policy changes be included in the national security funding package. However, in an election-year shift on immigration, Biden and many Democrats have embraced the idea of strict border enforcement, while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-trump-biden-2d2f804057a77bfaa41e64ab601f9b0e">Donald Trump and his allies</a>&nbsp;have criticized the proposed measures as insufficient.

Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York, the third-ranked House Republican and a close ally of Trump, quickly decried the bill as “an absolute non-starter” that would incentivize illegal immigration.

Republicans have also been reluctant to give Biden a political win on an issue they see as one of his biggest vulnerabilities. They have argued that presidents already have enough authority to curb illegal border crossings — a stance that would ensure immigration remains a major issue in the presidential election. But at the same time, House Republicans have also pushed for their own, stricter version of border security legislation.

Johnson, a Republican of Louisiana, told NBC’s “Meet the Press” on Sunday morning that he was unaware of the bill’s details, but thought the solution to border problems should be a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-immigration-bill-255921c69678468580d0d106282623f0">House proposal of hardline immigration measures</a>.

That bill, which passed the House last year without a single Democratic vote, currently has no chance of gaining the Democratic support it would need in the Senate. GOP senators also attempted to add it on to other legislation last year, but that effort only gained 46 votes.

“What we’re saying is you have to stem the flow,” Johnson said. He also made it clear that he — not Trump — would decide whether to bring the bill to the floor if it passes the Senate.

But in a further sign that Johnson is resistant to the Senate package, he indicated Saturday that the House will vote on a separate package of $17.6 billion of military aid for Israel — a move that allows House Republicans to show support for Israel apart from the Senate deal.

It is still unclear if the bill will pass in the Senate. Senate Republicans have been divided on the bill, with several in McConnell’s ranks arguing that it isn’t strong enough. Some quickly said they would vote against it.

“I will not support this deal,” said Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn, after the legislation was released.

The proposal is aimed at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-ukraine-biden-cf4aa608de350a480fabd8e6a3e062ff">gaining control of an asylum system</a>&nbsp;that has been overwhelmed by historic numbers of migrants coming to the border.

Migrants who seek asylum, which provides protection for people facing persecution in their home countries, would face a tougher and faster process to having their claim evaluated. The standard in initial interviews would be raised, and many would receive those interviews within days of arriving at the border. Final decisions on their asylum claims would happen within months, rather than the often years-long wait that happens now. They would also be given work permits if they pass the initial screenings.

Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, an Arizona independent who negotiated the border proposal, told reporters that the legislation would “immediately reassert control of our border, end catch and release policies and, strengthen our broken asylum system, and solve the border crisis.”

“America is and continues to be a bastion of hope for true asylum seekers,” she said in a statement later. “But it is not an open door for economic migrants. It has been, as we know, exploited dramatically by cartels in the last four to five years.”

If the number of illegal border crossings reaches above 5,000 daily for a five-day average,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/border-immigration-election-2182fec11fa008ec96c4202e5656d19e">an expulsion authority</a>&nbsp;would automatically kick in so that migrants who cross illegally are expelled without an opportunity to make an asylum claim. If the number reaches 4,000, presidential administrations would have the option of using the new authority. Under the proposal, migrants could still apply at ports of entry.

Biden, referencing the authority, has said he would use it to “shut down the border” as soon as the bill is signed into law.

The bill would allot $20 billion to immigration enforcement, including the hiring of thousands of new officers to evaluate asylum claims and hundreds of Border Patrol agents, as well as funding local governments that have seen influxes of migrants.

Among Democrats, the tougher asylum standards have raised concern, especially from progressive and Hispanic lawmakers. Sen. Alex Padilla, a Democrat of California, said in a statement that the proposal would still cause “more chaos at the border, not less.”

