KANSAS CITY —A&nbsp; man has been charged in the fatal 'road rage' shooting of a Kansas City-area man near his home on Interstate 70, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Charles J. Smith, 18, Cape Girardeau, faces Murder 2nd Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and two counts of Armed Criminal Action.

According to court records, State Troopers responded to eastbound Interstate 70 near Oak Grove on Wednesday evening on a reported road rage incident. 

Highway Patrol officers found a green Ford pickup that had crashed into a parked car on the outer road. The driver had been shot once. He later died of his wounds at the hospital. 

Witnesses described a white Hyundai vehicle that had been involved in an incident with the truck. 

Highway Patrol responded to sightings of the vehicle and used stop sticks to disable vehicle. The suspect, later identified as Smith, fled on foot and was eventually apprehended about 9:45 p.m. Smith told police he had been involved in an incident with the Ford that angered him and he fired a shot. He also admitted he tried to get rid of the gun.&nbsp;

Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker said, "The Highway Patrol worked through the&nbsp;night Wednesday&nbsp;to ensure that the suspect in the shooting on Interstate 70 was apprehended."

"As a result, we have these charges in a totally needless act of violence with the highest range of punishment available under these facts. A family is now without an husband and father who was everything to them. Our roadways are necessary and busy with other travelers getting to their destinations. They must remain safe. Everyone should take note: take a breath, show some restraint, and let everyone get to their destination safely. "

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682037748124.png" alt="Smith-photo MSHP" />
 <figcaption>Smith-photo MSHP</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A&nbsp; man has been charged in the fatal 'road rage' shooting of a Kansas City-area man near his home on Interstate 70, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Charles J. Smith, 18, Cape Girardeau, faces Murder 2nd Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and two counts of Armed Criminal Action.According to court records, State Troopers responded to eastbound Interstate 70 near Oak Grove on Wednesday evening on a reported road rage incident. Highway Patrol officers found a green Ford pickup that had crashed into a parked car on the outer road. The driver had been shot once. He later died of his wounds at the hospital. Witnesses described a white Hyundai vehicle that had been involved in an incident with the truck. Highway Patrol responded to sightings of the vehicle and used stop sticks to disable vehicle. The suspect, later identified as Smith, fled on foot and was eventually apprehended about 9:45 p.m. Smith told police he had been involved in an incident with the Ford that angered him and he fired a shot. He also admitted he tried to get rid of the gun.&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker said, "The Highway Patrol worked through the&nbsp;night Wednesday&nbsp;to ensure that the suspect in the shooting on Interstate 70 was apprehended.""As a result, we have these charges in a totally needless act of violence with the highest range of punishment available under these facts. A family is now without an husband and father who was everything to them. Our roadways are necessary and busy with other travelers getting to their destinations. They must remain safe. Everyone should take note: take a breath, show some restraint, and let everyone get to their destination safely. "

Teen charged in fatal 'road rage' shooting on Interstate 70

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Friday preserved women’s access to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-medication-abortion-works-f913375ec6f8ebcb1f1055e57a3aef63">drug used in the most common method of abortion</a>, rejecting lower-court restrictions while a lawsuit continues.

The justices granted emergency requests from the Biden administration and New York-based Danco Laboratories, maker of the drug mifepristone. They are appealing a lower court ruling that would roll back Food and Drug Administration approval of mifepristone.

The drug has been approved for use in the U.S. since 2000 and more than 5 million people have used it. Mifepristone is used in combination with a second drug, misoprostol, in more than half of all abortions in the U.S.

The court's action Friday almost certainly will leave access to mifepristone unchanged at least into next year, as appeals play out, including a potential appeal to the high court.

Justices Samuel Alito, the author of last year’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade, and Clarence Thomas voted to allow&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-abortion-pill-appeal-fe13d36218f1fb43590aff29b5ba4e9c">restrictions</a>&nbsp;to take effect. No other justices commented.

President Joe Biden praised the high court for keeping mifepristone available while the court fight continues.

“The stakes could not be higher for women across America. I will continue to fight politically-driven attacks on women’s health. But let’s be clear — the American people must continue to use their vote as their voice, and elect a Congress who will pass a law restoring the protections of Roe v. Wade,” Biden said in a statement.

The justices weighed arguments that allowing restrictions contained in lower-court rulings to take effect would severely disrupt the availability of mifepristone.

The Supreme Court had initially said it would decide by Wednesday whether the restrictions could take effect while the case continues. A one-sentence order signed by Alito on Wednesday gave the justices two additional days, without explanation.

The challenge to mifepristone, brought by abortion foes, is the first&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/abortion">abortion</a>&nbsp;controversy to reach the nation's highest court since its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">conservative majority overturned Roe v. Wade</a>&nbsp;10 months ago and allowed more than a dozen states to effectively ban abortion outright.

In his majority opinion last June, Alito said one reason for overturning Roe was to remove federal courts from the abortion fight. “It is time to heed the Constitution and return the issue of abortion to the people’s elected representatives,” he wrote.

But even with their court victory,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-mifepristone-abortion-drug-3855bb5d5c791e4c0465958bae94519e">abortion opponents</a>&nbsp;returned to federal court with a new target: medication abortions, which make up more than half of all abortions in the United States.

Women seeking to end their pregnancies in the first 10 weeks without more invasive surgical abortion can take mifepristone, along with misoprostol. The FDA has eased the terms of mifepristone's use over the years, including allowing it to be sent through the mail in states that allow access.

The abortion opponents filed suit in Texas in November, asserting that the FDA's original approval of mifepristone 23 years ago and subsequent changes were flawed.

They won a ruling on April 7 by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-judge-matthew-kacsmaryk-abortion-pill-fda-75964b777ef09593a1ad948c6cfc0237">U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk</a>, an appointee of former President Donald Trump, revoking FDA approval of mifepristone. The judge gave the Biden administration and Danco Laboratories a week to appeal and seek to keep his ruling on hold.

Responding to a quick appeal, two more Trump appointees on the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/23774813-5th-circuit-abortion-pill-stay-order">the FDA's original approval would stand for now</a>. But Judges Andrew Oldham and Kurt Englehardt said most of the rest of Kacsmaryk's ruling could take effect while the case winds through federal courts.

Their ruling would effectively nullify changes made by the FDA starting in 2016, including extending from seven to 10 weeks of pregnancy when mifepristone can be safely used. The court also said that the drug can’t be mailed or dispensed as a generic and that patients who seek it need to make three in-person visits with a doctor. Women also might be required to take a higher dosage of the drug than the FDA says is necessary.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-pill-mifepristone-ff152a443d8439e8fa5d9376070822b2">The administration and Danco</a>&nbsp;have said that chaos would ensue if those restrictions were to take effect while the case proceeds. Potentially adding to the confusion, a federal judge in Washington has ordered the FDA to preserve access to mifepristone under the current rules in 17 Democratic-led states and the District of Columbia that filed a separate lawsuit.

The Biden administration has said the rulings conflict and create an untenable situation for the FDA.

And a new legal wrinkle threatened even more complications. GenBioPro, which makes the generic version of mifepristone, filed a lawsuit Wednesday to preemptively block the FDA from removing its drug from the market, in the event that the Supreme Court doesn’t intervene.

The Supreme Court was only being asked to block the lower-court rulings through the end of the legal case.

The New Orleans-based 5th circuit already has ordered an accelerated schedule for hearing the case, with arguments set for May 17. The court gave no timetable for a ruling.

Any appeal to the Supreme Court would follow within three months of a ruling, but with no deadline for the justices to decide whether to review the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680967457500.png" alt="About 60% of abortions in Kansas involve the abortion pill. photo Associated Press" />
 <figcaption>About 60% of abortions in Kansas involve the abortion pill. photo Associated Press</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Friday preserved women’s access to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-medication-abortion-works-f913375ec6f8ebcb1f1055e57a3aef63">drug used in the most common method of abortion</a>, rejecting lower-court restrictions while a lawsuit continues.The justices granted emergency requests from the Biden administration and New York-based Danco Laboratories, maker of the drug mifepristone. They are appealing a lower court ruling that would roll back Food and Drug Administration approval of mifepristone.The drug has been approved for use in the U.S. since 2000 and more than 5 million people have used it. Mifepristone is used in combination with a second drug, misoprostol, in more than half of all abortions in the U.S.The court's action Friday almost certainly will leave access to mifepristone unchanged at least into next year, as appeals play out, including a potential appeal to the high court.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today, the Supreme Court stayed a decision that would have undermined FDA’s medical judgment and put women’s health at risk. As a result, mifepristone, an FDA-approved drug for medication abortion, remains available and approved.&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1649557287634124802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Justices Samuel Alito, the author of last year’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade, and Clarence Thomas voted to allow&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-abortion-pill-appeal-fe13d36218f1fb43590aff29b5ba4e9c">restrictions</a>&nbsp;to take effect. No other justices commented.President Joe Biden praised the high court for keeping mifepristone available while the court fight continues.“The stakes could not be higher for women across America. I will continue to fight politically-driven attacks on women’s health. But let’s be clear — the American people must continue to use their vote as their voice, and elect a Congress who will pass a law restoring the protections of Roe v. Wade,” Biden said in a statement.The justices weighed arguments that allowing restrictions contained in lower-court rulings to take effect would severely disrupt the availability of mifepristone.The Supreme Court had initially said it would decide by Wednesday whether the restrictions could take effect while the case continues. A one-sentence order signed by Alito on Wednesday gave the justices two additional days, without explanation.The challenge to mifepristone, brought by abortion foes, is the first&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/abortion">abortion</a>&nbsp;controversy to reach the nation's highest court since its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">conservative majority overturned Roe v. Wade</a>&nbsp;10 months ago and allowed more than a dozen states to effectively ban abortion outright.In his majority opinion last June, Alito said one reason for overturning Roe was to remove federal courts from the abortion fight. “It is time to heed the Constitution and return the issue of abortion to the people’s elected representatives,” he wrote.But even with their court victory,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-mifepristone-abortion-drug-3855bb5d5c791e4c0465958bae94519e">abortion opponents</a>&nbsp;returned to federal court with a new target: medication abortions, which make up more than half of all abortions in the United States.Women seeking to end their pregnancies in the first 10 weeks without more invasive surgical abortion can take mifepristone, along with misoprostol. The FDA has eased the terms of mifepristone's use over the years, including allowing it to be sent through the mail in states that allow access.The abortion opponents filed suit in Texas in November, asserting that the FDA's original approval of mifepristone 23 years ago and subsequent changes were flawed.They won a ruling on April 7 by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-judge-matthew-kacsmaryk-abortion-pill-fda-75964b777ef09593a1ad948c6cfc0237">U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk</a>, an appointee of former President Donald Trump, revoking FDA approval of mifepristone. The judge gave the Biden administration and Danco Laboratories a week to appeal and seek to keep his ruling on hold.Responding to a quick appeal, two more Trump appointees on the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/23774813-5th-circuit-abortion-pill-stay-order">the FDA's original approval would stand for now</a>. But Judges Andrew Oldham and Kurt Englehardt said most of the rest of Kacsmaryk's ruling could take effect while the case winds through federal courts.Their ruling would effectively nullify changes made by the FDA starting in 2016, including extending from seven to 10 weeks of pregnancy when mifepristone can be safely used. The court also said that the drug can’t be mailed or dispensed as a generic and that patients who seek it need to make three in-person visits with a doctor. Women also might be required to take a higher dosage of the drug than the FDA says is necessary.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-pill-mifepristone-ff152a443d8439e8fa5d9376070822b2">The administration and Danco</a>&nbsp;have said that chaos would ensue if those restrictions were to take effect while the case proceeds. Potentially adding to the confusion, a federal judge in Washington has ordered the FDA to preserve access to mifepristone under the current rules in 17 Democratic-led states and the District of Columbia that filed a separate lawsuit.The Biden administration has said the rulings conflict and create an untenable situation for the FDA.And a new legal wrinkle threatened even more complications. GenBioPro, which makes the generic version of mifepristone, filed a lawsuit Wednesday to preemptively block the FDA from removing its drug from the market, in the event that the Supreme Court doesn’t intervene.The Supreme Court was only being asked to block the lower-court rulings through the end of the legal case.The New Orleans-based 5th circuit already has ordered an accelerated schedule for hearing the case, with arguments set for May 17. The court gave no timetable for a ruling.Any appeal to the Supreme Court would follow within three months of a ruling, but with no deadline for the justices to decide whether to review the case.

