SEDGWICK COUNTY —Clifton Ray Weatherspoon, 30, and Antonio Dawayne Knight, 24, both of Wichita were indicted this week on one count of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute.

Weatherspoon was also indicted on one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Deb Barnett and Ola Odeyemi are prosecuting the case. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679522652693.png" alt="Knight-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Knight-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Clifton Ray Weatherspoon, 30, and Antonio Dawayne Knight, 24, both of Wichita were indicted this week on one count of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679522512346.png" alt="Weatherspoon" />
 <figcaption>Weatherspoon</figcaption>
 </figure>Weatherspoon was also indicted on one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Deb Barnett and Ola Odeyemi are prosecuting the case.

2 Kansas men accused of selling fentanyl

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged aggravated battery and continue asking the public for&nbsp;assistance in locating Anthony Richards.

A 43-year old man reported being struck in the head with a baseball bat, and sustained life threatening injuries, according to Lawrence Police.

This incident was reported to have occurred just after noon March 23 at&nbsp; Hobb's Park, 702 E. 11th Street in Lawrence.&nbsp;

Anyone with information on Richards' whereabouts is asked to call 911, or contact dispatch on the non-emergency line, (785)832-7509

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679655267944.png" alt="Richards-photo Lawrence Police" />
 <figcaption>Richards-photo Lawrence Police</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged aggravated battery and continue asking the public for&nbsp;assistance in locating Anthony Richards.A 43-year old man reported being struck in the head with a baseball bat, and sustained life threatening injuries, according to Lawrence Police.This incident was reported to have occurred just after noon March 23 at&nbsp; Hobb's Park, 702 E. 11th Street in Lawrence.&nbsp;Anyone with information on Richards' whereabouts is asked to call 911, or contact dispatch on the non-emergency line, (785)832-7509

Search continues for Kan. man in alleged baseball bat attack

KANSAS CIY, KAN. – A Kansas man who led police on a high-speed chase was sentenced to 195 months in prison for drug trafficking, according to the United State's Attorney.

According to court documents, in October 2022, Russell Loomis, 50, of Kansas City, Kansas, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine.

In September 2019, Loomis went to a home in Kansas City, Kansas, to deliver approximately 86 grams of methamphetamine in what was a controlled buy set up by the Drug Enforcement

Administration (DEA). Loomis drove away from the residence, and a short time later the Kansas City, Missouri police attempted to pull him over. Loomis refused to stop and initiated a chase in which multiple law enforcement agencies and an aerial unit joined in the pursuit. Loomis struck two DEA vehicles, a Kansas Highway Patrol vehicle, and a Kansas Department of Transportation dump truck before eventually losing control and crashing. 

He was then taken into custody. Law enforcement officers found 150.6 grams of methamphetamine and guns in his vehicle.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department, the Kansas Highway Patrol, and the Olathe Police Department investigated the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679610227557.png" alt="Loomis has previous convictions for obstruction, ID theft, flee or attempt to elude and for drugs." />
 <figcaption>Loomis has previous convictions for obstruction, ID theft, flee or attempt to elude and for drugs.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CIY, KAN. – A Kansas man who led police on a high-speed chase was sentenced to 195 months in prison for drug trafficking, according to the United State's Attorney.According to court documents, in October 2022, Russell Loomis, 50, of Kansas City, Kansas, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine.In September 2019, Loomis went to a home in Kansas City, Kansas, to deliver approximately 86 grams of methamphetamine in what was a controlled buy set up by the Drug EnforcementAdministration (DEA). Loomis drove away from the residence, and a short time later the Kansas City, Missouri police attempted to pull him over. Loomis refused to stop and initiated a chase in which multiple law enforcement agencies and an aerial unit joined in the pursuit. Loomis struck two DEA vehicles, a Kansas Highway Patrol vehicle, and a Kansas Department of Transportation dump truck before eventually losing control and crashing. He was then taken into custody. Law enforcement officers found 150.6 grams of methamphetamine and guns in his vehicle.The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department, the Kansas Highway Patrol, and the Olathe Police Department investigated the case.

Kan. suspect struck DEA vehicle, KDOT dump truck during chase

DETROIT (AP) — Ford Motor Co.'s electric vehicle business has lost $3 billion before taxes during the past two years and will lose a similar amount this year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ford-motor-co-michigan-detroit-business-e75de5b389687e7a3bbc248e83e23ac0">as the company invests heavily</a>&nbsp;in the new technology.

The figures were released Thursday as Ford rolled out a new way of reporting financial results. The new business structure separates electric vehicles, the profitable internal combustion and commercial vehicle operations into three operating units.

Company officials said the electric vehicle unit, called “Ford Model e,” will be profitable before taxes by late 2026 with an 8% pretax profit margin. But they wouldn't say exactly when it's expected to start making money.

Chief Financial Officer John Lawler said Model e should be viewed as a startup company within Ford.

“As everyone knows, EV startups lose money while they invest in capability, develop knowledge, build (sales) volume and gain (market) share,” he said.

Model e, he said, is working on second- and even third-generation electric vehicles. It currently offers three EVs for sale in the U.S.:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-detroit-business-taxes-29362a3adb2611e3360e16b3ff3021fa">the Mustang Mach E SUV</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-business-environment-and-nature-michigan-ed809bb0f237e4d3be7974936416f91e">F-150 Lightning pickup</a>&nbsp;and an electric Transit commercial van.

The new corporate reporting system, Lawler said, is designed to give investors more transparency than the old system of reporting results by geographic regions. The automaker calculated earnings for each of the three units during the past two calendar years.

Model e had pretax losses of $900 million in 2021 and $2.1 billion last year, and it is expected to lose $3 billion this year. In the past two years Ford has announced it would build four new battery factories and a new vehicle assembly plant as well as spending heavily to acquire raw materials to build electric vehicles.

By the end of this year, the company based in Dearborn, Michigan, expects to be building electric vehicles at a rate of 600,000 per year, reaching a rate of 2 million per year by the end of 2026.

Last year, the pretax profit margin for Model e was minus 40%, Lawler said. To get to a positive 8% by the end of 2026, the company expects economies of scale — spreading costs over more vehicles sold— to be worth 20 points of the improvement. Design and engineering improvements will bring 15 points, battery cost reductions 10 points and 3 points will come from other areas including federal tax incentives and raw material price reductions.

Wells Fargo analyst Colin Langan calculated that Ford would need $15,000 in cost savings to get to an 8% profit margin. He asked what gives Ford confidence it can reach that number. “It just seems like quite a big number,” he said.

Lawler replied that Ford is looking at a whole new way of designing vehicles, focusing on energy efficiency, including aerodynamics. “Every decision is about optimizing energy efficiency so that we can get the smallest battery possible to hit the range target that we have for that vehicle,” he said.

Ford also will simplify its manufacturing process, maximizing common parts in next generation of EVs, saving over the current generation of repurposed internal combustion vehicle underpinnings. “There is a significant amount of opportunity in there to identify efficiencies and drive those home,” he said.

Ford Blue, the unit that sells internal combustion and gas-electric hybrid vehicles, made just over $10 billion before taxes during the last two years. Ford Pro, the commercial vehicle unit, made $5.9 billion during those years, the company said.

For this year, Ford expects Ford Blue to post a $7 billion pretax profit, modestly better than last year. Ford Pro is expected to earn $6 billion before taxes, nearly double its earnings last year, Lawler said.

Ford was to present the new structure, announced last March, to analysts and investors on Thursday. Other business units include corporate, Ford Credit and Ford Next, a new business incubator. Shares of Ford rose 1.7% in Thursday midday trading.

Lawler said the company is changing the way it does business, not just doing an accounting exercise.

“After 120 years, we've essentially re-founded Ford,” he said. “We're embracing technology and competitive disruption in our industry, fundamentally changing how we're thinking, how we're making decisions, and how we're running the company.”