The $14 billion in the package intended for military support for Israel could also splinter Democratic votes. Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent of Vermont, is pushing to strip $10 billion for offensive weaponry for Israel from the package while maintaining money for defensive systems.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707094900842.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Senators on Sunday released a highly anticipated $118 billion package that pairs border enforcement policy with wartime aid for Ukraine, Israel and other U.S. allies, setting off a long-shot effort to push the bill through&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-ukraine-trump-a8601ec6629ddc5b769028ca99ad9879">heavy skepticism from Republicans</a>, including House Speaker Mike Johnson.<a href="https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/emergency_national_security_supplemental_bill_text.pdf">Click here to read </a>the full text of the billThe proposal could be the best chance for President Joe Biden to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-ukraine-israel-budget-3762a0bdf00653e3c8a38175d3c3d3cb">resupply Ukraine with wartime aid</a>&nbsp;— a major foreign policy goal that is shared with both the Senate’s top Democrat, Sen. Chuck Schumer, and top Republican, Sen. Mitch McConnell. The Senate was expected this week to hold a key test vote on the legislation, but it faces a wall of opposition from conservatives.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Agree. Having sufficient time to thoroughly review any legislation, much less text on a bill that&#39;s supposed to address our number one most immediate national security threat, should not be controversial. <a href="https://t.co/KOQWfY1U1Q">https://t.co/KOQWfY1U1Q</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1753509169112514776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>With Congress stalled on approving $60 billion in Ukraine aid, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-money-congress-weapons-dd5076b30bf8fab5c914a1222186e7f0">U.S. has halted shipments</a>&nbsp;of ammunition and missiles to Kyiv, leaving Ukrainian soldiers outgunned as they try to beat back Russia’s invasion.Senators have been working for months on the carefully negotiated compromise intended to overcome opposition from conservatives who have tired of funding Ukraine’s fight. But the coming days will be a crucial test of whether congressional leaders can once again muscle their members to support the package designed to assert American strength — and commitment — around the world. They will also be balancing one of the most fraught issues in American politics — border and immigration legislation.Biden said in a statement that the Senate proposal “allows the United States to continue our vital work, together with partners all around the world, to stand up for Ukraine’s freedom and support its ability to defend itself against Russia’s aggression.”And on the border, Biden said that the immigration system has been broken for too long, and it’s time to fix it. “It will make our country safer, make our border more secure, treat people fairly and humanely while preserving legal immigration, consistent with our values as a nation,” Biden said.The proposal would overhaul the asylum system at the border with faster and tougher enforcement, as well as give presidents new powers to immediately expel migrants if authorities become overwhelmed with the number of people applying for asylum. The new bill would also invest in U.S. defense manufacturing, send $14 billion in military aid to Israel, steer nearly $5 billion to allies in the Asia-Pacific, and provide humanitarian assistance to civilians caught in conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.In a call with reporters after releasing the legislation, Schumer said he has never worked so closely with McConnell. He called the bill a “monumental step” toward strengthening national security at home and abroad.Without the Ukraine aid, Schumer said, he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin “could be rolling over Ukraine and even into Eastern Europe.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707094498764.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>McConnell said in a statement that the Senate must be “prepared to act.”“America’s sovereignty is being tested here at home, and our credibility is being tested by emboldened adversaries around the world,” McConnell said. “The challenges we face will not resolve themselves, nor will our adversaries wait for America to muster the resolve to meet them.”In a bid to overcome opposition from House Republicans,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-border-security-congress-0c35bad8790ccbbeed1bc14057457648">McConnell had insisted last year</a>&nbsp;that border policy changes be included in the national security funding package. However, in an election-year shift on immigration, Biden and many Democrats have embraced the idea of strict border enforcement, while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-trump-biden-2d2f804057a77bfaa41e64ab601f9b0e">Donald Trump and his allies</a>&nbsp;have criticized the proposed measures as insufficient.Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York, the third-ranked House Republican and a close ally of Trump, quickly decried the bill as “an absolute non-starter” that would incentivize illegal immigration.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I’ve seen enough. This bill is even worse than we expected, and won’t come close to ending the border catastrophe the President has created. As the lead Democrat negotiator proclaimed: Under this legislation, “the border never closes.” If this bill reaches the House, it will be…&mdash; Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson/status/1754333708193091928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Republicans have also been reluctant to give Biden a political win on an issue they see as one of his biggest vulnerabilities. They have argued that presidents already have enough authority to curb illegal border crossings — a stance that would ensure immigration remains a major issue in the presidential election. But at the same time, House Republicans have also pushed for their own, stricter version of border security legislation.Johnson, a Republican of Louisiana, told NBC’s “Meet the Press” on Sunday morning that he was unaware of the bill’s details, but thought the solution to border problems should be a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-immigration-bill-255921c69678468580d0d106282623f0">House proposal of hardline immigration measures</a>.That bill, which passed the House last year without a single Democratic vote, currently has no chance of gaining the Democratic support it would need in the Senate. GOP senators also attempted to add it on to other legislation last year, but that effort only gained 46 votes.“What we’re saying is you have to stem the flow,” Johnson said. He also made it clear that he — not Trump — would decide whether to bring the bill to the floor if it passes the Senate.But in a further sign that Johnson is resistant to the Senate package, he indicated Saturday that the House will vote on a separate package of $17.6 billion of military aid for Israel — a move that allows House Republicans to show support for Israel apart from the Senate deal.It is still unclear if the bill will pass in the Senate. Senate Republicans have been divided on the bill, with several in McConnell’s ranks arguing that it isn’t strong enough. Some quickly said they would vote against it.“I will not support this deal,” said Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn, after the legislation was released.The proposal is aimed at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-ukraine-biden-cf4aa608de350a480fabd8e6a3e062ff">gaining control of an asylum system</a>&nbsp;that has been overwhelmed by historic numbers of migrants coming to the border.Migrants who seek asylum, which provides protection for people facing persecution in their home countries, would face a tougher and faster process to having their claim evaluated. The standard in initial interviews would be raised, and many would receive those interviews within days of arriving at the border. Final decisions on their asylum claims would happen within months, rather than the often years-long wait that happens now. They would also be given work permits if they pass the initial screenings.Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, an Arizona independent who negotiated the border proposal, told reporters that the legislation would “immediately reassert control of our border, end catch and release policies and, strengthen our broken asylum system, and solve the border crisis.”“America is and continues to be a bastion of hope for true asylum seekers,” she said in a statement later. “But it is not an open door for economic migrants. It has been, as we know, exploited dramatically by cartels in the last four to five years.”If the number of illegal border crossings reaches above 5,000 daily for a five-day average,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/border-immigration-election-2182fec11fa008ec96c4202e5656d19e">an expulsion authority</a>&nbsp;would automatically kick in so that migrants who cross illegally are expelled without an opportunity to make an asylum claim. If the number reaches 4,000, presidential administrations would have the option of using the new authority. Under the proposal, migrants could still apply at ports of entry.Biden, referencing the authority, has said he would use it to “shut down the border” as soon as the bill is signed into law.The bill would allot $20 billion to immigration enforcement, including the hiring of thousands of new officers to evaluate asylum claims and hundreds of Border Patrol agents, as well as funding local governments that have seen influxes of migrants.Among Democrats, the tougher asylum standards have raised concern, especially from progressive and Hispanic lawmakers. Sen. Alex Padilla, a Democrat of California, said in a statement that the proposal would still cause “more chaos at the border, not less.”The $14 billion in the package intended for military support for Israel could also splinter Democratic votes. Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent of Vermont, is pushing to strip $10 billion for offensive weaponry for Israel from the package while maintaining money for defensive systems.

What's in the long-awaited $118B Senate border bill that unlocks Ukraine aid

WICHITA (AP) —Boeing discovered another problem in some of its 737 fuselages that may delay deliveries of about 50 aircraft in the latest quality gaffe to plague the manufacturer.

Improperly drilled holes were discovered by Spirit AeroSystems, a major supplier that provides Boeing with fuselages, according to a letter from Stan Deal, CEO of Boeing's commercial airplanes division.

“While this potential condition is not an immediate safety issue and all 737s can continue operating safely, we currently believe we will have to perform rework on about 50 undelivered planes,” Deal said in a letter to employees that was shared Monday.

Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems are facing intense scrutiny over the quality of their work after an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9 was forced to make&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jetliner-blowout-737-max-9-united-alaska-2f74f52bbad7fca26aa11786bd44c356">an emergency landing</a>&nbsp;on Jan. 5 when a panel called a door plug blew out of the side of the plane shortly after takeoff from Portland, Oregon.

The NTSB&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boeing-investigation-ntsb-safety-airplanes-d9e28fe1a11dafe4f639268504bdb85f">is investigating</a>&nbsp;the accident, while the Federal Aviation Administration investigates whether Boeing and its suppliers followed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/faa-boeing-door-blowout-investigation-alaska-airlines-5c378e8080ae1bf1e3d3f7e68d498d5c">quality-control procedures</a>.

Shares of the The Boeing Co., already down 20% this year, slipped another 2% before the opening bell Monday.

Problems with Boeing jets have opened a potential rift with some of its biggest customers. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-airlines-ceo-boeing-manufacturing-problems-4090ea6176ef59e382dd18e9522596bc">said last month</a>&nbsp;that the carrier will consider alternative aircraft in the future, and Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci told “NBC Nightly News that “I am more than frustrated and disappointed. I am angry.”

Alaska Airlines and United Airlines, the only other U.S. airline flying the Max 9, reported finding&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alaska-airlines-portland-oregon-emergency-landing-5634aca545ac602d1e398497696f83c3">loose hardware</a>&nbsp;in door plugs of other planes they inspected after the accident. The FAA grounded all Max 9s in the U.S. the day after the blowout. Two weeks later, the agency approved the inspection and maintenance process to return the planes to flying.

Alaska Airlines and United Airlines have begun returning some to service.