Supreme Court preserves access to abortion pill for now

KANSAS CITY— Law enforcement authorities are searching for 21-year-old Jae’veon Marquice Mitchell-Locke, a suspect in the April 5, shooting of three Kansas police officers during an undercover fentanyl trafficking investigation, according&nbsp; to the Platte County Sheriff's office.

Officials at the Platte County, Missouri Detention Center released him inadvertently on Thursday evening.

Mitchell-Locke and two other suspects in the gunfight are charged in Wyandotte County with attempted murder, aggravated battery against law enforcement, criminal discharge of a firearm at an occupied building or vehicle, aggravated endangering a child, aggravated assault of law enforcement officers and distribution or possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, according to online jail records.

Authorities are investigating how Mitchell-Locke was inadvertently released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682111930463.png" alt="Mitchell-Locke-photo Platte County" />
 <figcaption>Mitchell-Locke-photo Platte County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY— Law enforcement authorities are searching for 21-year-old Jae’veon Marquice Mitchell-Locke, a suspect in the April 5, shooting of three Kansas police officers during an undercover fentanyl trafficking investigation, according&nbsp; to the Platte County Sheriff's office.Officials at the Platte County, Missouri Detention Center released him inadvertently on Thursday evening.Mitchell-Locke and two other suspects in the gunfight are charged in Wyandotte County with attempted murder, aggravated battery against law enforcement, criminal discharge of a firearm at an occupied building or vehicle, aggravated endangering a child, aggravated assault of law enforcement officers and distribution or possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, according to online jail records.Authorities are investigating how Mitchell-Locke was inadvertently released.

Suspect in shooting of 3 Kan. officers released from jail by mistake

FRANKLIN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a school bus accident that occurred just&nbsp;after 7a.m. Friday in Franklin County.

According to Ottawa Police, the USD 290 school bus with 11 students on board and driven by Stephen Arney, 38, Ottawa,&nbsp; turned onto the 100 block of west 12th Street, according to a media release.

The bus left the road and struck a tree.&nbsp; There were minor injuries reported. EMS did not transport anyone for treatment, according to police. Police cited Arney for inattentive driving.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668431796219.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FRANKLIN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a school bus accident that occurred just&nbsp;after 7a.m. Friday in Franklin County.According to Ottawa Police, the USD 290 school bus with 11 students on board and driven by Stephen Arney, 38, Ottawa,&nbsp; turned onto the 100 block of west 12th Street, according to a media release.The bus left the road and struck a tree.&nbsp; There were minor injuries reported. EMS did not transport anyone for treatment, according to police. Police cited Arney for inattentive driving.

Kansas school bus with 11 students on board struck a tree

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Prosecutors have formally dismissed an involuntary manslaughter charge against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/alec-baldwin">Alec Baldwin</a>&nbsp;in the fatal 2021 shooting of a cinematographer on the set of the Western film&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alec-baldwin-rust-shooting-f2d4db6806efe59e0de726b8f4860e6e">“Rust,</a>&nbsp;” citing new evidence and the need for more time to investigate.

In a stunning turnaround for the 65-year-old A-list actor, special prosecutors Kari Morrisey and Jason Lewis filed the notice to dismiss the only charge against Baldwin on Friday in state District Court in Santa Fe. Prosecutors say the investigation is ongoing.

An involuntary manslaughter charge against Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the weapons supervisor on the film, is unchanged.

An online status hearing was scheduled for Friday afternoon in state District Court in the case against Gutierrez-Reed. Baldwin's involvement in the hearing was called off with no charge pending against him.

Friday's court filing echoed early statements from prosecutors that new facts had been revealed in the investigation that demand further investigation and forensic analysis, with little time left before evidentiary hearings scheduled to start on May 3.

On Thursday, the special prosecutors said that the “decision does not absolve Mr. Baldwin of criminal culpability and charges may be refiled.” They have declined further comment.

Los Angeles-based entertainment litigator and defense attorney Kate Mangels, who is not involved in the “Rust” case, said opportunities for further charges against Baldwin are narrowing.

“If they don’t have the evidence now, I don’t see what evidence they could obtain or that could develop. … It looks like they already had 30 people on a witness list, a cooperative (codefendant) witness, investigations done by various law enforcement agencies. It seems like this has already been pretty well investigated. I can’t imagine what would arise to bring new charges.”

Lawyers for Baldwin were first to announce that prosecutors were changing course, in a sharp turnaround for the Hollywood luminary who just a few months ago was confronting the possibility of a yearslong prison sentence.

Baldwin was pointing a pistol at cinematographer Halyna Hutchins during a rehearsal when it went off, killing her and wounding director Joel Souza.

Baldwin has said the gun fired accidentally and he did not pull the trigger. An FBI forensic report found the weapon could not have fired unless the trigger was pulled, however.

In March, “Rust” safety coordinator and assistant director David Halls&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alec-baldwin-movie-set-shooting-rust-c378be51e3c886d099ac08dbd7ddd2f6">pleaded no contest to a conviction for unsafe handling of a firearm</a>&nbsp;and a suspended sentence of six months of probation. He agreed to cooperate in further inquiries into the fatal shooting.

A defense attorney for Halls said Friday that he is happy for Baldwin and also wishes the best for the Hutchins family.

“Mr. Halls never believed Mr. Baldwin should be charged with a crime. It was a tragic accident that is best resolved out of criminal court,” defense attorney Lisa Torraco said in an email.

When the manslaughter charges were announced in January, Santa Fe District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies said the case was about equal justice under the law and accountability in Hutchins’ death, regardless of the fame or fortune of those involved. She said the Ukrainian-born cinematographer’s death was tragic — and preventable.

A new legal team took over prosecution of Baldwin and Gutierrez-Reed in late March, after the original special prosecutor appointed in the case resigned.

The dismissal of the charge against Baldwin, also a coproducer on “Rust,” abruptly changes the tenor of the investigation, said John Day, a Santa Fe-based criminal defense attorney who is not involved with the case.

“It does give the impression that the people left holding the bag are the lowest people on that chain,” Day said.

When word of the dismissal came, Baldwin was at Yellowstone Film Ranch on the set of a rebooted “Rust” production, a representative for Rust Movie Productions said. Preparations for filming were underway at the film's new location in Montana, 18 months after the shooting shut it down.

Gutierrez-Reed’s attorneys said they fully expect her to be exonerated in the judicial process.

“The truth about what happened will come out and the questions that we have long sought answers for will be answered,” the lawyers, Jason Bowles and Todd Bullion, said in a statement.

Before Friday's dismissal, the case against Baldwin had already been diminishing. In February,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-legal-proceedings-prop-gun-shooting-santa-fe-e9391bd29426e8ffb839c031517d59e7">a weapons enhancement to the manslaughter charge was dropped</a>, reducing the maximum prison sentence from five years to 18 months.

Baldwin's 40-year career has included the early blockbuster “The Hunt for Red October” and a starring role in the sitcom “30 Rock,” as well as iconic appearances in Martin Scorsese’s “The Departed” and a film adaptation of David Mamet’s “Glengarry Glen Ross.” In recent years he was known for his impression of former President Donald Trump on “Saturday Night Live."

Baldwin has worked little as an actor since the shooting, but hardly went into hiding. He stayed active on social media,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cq_Yp6_sDuP/?hl=en">making Instagram videos</a>, posting podcast interviews and pictures of his wife and seven children.

Plans to resume filming were outlined last year by the cinematographer's widower, Matthew Hutchins, in a proposed settlement to a wrongful death lawsuit that would make him an executive producer. Souza has said he will return to directing “Rust” to honor the legacy of Halyna Hutchins.