DETROIT (AP) — Ford Motor Co.'s electric vehicle business has lost $3 billion before taxes during the past two years and will lose a similar amount this year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ford-motor-co-michigan-detroit-business-e75de5b389687e7a3bbc248e83e23ac0">as the company invests heavily</a>&nbsp;in the new technology.The figures were released Thursday as Ford rolled out a new way of reporting financial results. The new business structure separates electric vehicles, the profitable internal combustion and commercial vehicle operations into three operating units.Company officials said the electric vehicle unit, called “Ford Model e,” will be profitable before taxes by late 2026 with an 8% pretax profit margin. But they wouldn't say exactly when it's expected to start making money.Chief Financial Officer John Lawler said Model e should be viewed as a startup company within Ford.“As everyone knows, EV startups lose money while they invest in capability, develop knowledge, build (sales) volume and gain (market) share,” he said.Model e, he said, is working on second- and even third-generation electric vehicles. It currently offers three EVs for sale in the U.S.:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-detroit-business-taxes-29362a3adb2611e3360e16b3ff3021fa">the Mustang Mach E SUV</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-business-environment-and-nature-michigan-ed809bb0f237e4d3be7974936416f91e">F-150 Lightning pickup</a>&nbsp;and an electric Transit commercial van.The new corporate reporting system, Lawler said, is designed to give investors more transparency than the old system of reporting results by geographic regions. The automaker calculated earnings for each of the three units during the past two calendar years.Model e had pretax losses of $900 million in 2021 and $2.1 billion last year, and it is expected to lose $3 billion this year. In the past two years Ford has announced it would build four new battery factories and a new vehicle assembly plant as well as spending heavily to acquire raw materials to build electric vehicles.By the end of this year, the company based in Dearborn, Michigan, expects to be building electric vehicles at a rate of 600,000 per year, reaching a rate of 2 million per year by the end of 2026.Last year, the pretax profit margin for Model e was minus 40%, Lawler said. To get to a positive 8% by the end of 2026, the company expects economies of scale — spreading costs over more vehicles sold— to be worth 20 points of the improvement. Design and engineering improvements will bring 15 points, battery cost reductions 10 points and 3 points will come from other areas including federal tax incentives and raw material price reductions.Wells Fargo analyst Colin Langan calculated that Ford would need $15,000 in cost savings to get to an 8% profit margin. He asked what gives Ford confidence it can reach that number. “It just seems like quite a big number,” he said.Lawler replied that Ford is looking at a whole new way of designing vehicles, focusing on energy efficiency, including aerodynamics. “Every decision is about optimizing energy efficiency so that we can get the smallest battery possible to hit the range target that we have for that vehicle,” he said.Ford also will simplify its manufacturing process, maximizing common parts in next generation of EVs, saving over the current generation of repurposed internal combustion vehicle underpinnings. “There is a significant amount of opportunity in there to identify efficiencies and drive those home,” he said.Ford Blue, the unit that sells internal combustion and gas-electric hybrid vehicles, made just over $10 billion before taxes during the last two years. Ford Pro, the commercial vehicle unit, made $5.9 billion during those years, the company said.For this year, Ford expects Ford Blue to post a $7 billion pretax profit, modestly better than last year. Ford Pro is expected to earn $6 billion before taxes, nearly double its earnings last year, Lawler said.Ford was to present the new structure, announced last March, to analysts and investors on Thursday. Other business units include corporate, Ford Credit and Ford Next, a new business incubator. Shares of Ford rose 1.7% in Thursday midday trading.Lawler said the company is changing the way it does business, not just doing an accounting exercise.“After 120 years, we've essentially re-founded Ford,” he said. “We're embracing technology and competitive disruption in our industry, fundamentally changing how we're thinking, how we're making decisions, and how we're running the company.”

Ford losing billions on electric vehicle business

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Police officers involved in two separate fatal shootings in Missouri will not face charges after investigations by prosecutors.

Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney Jean Peters Baker said no charges will be filed against Independence officers in the March 2022 death of Tyrea M. Pryor. Meanwhile, Greene County Prosecuting Attorney Dan Patterson ruled that the use of deadly force by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/springfield-ab8846d98c93519286d4bd8a53094851">four Springfield officers</a>&nbsp;against Justin Barker on Feb. 1 was justified.

Baker's ruling was March 17. Her office released a letter to Pryor's family on Thursday. Patterson's ruling in the Springfield shooting was announced Friday.

Springfield officers were called to a park where Barker was allegedly threatening suicide. Police said officers were talking to Barker, 33, when he ignored orders to drop a gun and pointed it at officers, who shot him several times.

Pryor, 39, was shot to death on March 11, 2022, in the Kansas City suburb of Independence. Officers called to a home disturbance saw a white car leaving and began a chase. A car driven by Pryor wrecked a short time later.

Police dashboard camera video provided by attorneys for Pryor's family showed officers talking to Pryor, who was still inside the car. One officer said, “He's got a gun!” and officers began shooting into the car. Investigators said Pryor was shot 15 times. He died at the scene.

An AR-15-style semi-automatic weapon was pulled from the car, police said. One officer believed he saw a second gun, a pistol, but no pistol was found, the prosecutor's office said in its findings.

The letter to Pryor's family said the prosecutor’s office did not believe “the facts and law support charges here.”

Attorneys for Pryor's family said they will ask the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679833680314.png" alt="Pryor, 39, was shot to death on March 11, 2022, in the Kansas City suburb of Independence. Officers called to a home disturbance saw a white car leaving and began a chase and crash -image courtesy KMBC TV" />
 <figcaption>Pryor, 39, was shot to death on March 11, 2022, in the Kansas City suburb of Independence. Officers called to a home disturbance saw a white car leaving and began a chase and crash -image courtesy KMBC TV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — Police officers involved in two separate fatal shootings in Missouri will not face charges after investigations by prosecutors.Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney Jean Peters Baker said no charges will be filed against Independence officers in the March 2022 death of Tyrea M. Pryor. Meanwhile, Greene County Prosecuting Attorney Dan Patterson ruled that the use of deadly force by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/springfield-ab8846d98c93519286d4bd8a53094851">four Springfield officers</a>&nbsp;against Justin Barker on Feb. 1 was justified.Baker's ruling was March 17. Her office released a letter to Pryor's family on Thursday. Patterson's ruling in the Springfield shooting was announced Friday.Springfield officers were called to a park where Barker was allegedly threatening suicide. Police said officers were talking to Barker, 33, when he ignored orders to drop a gun and pointed it at officers, who shot him several times.Pryor, 39, was shot to death on March 11, 2022, in the Kansas City suburb of Independence. Officers called to a home disturbance saw a white car leaving and began a chase. A car driven by Pryor wrecked a short time later.Police dashboard camera video provided by attorneys for Pryor's family showed officers talking to Pryor, who was still inside the car. One officer said, “He's got a gun!” and officers began shooting into the car. Investigators said Pryor was shot 15 times. He died at the scene.An AR-15-style semi-automatic weapon was pulled from the car, police said. One officer believed he saw a second gun, a pistol, but no pistol was found, the prosecutor's office said in its findings.The letter to Pryor's family said the prosecutor’s office did not believe “the facts and law support charges here.”Attorneys for Pryor's family said they will ask the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate.

No charges in 2 fatal officer-involved shootings 

United States Catholic bishops have issued guidelines that seek to stop Catholic hospitals from providing gender transition care, a move LGBTQ advocates say could harm the physical and emotional health of transgender people within the church.

<a href="https://www.usccb.org/resources/Doctrinal%20Note%202023-03-20.pdf">Click here to read</a> the guidelines

The 14-page doctrinal note, titled “Moral Limits to the Technological Manipulation of the Human Body,” sets forth guidelines for changing a person’s sex, specifically with youth. The document, issued Monday, says Catholic hospitals “must not perform interventions, whether surgical or chemical, that aim to transform the sexual characteristics of a human body into those of the opposite sex, or take part in the development of such procedures.”

Transgender Catholics&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-united-states-gender-identity-marquette-e88473adf85944f912511fc85d542d29">have received a mixed response</a>&nbsp;across the U.S. church. Some have found acceptance in specific parishes and rejection in certain dioceses, including those that bar church personnel from using trans people’s preferred gender pronouns. The bishops’ latest guidance to Catholic medical centers could prevent trans people from getting the health care they need, said Francis DeBernardo, executive director of New Ways Ministry, which advocates for greater LGBTQ acceptance in the church.

Catholic hospitals make up a sizeable portion of the U.S. health care system and in some communities they are the only option. The Catholic Health Association, which comprises more than 600 hospitals and 1,400 long-term care and other health facilities in the United States, says more than one in seven U.S. hospital patients is cared for in a Catholic facility.

“These decisions are being made at a much higher level without knowing the individuals and individual cases involved,” DeBernardo said. “When transgender people are not permitted or restricted from transitioning in ways they feel are appropriate, it could end in depression, anxiety or even self harm, including suicide.”

The bishops’ guidelines “will not change much” when it comes to caring for transgender patients at Catholic hospitals, said the Rev. Charlie Bouchard, CHA’s senior director of theology and sponsorship. Transgender people will continue to always be accepted in Catholic hospitals and treated with dignity and respect, but might not receive all of the gender-affirming care they request because of the church's theological and moral teachings, he said.

“As we look at the document from the bishops, what we are mindful of is that we have a history of caring for the marginalized, and we see transgender people very much as a marginalized group,” he said.

Catholic hospitals see transgender patients with a variety of health care needs from broken bones to cancer treatment and heart attacks, Bouchard said, adding that the hospitals would not perform cosmetic procedures such as reconstructive surgeries, hysterectomies, or treatments such as sterilizations on request, unless there is a medical need for them.