Boeing, based in Arlington, Virginia, said last week it was withdrawing a request for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boeing-737-max-safety-exemption-door-plug-7bb30166181034fc07750ded8f072d7f">safety exemption</a>&nbsp;needed to certify a new, smaller model of the 737 Max airliner. Boeing asked federal regulators late last year to allow delivery of its 737 Max 7 airliner to customers even though it does not meet a safety standard designed to prevent part of the engine housing from overheating and breaking off during flight.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580497975886.jpeg" alt="File photo-Spirit AeroSystems, based in Wichita, Kansas, makes a large part of the fuselages on Boeing Max jets.&nbsp; Elaine Thompson/AP/NPR" />
 <figcaption>File photo-Spirit AeroSystems, based in Wichita, Kansas, makes a large part of the fuselages on Boeing Max jets.&nbsp; Elaine Thompson/AP/NPR</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA (AP) —Boeing discovered another problem in some of its 737 fuselages that may delay deliveries of about 50 aircraft in the latest quality gaffe to plague the manufacturer.Improperly drilled holes were discovered by Spirit AeroSystems, a major supplier that provides Boeing with fuselages, according to a letter from Stan Deal, CEO of Boeing's commercial airplanes division.“While this potential condition is not an immediate safety issue and all 737s can continue operating safely, we currently believe we will have to perform rework on about 50 undelivered planes,” Deal said in a letter to employees that was shared Monday.Boeing and Spirit AeroSystems are facing intense scrutiny over the quality of their work after an Alaska Airlines 737 Max 9 was forced to make&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jetliner-blowout-737-max-9-united-alaska-2f74f52bbad7fca26aa11786bd44c356">an emergency landing</a>&nbsp;on Jan. 5 when a panel called a door plug blew out of the side of the plane shortly after takeoff from Portland, Oregon.The NTSB&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boeing-investigation-ntsb-safety-airplanes-d9e28fe1a11dafe4f639268504bdb85f">is investigating</a>&nbsp;the accident, while the Federal Aviation Administration investigates whether Boeing and its suppliers followed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/faa-boeing-door-blowout-investigation-alaska-airlines-5c378e8080ae1bf1e3d3f7e68d498d5c">quality-control procedures</a>.Shares of the The Boeing Co., already down 20% this year, slipped another 2% before the opening bell Monday.Problems with Boeing jets have opened a potential rift with some of its biggest customers. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-airlines-ceo-boeing-manufacturing-problems-4090ea6176ef59e382dd18e9522596bc">said last month</a>&nbsp;that the carrier will consider alternative aircraft in the future, and Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci told “NBC Nightly News that “I am more than frustrated and disappointed. I am angry.”Alaska Airlines and United Airlines, the only other U.S. airline flying the Max 9, reported finding&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alaska-airlines-portland-oregon-emergency-landing-5634aca545ac602d1e398497696f83c3">loose hardware</a>&nbsp;in door plugs of other planes they inspected after the accident. The FAA grounded all Max 9s in the U.S. the day after the blowout. Two weeks later, the agency approved the inspection and maintenance process to return the planes to flying.Alaska Airlines and United Airlines have begun returning some to service.Boeing, based in Arlington, Virginia, said last week it was withdrawing a request for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boeing-737-max-safety-exemption-door-plug-7bb30166181034fc07750ded8f072d7f">safety exemption</a>&nbsp;needed to certify a new, smaller model of the 737 Max airliner. Boeing asked federal regulators late last year to allow delivery of its 737 Max 7 airliner to customers even though it does not meet a safety standard designed to prevent part of the engine housing from overheating and breaking off during flight.

New problem found on Boeing 737 Max planes

KANSAS CITY—Eleven people were injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Sunday in Kansas City.

Kansas City Police reported a GMC Acadia and a Chevy Malibu were southbound in the 8800 Block of Raytown Road at a high rate of speed. Both vehicles left the roadway to the right.

The Chevy with seven occupants including four toddlers struck a tree and the GMC with four occupants rolled.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Two of the toddlers from the Chevy were ejected out of the vehicle and the other two were without proper child safety seats, according to KCPD.

Due to the severity of the accident extrication was needed, according to the Raytown Fire Protection District. A total of 8 ambulances were requested for transport.

EMS transported the toddlers to a local hospital. One had life-threatening injuries, one had critical injuries and the two others were seriously injured.

The driver of the Chevy was hospitalized with critical injuries and the front passenger also had serious injuries, according to KCPD.&nbsp; There was one teen in the backseat that received non life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the GMC and three other occupants suffered from minor to serious injuries. The crash is under investigation with concerns of impairment, according to KCPD.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707133618334.png" alt="Photo Raytown Fire Protection District" />
 <figcaption>Photo Raytown Fire Protection District</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Eleven people were injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Sunday in Kansas City.Kansas City Police reported a GMC Acadia and a Chevy Malibu were southbound in the 8800 Block of Raytown Road at a high rate of speed. Both vehicles left the roadway to the right.The Chevy with seven occupants including four toddlers struck a tree and the GMC with four occupants rolled.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707133595864.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Two of the toddlers from the Chevy were ejected out of the vehicle and the other two were without proper child safety seats, according to KCPD.Due to the severity of the accident extrication was needed, according to the Raytown Fire Protection District. A total of 8 ambulances were requested for transport.EMS transported the toddlers to a local hospital. One had life-threatening injuries, one had critical injuries and the two others were seriously injured.The driver of the Chevy was hospitalized with critical injuries and the front passenger also had serious injuries, according to KCPD.&nbsp; There was one teen in the backseat that received non life-threatening injuries.The driver of the GMC and three other occupants suffered from minor to serious injuries. The crash is under investigation with concerns of impairment, according to KCPD.

Police: Alcohol a possible factor in KC crash that injured 4 children

BEIRUT (AP) — A drone attack on a base housing U.S. troops in eastern Syria killed six allied Kurdish fighters late Sunday, in the first significant attack in Syria or Iraq since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mideast-tensions-things-to-know-7085f1dba25ca1a9ecc81d208717c9a2">U.S. launched retaliatory strikes</a>&nbsp;over the weekend against Iran-backed militias that have been targeting its forces in the region.

The U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces said Monday the attack hit a training ground at al-Omar base in Syria’s eastern province of Deir el-Zour, where the forces' commando units are trained. No casualties were reported among U.S. troops.

An umbrella group of Iran-backed Iraqi militias, dubbed the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, released a video claiming responsibility for the attack and showing them launching a drone from an unspecified location.

In late January,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-american-service-members-killed-jordan-iran-5cb774fd835a558d840ae91263037489">a drone attack by the same group killed three U.S. troops</a>&nbsp;and wounded dozens more at a desert base in Jordan. The U.S. military launched dozens of retaliatory strikes targeting Iran-backed militant groups in western Iraq and eastern Syria and also struck the Houthis in Yemen.

The SDF initially accused “Syrian regime-backed mercenaries” of carrying out Sunday's attack but in a second statement blamed “Iran-backed militias” after investigating the attack.

The umbrella group has launched dozens of drone attacks on U.S. military bases and troops in Iraq and Syria, and has called for the withdrawal of American soldiers from both countries.

The attack comes as tensions flare across the Middle East amid the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>, which was sparked by Hamas' rampage in southern Israel on Oct. 7.

Meanwhile, Britain-based opposition war monitor Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said at least seven SDF fighters were killed in the attack on Sunday and at least 18 others wounded, some in critical condition.

The attack late Sunday came two days after the U.S. military carried out strikes against militant targets linked to Iran in Syria and Iraq.

The SDF said it has the right to respond to the attack.

The U.S. military said it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iraq-iran-syria-jordan-strikes-us-2f235ac0d00edc266576ef0d76fa33e4">struck four anti-ship missiles on Sunday</a>&nbsp;that were prepared to be fired at vessels in the Red Sea from Houthi rebel-controlled areas in Yemen.