After a scathing safety review by regulators in New Mexico that detailed ignored complaints and misfires before Hutchins' death in October 2021, the production company agreed to pay a $100,000 fine.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674247011938.jpg" alt="-Baldwin thought the gun was loaded with blanks, ammunition that contains powder but not a bullet. Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>-Baldwin thought the gun was loaded with blanks, ammunition that contains powder but not a bullet. Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Prosecutors have formally dismissed an involuntary manslaughter charge against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/alec-baldwin">Alec Baldwin</a>&nbsp;in the fatal 2021 shooting of a cinematographer on the set of the Western film&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alec-baldwin-rust-shooting-f2d4db6806efe59e0de726b8f4860e6e">“Rust,</a>&nbsp;” citing new evidence and the need for more time to investigate.In a stunning turnaround for the 65-year-old A-list actor, special prosecutors Kari Morrisey and Jason Lewis filed the notice to dismiss the only charge against Baldwin on Friday in state District Court in Santa Fe. Prosecutors say the investigation is ongoing.An involuntary manslaughter charge against Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the weapons supervisor on the film, is unchanged.An online status hearing was scheduled for Friday afternoon in state District Court in the case against Gutierrez-Reed. Baldwin's involvement in the hearing was called off with no charge pending against him.Friday's court filing echoed early statements from prosecutors that new facts had been revealed in the investigation that demand further investigation and forensic analysis, with little time left before evidentiary hearings scheduled to start on May 3.On Thursday, the special prosecutors said that the “decision does not absolve Mr. Baldwin of criminal culpability and charges may be refiled.” They have declined further comment.Los Angeles-based entertainment litigator and defense attorney Kate Mangels, who is not involved in the “Rust” case, said opportunities for further charges against Baldwin are narrowing.“If they don’t have the evidence now, I don’t see what evidence they could obtain or that could develop. … It looks like they already had 30 people on a witness list, a cooperative (codefendant) witness, investigations done by various law enforcement agencies. It seems like this has already been pretty well investigated. I can’t imagine what would arise to bring new charges.”Lawyers for Baldwin were first to announce that prosecutors were changing course, in a sharp turnaround for the Hollywood luminary who just a few months ago was confronting the possibility of a yearslong prison sentence.Baldwin was pointing a pistol at cinematographer Halyna Hutchins during a rehearsal when it went off, killing her and wounding director Joel Souza.Baldwin has said the gun fired accidentally and he did not pull the trigger. An FBI forensic report found the weapon could not have fired unless the trigger was pulled, however.In March, “Rust” safety coordinator and assistant director David Halls&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alec-baldwin-movie-set-shooting-rust-c378be51e3c886d099ac08dbd7ddd2f6">pleaded no contest to a conviction for unsafe handling of a firearm</a>&nbsp;and a suspended sentence of six months of probation. He agreed to cooperate in further inquiries into the fatal shooting.A defense attorney for Halls said Friday that he is happy for Baldwin and also wishes the best for the Hutchins family.“Mr. Halls never believed Mr. Baldwin should be charged with a crime. It was a tragic accident that is best resolved out of criminal court,” defense attorney Lisa Torraco said in an email.When the manslaughter charges were announced in January, Santa Fe District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies said the case was about equal justice under the law and accountability in Hutchins’ death, regardless of the fame or fortune of those involved. She said the Ukrainian-born cinematographer’s death was tragic — and preventable.A new legal team took over prosecution of Baldwin and Gutierrez-Reed in late March, after the original special prosecutor appointed in the case resigned.The dismissal of the charge against Baldwin, also a coproducer on “Rust,” abruptly changes the tenor of the investigation, said John Day, a Santa Fe-based criminal defense attorney who is not involved with the case.“It does give the impression that the people left holding the bag are the lowest people on that chain,” Day said.When word of the dismissal came, Baldwin was at Yellowstone Film Ranch on the set of a rebooted “Rust” production, a representative for Rust Movie Productions said. Preparations for filming were underway at the film's new location in Montana, 18 months after the shooting shut it down.Gutierrez-Reed’s attorneys said they fully expect her to be exonerated in the judicial process.“The truth about what happened will come out and the questions that we have long sought answers for will be answered,” the lawyers, Jason Bowles and Todd Bullion, said in a statement.Before Friday's dismissal, the case against Baldwin had already been diminishing. In February,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-legal-proceedings-prop-gun-shooting-santa-fe-e9391bd29426e8ffb839c031517d59e7">a weapons enhancement to the manslaughter charge was dropped</a>, reducing the maximum prison sentence from five years to 18 months.Baldwin's 40-year career has included the early blockbuster “The Hunt for Red October” and a starring role in the sitcom “30 Rock,” as well as iconic appearances in Martin Scorsese’s “The Departed” and a film adaptation of David Mamet’s “Glengarry Glen Ross.” In recent years he was known for his impression of former President Donald Trump on “Saturday Night Live."Baldwin has worked little as an actor since the shooting, but hardly went into hiding. He stayed active on social media,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cq_Yp6_sDuP/?hl=en">making Instagram videos</a>, posting podcast interviews and pictures of his wife and seven children.Plans to resume filming were outlined last year by the cinematographer's widower, Matthew Hutchins, in a proposed settlement to a wrongful death lawsuit that would make him an executive producer. Souza has said he will return to directing “Rust” to honor the legacy of Halyna Hutchins.After a scathing safety review by regulators in New Mexico that detailed ignored complaints and misfires before Hutchins' death in October 2021, the production company agreed to pay a $100,000 fine.---------------

Charge against Alec Baldwin in fatal movie set shooting dismissed

RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany (AP) — Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin said Friday that the American military has deployed forces and is developing options to assist in the potential evacuation of U.S. Embassy personnel from Sudan, where the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sudan-fighting-ceasefire-trapped-civilians-evacuations-foreigners-983cb600ea3f878c5f4907965b4d5d3d">security situation</a>&nbsp;is deteriorating due to fighting between two warring factions.

The aim is "to ensure that we provide as many options as possible, if we are called on to do something. We haven’t been called on to do anything yet,” Austin said at a news conference in Germany, where he and U.S. Army Gen. Mark Milley, the Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman, met with defense leaders from other countries to discuss&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abrams-tanks-ukraine-training-war-russia-aid-6de94897aad37e6d30e744df0dad07bd">additional support for Ukraine</a>.

According to an American official, a small number of U.S. troops&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-states-sudan-djibouti-evacuation-2773f4922611aeed462652f178745688">have begun arriving</a>&nbsp;in the Horn of Africa nation of Djibouti, where the U.S. is pre-positioning forces and equipment to assist in any potential evacuation of embassy staff from Sudan. The official said Army soldiers are being tapped for the task.

The U.S. troops are being moved to Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti. Evacuation planning for Sudan got underway in earnest on Monday after a U.S. Embassy convoy was attacked in Khartoum, the Sudanese capital.

The conflict between Sudan’s military and a rival paramilitary force is worsening. The military has ruled out negotiations and said it would only accept surrender as a temporary cease-fire ended, raising the likelihood of a renewed surge in the nearly weeklong violence that has killed hundreds.

The U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to describe private deliberations, said Milley discussed the situation with defense officials from Germany, Italy and Canada, among others. One topic was ensuring that any potential evacuation efforts did not conflict.

The U.S. State Department said Friday that an American citizen had died in Sudan, but did not have further details.

“We are in touch with the family and offer our deepest condolences to them on their loss. Out of respect for the family during this difficult time, we have nothing further to add,” the department said in a statement.

RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany (AP) — Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin said Friday that the American military has deployed forces and is developing options to assist in the potential evacuation of U.S. Embassy personnel from Sudan, where the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sudan-fighting-ceasefire-trapped-civilians-evacuations-foreigners-983cb600ea3f878c5f4907965b4d5d3d">security situation</a>&nbsp;is deteriorating due to fighting between two warring factions.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Security Alert The Embassy continues to closely monitor the situation in Khartoum and surrounding areas, where there is ongoing fighting, gunfire, and security forces activity. There have also been reports of assaults, home invasions, and looting. U.S. citizens are strongly… <a href="https://t.co/u6LwySN867">pic.twitter.com/u6LwySN867</a>&mdash; U.S. Embassy Khartoum (@USEmbassyKRT) <a href="https://twitter.com/USEmbassyKRT/status/1649060263864291329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The aim is "to ensure that we provide as many options as possible, if we are called on to do something. We haven’t been called on to do anything yet,” Austin said at a news conference in Germany, where he and U.S. Army Gen. Mark Milley, the Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman, met with defense leaders from other countries to discuss&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abrams-tanks-ukraine-training-war-russia-aid-6de94897aad37e6d30e744df0dad07bd">additional support for Ukraine</a>.According to an American official, a small number of U.S. troops&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-states-sudan-djibouti-evacuation-2773f4922611aeed462652f178745688">have begun arriving</a>&nbsp;in the Horn of Africa nation of Djibouti, where the U.S. is pre-positioning forces and equipment to assist in any potential evacuation of embassy staff from Sudan. The official said Army soldiers are being tapped for the task.The U.S. troops are being moved to Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti. Evacuation planning for Sudan got underway in earnest on Monday after a U.S. Embassy convoy was attacked in Khartoum, the Sudanese capital.The conflict between Sudan’s military and a rival paramilitary force is worsening. The military has ruled out negotiations and said it would only accept surrender as a temporary cease-fire ended, raising the likelihood of a renewed surge in the nearly weeklong violence that has killed hundreds.The U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to describe private deliberations, said Milley discussed the situation with defense officials from Germany, Italy and Canada, among others. One topic was ensuring that any potential evacuation efforts did not conflict.The U.S. State Department said Friday that an American citizen had died in Sudan, but did not have further details.“We are in touch with the family and offer our deepest condolences to them on their loss. Out of respect for the family during this difficult time, we have nothing further to add,” the department said in a statement.

Pentagon: US troops ready to support possible Sudan evacuation

TOPEKA&nbsp;– On Friday, Governor Laura Kelly signed the state’s budget,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cua3NsZWdpc2xhdHVyZS5vcmcvbGkvYjIwMjNfMjQvbWVhc3VyZXMvaGIyMTg0LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MjEuNzU1ODIwNDEifQ.zb3Hhsrt61V_eujwzvVn6e5fQaf5DMUH7RLFjLATR8Y/s/1303160919/br/161270430125-l" target="_blank">House Bill 2184</a>, which allocates funding for Fiscal Year 2023, Fiscal Year 2024, and Fiscal Year 2025. The budget allows the state to continue its path of economic growth through targeted investments in workforce development, health care, and affordable housing, according to a media release from her office.