He said Catholic hospitals are also training staff to be respectful of transgender patients: “When a patient checks in, we ask staff to be respectful in how they ask questions. We want to affirm transgender individuals as persons and provide them with spiritual care and psychological counseling.”

Bouchard said Catholic hospitals will “base health care on science and continue to follow the science when it comes to transgender people.”

“But we don’t treat ideology,” he said. “We treat patients who are really suffering. There are things out there about gender fluidity that we do not agree with. But as Catholic hospitals, we are held to the same standard of care as other hospitals.”

DeBernardo disagreed, saying the bishops’ doctrinal guidelines cause harm rather than heal people by not paying heed to science.

“The bishops’ unwillingness to counter any of the evidence from the scientific community or the experience of transgender people is neither good theology nor acceptable pastoral care,” he said.

DeBernardo said he sees hope with many more Catholics in the pews showing greater understanding of transgender people's lives. He noted cases where Catholic parents are supporting their transgender children against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/des-moines-gender-b67a28db1a2b04a3622cfcec649afade">restrictive policies in Catholic schools</a>, including barring puberty blockers and preferred pronouns on campuses and in parishes.

Christine Zuba, a transgender woman who lives in New Jersey, said she feels accepted at her local parish, but is upset that the national church “continues to deny our existence and our need for health care.” Zuba said she was disappointed to see that transgender people were not even mentioned in the 14-page document.

“In my parish, I feel accepted unconditionally for who I am,” she said. “But that is missing in our hierarchy. There is no willingness to engage with us and understand our lives.”

Zuba said she is happy to see more engagement and interaction in some dioceses. In Davenport, Iowa, Bishop Thomas Zinkula formed a Gender Committee calling Catholics to “listen to the people in the margins,” calling ministering to LGBTQ people – particularly trans people – as “a life issue.” In a column published in the Catholic Messenger, Zinkula said he has been haunted by the story of a transgender youth who attempted suicide after being denied Communion.

“This type of thing should never happen again,” he wrote.

Zuba said she would like to see that type of commitment to listen and learn in the upper echelons of the church.

“All we ask is listen to us as a group and as individuals,” she said. “Open your hearts and try to understand.”

By DEEPA BHARATH, Associated PressUnited States Catholic bishops have issued guidelines that seek to stop Catholic hospitals from providing gender transition care, a move LGBTQ advocates say could harm the physical and emotional health of transgender people within the church.<a href="https://www.usccb.org/resources/Doctrinal%20Note%202023-03-20.pdf">Click here to read</a> the guidelinesThe 14-page doctrinal note, titled “Moral Limits to the Technological Manipulation of the Human Body,” sets forth guidelines for changing a person’s sex, specifically with youth. The document, issued Monday, says Catholic hospitals “must not perform interventions, whether surgical or chemical, that aim to transform the sexual characteristics of a human body into those of the opposite sex, or take part in the development of such procedures.”Transgender Catholics&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-united-states-gender-identity-marquette-e88473adf85944f912511fc85d542d29">have received a mixed response</a>&nbsp;across the U.S. church. Some have found acceptance in specific parishes and rejection in certain dioceses, including those that bar church personnel from using trans people’s preferred gender pronouns. The bishops’ latest guidance to Catholic medical centers could prevent trans people from getting the health care they need, said Francis DeBernardo, executive director of New Ways Ministry, which advocates for greater LGBTQ acceptance in the church.Catholic hospitals make up a sizeable portion of the U.S. health care system and in some communities they are the only option. The Catholic Health Association, which comprises more than 600 hospitals and 1,400 long-term care and other health facilities in the United States, says more than one in seven U.S. hospital patients is cared for in a Catholic facility.“These decisions are being made at a much higher level without knowing the individuals and individual cases involved,” DeBernardo said. “When transgender people are not permitted or restricted from transitioning in ways they feel are appropriate, it could end in depression, anxiety or even self harm, including suicide.”The bishops’ guidelines “will not change much” when it comes to caring for transgender patients at Catholic hospitals, said the Rev. Charlie Bouchard, CHA’s senior director of theology and sponsorship. Transgender people will continue to always be accepted in Catholic hospitals and treated with dignity and respect, but might not receive all of the gender-affirming care they request because of the church's theological and moral teachings, he said.“As we look at the document from the bishops, what we are mindful of is that we have a history of caring for the marginalized, and we see transgender people very much as a marginalized group,” he said.Catholic hospitals see transgender patients with a variety of health care needs from broken bones to cancer treatment and heart attacks, Bouchard said, adding that the hospitals would not perform cosmetic procedures such as reconstructive surgeries, hysterectomies, or treatments such as sterilizations on request, unless there is a medical need for them.He said Catholic hospitals are also training staff to be respectful of transgender patients: “When a patient checks in, we ask staff to be respectful in how they ask questions. We want to affirm transgender individuals as persons and provide them with spiritual care and psychological counseling.”Bouchard said Catholic hospitals will “base health care on science and continue to follow the science when it comes to transgender people.”“But we don’t treat ideology,” he said. “We treat patients who are really suffering. There are things out there about gender fluidity that we do not agree with. But as Catholic hospitals, we are held to the same standard of care as other hospitals.”DeBernardo disagreed, saying the bishops’ doctrinal guidelines cause harm rather than heal people by not paying heed to science.“The bishops’ unwillingness to counter any of the evidence from the scientific community or the experience of transgender people is neither good theology nor acceptable pastoral care,” he said.DeBernardo said he sees hope with many more Catholics in the pews showing greater understanding of transgender people's lives. He noted cases where Catholic parents are supporting their transgender children against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/des-moines-gender-b67a28db1a2b04a3622cfcec649afade">restrictive policies in Catholic schools</a>, including barring puberty blockers and preferred pronouns on campuses and in parishes.Christine Zuba, a transgender woman who lives in New Jersey, said she feels accepted at her local parish, but is upset that the national church “continues to deny our existence and our need for health care.” Zuba said she was disappointed to see that transgender people were not even mentioned in the 14-page document.“In my parish, I feel accepted unconditionally for who I am,” she said. “But that is missing in our hierarchy. There is no willingness to engage with us and understand our lives.”Zuba said she is happy to see more engagement and interaction in some dioceses. In Davenport, Iowa, Bishop Thomas Zinkula formed a Gender Committee calling Catholics to “listen to the people in the margins,” calling ministering to LGBTQ people – particularly trans people – as “a life issue.” In a column published in the Catholic Messenger, Zinkula said he has been haunted by the story of a transgender youth who attempted suicide after being denied Communion.“This type of thing should never happen again,” he wrote.Zuba said she would like to see that type of commitment to listen and learn in the upper echelons of the church.“All we ask is listen to us as a group and as individuals,” she said. “Open your hearts and try to understand.”

U.S. Catholic bishops: New guidelines to limit trans health care

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Kansas City Police Department leaders encouraged officers to meet illegal ticket quotas by targeting drivers in Black and other minority neighborhoods, a lawsuit filed by an officer contends.

Edward Williams, a white traffic officer who said he's been with the department for 21 years, filed the discrimination lawsuit Monday, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/article273437100.html">Kansas City Star reported.</a>

Racial profiling is a violation of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964. Ticket quotas are also illegal under a Missouri state law passed in 2016.

Kansas City police Chief Stacey Graves said in a written statement that the department “is dedicated to policing that is both equitable and fair in all aspects of our duties.” She said officers do not direct enforcement activities based on demographics but instead on high crash areas and citizen traffic complaint locations.

Williams was reprimanded after he reported the violations to his superiors, Williams' attorney, Gerald Gray II, said.

“Officers have received unsatisfactory marks on their evaluations and had duties and benefits stripped for low ticket writing numbers," the lawsuit states. “This continues to this date.”

It comes several months after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/police-discrimination-race-and-ethnicity-racial-injustice-7a3d4c84f6e3ba8bb97b5c49e5287408">U.S. Department of Justice announced an investigation</a>&nbsp;into the department's employment practices to determine if it engaged in any racial discrimination.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Kansas City Police Department leaders encouraged officers to meet illegal ticket quotas by targeting drivers in Black and other minority neighborhoods, a lawsuit filed by an officer contends.Edward Williams, a white traffic officer who said he's been with the department for 21 years, filed the discrimination lawsuit Monday, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/article273437100.html">Kansas City Star reported.</a>Racial profiling is a violation of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964. Ticket quotas are also illegal under a Missouri state law passed in 2016.Kansas City police Chief Stacey Graves said in a written statement that the department “is dedicated to policing that is both equitable and fair in all aspects of our duties.” She said officers do not direct enforcement activities based on demographics but instead on high crash areas and citizen traffic complaint locations.Williams was reprimanded after he reported the violations to his superiors, Williams' attorney, Gerald Gray II, said.“Officers have received unsatisfactory marks on their evaluations and had duties and benefits stripped for low ticket writing numbers," the lawsuit states. “This continues to this date.”It comes several months after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/police-discrimination-race-and-ethnicity-racial-injustice-7a3d4c84f6e3ba8bb97b5c49e5287408">U.S. Department of Justice announced an investigation</a>&nbsp;into the department's employment practices to determine if it engaged in any racial discrimination.