In a statement early Monday, the U.S. Central Command said the strikes were in self-defense and came after forces determined the missiles “presented an imminent threat to U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region.”

Sunday’s strikes came a day after the U.S. and Britain launched a second wave of strikes against the Houthis, meant to degrade the Iranian-backed group’ capabilities to attack vessels in the Red Sea. The U.S. and Britain said they hit 36 Houthi targets.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707089021196.png" alt="Photo of the U.S.. aircraft launching Saturday in support of the attacks on Iran-backed terrorists- U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>Photo of the U.S.. aircraft launching Saturday in support of the attacks on Iran-backed terrorists- U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>BEIRUT (AP) — A drone attack on a base housing U.S. troops in eastern Syria killed six allied Kurdish fighters late Sunday, in the first significant attack in Syria or Iraq since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mideast-tensions-things-to-know-7085f1dba25ca1a9ecc81d208717c9a2">U.S. launched retaliatory strikes</a>&nbsp;over the weekend against Iran-backed militias that have been targeting its forces in the region.The U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces said Monday the attack hit a training ground at al-Omar base in Syria’s eastern province of Deir el-Zour, where the forces' commando units are trained. No casualties were reported among U.S. troops.An umbrella group of Iran-backed Iraqi militias, dubbed the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, released a video claiming responsibility for the attack and showing them launching a drone from an unspecified location.In late January,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-american-service-members-killed-jordan-iran-5cb774fd835a558d840ae91263037489">a drone attack by the same group killed three U.S. troops</a>&nbsp;and wounded dozens more at a desert base in Jordan. The U.S. military launched dozens of retaliatory strikes targeting Iran-backed militant groups in western Iraq and eastern Syria and also struck the Houthis in Yemen.The SDF initially accused “Syrian regime-backed mercenaries” of carrying out Sunday's attack but in a second statement blamed “Iran-backed militias” after investigating the attack.The umbrella group has launched dozens of drone attacks on U.S. military bases and troops in Iraq and Syria, and has called for the withdrawal of American soldiers from both countries.The attack comes as tensions flare across the Middle East amid the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>, which was sparked by Hamas' rampage in southern Israel on Oct. 7.Meanwhile, Britain-based opposition war monitor Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said at least seven SDF fighters were killed in the attack on Sunday and at least 18 others wounded, some in critical condition.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707001097326.png" alt="U.S. Warship supporting strikes on Iranian-backed Houthi targets-image U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Warship supporting strikes on Iranian-backed Houthi targets-image U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>The attack late Sunday came two days after the U.S. military carried out strikes against militant targets linked to Iran in Syria and Iraq.The SDF said it has the right to respond to the attack.The U.S. military said it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iraq-iran-syria-jordan-strikes-us-2f235ac0d00edc266576ef0d76fa33e4">struck four anti-ship missiles on Sunday</a>&nbsp;that were prepared to be fired at vessels in the Red Sea from Houthi rebel-controlled areas in Yemen.In a statement early Monday, the U.S. Central Command said the strikes were in self-defense and came after forces determined the missiles “presented an imminent threat to U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region.”Sunday’s strikes came a day after the U.S. and Britain launched a second wave of strikes against the Houthis, meant to degrade the Iranian-backed group’ capabilities to attack vessels in the Red Sea. The U.S. and Britain said they hit 36 Houthi targets.

Drone attack on Syrian base housing US troops kills 6 Kurdish fighters 

TYLER, Texas (AP) — The father of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes was arrested in East Texas on at least his third charge of driving while intoxicated, according to jail records. The legal issue comes as the younger Mahomes prepares to lead his team into the Super Bowl against the San Francisco 49ers.

Patrick Mahomes Sr., 54, was arrested Saturday night in Tyler and his bond was set at $10,000. He was released on Sunday, according to jail records from Smith County, Texas.

Mahomes' attorney did not immediately respond to a voicemail from The Associated Press seeking comment.

His arrest occurred a little more than a week before his son leads the Chiefs against San Francisco in Las Vegas as Kansas City attempts to repeat as Super Bowl champion.

The younger Mahomes likely will face questions at Super Bowl media night on Monday about whether his father's arrest will be a distraction. That could be a storyline going into next weekend.

Mahomes Sr. was arrested on the same charge in 2019 and was sentenced to 40 days in jail, Smith County records show.

Mahomes Sr. played 11 seasons (1992-2003) in Major League Baseball as a pitcher.

The right-hander was 42-39 with a 5.47 ERA in 308 career games (63 starts) for the Twins, Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, Rangers, Cubs and Pirates. He was part of the 1999 NL playoffs with the Mets.

Last month, the quarterback's brother, Jackson Mahomes, had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charges-dropped-jackson-mahomes-sexual-assault-e342afb174f0567499b9458504b79c2b?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">three felony charges against him dismissed</a>. He had been accused of grabbing a woman’s neck and kissing her without her consent.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707097553263.png" alt="Mahomes photo Smith County, Texas Jail" />
 <figcaption>Mahomes photo Smith County, Texas Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>TYLER, Texas (AP) — The father of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes was arrested in East Texas on at least his third charge of driving while intoxicated, according to jail records. The legal issue comes as the younger Mahomes prepares to lead his team into the Super Bowl against the San Francisco 49ers.Patrick Mahomes Sr., 54, was arrested Saturday night in Tyler and his bond was set at $10,000. He was released on Sunday, according to jail records from Smith County, Texas.Mahomes' attorney did not immediately respond to a voicemail from The Associated Press seeking comment.His arrest occurred a little more than a week before his son leads the Chiefs against San Francisco in Las Vegas as Kansas City attempts to repeat as Super Bowl champion.The younger Mahomes likely will face questions at Super Bowl media night on Monday about whether his father's arrest will be a distraction. That could be a storyline going into next weekend.Mahomes Sr. was arrested on the same charge in 2019 and was sentenced to 40 days in jail, Smith County records show.Mahomes Sr. played 11 seasons (1992-2003) in Major League Baseball as a pitcher.The right-hander was 42-39 with a 5.47 ERA in 308 career games (63 starts) for the Twins, Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, Rangers, Cubs and Pirates. He was part of the 1999 NL playoffs with the Mets.Last month, the quarterback's brother, Jackson Mahomes, had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charges-dropped-jackson-mahomes-sexual-assault-e342afb174f0567499b9458504b79c2b?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">three felony charges against him dismissed</a>. He had been accused of grabbing a woman’s neck and kissing her without her consent.

Patrick Mahomes' father arrested for alleged DWI for 3rd time

KANSAS CITY —A victim wounded in a shooting last week in Kansas City died over the weekend.

Just before 11:00a.m. Jan. 31, police responded to a shooting in the 100 block of West 99th Terrace, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.

First responders found a victim in parking garage suffering from a gunshot wound. EMS transported the victim to a hospital in critical condition.