Governor Kelly also line-item vetoed aspects of the budget. Find more information and her veto messages&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ292ZXJub3Iua2Fuc2FzLmdvdi93cC1jb250ZW50L3VwbG9hZHMvMjAyMy8wNC9MaW5lLUl0ZW0tVmV0by1NZXNzYWdlLTIxODQtQnVkZ2V0LnBkZiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MjEuNzU1ODIwNDEifQ.eKfeTj6pjdy7ol24O4LFzG8n0JC5Pk0uVFtvJMue09Q/s/1303160919/br/161270430125-l" target="_blank">click here</a>.

“This budget advances the mission of my administration, to make Kansas the best place to raise a family,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“Thanks to our laser-sharp focus on growing the economy, we have a record surplus that we can use to make critical investments in health care, affordable housing, our foster care system, and other essential services everyday Kansans rely on.”

TOPEKA&nbsp;– On Friday, Governor Laura Kelly signed the state’s budget,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cua3NsZWdpc2xhdHVyZS5vcmcvbGkvYjIwMjNfMjQvbWVhc3VyZXMvaGIyMTg0LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MjEuNzU1ODIwNDEifQ.zb3Hhsrt61V_eujwzvVn6e5fQaf5DMUH7RLFjLATR8Y/s/1303160919/br/161270430125-l" target="_blank">House Bill 2184</a>, which allocates funding for Fiscal Year 2023, Fiscal Year 2024, and Fiscal Year 2025. The budget allows the state to continue its path of economic growth through targeted investments in workforce development, health care, and affordable housing, according to a media release from her office.Governor Kelly also line-item vetoed aspects of the budget. Find more information and her veto messages&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ292ZXJub3Iua2Fuc2FzLmdvdi93cC1jb250ZW50L3VwbG9hZHMvMjAyMy8wNC9MaW5lLUl0ZW0tVmV0by1NZXNzYWdlLTIxODQtQnVkZ2V0LnBkZiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MjEuNzU1ODIwNDEifQ.eKfeTj6pjdy7ol24O4LFzG8n0JC5Pk0uVFtvJMue09Q/s/1303160919/br/161270430125-l" target="_blank">click here</a>.“This budget advances the mission of my administration, to make Kansas the best place to raise a family,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“Thanks to our laser-sharp focus on growing the economy, we have a record surplus that we can use to make critical investments in health care, affordable housing, our foster care system, and other essential services everyday Kansans rely on.”The budget:<ul>
 <li>Prepares Kansas for the future:&nbsp;Adds $600 million to the Rainy Day Fund, putting the balance at a record $1.6 billion. When Governor Kelly first came into office, the Rainy Day Fund was empty. Now Kansas is in a much better position to weather future economic storms. </li><li>Saves taxpayers money by paying off debt:&nbsp;Sets aside funds to pay off the remaining $53 million for reservoir debt at Milford and Perry Lakes, Governor Kelly’s budget will save taxpayers nearly $30 million in future interest payments. The budget also pays in cash for the state’s share of the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAxMTIuNjk2ODc1NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3YvZ292ZXJub3Ita2VsbHktYW5ub3VuY2VzLXByb3Bvc2VkLW5ldy1rYW5zYXMtdmV0ZXJhbnMtaG9tZS10by1iZS1idWlsdC1pbi10b3Bla2EvIn0.x_y1rYBEoXNiPI2PU3oqL8_GV6eKwLkq8liDl4z643E/s/2168166703/br/152422881836-l" target="_blank">proposed new veterans home</a>&nbsp;in Topeka – saving close to $10 million in interest. </li><li>Invests in Kansas workers:&nbsp;Ramps up funding for the recently formed&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAxMTIuNjk2ODc1NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3YvZ292ZXJub3ItbGF1cmEta2VsbHktZXN0YWJsaXNoZXMtb2ZmaWNlLW9mLXJlZ2lzdGVyZWQtYXBwcmVudGljZXNoaXAvIn0.H-2fLJ1kDrfK3IkM5KQSQ-nLVoyCTH4mVb5kwsOnT68/s/2168166703/br/152422881836-l" target="_blank">Office of Registered Apprenticeship</a>&nbsp;and invests in a college internship program to encourage the next generation of Kansans to stay in the state post-graduation. </li><li>Grows the Kansas workforce by investing in higher education:&nbsp;Provides over $20 million in new funding for need-based scholarships, allowing more Kansas kids to affordably attend college. The Governor’s budget also makes historic investments in our community colleges by appropriating $14 million to advance technical education and grow partnerships between business and education. It also provides over $150 million in new funding for our state universities to advance initiatives critical to the Kansas economy and workforce—including developing new manufacturing training facilities at Kansas State University and Pittsburg State University, providing cybersecurity and teacher training at Emporia State, and funding the joint Wichita Biomedical Campus at Wichita State University and the University of Kansas. </li><li>Restores Kansas’ historic downtowns and attracts business to the state:&nbsp;Assists communities in rehabilitating downtown buildings to attract local businesses and restore pride in historic downtown. </li><li>Expands affordable housing:&nbsp;Provides $20 million to the Housing Revolving Loan Program to expand housing stock across the state, especially in rural Kansas. </li><li>Continues to repair Kansas’ foster care system:&nbsp;Invests over $17 million to increase placement rates for foster homes and prepare foster kids to be successful adults, for family preservation services, for after-school club activities, and for driving lessons for youth in foster care. The Governor’s budget also makes investments in training foster homes and parents to be able to accommodate youth with high acuity needs and funding for evidence-based programing for juvenile youth. </li><li>Expands mental and physical health care and increases reimbursements for providers:&nbsp;Lowers out-of-pocket health care costs for KanCare recipients for certain procedures. It also includes over $100 million to the current KanCare program to eliminate disparities in services for low-income Kansans, adds funding for mental health, improves care for the elderly, and supports network capacity by filling in gaps currently not covered by Medicaid. It also provides millions of dollars for uninsured individuals in need of substance use disorder treatments. </li><li>Invests in IT infrastructure and cybersecurity:&nbsp;Modernizes IT systems across state government and provides additional cybersecurity measures at state agencies, including funding to update the state’s antiquated unemployment system.</li>
 </ul>

Governor Kelly signs the state's budget

ALLEN COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after an accident Thursday in Allen County.

According to the Allen County Sheriff, the 30-year-old driver of a Ford Ranger told the investigating deputy he was driving with his knees and lost control as he was trying to light his (marijuana) as he drove home after work on U.S. Highway 54 just west of Gas, Kansas just before 5:30 p.m. 

The driver didn't hit any vehicles as he crossed over 3 lanes, traveled into the ditch and was stopped by a cement culvert, a large fence corner-post, a telephone junction box and a utility pole. 

The driver also was not wearing a seat belt and was tossed around inside the cab and received minor injuries. 

The deputy took the driver into custody for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. The sheriff's department did not release his name.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682089612348.png" alt="photo Allen County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>photo Allen County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLEN COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after an accident Thursday in Allen County.According to the Allen County Sheriff, the 30-year-old driver of a Ford Ranger told the investigating deputy he was driving with his knees and lost control as he was trying to light his (marijuana) as he drove home after work on U.S. Highway 54 just west of Gas, Kansas just before 5:30 p.m. The driver didn't hit any vehicles as he crossed over 3 lanes, traveled into the ditch and was stopped by a cement culvert, a large fence corner-post, a telephone junction box and a utility pole. The driver also was not wearing a seat belt and was tossed around inside the cab and received minor injuries. The deputy took the driver into custody for Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. The sheriff's department did not release his name.

Sheriff: Kansas man crashed while lighting his marijuana 

NEW YORK (AP) — The NFL suspended five players for violating the league’s gambling policy on Friday.

Detroit Lions wide receiver Quintez Cephus and safety C.J. Moore and Washington Commanders defensive end Shaka Toney were suspended indefinitely, while Lions wide receivers Stanley Berryhill and Jameson Williams were suspended six games.

Cephus, Moore and Toney are suspended indefinitely through at least the conclusion of the 2023 season for betting on NFL games in the 2022 season, and may petition for reinstatement at the conclusion of the 2023 season.

Berryhill and Williams were suspended for betting from an NFL facility on non-NFL games. They are eligible to participate in all offseason and preseason activities, including preseason games., and their suspensions will take effect at the final roster cutdown.

In a release, the NFL said that a “league review uncovered no evidence indicating any inside information was used or that any game was compromised in any way.”

The Lions released Cephus and Moore on Friday.

Detroit Lions executive vice president and general manager Brad Holmes said in a statement that the players “exhibited decision making that is not consistent with our organizational values and violates league rules.”

Holmes also said that the team will work with Stanley and Jameson "to ensure they understand the severity of these violations and have clarity on the league rules moving forward.”

The Commanders said in a statement that the team has “cooperated fully with the NFL’s investigation since receiving notice and support the league’s findings and actions."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578051322956.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — The NFL suspended five players for violating the league’s gambling policy on Friday.Detroit Lions wide receiver Quintez Cephus and safety C.J. Moore and Washington Commanders defensive end Shaka Toney were suspended indefinitely, while Lions wide receivers Stanley Berryhill and Jameson Williams were suspended six games.Cephus, Moore and Toney are suspended indefinitely through at least the conclusion of the 2023 season for betting on NFL games in the 2022 season, and may petition for reinstatement at the conclusion of the 2023 season.Berryhill and Williams were suspended for betting from an NFL facility on non-NFL games. They are eligible to participate in all offseason and preseason activities, including preseason games., and their suspensions will take effect at the final roster cutdown.In a release, the NFL said that a “league review uncovered no evidence indicating any inside information was used or that any game was compromised in any way.”The Lions released Cephus and Moore on Friday.Detroit Lions executive vice president and general manager Brad Holmes said in a statement that the players “exhibited decision making that is not consistent with our organizational values and violates league rules.”Holmes also said that the team will work with Stanley and Jameson "to ensure they understand the severity of these violations and have clarity on the league rules moving forward.”The Commanders said in a statement that the team has “cooperated fully with the NFL’s investigation since receiving notice and support the league’s findings and actions."