KC traffic officer says he was told to target minority drivers

MOSCOW (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin announced plans on Saturday to station tactical nuclear weapons in neighboring Belarus, a warning to the West as it steps up military support for Ukraine.

Putin said the move was triggered by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/depleted-uranium-ukraine-russia-tanks-a92a4784dfcbd1ff221813154b7f3a8e">Britain’s decision</a>&nbsp;this past week to provide Ukraine with armor-piercing rounds containing depleted uranium.

Tactical nuclear weapons are intended for use on the battlefield and have a short range and a low yield compared with much more powerful nuclear warheads fitted to long-range missiles. Russia plans to maintain control over those it sends to Belarus, and construction of storage facilities for them will be completed by July 1, Putin said.

He didn’t say how many nuclear weapons Russia would keep in Belarus. The U.S. government believes Russia has about 2,000 tactical nuclear weapons, which include bombs that can be carried by tactical aircraft, warheads for short-range missiles and artillery rounds.

Putin argued that by deploying its tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, Russia was following the lead of the United States, noting that the U.S. has nuclear weapons based in Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Turkey.

“We are doing what they have been doing for decades, stationing them in certain allied countries, preparing the launch platforms and training their crews,” Putin said, speaking in an interview on state television that aired Saturday night. “We are going to do the same thing.”

Russia has stored its tactical nuclear weapons at dedicated depots on its territory, and moving part of the arsenal to a storage facility in Belarus would up the ante in the Ukrainian conflict by placing them closer to the Russian aircraft and missiles already stationed there.

Some hawkish commentators in Russia long have urged the Kremlin to put the tactical nuclear weapons close to the weapons to send a signal to the West about the readiness to use them.

The U.S. said it would “monitor the implications” of Putin's announcement.

“We have not seen any reason to adjust our own strategic nuclear posture nor any indications Russia is preparing to use a nuclear weapon,” National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said. "We remain committed to the collective defense of the NATO alliance.”

Belarus, Kazakhstan and Ukraine had Soviet nuclear weapons stationed on their territory but handed them over to Russia after the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union.

Putin said Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has long asked to have nuclear weapons in his country again as a counter to NATO. Belarus shares borders with three NATO members — Latvia, Lithuania and Poland — and Russia used its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-drones-hit-kyiv-2a8d03f70dc20eab9a8c150df8c04b37">territory as a staging ground</a>&nbsp;to send troops into neighboring Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022.

Putin noted that Russia helped&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-drones-hit-kyiv-2a8d03f70dc20eab9a8c150df8c04b37">modernize Belarusian military aircraft</a>&nbsp;last year to make them capable of carrying nuclear warheads. He said 10 such planes were ready to go. He said nuclear weapons also could be launched by the Iskander short-range missiles that Russia provided to Belarus last year.

Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who is living in exile, said the agreement to transfer the tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus “underlines the threat to regional security” from Lukashenko's regime.

“Europe won’t be safe until Belarus dictator is removed &amp; brought before tribunal to face justice for crimes against our country &amp; Ukraine," Tsikhanouskaya wrote in English on Twitter.

Lukashenko’s support of the war has drawn international criticism and sanctions. But he has publicly stood by Russia, which has pumped billions of dollars into shoring up his Soviet-style, state-controlled economy with cheap energy and loans.

Putin had initially objected to the depleted uranium rounds that Britain promised to ship to Ukraine by making the false claim that they have nuclear components.

He subsequently toned down his language, but insisted Saturday that the ammunition posed an additional danger to both troops and civilians in Ukraine by leaving a radioactive trace and contaminating agricultural land.

“Those weapons are harmful not just for combatants, but also for the people living in those territories and for the environment,” he said.

Putin added that Russia has vast stockpiles of similar ammunition but so far has refrained from using it.

Depleted uranium is a byproduct of the uranium enrichment process needed to create nuclear weapons. The rounds can't generate a nuclear reaction but they do emit low levels of radiation. The U.N. nuclear watchdog has warned of the possible dangers of exposure.

Such rounds were developed by the U.S. during the Cold War to destroy Soviet tanks, including the same T-72 tanks that Ukraine now faces in its push to break through a stalemate in the east.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663760963726.jpeg" alt="Russia has stored its tactical nuclear weapons at dedicated depots on its territory, and moving part of the arsenal to a storage facility in Belarus would up the ante in the Ukrainian&nbsp; photo -Russian Presidential Press Service via AP" />
 <figcaption>Russia has stored its tactical nuclear weapons at dedicated depots on its territory, and moving part of the arsenal to a storage facility in Belarus would up the ante in the Ukrainian&nbsp; photo -Russian Presidential Press Service via AP</figcaption>
 </figure>MOSCOW (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin announced plans on Saturday to station tactical nuclear weapons in neighboring Belarus, a warning to the West as it steps up military support for Ukraine.Putin said the move was triggered by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/depleted-uranium-ukraine-russia-tanks-a92a4784dfcbd1ff221813154b7f3a8e">Britain’s decision</a>&nbsp;this past week to provide Ukraine with armor-piercing rounds containing depleted uranium.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679781807563.png" alt="Putin didn’t say how many nuclear weapons Russia would keep in Belarus. The U.S. government believes Russia has about 2,000 tactical nuclear weapons, which include bombs that can be carried by tactical aircraft, warheads for short-range missiles and artillery rounds.-Google map" />
 <figcaption>Putin didn’t say how many nuclear weapons Russia would keep in Belarus. The U.S. government believes Russia has about 2,000 tactical nuclear weapons, which include bombs that can be carried by tactical aircraft, warheads for short-range missiles and artillery rounds.-Google map</figcaption>
 </figure>Tactical nuclear weapons are intended for use on the battlefield and have a short range and a low yield compared with much more powerful nuclear warheads fitted to long-range missiles. Russia plans to maintain control over those it sends to Belarus, and construction of storage facilities for them will be completed by July 1, Putin said.He didn’t say how many nuclear weapons Russia would keep in Belarus. The U.S. government believes Russia has about 2,000 tactical nuclear weapons, which include bombs that can be carried by tactical aircraft, warheads for short-range missiles and artillery rounds.Putin argued that by deploying its tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, Russia was following the lead of the United States, noting that the U.S. has nuclear weapons based in Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Turkey.“We are doing what they have been doing for decades, stationing them in certain allied countries, preparing the launch platforms and training their crews,” Putin said, speaking in an interview on state television that aired Saturday night. “We are going to do the same thing.”Russia has stored its tactical nuclear weapons at dedicated depots on its territory, and moving part of the arsenal to a storage facility in Belarus would up the ante in the Ukrainian conflict by placing them closer to the Russian aircraft and missiles already stationed there.Some hawkish commentators in Russia long have urged the Kremlin to put the tactical nuclear weapons close to the weapons to send a signal to the West about the readiness to use them.The U.S. said it would “monitor the implications” of Putin's announcement.“We have not seen any reason to adjust our own strategic nuclear posture nor any indications Russia is preparing to use a nuclear weapon,” National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said. "We remain committed to the collective defense of the NATO alliance.”Belarus, Kazakhstan and Ukraine had Soviet nuclear weapons stationed on their territory but handed them over to Russia after the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union.Putin said Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has long asked to have nuclear weapons in his country again as a counter to NATO. Belarus shares borders with three NATO members — Latvia, Lithuania and Poland — and Russia used its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-drones-hit-kyiv-2a8d03f70dc20eab9a8c150df8c04b37">territory as a staging ground</a>&nbsp;to send troops into neighboring Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022.Putin noted that Russia helped&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-drones-hit-kyiv-2a8d03f70dc20eab9a8c150df8c04b37">modernize Belarusian military aircraft</a>&nbsp;last year to make them capable of carrying nuclear warheads. He said 10 such planes were ready to go. He said nuclear weapons also could be launched by the Iskander short-range missiles that Russia provided to Belarus last year.Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who is living in exile, said the agreement to transfer the tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus “underlines the threat to regional security” from Lukashenko's regime.“Europe won’t be safe until Belarus dictator is removed &amp; brought before tribunal to face justice for crimes against our country &amp; Ukraine," Tsikhanouskaya wrote in English on Twitter.Lukashenko’s support of the war has drawn international criticism and sanctions. But he has publicly stood by Russia, which has pumped billions of dollars into shoring up his Soviet-style, state-controlled economy with cheap energy and loans.Putin had initially objected to the depleted uranium rounds that Britain promised to ship to Ukraine by making the false claim that they have nuclear components.He subsequently toned down his language, but insisted Saturday that the ammunition posed an additional danger to both troops and civilians in Ukraine by leaving a radioactive trace and contaminating agricultural land.“Those weapons are harmful not just for combatants, but also for the people living in those territories and for the environment,” he said.Putin added that Russia has vast stockpiles of similar ammunition but so far has refrained from using it.Depleted uranium is a byproduct of the uranium enrichment process needed to create nuclear weapons. The rounds can't generate a nuclear reaction but they do emit low levels of radiation. The U.N. nuclear watchdog has warned of the possible dangers of exposure.Such rounds were developed by the U.S. during the Cold War to destroy Soviet tanks, including the same T-72 tanks that Ukraine now faces in its push to break through a stalemate in the east.--------------

U.S. responds to Putin plan to place nuclear weapons on Ukraine border

GRAY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 9p.m. Saturday in Gray County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Dodge Durango driven by Alegandro Santiago, 44, Deming, New Mexico, was westbound on U.S. 50 two miles west of Ingalls.