On Saturday, police were notified that the victim died from the injuries. Homicide detectives have taken over the investigation of the shooting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707015657341.png" alt="Building near the scene of the homicide-Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Building near the scene of the homicide-Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A victim wounded in a shooting last week in Kansas City died over the weekend.Just before 11:00a.m. Jan. 31, police responded to a shooting in the 100 block of West 99th Terrace, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.First responders found a victim in parking garage suffering from a gunshot wound. EMS transported the victim to a hospital in critical condition.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707015570930.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Saturday, police were notified that the victim died from the injuries. Homicide detectives have taken over the investigation of the shooting.

Police: Victim found in KC parking garage dies 3 days after shooting

JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged drug crimes.

Just after 2a.m.&nbsp;February 2, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a truck in the vicinity of 94th&nbsp;and U.S. 75 Highway, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 A Jackson County Sheriff’s K-9 alerted to the presence of illegal drug contraband inside the vehicle. A search of the vehicle was conducted and a quantity of methamphetamine was located. &nbsp;The driver, Travis Wallace Ray, 41, of Louisburg, Kansas was arrested on requested charges of driving under the influence, distribution of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia. Ray was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706971743236.png" alt="Ray-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Ray-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged drug crimes.Just after 2a.m.&nbsp;February 2, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a truck in the vicinity of 94th&nbsp;and U.S. 75 Highway, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. A Jackson County Sheriff’s K-9 alerted to the presence of illegal drug contraband inside the vehicle. A search of the vehicle was conducted and a quantity of methamphetamine was located. &nbsp;The driver, Travis Wallace Ray, 41, of Louisburg, Kansas was arrested on requested charges of driving under the influence, distribution of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia. Ray was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

Sheriff: Kansas man was selling methamphetamine

KANSAS CITY —A jury last week convicted a Kansas City man in a double homicide from August 2020, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Cleon D. White, 36, was convicted of two counts of Murder in the 1st Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and two counts of Armed Criminal Action.

According to court records, Kansas City police officers were dispatched to the area of the 2700 block of Guinotte Avenue in Kansas City on a reported shooting. 

Police found two deceased men in a gold Honda. The victims were identified as 23-year-0ld Jahmiere Green and 27-year-old Brandon Rainey.

Video surveillance showed the victim's vehicle being followed by a white SUV on Guinottte Avenue. The SUV pulled up to the driver's side of the victims' vehicle, then the victims' vehicle rolls slowly to a stop. 

No movement is obvious after the SUV leaves. The SUV does return but leaves again. Detectives also determined the SUV returned to a parking lot on East Third Street soon after the murder and the man who got out of the SUV matches the build and clothing of a man shown meeting with one of the victims shortly before the homicide. 

After a search warrant was obtained, detectives determined a search of the defendant's phone showed a vehicle with wording on the windshield that can be seen in surveillance video of the vehicle on the day of the fatal shootings. Formal sentencing is set for March 14.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706826084203.png" alt="White-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>White-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A jury last week convicted a Kansas City man in a double homicide from August 2020, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Cleon D. White, 36, was convicted of two counts of Murder in the 1st Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and two counts of Armed Criminal Action.According to court records, Kansas City police officers were dispatched to the area of the 2700 block of Guinotte Avenue in Kansas City on a reported shooting. Police found two deceased men in a gold Honda. The victims were identified as 23-year-0ld Jahmiere Green and 27-year-old Brandon Rainey.Video surveillance showed the victim's vehicle being followed by a white SUV on Guinottte Avenue. The SUV pulled up to the driver's side of the victims' vehicle, then the victims' vehicle rolls slowly to a stop. No movement is obvious after the SUV leaves. The SUV does return but leaves again. Detectives also determined the SUV returned to a parking lot on East Third Street soon after the murder and the man who got out of the SUV matches the build and clothing of a man shown meeting with one of the victims shortly before the homicide. After a search warrant was obtained, detectives determined a search of the defendant's phone showed a vehicle with wording on the windshield that can be seen in surveillance video of the vehicle on the day of the fatal shootings. Formal sentencing is set for March 14.

Video surveillance helps jury convict KC man in double homicide

&nbsp;By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/dylan-lysen">Dylan Lysen</a>, <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/kansasnewsservice">Kansas News Service</a>

Shelly Lamb argues in a federal lawsuit that coworkers and inmates at the Kansas Department of Corrections harassed her and the department violated her civil rights and committed sex discrimination because she is a transgender woman.

A transgender woman is suing the Kansas Department of Corrections in federal court for creating a hostile work environment when she transitioned.

Shelly Lamb, a former counselor and supervisor for the agency’s prison facility in Hutchinson, argues her civil rights were violated because the state agency refused to acknowledge her transition, use her new name or stop employees and inmates from misusing her pronouns and catcalling her.

She also argues the agency retaliated against her when she pushed for her civil rights by moving her office to a basement closet and then another office with no air conditioning before she eventually resigned in 2022.

Madeline Johnson of Missouri Kansas Queer Law, who is representing Lamb, said the agency’s actions are a violation of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits workplace discrimination based on sex.

“It's a pretty clear-cut case of discrimination and retaliation,” Johnson said, “because Shelly came out in her place of employment.”

Lamb is seeking an unspecified amount of financial compensation for lost pay and benefits.

The Kansas Department of Corrections has not yet filed a response to the complaint. Officials also declined to comment. Spokesperson David Thompson said in an email that the department does not comment on pending litigation.

The lawsuit was filed in federal court. That means the case bypasses the state law known as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-05-25/kansas-anti-transgender-law-bathroom-bill" target="_blank">“Women’s Bill of Rights,”</a>&nbsp;which legally defines a man and woman by their sex assigned at birth. Opponents also argued the law would bar transgender women from using women’s bathrooms, but the ACLU of Kansas and Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach now say there is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-06-26/kobach-says-trans-kansans-ids-will-be-changed-back-to-their-sex-assigned-at-birth" target="_blank">no enforcement mechanism</a>.

Johnson said the state law, enacted last year, would also not apply to Lamb because the alleged discrimination occurred before then.

According to the filed complaint, Lamb said she notified the Kansas Department of Corrections in October 2021 that she planned to transition and begin presenting herself as a woman. But the agency’s human resources department allegedly told her it would not acknowledge her transition and prohibited her from wearing a hairpiece, makeup, nail polish or women’s clothing. Lamb was also told not to use the women’s bathroom, according to the complaint.

Lamb alleges the department would not require other employees to use her new name or female pronouns when referring to her, resulting in other employees and inmates harassing her. And the agency would not acknowledge her name in its database for months despite Lamb obtaining a new driver’s license showing the change, according to the complaint.

Lamb also alleges the human resources department implied that her position required her to be a man, despite other female employees working in the same position.

After Lamb’s transition, the agency allegedly changed Lamb's job duties, took away her counseling caseload and moved the office she shared with other employees to a basement office that was originally a supply closet. Lamb’s office was later changed again to an unused portion of the facility that did not have air conditioning, according to her complaint.

Lamb contends in the lawsuit that her employers were trying to force her to resign. She eventually resigned from the position in August 2022.

After speaking to an attorney, Lamb notified the human resources department that she had a right to present as a woman and that she would continue to do so at work. She also said she would sue if she was continued to be required to “hide her gender identity and remain ‘closeted.’”