NFL suspends 5 players for violating gambling policy

CHASE COUNTY—The National Weather survey team&nbsp; found damage for a few tornadoes in Chase County reaching EF-2 intensity, 125 miles per hour, according to the weather service in Wichita.

Survey team found EF-2 damage one mile east of Elmdale, 3 miles southwest of Strong City and 3 and one half miles south of Dunlap.&nbsp;

The storm damaged homes and businesses, downed power lines, trees and knocked out power to much of the county, according to the Chase County Sheriff's Department.

Investigators are still working to confirm the path and width of the storm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682086187705.png" alt="Photo courtesy National Weather Service" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy National Weather Service</figcaption>
 </figure>CHASE COUNTY—The National Weather survey team&nbsp; found damage for a few tornadoes in Chase County reaching EF-2 intensity, 125 miles per hour, according to the weather service in Wichita.Survey team found EF-2 damage one mile east of Elmdale, 3 miles southwest of Strong City and 3 and one half miles south of Dunlap.&nbsp;The storm damaged homes and businesses, downed power lines, trees and knocked out power to much of the county, according to the Chase County Sheriff's Department.Investigators are still working to confirm the path and width of the storm.

NWS: Chase County tornadoes generated 125mph winds

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas’ Democratic governor on Thursday vetoed a sweeping set of anti-transgender measures, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-gender-affirming-care-ban-kansas-ef3e4d9ef40a29da3d8059d80bbed3a5">a ban on gender-affirming care</a>&nbsp;for children and teenagers, but the Republican lawmakers who pushed them appeared to have the votes to override most of her actions.

Gov. Laura Kelly rejected restrictions for transgender people in using restrooms, locker rooms and other public facilities; limits on where they are housed in state prisons and county jails; and even restrictions on rooming arrangements for transgender youth on overnight school trips.

Her actions highlighted how her Republican-leaning state has become a fiercely contested battleground as GOP lawmakers across the U.S. target LGBTQ+ rights through several hundred proposals. Kelly narrowly won reelection in November, but the Legislature has GOP supermajorities and conservative leaders who have made rolling back transgender rights a priority.

The measures on bathrooms, jails and overnight school trips passed earlier this month with the two-thirds majorities needed to override a veto, and on April 5,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-athletes-ban-kansas-08604c663518fb2538565f3e1ac3d4ba">lawmakers overrode Kelly's March veto</a>&nbsp;of a separate ban on female transgender athletes in girls' and women's sports. However, two days later, the measure on gender-affirming care fell 12 House votes short of a supermajority.

Kelly said in statement on the four vetoes that measures “stripping away rights” would hurt the state's ability to attract businesses. The vetoes also were in keeping with her promises to block any measure she views as discriminating against LGBTQ+ people.

“Companies have made it clear that they are not interested in doing business with states that discriminate against workers and their families," Kelly said in her statement. “I’m focused on the economy. Anyone care to join me?”

At least 14 states with GOP-led legislatures have enacted laws against gender-affirming care for minors,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-dakota-transgender-health-care-minors-68c86fdba600b357013540fa32d4fba3">including North Dakota as of Wednesday</a>. At least seven have bathroom laws, mostly focusing on schools, and at least 21 have imposed restrictions on transgender athletes.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-rights-bathroom-bill-kansas-cbdc14be5bf1fb6e1a0749cad52e8ebc">The Kansas bathroom bill</a>&nbsp;would have applied not only to bathrooms and locker rooms outside schools but rape crisis centers, domestic violence shelters and state prisons, as well as the county jails covered by a separate vetoed bill. Because it also sought to define “sex” as “either male or female, at birth,” transgender people wouldn’t have been able to change the gender marker on their driver’s licenses, though&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7409799fb2a144bca2fd90cd46b7ea6c">a 2019 federal court decree</a>&nbsp;still would have allowed them to change their birth certificates.

Advocates of LGBTQ+ rights see the measure as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-kansas-state-government-arkansas-health-8f2edaa40b962e5642e108b83bc14246">legally erasing</a>&nbsp;transgender people and denying recognition to non-binary, gender-fluid or gender non-conforming people.

“I am not going to go back to those days of hiding in the closet,” Justin Brace, executive director of Transgender Kansas, said during a recent transgender rights rally outside the Statehouse. “We are in a fight for our lives, literally.”

GOP conservatives argue that many of their constituents reject the cultural shift toward accepting that people’s gender identities can differ from the sex assigned them a birth; don't want cisgender women sharing bathrooms and locker rooms with transgender women; and question gender-affirming care such as puberty-blocking drugs, hormone therapies and surgeries.

“By any reasonable standard, governing from the middle of the road should include ensuring vulnerable children do not become victims of woke culture run amok,” Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson said in a statement deriding Kelly's veto of the ban on gender-affirming care.

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/sb26_enrolled.pdf">That Kansas measure</a>&nbsp;would have required the state's medical board to revoke the license of any doctor discovered to have provided such care and allowed people who received such care as children to sue health care providers later.

Supporters said the bill would not keep transgender youth from receiving counseling or psychiatric therapy. But the measure also applied to “causing” acts that "affirm the child’s perception of the child’s sex” if it differs from their gender assigned at birth.

Treatments for children and teens have been available in the U.S. for more than a decade and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gender-transition-treatment-guidelines-9dbe54f670a3a0f5f2831c2bf14f9bbb">are endorsed by major medical associations.</a>

“It’s one thing to have a family member that’s unaffirming of who you are as a person,” said Derrick Jordan, a licensed therapist who works with trans youth and directs the Gender and Family Project at New York’s Ackerman Institute for training child and family therapists. “It’s a whole other thing to have a system tell you you’re not fully human or you don’t have the same rights as other folks.”

Kelly’s office said&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/sb180_enrolled.pdf">the Kansas bathroom bill</a>&nbsp;would have complicated the administration of multiple state programs — including programs assisting women farmers and hunters. Also, it said, some of those programs would have violated federal anti-discrimination laws, and the state could have lost federal dollars.

The measure borrows language from a proposal from several anti-trans groups. It says the “important governmental objectives" of protecting health safety and privacy justify separate public facilities for men and women and the measure would have applied “where biology, safety or privacy” prompt sex-separation. It defines male and female based on a person’s reproductive anatomy at birth.

While supporters of the legislation avoid calling it a bathroom bill, they have said repeatedly that it would have prevented transgender women from sharing bathrooms, locker rooms and other facilities with cisgender women.

Masterson portrayed Kelly's veto as “not being able to define a woman." That's a widespread anti-trans talking point at odds with doctors who say that reproductive anatomy at birth doesn’t always align with strict definitions of sex and that binary views of sexual identity can miss biological nuances.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677614820776.png" alt="Gov.&nbsp;Kelly said in statement on the four vetoes that measures “stripping away rights” would hurt the state's ability to attract businesses.-file photo" />
 <figcaption>Gov.&nbsp;Kelly said in statement on the four vetoes that measures “stripping away rights” would hurt the state's ability to attract businesses.-file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas’ Democratic governor on Thursday vetoed a sweeping set of anti-transgender measures, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-gender-affirming-care-ban-kansas-ef3e4d9ef40a29da3d8059d80bbed3a5">a ban on gender-affirming care</a>&nbsp;for children and teenagers, but the Republican lawmakers who pushed them appeared to have the votes to override most of her actions.Gov. Laura Kelly rejected restrictions for transgender people in using restrooms, locker rooms and other public facilities; limits on where they are housed in state prisons and county jails; and even restrictions on rooming arrangements for transgender youth on overnight school trips.Her actions highlighted how her Republican-leaning state has become a fiercely contested battleground as GOP lawmakers across the U.S. target LGBTQ+ rights through several hundred proposals. Kelly narrowly won reelection in November, but the Legislature has GOP supermajorities and conservative leaders who have made rolling back transgender rights a priority.The measures on bathrooms, jails and overnight school trips passed earlier this month with the two-thirds majorities needed to override a veto, and on April 5,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-athletes-ban-kansas-08604c663518fb2538565f3e1ac3d4ba">lawmakers overrode Kelly's March veto</a>&nbsp;of a separate ban on female transgender athletes in girls' and women's sports. However, two days later, the measure on gender-affirming care fell 12 House votes short of a supermajority.Kelly said in statement on the four vetoes that measures “stripping away rights” would hurt the state's ability to attract businesses. The vetoes also were in keeping with her promises to block any measure she views as discriminating against LGBTQ+ people.“Companies have made it clear that they are not interested in doing business with states that discriminate against workers and their families," Kelly said in her statement. “I’m focused on the economy. Anyone care to join me?”At least 14 states with GOP-led legislatures have enacted laws against gender-affirming care for minors,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-dakota-transgender-health-care-minors-68c86fdba600b357013540fa32d4fba3">including North Dakota as of Wednesday</a>. At least seven have bathroom laws, mostly focusing on schools, and at least 21 have imposed restrictions on transgender athletes.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-rights-bathroom-bill-kansas-cbdc14be5bf1fb6e1a0749cad52e8ebc">The Kansas bathroom bill</a>&nbsp;would have applied not only to bathrooms and locker rooms outside schools but rape crisis centers, domestic violence shelters and state prisons, as well as the county jails covered by a separate vetoed bill. Because it also sought to define “sex” as “either male or female, at birth,” transgender people wouldn’t have been able to change the gender marker on their driver’s licenses, though&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7409799fb2a144bca2fd90cd46b7ea6c">a 2019 federal court decree</a>&nbsp;still would have allowed them to change their birth certificates.Advocates of LGBTQ+ rights see the measure as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-kansas-state-government-arkansas-health-8f2edaa40b962e5642e108b83bc14246">legally erasing</a>&nbsp;transgender people and denying recognition to non-binary, gender-fluid or gender non-conforming people.“I am not going to go back to those days of hiding in the closet,” Justin Brace, executive director of Transgender Kansas, said during a recent transgender rights rally outside the Statehouse. “We are in a fight for our lives, literally.”GOP conservatives argue that many of their constituents reject the cultural shift toward accepting that people’s gender identities can differ from the sex assigned them a birth; don't want cisgender women sharing bathrooms and locker rooms with transgender women; and question gender-affirming care such as puberty-blocking drugs, hormone therapies and surgeries.“By any reasonable standard, governing from the middle of the road should include ensuring vulnerable children do not become victims of woke culture run amok,” Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson said in a statement deriding Kelly's veto of the ban on gender-affirming care.<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/sb26_enrolled.pdf">That Kansas measure</a>&nbsp;would have required the state's medical board to revoke the license of any doctor discovered to have provided such care and allowed people who received such care as children to sue health care providers later.Supporters said the bill would not keep transgender youth from receiving counseling or psychiatric therapy. But the measure also applied to “causing” acts that "affirm the child’s perception of the child’s sex” if it differs from their gender assigned at birth.Treatments for children and teens have been available in the U.S. for more than a decade and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gender-transition-treatment-guidelines-9dbe54f670a3a0f5f2831c2bf14f9bbb">are endorsed by major medical associations.</a>“It’s one thing to have a family member that’s unaffirming of who you are as a person,” said Derrick Jordan, a licensed therapist who works with trans youth and directs the Gender and Family Project at New York’s Ackerman Institute for training child and family therapists. “It’s a whole other thing to have a system tell you you’re not fully human or you don’t have the same rights as other folks.”Kelly’s office said&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/sb180_enrolled.pdf">the Kansas bathroom bill</a>&nbsp;would have complicated the administration of multiple state programs — including programs assisting women farmers and hunters. Also, it said, some of those programs would have violated federal anti-discrimination laws, and the state could have lost federal dollars.The measure borrows language from a proposal from several anti-trans groups. It says the “important governmental objectives" of protecting health safety and privacy justify separate public facilities for men and women and the measure would have applied “where biology, safety or privacy” prompt sex-separation. It defines male and female based on a person’s reproductive anatomy at birth.While supporters of the legislation avoid calling it a bathroom bill, they have said repeatedly that it would have prevented transgender women from sharing bathrooms, locker rooms and other facilities with cisgender women.Masterson portrayed Kelly's veto as “not being able to define a woman." That's a widespread anti-trans talking point at odds with doctors who say that reproductive anatomy at birth doesn’t always align with strict definitions of sex and that binary views of sexual identity can miss biological nuances.