The SUV veered to the left into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with a 2014 Peterbilt semi driven by Rudy&nbsp;Klassen, 37, Copeland.

EMS transported Santiago to St. Catherine Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.&nbsp;Klassen was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp; Two juveniles were present in the semi. The KHP released no information on their status.

GRAY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 9p.m. Saturday in Gray County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Dodge Durango driven by Alegandro Santiago, 44, Deming, New Mexico, was westbound on U.S. 50 two miles west of Ingalls.The SUV veered to the left into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with a 2014 Peterbilt semi driven by Rudy&nbsp;Klassen, 37, Copeland.EMS transported Santiago to St. Catherine Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.&nbsp;Klassen was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp; Two juveniles were present in the semi. The KHP released no information on their status.

Man dies after head-on crash with a semi on Kansas highway

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Following threats and attacks on public officials, state lawmakers across the U.S. have stepped up efforts to shield personal information from being publicly disclosed about judges, police, elected officeholders and various public employees.

The measures generally are winning widespread support in state capitols — adding a layer of secrecy, in the name of safety, that could make it more difficult to determine whether public officials are complying with residency laws and paying their property taxes.

The efforts to exempt more information from public disclosure come despite the fact that many governments are more transparent than ever when it comes to their meetings — making permanent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-state-legislature-coronavirus-pandemic-4d6cf5821b44cb0ce70587305d5e1175">the online streaming options</a>&nbsp;spurred as a response to coronavirus-related restrictions on public gatherings.

That's led to a split assessment of government openness during Sunshine Week, an annual recognition of public information laws that began Sunday and runs through Saturday.

Though meetings may be more accessible, “basically, government is getting more secretive every year,” said David Cuillier, an associate journalism professor at the University of Arizona who has been analyzing data about government compliance with open-records laws.

People requesting records from the federal government are successful only about one-fifth of the time, down from a greater than 50% success rate more than a decade ago, according to Cuillier's research.

Information requests under state laws typically fair better, Cuillier said, but “every year, we get exemptions being passed in state legislatures all across the country, and that just seems to be accelerating.”

On a case-by-case basis, many public records exceptions may appear reasonable and justified. The movement to shield the home addresses of judges provides one good example.

In 2020, a man disgruntled with U.S. District Judge Esther Salas came to her New Jersey home disguised as a deliveryman and fatally shot her 20-year-old son while wounding her husband. New Jersey officials responded later that year by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shootings-laws-9c13dc83bdc9948e8af7249bbea13cde">enacting a law that exempted the home addresses</a>&nbsp;of current or retired judges, prosecutors and law enforcement officers from disclosure under public records laws. The measure, called Daniel’s Law in honor of the judge’s son, also allowed covered officials to ask businesses or individuals to remove their home addresses from internet sites they control.

Though some states already had similar laws, the New Jersey case provided an impetus for action elsewhere. Most states now have laws prohibiting governmental entities from disclosing the home addresses of at least some public employees, with judges among the most commonly protected,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/23702717-home-address-exemptions-in-state-foi-laws">according to research</a>&nbsp;by Jodie Gil, an associate journalism professor at Southern Connecticut State University.

A study panel of the Uniform Law Commission, a nonprofit organization that drafts potential legislation for state lawmakers, plans to recommend this spring that a common policy be drafted to exclude judges' home addresses and certain personal information from public-record disclosures, said Vince DeLiberato, director of Pennsylvania's Legislative Reference Bureau and chair of the study panel. The policy also could include an option to shield information for other public officials facing threats, he said.

Meanwhile, states are pressing forward with their own information-exemption laws for certain officials.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/23info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=44449">Missouri Senate recently voted 30-1 for legislation</a>&nbsp;that allows judges and prosecutors to request that their home addresses, phone numbers, personal email addresses, marital status, children's identities and other information be removed from public display. The shield would apply not only to government records and websites but also to privately run sites such as online phone directories and internet search engines. That bill is now pending in the House.

On the same day as the Missouri vote, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/64592">Georgia Senate voted 53-0 for legislation</a>&nbsp;allowing federal, state or local public employees to request that their residential addresses and phone numbers be removed from online property records posted by local governments. That bill is now pending in the House.

“We don’t want people to be able to track these folks down and cause harm," Georgia state Sen. Matt Brass, a Republican, said while explaining his bill to a Senate committee.

But Richard Griffiths, a former president of the Georgia First Amendment Foundation, raised concerns about the unintended consequences, asserting that the New Jersey law “turned into a bit of a train wreck.” Some governments shut down entire databases because of uncertainty about exactly whose information should be removed from which public records, he said.

New Jersey lawmakers responded in January 2022 by tweaking the process in Daniel’s Law and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2020/A6171">establishing a state Office of Information Privacy</a>&nbsp;— funded with $3 million — to create an online portal through which judicial and law enforcement officials can request that their information be redacted.

Public records listing the home addresses of government officials can function as an important tool for journalists working on public accountability stories, Gil said. Addresses in voter registration files and property ownership records can be used to determine whether officials actually live in the district they represent or are delinquent on property taxes.

When she was working as a journalist a decade ago, Gil&nbsp;<a href="https://valley.newhavenindependent.org/article/Ansonia_Officials_Owe_Car_Taxes_But_Dont_Suffer_The_Consequences/">reported that a local tax collector</a>&nbsp;was certifying that some public officials had paid their vehicle taxes when they actually had not.

“It's something that I could have never even attempted if public records were not connecting public officials and their addresses,” Gil said. “I didn’t publish any address — I didn't say the mayor lives at this house — but I needed his address to confirm that he was paying his taxes.”

Lawmakers are taking a variety of approaches to address confidentiality this year.&nbsp;<a href="https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2023R1/Measures/Overview/HB3073">An Oregon bill</a>&nbsp;would prohibit the home addresses of elected officials and candidates from being publicly disclosed on voter registration lists.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&amp;bill_num=SB01157&amp;which_year=2023">A Connecticut bill</a>&nbsp;would add court marshals, attorney general's employees and workers in a state unit that determines services for people with disabilities to a list of about a dozen types of public employees whose home addresses are confidential under the Connecticut Freedom of Information Act.

The Connecticut bill is backed by state Attorney General William Tong, a Democrat who told lawmakers that his assistants are getting targeted online.

“People get really angry when they’re the subject of an enforcement action,” Tong said, "and sometimes they retaliate and they threaten people in my office with violence.”

But redacting public employee addresses from state records won't necessarily prevent threats and “provides employees with a false sense of comfort and security,” said Colleen Murphy, executive director of the Connecticut Freedom of Information Commission, a state agency that administers and enforces open-records laws.

"For better or worse, the fact is that the residential addresses of most people are now readily available for free, or for a nominal charge, on the internet and through other commercial services,” Murphy said.

In New Mexico, a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-new-mexico-state-government-crime-albuquerque-1410b516f5b66c18d62342a0d7a9b60f">series of drive-by shootings</a>&nbsp;at the homes of Democratic elected officials prompted&nbsp;<a href="https://nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&amp;legType=B&amp;legNo=180&amp;year=23">the Senate to pass legislation</a>&nbsp;that would let public officials keep secret their home addresses on election-related documents and government websites. The provision was included in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/elections-political-violence-driveby-shootings-b963e0341516ccf6ea61131b88980fbb">a broader election bill</a>&nbsp;that is now pending in the House.

Among the supporters is Democratic state Sen. Linda Lopez, of Albuquerque, whose home was hit by multiple shots while her 10-year-old daughter was sleeping.

“I understand the issue on transparency," Lopez said, “but the day and time that we’re in, we really have to rethink what we are doing.”