Johnson said the actions from Kansas Department of Corrections employees result in sex discrimination and retaliation. She points to the U.S. Supreme Court’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2020/06/15/863498848/supreme-court-delivers-major-victory-to-lgbtq-employees" target="_blank">landmark decision</a>&nbsp;in 2020 — known as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/19pdf/17-1618_hfci.pdf" target="_blank">Bostock v. Clayton County</a>&nbsp;— that ruled federal civil rights law prohibits workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Justice Neil Gorsuch, who was appointed by Republican President Donald Trump, wrote in the ruling that the law extends to people who are transgender.

"An employer who fired an individual for being homosexual or transgender fires that person for traits or actions it would not have questioned in members of a different sex," Gorsuch wrote for the court. “Sex plays a necessary and undisguisable role in the decision, exactly what (the civil rights law) forbids.”

While Kansas’ “Women’s Bill of Rights” does not apply to the federal case, it does highlight the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-06-26/kobach-says-trans-kansans-ids-will-be-changed-back-to-their-sex-assigned-at-birth" target="_blank">conservative view toward transgender individuals</a>. The law was one of two the Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature passed in 2023&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-04-05/kansas-lawmakers-override-democratic-governors-veto-enacting-ban-on-transgender-athletes" target="_blank">restricting transgender rights</a>.

Johnson said those laws are likely unconstitutional.

“This is an important case and a very important time,” Johnson said. “We’re very confident in our pleadings and believe Shelly has a very strong case.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707055717302.png" alt="The Kansas Department of Corrections allegedly discriminated against Shelly Lamb, a former counselor and supervisor, for transitioning.&nbsp; photo Dylan Lysen, Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Department of Corrections allegedly discriminated against Shelly Lamb, a former counselor and supervisor, for transitioning.&nbsp; photo Dylan Lysen, Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/dylan-lysen">Dylan Lysen</a>, <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/kansasnewsservice">Kansas News Service</a><h2>Shelly Lamb argues in a federal lawsuit that coworkers and inmates at the Kansas Department of Corrections harassed her and the department violated her civil rights and committed sex discrimination because she is a transgender woman.</h2>A transgender woman is suing the Kansas Department of Corrections in federal court for creating a hostile work environment when she transitioned.Shelly Lamb, a former counselor and supervisor for the agency’s prison facility in Hutchinson, argues her civil rights were violated because the state agency refused to acknowledge her transition, use her new name or stop employees and inmates from misusing her pronouns and catcalling her.She also argues the agency retaliated against her when she pushed for her civil rights by moving her office to a basement closet and then another office with no air conditioning before she eventually resigned in 2022.Madeline Johnson of Missouri Kansas Queer Law, who is representing Lamb, said the agency’s actions are a violation of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits workplace discrimination based on sex.“It's a pretty clear-cut case of discrimination and retaliation,” Johnson said, “because Shelly came out in her place of employment.”Lamb is seeking an unspecified amount of financial compensation for lost pay and benefits.The Kansas Department of Corrections has not yet filed a response to the complaint. Officials also declined to comment. Spokesperson David Thompson said in an email that the department does not comment on pending litigation.The lawsuit was filed in federal court. That means the case bypasses the state law known as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-05-25/kansas-anti-transgender-law-bathroom-bill" target="_blank">“Women’s Bill of Rights,”</a>&nbsp;which legally defines a man and woman by their sex assigned at birth. Opponents also argued the law would bar transgender women from using women’s bathrooms, but the ACLU of Kansas and Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach now say there is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-06-26/kobach-says-trans-kansans-ids-will-be-changed-back-to-their-sex-assigned-at-birth" target="_blank">no enforcement mechanism</a>.Johnson said the state law, enacted last year, would also not apply to Lamb because the alleged discrimination occurred before then.According to the filed complaint, Lamb said she notified the Kansas Department of Corrections in October 2021 that she planned to transition and begin presenting herself as a woman. But the agency’s human resources department allegedly told her it would not acknowledge her transition and prohibited her from wearing a hairpiece, makeup, nail polish or women’s clothing. Lamb was also told not to use the women’s bathroom, according to the complaint.Lamb alleges the department would not require other employees to use her new name or female pronouns when referring to her, resulting in other employees and inmates harassing her. And the agency would not acknowledge her name in its database for months despite Lamb obtaining a new driver’s license showing the change, according to the complaint.Lamb also alleges the human resources department implied that her position required her to be a man, despite other female employees working in the same position.After Lamb’s transition, the agency allegedly changed Lamb's job duties, took away her counseling caseload and moved the office she shared with other employees to a basement office that was originally a supply closet. Lamb’s office was later changed again to an unused portion of the facility that did not have air conditioning, according to her complaint.Lamb contends in the lawsuit that her employers were trying to force her to resign. She eventually resigned from the position in August 2022.After speaking to an attorney, Lamb notified the human resources department that she had a right to present as a woman and that she would continue to do so at work. She also said she would sue if she was continued to be required to “hide her gender identity and remain ‘closeted.’”Johnson said the actions from Kansas Department of Corrections employees result in sex discrimination and retaliation. She points to the U.S. Supreme Court’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2020/06/15/863498848/supreme-court-delivers-major-victory-to-lgbtq-employees" target="_blank">landmark decision</a>&nbsp;in 2020 — known as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/19pdf/17-1618_hfci.pdf" target="_blank">Bostock v. Clayton County</a>&nbsp;— that ruled federal civil rights law prohibits workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.Justice Neil Gorsuch, who was appointed by Republican President Donald Trump, wrote in the ruling that the law extends to people who are transgender."An employer who fired an individual for being homosexual or transgender fires that person for traits or actions it would not have questioned in members of a different sex," Gorsuch wrote for the court. “Sex plays a necessary and undisguisable role in the decision, exactly what (the civil rights law) forbids.”While Kansas’ “Women’s Bill of Rights” does not apply to the federal case, it does highlight the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-06-26/kobach-says-trans-kansans-ids-will-be-changed-back-to-their-sex-assigned-at-birth" target="_blank">conservative view toward transgender individuals</a>. The law was one of two the Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature passed in 2023&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-04-05/kansas-lawmakers-override-democratic-governors-veto-enacting-ban-on-transgender-athletes" target="_blank">restricting transgender rights</a>.Johnson said those laws are likely unconstitutional.“This is an important case and a very important time,” Johnson said. “We’re very confident in our pleadings and believe Shelly has a very strong case.”

Transgender Kan. state employee says she was harassed at work after her transition

SUMNER COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating after items reported found on a playground that could cause serious injury to children.

On Saturday, police reported a citizen found pieces of a broken single edge razor blade and kitchen shears at the park for small children&nbsp; located at Watson Park, 500 North Logan Street in Belle Plaine, according to a social media report from Police Chief Bill Berry.

 The items were said to be in the sand at the end of the slide where a child would end up after coming down the slide. 

The citizens told police the shears had the handles down in the sand with the pointed ends sticking up, which could have impaled a child. 