Kansas governor vetoes 4 anti-trans bills as overrides loom

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A Kansas City man was sentenced Thursday to nearly 22 years in federal prison for committing a hate crime when he shot and wounded a teenager because of the victim's sexual orientation, prosecutors said.

Malachi Robinson, 25, pleaded guilty in July to violating federal hate crime laws when he shot the 16-year-old eight times on May 29, 2019. He was sentenced Thursday to 21 years and 10 months in federal prison without parole.

The teenager survived after spending two weeks in the hospital but underwent several surgeries and physical therapy and still has bullets in his body, prosecutors said.

Court documents said the two met by chance and were walking near Swope Park when Robinson suggested they go into a wooded area to engage in a sex act. But Robinson wrote separately to his girlfriend that he “might shoot this boy” because of his sexual orientation.

When the teenager changed his mind and tried to leave, Robinson shot him eight times, prosecutors said. He was able to get away and eventually collapsed near an apartment building, where a bystander called 911. Before his arrest, Robinson told several people that he shot the victim because of his sexual orientation, according to court documents.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657306576039.png" alt="Robinson-photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Robinson-photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A Kansas City man was sentenced Thursday to nearly 22 years in federal prison for committing a hate crime when he shot and wounded a teenager because of the victim's sexual orientation, prosecutors said.Malachi Robinson, 25, pleaded guilty in July to violating federal hate crime laws when he shot the 16-year-old eight times on May 29, 2019. He was sentenced Thursday to 21 years and 10 months in federal prison without parole.The teenager survived after spending two weeks in the hospital but underwent several surgeries and physical therapy and still has bullets in his body, prosecutors said.Court documents said the two met by chance and were walking near Swope Park when Robinson suggested they go into a wooded area to engage in a sex act. But Robinson wrote separately to his girlfriend that he “might shoot this boy” because of his sexual orientation.When the teenager changed his mind and tried to leave, Robinson shot him eight times, prosecutors said. He was able to get away and eventually collapsed near an apartment building, where a bystander called 911. Before his arrest, Robinson told several people that he shot the victim because of his sexual orientation, according to court documents.

Man sentenced for anti-LGBTQ+ hate crime in Kansas City

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court is facing a self-imposed Friday night deadline to decide whether women's access to a widely used&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-medication-abortion-works-f913375ec6f8ebcb1f1055e57a3aef63">abortion pill</a>&nbsp;will stay unchanged or be restricted while a legal challenge to its Food and Drug Administration approval goes on.

The justices are weighing arguments that allowing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-abortion-pill-appeal-fe13d36218f1fb43590aff29b5ba4e9c">restrictions</a>&nbsp;contained in lower-court rulings to take effect would severely disrupt the availability of the drug, mifepristone, which is used in the most common abortion method in the United States.

It has repeatedly been found to be safe and effective, and has been used by more than 5 million women in the U.S. since the FDA approved it in 2000.

The Supreme Court had initially said it would decide by Wednesday whether the restrictions could take effect while the case continues. A one-sentence order signed by Justice Samuel Alito on Wednesday gave the justices two additional days, without explanation.

The justices are scheduled to meet for a private conference Friday, where they could talk about the issue. The additional time could be part of an effort to craft an order that has broad support among the justices. Or one or more justices might be writing a separate opinion, and asked for a couple of extra days.

In his majority opinion, Alito said one reason for overturning Roe was to remove federal courts from the abortion fight. “It is time to heed the Constitution and return the issue of abortion to the people’s elected representatives,” he wrote.

The abortion opponents filed suit in Texas in November, asserting that FDA's original approval of mifepristone 23 years ago and subsequent changes were flawed.

They won a ruling on April 7 by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-judge-matthew-kacsmaryk-abortion-pill-fda-75964b777ef09593a1ad948c6cfc0237">U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk</a>, an appointee of former President Donald Trump, revoking FDA approval of mifepristone. The judge gave the Biden administration and New York-based Danco Laboratories, mifepristone's maker, a week to appeal and seek to keep his ruling on hold.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-pill-mifepristone-ff152a443d8439e8fa5d9376070822b2">The administration and Danco</a>&nbsp;have said that chaos will result if those restrictions take effect while the case proceeds. Potentially adding to the confusion, a federal judge in Washington has ordered the FDA to preserve access to mifepristone under the current rules in 17 Democratic-led states and the District of Columbia that filed a separate lawsuit.

And a new legal wrinkle threatens even more complications. GenBioPro, which makes the generic version of mifepristone, filed a lawsuit Wednesday to preemptively block the FDA from removing its drug from the market, in the event that the Supreme Court doesn’t intervene.

For now, the Supreme Court is only being asked to block the lower-court rulings through the end of the legal case. But the administration and Danco have a fallback argument if the court doesn't agree. They are asking the court to take up the challenge to mifepristone, hear arguments and decide the case by early summer.

The court only rarely takes such a step before at least one appeals court has thoroughly examined the legal issues involved.

The New Orleans-based 5th circuit already has ordered an accelerated schedule for hearing the case, with arguments set for May 17.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680967457500.png" alt="About 60% of abortions in Kansas involve the abortion pill. photo Associated Press" />
 <figcaption>About 60% of abortions in Kansas involve the abortion pill. photo Associated Press</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court is facing a self-imposed Friday night deadline to decide whether women's access to a widely used&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-medication-abortion-works-f913375ec6f8ebcb1f1055e57a3aef63">abortion pill</a>&nbsp;will stay unchanged or be restricted while a legal challenge to its Food and Drug Administration approval goes on.The justices are weighing arguments that allowing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-abortion-pill-appeal-fe13d36218f1fb43590aff29b5ba4e9c">restrictions</a>&nbsp;contained in lower-court rulings to take effect would severely disrupt the availability of the drug, mifepristone, which is used in the most common abortion method in the United States.It has repeatedly been found to be safe and effective, and has been used by more than 5 million women in the U.S. since the FDA approved it in 2000.The Supreme Court had initially said it would decide by Wednesday whether the restrictions could take effect while the case continues. A one-sentence order signed by Justice Samuel Alito on Wednesday gave the justices two additional days, without explanation.The justices are scheduled to meet for a private conference Friday, where they could talk about the issue. The additional time could be part of an effort to craft an order that has broad support among the justices. Or one or more justices might be writing a separate opinion, and asked for a couple of extra days.The challenge to mifepristone, brought by abortion foes, is the first&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/abortion">abortion</a>&nbsp;controversy to reach the nation's highest court since its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">conservative majority overturned Roe v. Wade</a>&nbsp;10 months ago and allowed more than a dozen states to effectively ban abortion outright.In his majority opinion, Alito said one reason for overturning Roe was to remove federal courts from the abortion fight. “It is time to heed the Constitution and return the issue of abortion to the people’s elected representatives,” he wrote.But even with their court victory,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-mifepristone-abortion-drug-3855bb5d5c791e4c0465958bae94519e">abortion opponents</a>&nbsp;returned to federal court with a new target: medication abortions, which make up more than half of all abortions in the United States.Women seeking to end their pregnancies in the first 10 weeks without more invasive surgical abortion can take mifepristone, along with misoprostol. The FDA has eased the terms of mifepristone's use over the years, including allowing it to be sent through the mail in states that allow access.The abortion opponents filed suit in Texas in November, asserting that FDA's original approval of mifepristone 23 years ago and subsequent changes were flawed.They won a ruling on April 7 by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-judge-matthew-kacsmaryk-abortion-pill-fda-75964b777ef09593a1ad948c6cfc0237">U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk</a>, an appointee of former President Donald Trump, revoking FDA approval of mifepristone. The judge gave the Biden administration and New York-based Danco Laboratories, mifepristone's maker, a week to appeal and seek to keep his ruling on hold.Responding to a quick appeal, two more Trump appointees on the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/23774813-5th-circuit-abortion-pill-stay-order">the FDA's original approval would stand for now</a>. But Judges Andrew Oldham and Kurt Englehardt said most of the rest of Kacsmaryk's ruling could take effect while the case winds through federal courts.Their ruling would effectively nullify changes made by the FDA starting in 2016, including extending from seven to 10 weeks of pregnancy when mifepristone can be safely used. The court also said that the drug can’t be mailed or dispensed as a generic and that patients who seek it need to make three in-person visits with a doctor. Women also might be required to take a higher dosage of the drug than the FDA says is necessary.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-pill-mifepristone-ff152a443d8439e8fa5d9376070822b2">The administration and Danco</a>&nbsp;have said that chaos will result if those restrictions take effect while the case proceeds. Potentially adding to the confusion, a federal judge in Washington has ordered the FDA to preserve access to mifepristone under the current rules in 17 Democratic-led states and the District of Columbia that filed a separate lawsuit.The Biden administration has said the rulings conflict and create an untenable situation for the FDA.And a new legal wrinkle threatens even more complications. GenBioPro, which makes the generic version of mifepristone, filed a lawsuit Wednesday to preemptively block the FDA from removing its drug from the market, in the event that the Supreme Court doesn’t intervene.For now, the Supreme Court is only being asked to block the lower-court rulings through the end of the legal case. But the administration and Danco have a fallback argument if the court doesn't agree. They are asking the court to take up the challenge to mifepristone, hear arguments and decide the case by early summer.The court only rarely takes such a step before at least one appeals court has thoroughly examined the legal issues involved.The New Orleans-based 5th circuit already has ordered an accelerated schedule for hearing the case, with arguments set for May 17.