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Following threats and attacks on public officials, state lawmakers across the U.S. have stepped up efforts to shield personal information from being publicly disclosed about judges, police, elected officeholders and various public employees.The measures generally are winning widespread support in state capitols — adding a layer of secrecy, in the name of safety, that could make it more difficult to determine whether public officials are complying with residency laws and paying their property taxes.The efforts to exempt more information from public disclosure come despite the fact that many governments are more transparent than ever when it comes to their meetings — making permanent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-state-legislature-coronavirus-pandemic-4d6cf5821b44cb0ce70587305d5e1175">the online streaming options</a>&nbsp;spurred as a response to coronavirus-related restrictions on public gatherings.That's led to a split assessment of government openness during Sunshine Week, an annual recognition of public information laws that began Sunday and runs through Saturday.Though meetings may be more accessible, “basically, government is getting more secretive every year,” said David Cuillier, an associate journalism professor at the University of Arizona who has been analyzing data about government compliance with open-records laws.People requesting records from the federal government are successful only about one-fifth of the time, down from a greater than 50% success rate more than a decade ago, according to Cuillier's research.Information requests under state laws typically fair better, Cuillier said, but “every year, we get exemptions being passed in state legislatures all across the country, and that just seems to be accelerating.”On a case-by-case basis, many public records exceptions may appear reasonable and justified. The movement to shield the home addresses of judges provides one good example.In 2020, a man disgruntled with U.S. District Judge Esther Salas came to her New Jersey home disguised as a deliveryman and fatally shot her 20-year-old son while wounding her husband. New Jersey officials responded later that year by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shootings-laws-9c13dc83bdc9948e8af7249bbea13cde">enacting a law that exempted the home addresses</a>&nbsp;of current or retired judges, prosecutors and law enforcement officers from disclosure under public records laws. The measure, called Daniel’s Law in honor of the judge’s son, also allowed covered officials to ask businesses or individuals to remove their home addresses from internet sites they control.Though some states already had similar laws, the New Jersey case provided an impetus for action elsewhere. Most states now have laws prohibiting governmental entities from disclosing the home addresses of at least some public employees, with judges among the most commonly protected,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/23702717-home-address-exemptions-in-state-foi-laws">according to research</a>&nbsp;by Jodie Gil, an associate journalism professor at Southern Connecticut State University.A study panel of the Uniform Law Commission, a nonprofit organization that drafts potential legislation for state lawmakers, plans to recommend this spring that a common policy be drafted to exclude judges' home addresses and certain personal information from public-record disclosures, said Vince DeLiberato, director of Pennsylvania's Legislative Reference Bureau and chair of the study panel. The policy also could include an option to shield information for other public officials facing threats, he said.Meanwhile, states are pressing forward with their own information-exemption laws for certain officials.The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/23info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=44449">Missouri Senate recently voted 30-1 for legislation</a>&nbsp;that allows judges and prosecutors to request that their home addresses, phone numbers, personal email addresses, marital status, children's identities and other information be removed from public display. The shield would apply not only to government records and websites but also to privately run sites such as online phone directories and internet search engines. That bill is now pending in the House.On the same day as the Missouri vote, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/64592">Georgia Senate voted 53-0 for legislation</a>&nbsp;allowing federal, state or local public employees to request that their residential addresses and phone numbers be removed from online property records posted by local governments. That bill is now pending in the House.“We don’t want people to be able to track these folks down and cause harm," Georgia state Sen. Matt Brass, a Republican, said while explaining his bill to a Senate committee.But Richard Griffiths, a former president of the Georgia First Amendment Foundation, raised concerns about the unintended consequences, asserting that the New Jersey law “turned into a bit of a train wreck.” Some governments shut down entire databases because of uncertainty about exactly whose information should be removed from which public records, he said.New Jersey lawmakers responded in January 2022 by tweaking the process in Daniel’s Law and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2020/A6171">establishing a state Office of Information Privacy</a>&nbsp;— funded with $3 million — to create an online portal through which judicial and law enforcement officials can request that their information be redacted.Public records listing the home addresses of government officials can function as an important tool for journalists working on public accountability stories, Gil said. Addresses in voter registration files and property ownership records can be used to determine whether officials actually live in the district they represent or are delinquent on property taxes.When she was working as a journalist a decade ago, Gil&nbsp;<a href="https://valley.newhavenindependent.org/article/Ansonia_Officials_Owe_Car_Taxes_But_Dont_Suffer_The_Consequences/">reported that a local tax collector</a>&nbsp;was certifying that some public officials had paid their vehicle taxes when they actually had not.“It's something that I could have never even attempted if public records were not connecting public officials and their addresses,” Gil said. “I didn’t publish any address — I didn't say the mayor lives at this house — but I needed his address to confirm that he was paying his taxes.”Lawmakers are taking a variety of approaches to address confidentiality this year.&nbsp;<a href="https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2023R1/Measures/Overview/HB3073">An Oregon bill</a>&nbsp;would prohibit the home addresses of elected officials and candidates from being publicly disclosed on voter registration lists.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&amp;bill_num=SB01157&amp;which_year=2023">A Connecticut bill</a>&nbsp;would add court marshals, attorney general's employees and workers in a state unit that determines services for people with disabilities to a list of about a dozen types of public employees whose home addresses are confidential under the Connecticut Freedom of Information Act.The Connecticut bill is backed by state Attorney General William Tong, a Democrat who told lawmakers that his assistants are getting targeted online.“People get really angry when they’re the subject of an enforcement action,” Tong said, "and sometimes they retaliate and they threaten people in my office with violence.”But redacting public employee addresses from state records won't necessarily prevent threats and “provides employees with a false sense of comfort and security,” said Colleen Murphy, executive director of the Connecticut Freedom of Information Commission, a state agency that administers and enforces open-records laws."For better or worse, the fact is that the residential addresses of most people are now readily available for free, or for a nominal charge, on the internet and through other commercial services,” Murphy said.In New Mexico, a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-new-mexico-state-government-crime-albuquerque-1410b516f5b66c18d62342a0d7a9b60f">series of drive-by shootings</a>&nbsp;at the homes of Democratic elected officials prompted&nbsp;<a href="https://nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&amp;legType=B&amp;legNo=180&amp;year=23">the Senate to pass legislation</a>&nbsp;that would let public officials keep secret their home addresses on election-related documents and government websites. The provision was included in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/elections-political-violence-driveby-shootings-b963e0341516ccf6ea61131b88980fbb">a broader election bill</a>&nbsp;that is now pending in the House.Among the supporters is Democratic state Sen. Linda Lopez, of Albuquerque, whose home was hit by multiple shots while her 10-year-old daughter was sleeping.“I understand the issue on transparency," Lopez said, “but the day and time that we’re in, we really have to rethink what we are doing.”

States shield addresses of judges, workers after threats

JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas man is going to prison for the rest of his life.

On Thursday, a judge sentenced 38-year-old Landon Lemons to six life sentences for aggravated indecent liberties with a child and aggravated criminal sodomy of a child under the age of 14, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.

Lemons was originally booked on the charges in 2017, according to online jail records and charged in October of 2018.

The crimes occurred between August 1, 2009 and December 1, 2013.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679598340443.png" alt="Lemons-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Lemons-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas man is going to prison for the rest of his life.On Thursday, a judge sentenced 38-year-old Landon Lemons to six life sentences for aggravated indecent liberties with a child and aggravated criminal sodomy of a child under the age of 14, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.Lemons was originally booked on the charges in 2017, according to online jail records and charged in October of 2018.The crimes occurred between August 1, 2009 and December 1, 2013.

Kansas man given 6 life sentences for child sex crimes

KANSAS CITY — A Kansas man and woman have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, according to the United State's attorney.

Alonso Alfredo Nunez, also known as “Bullet,” 19, and Jaloany Garcia-Medina, also known as “J. Lo,” 20, were charged in a four-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City on March 14. They were arrested Thursday and had their initial court appearance.

The federal indictment alleges that Nunez and Garcia-Medina participated in a conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl from July 25 to Dec. 18, 2022. In addition to the conspiracy, Nunez and Gacia-Medina are also charged together in one count of distributing fentanyl. Garcia-Medina is also charged with two counts of distributing fentanyl.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664309962436.png" alt="Photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY — A Kansas man and woman have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, according to the United State's attorney.Alonso Alfredo Nunez, also known as “Bullet,” 19, and Jaloany Garcia-Medina, also known as “J. Lo,” 20, were charged in a four-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City on March 14. They were arrested Thursday and had their initial court appearance.The federal indictment alleges that Nunez and Garcia-Medina participated in a conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl from July 25 to Dec. 18, 2022. In addition to the conspiracy, Nunez and Gacia-Medina are also charged together in one count of distributing fentanyl. Garcia-Medina is also charged with two counts of distributing fentanyl.

Kan. suspects nicknamed 'Bullet and J. Lo' accused of selling fentanyl

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple charges after a drug bust.

&nbsp;On Wednesday, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit&nbsp; and the Shawnee County Drug Task Force served a search warrant in the 1700 Block SE Morrison Street in Topeka related to an ongoing investigation, according to Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.

While conducting the search warrant, officers located methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, stolen property and firearms.