"Please check the play areas if you take your kiddos to play in any park. Please share with your friends and family." If anyone knows anything about this please share with an officer.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706996377514.png" alt="Photo Belle Plaine Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Belle Plaine Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SUMNER COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating after items reported found on a playground that could cause serious injury to children.On Saturday, police reported a citizen found pieces of a broken single edge razor blade and kitchen shears at the park for small children&nbsp; located at Watson Park, 500 North Logan Street in Belle Plaine, according to a social media report from Police Chief Bill Berry.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706996346295.png" alt="Photo Belle Plaine Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Belle Plaine Police</figcaption>
 </figure> The items were said to be in the sand at the end of the slide where a child would end up after coming down the slide. The citizens told police the shears had the handles down in the sand with the pointed ends sticking up, which could have impaled a child. "Please check the play areas if you take your kiddos to play in any park. Please share with your friends and family." If anyone knows anything about this please share with an officer.&nbsp;

Kan. playground alert: Shears, razor blade found in sand

More than half of state legislatures across the country started their 2024 legislative sessions in January, and plenty of abortion-related bills have already been introduced, especially in states where the procedure is already banned.

It can be difficult to monitor them all, so States Newsroom’s Reproductive Rights Today team will track certain bills that could become law in their respective states in a bi-weekly legislative roundup. Depending on the partisan makeup of a state’s legislature and other state government officials, some bills have a higher chance of passing and becoming law than others.

Despite Kansas voters’ overwhelming rejection of abortion bans in a referendum shortly after the Dobbs decision in 2022,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/house-gop-lawmakers-introduce-bill-imposing-near-total-ban-abortion-kansas">Kansas Reflector reported</a>&nbsp;a near-total abortion ban bill introduced in the legislature in early January,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/11/house-gop-lawmakers-introduce-bill-imposing-near-total-ban-on-abortion-in-kansas/">House Bill 2492</a>. It’s opposed by both abortion rights supporters and opponents, including Kansans for Life, the main proponent of the “yes” side of the referendum. A spokesperson for that organization said legislators should focus on bills that stand a chance of becoming law.

Aside from the ban bill, two other abortion-related pieces of legislation have been introduced, but haven’t received public hearings yet. Abortion is legal in Kansas, and six clinics provide in-clinic services.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb354/">Senate Bill 354</a>:&nbsp;Designating facilities where elective abortions are performed as ineligible to purchase professional liability insurance from the state’s health care stabilization fund, while maintaining the requirement of liability insurance to remain a licensed facility.

Status:&nbsp;Introduced and referred to committee

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Mark Steffen

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2515/">House Bill 2515</a>:&nbsp;Creating a civil cause of action that can be used against a health care provider who injures a child during an attempted abortion, for a minimum of $10,000 in damages. The bill includes so-called “born alive” language, which has been pushed by anti-abortion groups for many years and decried by organizations like Planned Parenthood,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.plannedparenthood.org/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/fact-check-so-called-born-alive-is-another-lie-to-stigmatize-abortion-2">who say</a>&nbsp;it is a “problem that doesn’t exist” and doctors are already required to provide adequate medical care.

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Rep. Brett Fairchild

Abortion is legal in Iowa after a court blocked a six-week abortion ban from going into effect in July 2023, but&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/bill-would-require-schools-show-fetal-development-videos-students">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>&nbsp;reports some lawmakers are attempting to include material produced by an anti-abortion group in the public school curriculum statewide.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ba=HF2031">House File 2031</a>:&nbsp;According to the bill, a video showing the development of a fetus would be required to be shown in health classes in Iowa schools. Teachers would be required to show students a video displaying an ultrasound and fetal development, and the bill called out the “Meet Baby Olivia” video as an example. That video is produced by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.liveaction.org/">Live Action</a>, an anti-abortion organization. Reproductive rights groups say the video contains medically inaccurate information. A similar bill became law in North Dakota in 2023, and proposals have been introduced in Missouri, Kentucky and West Virginia, but only Iowa’s bill has advanced past committee so far.

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Rep. Luana Stoltenberg

Republicans control both chambers of the general assembly and the offices of governor and attorney general, and Republican legislators have introduced two bills that could have significant implications for the state if they advance. Indiana has a near-total abortion ban with exceptions for rape and incest and fatal fetal anomalies or if the pregnant patient faces a serious health risk.

<a target="_blank" href="https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2024/bills/senate/217/details">Senate Bill 217</a>:&nbsp;Prohibits the prescription or possession of an abortion-inducing drug. A practitioner found in violation of the law would be charged with a misdemeanor for the first offense, and a felony for subsequent offenses. Nonprofit organizations would also be prohibited from offering any financial assistance for abortion-inducing drugs.

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Michael Young

According to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/most-abortions-illegal-missouri-few-expect-new-bills-will-get-traction-year">Missouri Independent</a>, one abortion-related bill was already withdrawn by its sponsor after backlash because it proposed murder charges for women seeking abortions. But another bill of significance is still pending in the state where a near-total abortion ban is in place.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/24info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=270">Senate Bill 1077</a>:&nbsp;Prohibits the state from contracting, awarding grants, tax credits, bonding authority, training resources, access to government programs or other financial benefits to a company or political subdivision that has provided assistance to its employees or another entity on behalf of employees who need an abortion.

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Andrew Koenig

Oklahoma’s legislative session doesn’t start until Monday, Feb. 5, but lawmakers have pre-filed bills to be considered as soon as the session gets underway. The state has a near-total abortion ban. Here are a few to keep an eye on.

<a target="_blank" href="http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=SB1778&amp;session=2400">Senate Bill 1778</a>:&nbsp;This bill is nearly identical to a law passed in Idaho in 2023 prohibiting so-called “abortion trafficking,” which is defined as individuals who help a minor obtain an abortion without the permission or consent of their parents. It doesn’t include a civil cause of action, like Idaho’s law, but it does include two to five years in prison as a punishment.

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Nathan Dahm

<a target="_blank" href="http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=HB3013&amp;session=2400">House Bill 3013</a>:&nbsp;The act of “trafficking” abortion pills would become a felony, punishable by a $100,000 fine, 10 years in prison or both. It does not apply to pharmacists or manufacturers lawfully distributing abortion-inducing medication.

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Reps. Denise Crosswhite Hader and Jim Olsen

<a target="_blank" href="http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=SB1729&amp;session=2400">Senate Bill 1729</a>: This bill would expand the existing abortion ban to allow the pregnant person to be prosecuted and charged with murder.