Abortion access and health care in America on the line Friday

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting on Monday in Topeka have arrest 36-year-old Christopher L. Brown of Topeka, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks.

Just after 6:30p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to a report of gunshots in the 2300 block of SE Bellview Avenue in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.

First responders found 33-year-old Sherman Coleman, Jr. suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound. He was transported by ambulance to a local hospital where he died.

As a result of the investigation, police reported on Thursday they arrested Brown and booked him on requested charges of Murder in the 1st Degree, Criminal possession of a weapon and a Violation of the offender registration act.

Brown has been a registered offender since 2015 for convictions that include attempted aggravated murder, criminal discharge of a firearm at an occupied dwelling and aggravated assault.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682071208821.png" alt="Brown-photo KBI offender registry" />
 <figcaption>Brown-photo KBI offender registry</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting on Monday in Topeka have arrest 36-year-old Christopher L. Brown of Topeka, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks.Just after 6:30p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to a report of gunshots in the 2300 block of SE Bellview Avenue in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681821530853.png" alt="-Police on the scene of the investigation Monday evening-Photo by Phil Anderson courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>-Police on the scene of the investigation Monday evening-Photo by Phil Anderson courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>First responders found 33-year-old Sherman Coleman, Jr. suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound. He was transported by ambulance to a local hospital where he died.As a result of the investigation, police reported on Thursday they arrested Brown and booked him on requested charges of Murder in the 1st Degree, Criminal possession of a weapon and a Violation of the offender registration act.Brown has been a registered offender since 2015 for convictions that include attempted aggravated murder, criminal discharge of a firearm at an occupied dwelling and aggravated assault.

Kansas registered offender arrested for man's murder

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden will formally announce his 2024 reelection campaign as soon as next week, three people briefed on the discussions said Thursday.

The people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal deliberations, said they were not aware that a final decision on timing had been made, but that Biden had been eyeing Tuesday, April 25,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-pa-state-wire-joe-biden-ap-top-news-donald-trump-d5c415b99a6945dbbecf60d57bcf68cb">four years to the day since the Democrat entered the 2020 race</a>. The upcoming announcement is expected to be in the form of a video released to supporters.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-2024-presidential-reelection-campaign-announcement-trump-e64cd5649d9486291715388db3e8e386">Biden, 80, has repeatedly said he intends to run</a>&nbsp;for a second term but advisers say he has felt little need to jump into campaigning because he faces no significant opposition to his party’s nomination.

It’ll be a markedly different experience from four years ago, as when Biden was written off by much of the political establishment until he consolidated support as the candidate Democrats believed was best positioned to defeat then-President Donald Trump while the coronavirus pandemic raged. This time around, he will have to juggle the challenge of running for reelection while also running the country.

Biden in recent months has been focused on implementing the massive infrastructure, technology investment and climate laws passed during his first two years in office and drawing a sharp contrast with Republicans as Washington gears up for a fight over raising the nation’s borrowing limit. Aides believe those priorities will burnish his image ahead of his reelection campaign.

The president, already the oldest person ever elected the job, will also need to contend with voter concerns about his fitness for the job. He has brushed aside those concerns, telling voters to “watch me,” and aides say he plans to mount a robust campaign ahead of what they expect to be a close general election owing to the country’s polarization, no matter who emerges as the GOP standard-bearer.

Biden has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donors-democrats-election-2024-133f053e66c361e147921cc49372b251">summoned top Democratic donors</a>&nbsp;to Washington next week for what was expected to be a dinner with him and a strategy session with his chief political advisers.

The Washington Post first reported on the expected timing of the announcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681082649192.png" alt="The president, already the oldest person ever elected to the job, will also need to contend with voter concerns about his fitness for the job. White House photo" />
 <figcaption>The president, already the oldest person ever elected to the job, will also need to contend with voter concerns about his fitness for the job. White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden will formally announce his 2024 reelection campaign as soon as next week, three people briefed on the discussions said Thursday.The people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal deliberations, said they were not aware that a final decision on timing had been made, but that Biden had been eyeing Tuesday, April 25,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-pa-state-wire-joe-biden-ap-top-news-donald-trump-d5c415b99a6945dbbecf60d57bcf68cb">four years to the day since the Democrat entered the 2020 race</a>. The upcoming announcement is expected to be in the form of a video released to supporters.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-2024-presidential-reelection-campaign-announcement-trump-e64cd5649d9486291715388db3e8e386">Biden, 80, has repeatedly said he intends to run</a>&nbsp;for a second term but advisers say he has felt little need to jump into campaigning because he faces no significant opposition to his party’s nomination.It’ll be a markedly different experience from four years ago, as when Biden was written off by much of the political establishment until he consolidated support as the candidate Democrats believed was best positioned to defeat then-President Donald Trump while the coronavirus pandemic raged. This time around, he will have to juggle the challenge of running for reelection while also running the country.Biden in recent months has been focused on implementing the massive infrastructure, technology investment and climate laws passed during his first two years in office and drawing a sharp contrast with Republicans as Washington gears up for a fight over raising the nation’s borrowing limit. Aides believe those priorities will burnish his image ahead of his reelection campaign.The president, already the oldest person ever elected the job, will also need to contend with voter concerns about his fitness for the job. He has brushed aside those concerns, telling voters to “watch me,” and aides say he plans to mount a robust campaign ahead of what they expect to be a close general election owing to the country’s polarization, no matter who emerges as the GOP standard-bearer.Biden has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donors-democrats-election-2024-133f053e66c361e147921cc49372b251">summoned top Democratic donors</a>&nbsp;to Washington next week for what was expected to be a dinner with him and a strategy session with his chief political advisers.The Washington Post first reported on the expected timing of the announcement.

Biden 2024 re-election announcement coming next week

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Missouri Supreme Court on Thursday set an execution date for a man who sexually assaulted and killed a 6-year-old St. Louis County girl in 2002.

Johnny Johnson is scheduled to be put to death Aug. 1 at the state prison in Bonne Terre, Missouri.

Missouri has already executed two people in 2023 —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-legal-proceedings-missouri-st-louis-capital-punishment-b45a31029fa42d9eb67b5b4e1f6a6ffe">Amber McLaughlin</a>&nbsp;in January and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-state-government-california-homicide-94fe2fefa47faa618d3826c7f32e6f1d">Raheem Taylor</a>&nbsp;in February.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/execution-missouri-15298c399e436f00c42f5174594605dd">Michael Andrew Tisius</a>&nbsp;is scheduled for execution June 6 for fatally shooting Randolph County jailers Jason Acton and Leon Egley in 2000.

Johnson, 45, was staying with friends in Valley Park, Missouri, in July 2002 when Cassandra “Casey” Williamson was discovered missing. Dozens of volunteers joined police in the search.

The girl's body was found in a pit less than a mile from her home, buried beneath rocks and debris. Johnson confessed to the crimes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682020391567.png" alt="Johnson-photo MODOC" />
 <figcaption>Johnson-photo MODOC</figcaption>
 </figure>JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Missouri Supreme Court on Thursday set an execution date for a man who sexually assaulted and killed a 6-year-old St. Louis County girl in 2002.Johnny Johnson is scheduled to be put to death Aug. 1 at the state prison in Bonne Terre, Missouri.Missouri has already executed two people in 2023 —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-legal-proceedings-missouri-st-louis-capital-punishment-b45a31029fa42d9eb67b5b4e1f6a6ffe">Amber McLaughlin</a>&nbsp;in January and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-state-government-california-homicide-94fe2fefa47faa618d3826c7f32e6f1d">Raheem Taylor</a>&nbsp;in February.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/execution-missouri-15298c399e436f00c42f5174594605dd">Michael Andrew Tisius</a>&nbsp;is scheduled for execution June 6 for fatally shooting Randolph County jailers Jason Acton and Leon Egley in 2000.Johnson, 45, was staying with friends in Valley Park, Missouri, in July 2002 when Cassandra “Casey” Williamson was discovered missing. Dozens of volunteers joined police in the search.The girl's body was found in a pit less than a mile from her home, buried beneath rocks and debris. Johnson confessed to the crimes.

Execution date set for man who killed 6-year-old Missouri girl

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

On Tuesday, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit and Shawnee County Drug Task Force served a search warrant in the 100 Block NE Grattan Street related to an ongoing investigation, according to Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.

While conducting the search warrant, officers located methamphetamine, opioids and drug paraphernalia.