As a result, 43-year-old Jason T. Fisher and 38-year-old Carrie Abram were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections .

They are being held on requested charges of&nbsp;Distribution of methamphetamine Possession of Marijuana, Distribution of drug paraphernalia, Possession of stolen property, Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, unlawful acquire proceeds from drug transaction, Drug tax stamp, Counterfeiting currency and an Arrest Warrant

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679622907333.png" alt="Fisher has four previous drug convictions, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Fisher has four previous drug convictions, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple charges after a drug bust.&nbsp;On Wednesday, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit&nbsp; and the Shawnee County Drug Task Force served a search warrant in the 1700 Block SE Morrison Street in Topeka related to an ongoing investigation, according to Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.While conducting the search warrant, officers located methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, stolen property and firearms.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679623014130.png" alt="Abram has three previous drug convictions, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Abram has three previous drug convictions, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>As a result, 43-year-old Jason T. Fisher and 38-year-old Carrie Abram were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections .They are being held on requested charges of&nbsp;Distribution of methamphetamine Possession of Marijuana, Distribution of drug paraphernalia, Possession of stolen property, Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, unlawful acquire proceeds from drug transaction, Drug tax stamp, Counterfeiting currency and an Arrest Warrant

Police: Two Kansas felons accused of counterfeiting cash 

KANSAS CITY, KS&nbsp;– The U.S. Department of Labor has filed suit against the owner of two Kansas restaurants who allegedly denied minimum and overtime wages to kitchen staff, servers, hosts and food runners after some worked as many as 66 hours per week, according to a statement from the USDL.

Filed this month, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas, the department’s complaint alleges&nbsp;<a>El Toro Loco Legends LLC in Kansas City and El Toro Loco Lenexa LLC in Lenexa, and owner Alfonzo Herrera Hernandez</a>, committed multiple violations of the federal minimum wage, overtime and recordkeeping requirements. The suit also names general manager Eugenio Yanez and location manager Yareli Perez.

The court filing comes after an investigation by the department’s Wage and Hour Division identified the violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act and ordered the employers to pay $771,794 ­– $385,897 in back wages and an equal amount in liquidated damages – to 75 employees of the restaurants to resolve its infractions.

Specifically, division investigators determined the employers paid servers a cash wage of $2.30 per hour and then either paid them for 80 hours a pay period regardless of the number of hours they worked or paid time and one-half their cash wage of $2.30 per hour for overtime. By law, employers must pay tipped workers time-and-one-half the minimum wage minus the tip credit.

The division also found the restaurants paid kitchen workers, hosts and food runners a fixed wage, regardless of how many hours they worked, and denied overtime to a manager who failed to meet exemption requirements.

“Overtime violations in the restaurant industry are far too common, particularly among vulnerable employees who don’t understand their rights to overtime compensation under federal law,” said Wage and Hour District Director Reed Trone in Kansas City, Missouri. “The Wage and Hour Division provides confidential advice, if needed, to workers and employers unsure of federal wage standards and compliance with the law.” ­

The investigation reviewed the employer’s payroll records from May 24, 2020, to May 22, 2022. The department filed its complaint after El Toro Loco Legends LLC, El Toro Loco Lenexa LLC and Hernandez refused to resolve the wage violations administratively.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679618019519.png" alt="The division also found the restaurants paid kitchen workers, hosts and food runners a fixed wage, regardless of how many hours they worked, and denied overtime to a manager who failed to meet exemption requirements.-Google image" />
 <figcaption>The division also found the restaurants paid kitchen workers, hosts and food runners a fixed wage, regardless of how many hours they worked, and denied overtime to a manager who failed to meet exemption requirements.-Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, KS&nbsp;– The U.S. Department of Labor has filed suit against the owner of two Kansas restaurants who allegedly denied minimum and overtime wages to kitchen staff, servers, hosts and food runners after some worked as many as 66 hours per week, according to a statement from the USDL.Filed this month, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas, the department’s complaint alleges&nbsp;<a>El Toro Loco Legends LLC in Kansas City and El Toro Loco Lenexa LLC in Lenexa, and owner Alfonzo Herrera Hernandez</a>, committed multiple violations of the federal minimum wage, overtime and recordkeeping requirements. The suit also names general manager Eugenio Yanez and location manager Yareli Perez.The court filing comes after an investigation by the department’s Wage and Hour Division identified the violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act and ordered the employers to pay $771,794 ­– $385,897 in back wages and an equal amount in liquidated damages – to 75 employees of the restaurants to resolve its infractions.Specifically, division investigators determined the employers paid servers a cash wage of $2.30 per hour and then either paid them for 80 hours a pay period regardless of the number of hours they worked or paid time and one-half their cash wage of $2.30 per hour for overtime. By law, employers must pay tipped workers time-and-one-half the minimum wage minus the tip credit.The division also found the restaurants paid kitchen workers, hosts and food runners a fixed wage, regardless of how many hours they worked, and denied overtime to a manager who failed to meet exemption requirements.“Overtime violations in the restaurant industry are far too common, particularly among vulnerable employees who don’t understand their rights to overtime compensation under federal law,” said Wage and Hour District Director Reed Trone in Kansas City, Missouri. “The Wage and Hour Division provides confidential advice, if needed, to workers and employers unsure of federal wage standards and compliance with the law.” ­The investigation reviewed the employer’s payroll records from May 24, 2020, to May 22, 2022. The department filed its complaint after El Toro Loco Legends LLC, El Toro Loco Lenexa LLC and Hernandez refused to resolve the wage violations administratively.&nbsp;

Dept. of Labor sues Kan. restaurants to recover minimum wage losses

SUMNER COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities in Kansas, Oklahoma and the FBI continue their investigation of a fatal officer-involved shooting.

Just after 12:30p.m. Friday, officers responded to the robbery at Impact Bank, 206 East Harvey in Wellington, according to a media release.

Bank officials reported a man entered the bank wearing a dark jacket with light-colored pants and a surgical mask. He handed a note to a bank employee demanding money. The suspect left the bank with an undetermined amount of cash.

Bank employees were able to obtain a description of the suspect’s vehicle and shared it with law enforcement. The Kansas Turnpike Authority notified the Oklahoma Highway Patrol that the suspect was southbound on Interstate 35.

A Port of Entry officer saw a vehicle enter Oklahoma that matched the description of the robbery suspect’s vehicle.

Oklahoma State Troopers began a pursuit and gunfire was exchanged. The pursuit ended when the suspect fled his vehicle on foot in a wooded area off Interstate 35 and Highway 412. When he attempted to fire at troopers again,&nbsp;he was shot and killed. No troopers were injured.

The OHP also reported the bomb squad was called to the scene because the suspect at one point claimed to have a bomb in his vehicle.&nbsp; Authorities have not released his name.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679693670963.png" alt="No troopers were injured -photo Oklahoma Highway Patrol" />
 <figcaption>No troopers were injured -photo Oklahoma Highway Patrol</figcaption>
 </figure>SUMNER COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities in Kansas, Oklahoma and the FBI continue their investigation of a fatal officer-involved shooting.Just after 12:30p.m. Friday, officers responded to the robbery at Impact Bank, 206 East Harvey in Wellington, according to a media release.Bank officials reported a man entered the bank wearing a dark jacket with light-colored pants and a surgical mask. He handed a note to a bank employee demanding money. The suspect left the bank with an undetermined amount of cash.Bank employees were able to obtain a description of the suspect’s vehicle and shared it with law enforcement. The Kansas Turnpike Authority notified the Oklahoma Highway Patrol that the suspect was southbound on Interstate 35.A Port of Entry officer saw a vehicle enter Oklahoma that matched the description of the robbery suspect’s vehicle. Oklahoma State Troopers began a pursuit and gunfire was exchanged. The pursuit ended when the suspect fled his vehicle on foot in a wooded area off Interstate 35 and Highway 412. When he attempted to fire at troopers again,&nbsp;he was shot and killed. No troopers were injured.The OHP also reported the bomb squad was called to the scene because the suspect at one point claimed to have a bomb in his vehicle.&nbsp; Authorities have not released his name.

Kan. bank robbery suspect who died claimed to have bomb

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation this week introduced legislation&nbsp;to prohibit the Federal Reserve from developing a direct-to-consumer central bank digital currency which could be used as a financial surveillance tool by the federal government, according to a statement from Cruz's office.&nbsp; The bill was cosponsored by Sens. Braun (R-Ind.) and Grassley (R-Iowa).&nbsp;

As countries like China develop CBDCs that omit the benefits and protections of cash, as well as the control and security of many existing digital cryptocurrencies, it is more important than ever to ensure the United States’ digital currency policy protects financial privacy, maintains the dollar’s dominance, and cultivates innovation.&nbsp;CBDCs that fail to adhere to these three basic principles could enable an entity like the Federal Reserve to mobilize itself into a retail bank, collect personally identifiable information on users, and track their transactions indefinitely. It is important to note that while the Fed does not, and should not, have the authority to offer retail bank accounts, it is already looking into what establishing a digital currency would look like.