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Dusty Deevers

<a target="_blank" href="https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1895&amp;GA=113">House Bill 1895</a>:&nbsp;This bill is similar to Idaho’s law, but doesn’t hew as closely to the same text as Oklahoma’s proposal. It also includes the act of obtaining abortion pills for a minor, regardless of where the pills were obtained. It does not pertain to parents or legal guardians, but any other violators are subject to a Class C felony, which is punishable by three to 15 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. It also includes a civil cause of action.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706986402189.jpeg" alt=" Kevan Myers, left, of Kansas City, Kansas, and Clifton Boje, of Bonner Springs, protest outside the House chamber ahead of the State of the Judiciary speech in January 2023. The Kansas Supreme Court in 2019 determined the Kansas Constitution’s right to bodily autonomy extends to the decision to terminate a pregnancy. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Kevan Myers, left, of Kansas City, Kansas, and Clifton Boje, of Bonner Springs, protest outside the House chamber ahead of the State of the Judiciary speech in January 2023. The Kansas Supreme Court in 2019 determined the Kansas Constitution’s right to bodily autonomy extends to the decision to terminate a pregnancy. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>More than half of state legislatures across the country started their 2024 legislative sessions in January, and plenty of abortion-related bills have already been introduced, especially in states where the procedure is already banned.It can be difficult to monitor them all, so States Newsroom’s Reproductive Rights Today team will track certain bills that could become law in their respective states in a bi-weekly legislative roundup. Depending on the partisan makeup of a state’s legislature and other state government officials, some bills have a higher chance of passing and becoming law than others.<h2>Kansas</h2>Despite Kansas voters’ overwhelming rejection of abortion bans in a referendum shortly after the Dobbs decision in 2022,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/house-gop-lawmakers-introduce-bill-imposing-near-total-ban-abortion-kansas">Kansas Reflector reported</a>&nbsp;a near-total abortion ban bill introduced in the legislature in early January,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/11/house-gop-lawmakers-introduce-bill-imposing-near-total-ban-on-abortion-in-kansas/">House Bill 2492</a>. It’s opposed by both abortion rights supporters and opponents, including Kansans for Life, the main proponent of the “yes” side of the referendum. A spokesperson for that organization said legislators should focus on bills that stand a chance of becoming law.Aside from the ban bill, two other abortion-related pieces of legislation have been introduced, but haven’t received public hearings yet. Abortion is legal in Kansas, and six clinics provide in-clinic services.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb354/">Senate Bill 354</a>:&nbsp;Designating facilities where elective abortions are performed as ineligible to purchase professional liability insurance from the state’s health care stabilization fund, while maintaining the requirement of liability insurance to remain a licensed facility.Status:&nbsp;Introduced and referred to committeeSponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Mark Steffen<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2515/">House Bill 2515</a>:&nbsp;Creating a civil cause of action that can be used against a health care provider who injures a child during an attempted abortion, for a minimum of $10,000 in damages. The bill includes so-called “born alive” language, which has been pushed by anti-abortion groups for many years and decried by organizations like Planned Parenthood,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.plannedparenthood.org/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/fact-check-so-called-born-alive-is-another-lie-to-stigmatize-abortion-2">who say</a>&nbsp;it is a “problem that doesn’t exist” and doctors are already required to provide adequate medical care.Status:&nbsp;Introduced and referred to committeeSponsor:&nbsp;Republican Rep. Brett Fairchild<h2>Iowa</h2>Abortion is legal in Iowa after a court blocked a six-week abortion ban from going into effect in July 2023, but&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/bill-would-require-schools-show-fetal-development-videos-students">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>&nbsp;reports some lawmakers are attempting to include material produced by an anti-abortion group in the public school curriculum statewide.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ba=HF2031">House File 2031</a>:&nbsp;According to the bill, a video showing the development of a fetus would be required to be shown in health classes in Iowa schools. Teachers would be required to show students a video displaying an ultrasound and fetal development, and the bill called out the “Meet Baby Olivia” video as an example. That video is produced by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.liveaction.org/">Live Action</a>, an anti-abortion organization. Reproductive rights groups say the video contains medically inaccurate information. A similar bill became law in North Dakota in 2023, and proposals have been introduced in Missouri, Kentucky and West Virginia, but only Iowa’s bill has advanced past committee so far.Status:&nbsp;Passed by subcommittee, 2-1Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Rep. Luana Stoltenberg<h2>Indiana</h2>Republicans control both chambers of the general assembly and the offices of governor and attorney general, and Republican legislators have introduced two bills that could have significant implications for the state if they advance. Indiana has a near-total abortion ban with exceptions for rape and incest and fatal fetal anomalies or if the pregnant patient faces a serious health risk.<a target="_blank" href="https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2024/bills/senate/217/details">Senate Bill 217</a>:&nbsp;Prohibits the prescription or possession of an abortion-inducing drug. A practitioner found in violation of the law would be charged with a misdemeanor for the first offense, and a felony for subsequent offenses. Nonprofit organizations would also be prohibited from offering any financial assistance for abortion-inducing drugs.Status:&nbsp;Introduced and referred to committeeSponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Michael Young<h2>Missouri</h2>According to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/most-abortions-illegal-missouri-few-expect-new-bills-will-get-traction-year">Missouri Independent</a>, one abortion-related bill was already withdrawn by its sponsor after backlash because it proposed murder charges for women seeking abortions. But another bill of significance is still pending in the state where a near-total abortion ban is in place.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/24info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=270">Senate Bill 1077</a>:&nbsp;Prohibits the state from contracting, awarding grants, tax credits, bonding authority, training resources, access to government programs or other financial benefits to a company or political subdivision that has provided assistance to its employees or another entity on behalf of employees who need an abortion.Status:&nbsp;Introduced and referred to committeeSponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Andrew Koenig<h2>Oklahoma</h2>Oklahoma’s legislative session doesn’t start until Monday, Feb. 5, but lawmakers have pre-filed bills to be considered as soon as the session gets underway. The state has a near-total abortion ban. Here are a few to keep an eye on.<a target="_blank" href="http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=SB1778&amp;session=2400">Senate Bill 1778</a>:&nbsp;This bill is nearly identical to a law passed in Idaho in 2023 prohibiting so-called “abortion trafficking,” which is defined as individuals who help a minor obtain an abortion without the permission or consent of their parents. It doesn’t include a civil cause of action, like Idaho’s law, but it does include two to five years in prison as a punishment.Status:&nbsp;Pre-filedSponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Nathan Dahm<a target="_blank" href="http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=HB3013&amp;session=2400">House Bill 3013</a>:&nbsp;The act of “trafficking” abortion pills would become a felony, punishable by a $100,000 fine, 10 years in prison or both. It does not apply to pharmacists or manufacturers lawfully distributing abortion-inducing medication.Status:&nbsp;Pre-filedSponsor:&nbsp;Republican Reps. Denise Crosswhite Hader and Jim Olsen<a target="_blank" href="http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=SB1729&amp;session=2400">Senate Bill 1729</a>: This bill would expand the existing abortion ban to allow the pregnant person to be prosecuted and charged with murder.Status:&nbsp;Pre-filedSponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Dusty Deevers<h2>Tennessee</h2><a target="_blank" href="https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1895&amp;GA=113">House Bill 1895</a>:&nbsp;This bill is similar to Idaho’s law, but doesn’t hew as closely to the same text as Oklahoma’s proposal. It also includes the act of obtaining abortion pills for a minor, regardless of where the pills were obtained. It does not pertain to parents or legal guardians, but any other violators are subject to a Class C felony, which is punishable by three to 15 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. It also includes a civil cause of action.Status:&nbsp;Referred to committee and scheduled for hearing on Tuesday, Feb. 6Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Rep. Jason Zachary<a target="_blank" href="https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1729&amp;GA=113">House Bill 1729</a>:&nbsp;Specifies that criminal abortion does not include an abortion performed during a medical emergency affecting the physical or mental health of the pregnant person, or performed on a patient whose pregnancy was the result of rape or incest.Status:&nbsp;Introduced and referred to committeeSponsor:&nbsp;Democratic Rep. Yusuf Hakeem