As a result 29-year-old Andre Murphy was transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections and booked on requested charges of Manufacturing/Cultivating methamphetamine, Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of drug paraphernalia w/intent to manufacture controlled substance, Possession of opioids and Possession of drug paraphernalia,

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681909727428.png" alt="Murphy-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Murphy-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.On Tuesday, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit and Shawnee County Drug Task Force served a search warrant in the 100 Block NE Grattan Street related to an ongoing investigation, according to Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.While conducting the search warrant, officers located methamphetamine, opioids and drug paraphernalia.As a result 29-year-old Andre Murphy was transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections and booked on requested charges of Manufacturing/Cultivating methamphetamine, Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of drug paraphernalia w/intent to manufacture controlled substance, Possession of opioids and Possession of drug paraphernalia,

Police: Kansas man was making methamphetamine

LINCOLN COUNTY, Nebraska—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for alleged kidnapping. Authorities found the missing 14-year-old girl safe.

Cameron Quintin, 26, Topeka, Kan., was taken into custody on requested charges of kidnapping and violation of child custody. He is being held in Shawnee County without bond.

On Wednesday morning, police reported 14-year-old Gertie Werkmeister was missing. She had last been seen wearing a light blue hooded sweat shirt and black sweatpants. She left Adams Middle School and met with a white male dressed in all black in his mid- to late-20s at the Rec Center.

Just after 10:30 a.m., the two&nbsp; left the Rec Center traveling eastbound on Francis Street in a dark-colored Toyota Tacoma with out-of-state plates.

The North Platte 911 Center issued a citywide RAVE alert to all cell phones and land lines registered with the Smart 911 system. The North Platte Police Department, along with the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office and the Nebraska State Patrol searched for her.&nbsp;The Topeka Police Department, The FBI, and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation assisted in the search.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682021004720.png" alt="Quintin-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Quintin-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN COUNTY, Nebraska—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for alleged kidnapping. Authorities found the missing 14-year-old girl safe.Cameron Quintin, 26, Topeka, Kan., was taken into custody on requested charges of kidnapping and violation of child custody. He is being held in Shawnee County without bond.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681932643124.jpeg" alt="Gertie Werkeister&nbsp; photo North Platte PD" />
 <figcaption>Gertie Werkeister&nbsp; photo North Platte PD</figcaption>
 </figure>On Wednesday morning, police reported 14-year-old Gertie Werkmeister was missing. She had last been seen wearing a light blue hooded sweat shirt and black sweatpants. She left Adams Middle School and met with a white male dressed in all black in his mid- to late-20s at the Rec Center.Just after 10:30 a.m., the two&nbsp; left the Rec Center traveling eastbound on Francis Street in a dark-colored Toyota Tacoma with out-of-state plates.The North Platte 911 Center issued a citywide RAVE alert to all cell phones and land lines registered with the Smart 911 system. The North Platte Police Department, along with the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office and the Nebraska State Patrol searched for her.&nbsp;The Topeka Police Department, The FBI, and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation assisted in the search.

Kansas man accused of kidnapping Nebraska teen  

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas' Democratic governor on Thursday vetoed Republican legislation aimed at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-gender-affirming-care-ban-kansas-ef3e4d9ef40a29da3d8059d80bbed3a5">ending gender-affirming care</a>&nbsp;for children and teens, and another, sweeping GOP proposal for preventing transgender people from using bathrooms and other public facilities associated with their gender identities.

Gov. Laura Kelly's actions highlighted how her Republican-leaning state has become a fiercely contested battleground as GOP lawmakers across the U.S. target LGBTQ+ rights through several hundred proposals. Kelly narrowly won reelection in November, but the the Legislature has GOP supermajorities and conservative leaders who've made rolling back transgender rights a priority.

At least 14 states with GOP-led legislatures have enacted laws against gender-affirming care for minors,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-dakota-transgender-health-care-minors-68c86fdba600b357013540fa32d4fba3">including North Dakota as of Wednesday</a>. At least seven have bathroom laws, mostly focusing on schools. Earlier this month, Kansas lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-athletes-ban-kansas-08604c663518fb2538565f3e1ac3d4ba">overrode Kelly's veto</a>&nbsp;of a ban on female transgender athletes in girls’ and women’s sports, making Kansas among at least 21 states with such a law.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-rights-bathroom-bill-kansas-cbdc14be5bf1fb6e1a0749cad52e8ebc">The Kansas bathroom bill</a>&nbsp;would have applied to bathrooms and locker rooms outside schools, as well as to prisons, jails, rape crisis centers and domestic violence shelters. Because it also sought to define “sex” as “either male or female, at birth,” transgender people wouldn’t have been able to change the gender marker on their driver’s license, though a 2019 federal court decree still would have allowed them to change their birth certificates.

Advocates of LGBTQ+ rights see the measure as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-kansas-state-government-arkansas-health-8f2edaa40b962e5642e108b83bc14246">legally erasing</a>&nbsp;transgender people and denying recognition to non-binary, gender fluid or gender non-conforming people.

Kelly's vetoes Thursday were in keeping with public promises to block any measure she views as discriminating against LGBTQ+ people. She also has argued that measures rolling back LGBTQ+ rights would hurt the state's efforts to attract businesses.

The bathroom bill appeared to have the two-thirds majorities needed to override a veto when it passed earlier this month, though the margin was close in the House. The bill on gender-affirming care was well short in the House.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680642960114.png" alt=" Ian Benalcázar delivers a speech March 31 at the Statehouse as part of the March for Queer and Trans Youth Autonomy. photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption> Ian Benalcázar delivers a speech March 31 at the Statehouse as part of the March for Queer and Trans Youth Autonomy. photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNA AP Political WriterTOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas' Democratic governor on Thursday vetoed Republican legislation aimed at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-gender-affirming-care-ban-kansas-ef3e4d9ef40a29da3d8059d80bbed3a5">ending gender-affirming care</a>&nbsp;for children and teens, and another, sweeping GOP proposal for preventing transgender people from using bathrooms and other public facilities associated with their gender identities.Gov. Laura Kelly's actions highlighted how her Republican-leaning state has become a fiercely contested battleground as GOP lawmakers across the U.S. target LGBTQ+ rights through several hundred proposals. Kelly narrowly won reelection in November, but the the Legislature has GOP supermajorities and conservative leaders who've made rolling back transgender rights a priority.At least 14 states with GOP-led legislatures have enacted laws against gender-affirming care for minors,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-dakota-transgender-health-care-minors-68c86fdba600b357013540fa32d4fba3">including North Dakota as of Wednesday</a>. At least seven have bathroom laws, mostly focusing on schools. Earlier this month, Kansas lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-athletes-ban-kansas-08604c663518fb2538565f3e1ac3d4ba">overrode Kelly's veto</a>&nbsp;of a ban on female transgender athletes in girls’ and women’s sports, making Kansas among at least 21 states with such a law.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-rights-bathroom-bill-kansas-cbdc14be5bf1fb6e1a0749cad52e8ebc">The Kansas bathroom bill</a>&nbsp;would have applied to bathrooms and locker rooms outside schools, as well as to prisons, jails, rape crisis centers and domestic violence shelters. Because it also sought to define “sex” as “either male or female, at birth,” transgender people wouldn’t have been able to change the gender marker on their driver’s license, though a 2019 federal court decree still would have allowed them to change their birth certificates.Advocates of LGBTQ+ rights see the measure as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-kansas-state-government-arkansas-health-8f2edaa40b962e5642e108b83bc14246">legally erasing</a>&nbsp;transgender people and denying recognition to non-binary, gender fluid or gender non-conforming people.“I am not going to go back to those days of hiding in the closet,” Justin Brace, executive director of Transgender Kansas, said during a recent transgender rights rally outside the Statehouse. “We are in a fight for our lives, literally.”Kelly's vetoes Thursday were in keeping with public promises to block any measure she views as discriminating against LGBTQ+ people. She also has argued that measures rolling back LGBTQ+ rights would hurt the state's efforts to attract businesses.The bathroom bill appeared to have the two-thirds majorities needed to override a veto when it passed earlier this month, though the margin was close in the House. The bill on gender-affirming care was well short in the House.GOP conservatives argue that many of their constituents reject the cultural shift toward accepting that people’s gender identities can differ from the sex assigned them a birth; don't want cisgendered women sharing bathrooms and locker rooms with transgender women; and question gender-affirming care such as puberty-blocking drugs, hormone therapies and surgeries.“They're parents who are saying, ‘My child showed no signs of gender dysphoria until they got to be in middle school, and then they started using social media,’" Republican state Rep. Susan Humphreys, of Wichita, said during a debate on the gender-affirming care bill, promoting a “social contagion” narrative debunked by multiple studies.<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/sb26_enrolled.pdf">The Kansas measure</a>&nbsp;would have required the state's medical board to revoke the license of any doctor discovered to have provided such care, and allowed people who received such care as children to sue health care providers later.Supporters said the bill would not keep transgender youth from receiving counseling or psychiatric therapy. But the measure also applies to “causing” acts that "affirm the child’s perception of the child’s sex” if it differs from their gender assigned at birth.Treatments for children and teens have been available in the U.S. for more than a decade and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gender-transition-treatment-guidelines-9dbe54f670a3a0f5f2831c2bf14f9bbb">are endorsed by major medical associations.</a>“It’s one thing to have a family member that’s unaffirming of who you are as a person,” said Derrick Jordan, a licensed therapist who works with trans youth and directs the Gender and Family Project at New York’s Ackerman Institute for training child and family therapists. “It’s a whole other thing to have a system tell you you’re not fully human or you don’t have the same rights as other folks.”<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/sb180_enrolled.pdf">The Kansas bathroom bill</a>&nbsp;borrows language from a proposal from several anti-trans groups. It says “important governmental objectives" of protecting health safety and privacy justify separate public facilities for men and women and applies “where biology, safety or privacy” prompt sex-separation. It defines male and female based on a person’s reproductive anatomy at birth.Kansas House health committee Chair Brenda Landwehr told colleagues who opposed the bill during a debate that they were telling her that she couldn’t walk into a bathroom and know that only cisgendered women would be there.“What about my rights? What about my comfort zone?” said Landwehr, a Wichita Republican. “What about my granddaughters?”