Unlike decentralized digital currencies like Bitcoin, CBDCs are issued and backed by a government entity and transact on a centralized, permissioned blockchain. Not only would this CBDC model centralize Americans’ financial information, leaving it vulnerable to attack, it could be used as direct surveillance tool into the private transactions of Americans.

Upon introducing the legislation, Sen. Cruz said:

“The federal government has no authority to unilaterally establish a central bank currency. This bill goes a long way in making sure big government doesn’t attempt to centralize or control cryptocurrency and instead, allows it to thrive in the United States. We should be empowering entrepreneurs, enabling innovation, and increasing individual freedom—not stifling it.

"Allowing the government to centralize Americans’ financial information and increase surveillance of Americans’ financial activity is simply a bad idea. The federal government should not have even more control over your own money. I support this legislation to allow entrepreneurship to prosper and keep the federal government from further encroaching on your privacy rights."

“The American people ought to be able to spend their money how they choose without the possibility that every transaction could be tracked by the government. Policy this impactful should be made by Congress, not government bureaucrats, and our bill would ensure that no one is snooping on the finances of hardworking Americans. Every American deserves that peace of mind.”&nbsp;

Adam Brandon, president and CEO of FreedomWorks, said:

"The Federal Reserve’s exploration into Central Bank Digital Currency raises serious questions regarding the continued development of the digital economy, consumer privacy, and the eventual transition to a cashless system of payments. One of the most significant features that draw people to digital assets is decentralization, and there is no central authority that manages the supply and value of most digital assets. The United States must not follow countries like China down the path of digital authoritarianism but instead preserve a payment system that promotes consumer privacy and security."

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation this week introduced legislation&nbsp;to prohibit the Federal Reserve from developing a direct-to-consumer central bank digital currency which could be used as a financial surveillance tool by the federal government, according to a statement from Cruz's office.&nbsp; The bill was cosponsored by Sens. Braun (R-Ind.) and Grassley (R-Iowa).&nbsp;As countries like China develop CBDCs that omit the benefits and protections of cash, as well as the control and security of many existing digital cryptocurrencies, it is more important than ever to ensure the United States’ digital currency policy protects financial privacy, maintains the dollar’s dominance, and cultivates innovation.&nbsp;CBDCs that fail to adhere to these three basic principles could enable an entity like the Federal Reserve to mobilize itself into a retail bank, collect personally identifiable information on users, and track their transactions indefinitely. It is important to note that while the Fed does not, and should not, have the authority to offer retail bank accounts, it is already looking into what establishing a digital currency would look like.Unlike decentralized digital currencies like Bitcoin, CBDCs are issued and backed by a government entity and transact on a centralized, permissioned blockchain. Not only would this CBDC model centralize Americans’ financial information, leaving it vulnerable to attack, it could be used as direct surveillance tool into the private transactions of Americans.Upon introducing the legislation, Sen. Cruz said:“The federal government has no authority to unilaterally establish a central bank currency. This bill goes a long way in making sure big government doesn’t attempt to centralize or control cryptocurrency and instead, allows it to thrive in the United States. We should be empowering entrepreneurs, enabling innovation, and increasing individual freedom—not stifling it.Sen. Braun said:"Allowing the government to centralize Americans’ financial information and increase surveillance of Americans’ financial activity is simply a bad idea. The federal government should not have even more control over your own money. I support this legislation to allow entrepreneurship to prosper and keep the federal government from further encroaching on your privacy rights."Sen. Grassley said:“The American people ought to be able to spend their money how they choose without the possibility that every transaction could be tracked by the government. Policy this impactful should be made by Congress, not government bureaucrats, and our bill would ensure that no one is snooping on the finances of hardworking Americans. Every American deserves that peace of mind.”&nbsp;Adam Brandon, president and CEO of FreedomWorks, said:"The Federal Reserve’s exploration into Central Bank Digital Currency raises serious questions regarding the continued development of the digital economy, consumer privacy, and the eventual transition to a cashless system of payments. One of the most significant features that draw people to digital assets is decentralization, and there is no central authority that manages the supply and value of most digital assets. The United States must not follow countries like China down the path of digital authoritarianism but instead preserve a payment system that promotes consumer privacy and security."

GOP bill seeks to ban central bank digital currency in US

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Wichita Police Department officer who retired this week is facing criminal charges.

Friday afternoon, investigators with the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department notified the Wichita Police Department that the Sedgwick County District Attorney had charged former Police Captain Wendell Nicholson on eight counts of computer crimes.

Nicholson had been with the Wichita Police Department for 29 years prior to retiring. His last day with the department was March 23.

The district attorney's office released no additional details

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679705722312.png" alt="Nicholson has been with the police dept. for 29-years photo Wichita.gov" />
 <figcaption>Nicholson has been with the police dept. for 29-years photo Wichita.gov</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Wichita Police Department officer who retired this week is facing criminal charges.Friday afternoon, investigators with the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department notified the Wichita Police Department that the Sedgwick County District Attorney had charged former Police Captain Wendell Nicholson on eight counts of computer crimes.Nicholson had been with the Wichita Police Department for 29 years prior to retiring. His last day with the department was March 23.The district attorney's office released no additional details

Kan. officer who retired Thursday charged with computer crimes

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Child care regulations would be lowered in Kansas under a bill that has won Senate approval and created a debate over how best to address a shortage of day care spots without compromising safety.

The 21 to 17 vote Thursday sends the measure, backed by the parents of two young children, to the Kansas House.

The bill would roll back some of the changes put in place under a law named after Lexie Engelman, a 13-month-old child who suffered fatal injuries in a Johnson County day care in 2004. It would decrease training and continuing education requirements from teachers and staff in child care facilities while increasing the child-to-adult maximum ratio requirement for facilities.

“The current system is causing people to seek unregulated care," said Republican Sen. Kristen O’Shea of Topeka.

She and fellow Republican Sen. Chase Blasi of Wichita described their bill as the beginning of an answer in Kansas to a shortage of child care spots.

The state needs more than 85,000 new child care slots to meet existing demand, according to Child Care Aware of Kansas, a chapter of a national organization aimed at promoting quality child care.

But Kelly Davydov, executive director of Child Care Aware of Kansas, said the changes made after Lexie’s Law put Kansas at the top of the nation in terms of child safety.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679710207921.png" alt="“The current system is causing people to seek unregulated care," said Republican Sen. Kristen O’Shea of Topeka. -courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>“The current system is causing people to seek unregulated care," said Republican Sen. Kristen O’Shea of Topeka. -courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Child care regulations would be lowered in Kansas under a bill that has won Senate approval and created a debate over how best to address a shortage of day care spots without compromising safety.The 21 to 17 vote Thursday sends the measure, backed by the parents of two young children, to the Kansas House.The bill would roll back some of the changes put in place under a law named after Lexie Engelman, a 13-month-old child who suffered fatal injuries in a Johnson County day care in 2004. It would decrease training and continuing education requirements from teachers and staff in child care facilities while increasing the child-to-adult maximum ratio requirement for facilities.“The current system is causing people to seek unregulated care," said Republican Sen. Kristen O’Shea of Topeka.She and fellow Republican Sen. Chase Blasi of Wichita described their bill as the beginning of an answer in Kansas to a shortage of child care spots.The state needs more than 85,000 new child care slots to meet existing demand, according to Child Care Aware of Kansas, a chapter of a national organization aimed at promoting quality child care.But Kelly Davydov, executive director of Child Care Aware of Kansas, said the changes made after Lexie’s Law put Kansas at the top of the nation in terms of child safety.“It really at that time launched us to the front of the line in terms of quality early care and education,” Davydov said. “Some of the changes in this bill are moving us away from national health and safety standards and best practices.”Furthermore, Davydov said, the decreased continuing education could put Kansas out of compliance with existing requirements to receive federal child care funding.Blasi said any issues regarding federal funding could be addressed as the bill works its way through the statehouse. He argued Kansas is more stringent than most other states, and the bill would bring the state’s requirements closer to the national averages.But Sen. Mary Ware, a Wichita Democrat, called the bill rushed. While it may create more slots, she said it might do so by harming the safety of children and workers.“It is not child-centered. It isn’t even child care worker-centered,” Ware said.Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, has prioritized child care in her second term and announced a task force earlier this year to study the child care system in Kansas.Her office said in a statement she would evaluate the legislation if it reaches her desk. Last year the Kansas Department of Health and Environment considered ratio changes similar to what was proposed in the bill. But those regulatory changes were halted after some providers expressed concern.In a statement Matt Lara, a spokesman for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, said the agency is currently conducting a comprehensive review of existing regulations.