Steffen, a physician, asserts children risk brain damage from vax

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/01/14/gop-senators-resolution-argues-for-derailment-of-covid-19-child-vaccination-campaign/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Sen. Mark Steffen introduced a COVID-19 resolution in the 
Kansas Senate declaring children shouldn’t be compelled to be 
vaccinated, people who had the virus ought to be exempted from all 
restrictions and that government needed to cease interfering with 
physicians recommending unorthodox treatments.

Steffen, a Hutchinson Republican and anesthesiologist who cares for 
COVID-19 patients, has condemned what he referred to as mainstream 
medical and political propaganda contributing to unnecessary fatalities 
during the pandemic. He’s an advocate of state legislation stripping 
county health directors and the Kansas Department of Health and 
Environment of power to impose emergency restrictions.

“We will win this vaccine battle. And, we will win the liberal, communist war being waged against us,” Steffen said.

His nonbinding resolution introduced in the Senate Public Health and 
Welfare Committee on Thursday pushed back against the international 
effort by governments and medical leaders to deepen vaccination of 
populations in response to the pandemic. He put forward the resolution 
at a time when spread of COVID-19 in the United States was sharply 
escalating and hospitals were under duress from influx of critically ill
 patients.

“Healthy children should not be subjected to forced vaccination,” 
Steffen’s said in the resolution. “There are negligible clinical risks 
from a COVID-19 infection for a healthy child under 18 years of age. The
 risks to the long-term health of children remain too high.”

Steffen, who spoke at a September convention in Lenexa dedicated to 
ending compulsory vaccinations, said children receiving a COVID-19 shot 
“risked severe adverse events, including permanent damage to the brain, 
heart, immune system and reproductive system.”

Since Steffen’s appearance at that Freedom Revival in the Heartland 
event, Kansas has documented an increase of 202,000 cases of COVID-19, 
4,000 additional hospitalizations for the virus and 1,225 more 
fatalities linked to COVID-19. The latest totals for Kansas: 601,800 
cases, 17,500 hospitalizations and 7,141 deaths.

Steffen’s perspective on vaccination of children ran counter to 
recommendations of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 
In early January, CDC director Rochelle Walensky said children age 5 and
 older should be vaccinated and adolescents age 12 to 17 should receive a
 booster shot five months after the primary series.

“It is critical that we protect our children and teens from COVID-19 
infection and the complications of severe disease,” Walensky said. “This
 booster dose will provide optimized protection against COVID-19 and the
 Omicron variant.”

Tim Williamson, a critical care physician at the University of Kansas
 Health System in Kansas City, Kan., said Friday that record numbers of 
children were being hospitalized with COVID-19.

“That is unfortunate,” he said. “You have to be really sick to get in
 a hospital now. They really are full of the sickest patients we’ve 
seen, I think, in my career in medicine.”

Amber Schmidtke, chair of the division of natural sciences and 
mathematics at the University of St. Mary based in Leavenworth, said 
Kansas and Missouri lagged national averages in terms of vaccinating 
individuals age 5 to 18. Fifteen percent of Kansans and 13% of 
Missourians 5 to 11 have been fully vaccinated, she said, compared to 
the national figure of 19%. In the 12 to 17 age group, 48% of Kansans 
and 41% of Missourians have been vaccinated against 54% nationally.

In the Senate resolution introduced by Steffen, he said “naturally 
immune” individuals, or those who contracted and recovered from 
COVID-19, “should not be subjected to any restrictions or vaccine 
mandates.” For example, Douglas County and some cities in Johnson County
 recently imposed mask mandates and the administration of President Joe 
Biden required COVID-19 vaccination, with exceptions, of health workers 
in hospitals receiving federal funding.

“Natural immunity is the best long-lasting solution against the 
development of COVID-19 disease and its more serious outcomes,” Steffen 
said. “Naturally immune people have the lowest risk of virus 
transmission and should not be subject to travel, professional, medical 
or social restrictions. Natural immunity is the most effective source of
 herd immunity, a condition necessary for eradicating the COVID-19 
virus.”

His resolution said government health agencies should be prohibited 
from interfering with doctors such as himself when treating COVID-19 
patients. He said insurance companies ought to stop blocking coverage of
 alternative medicines prescribed by physicians.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642187798087.png" alt="Republican Sen. Mark Steffen, a Hutchinson area physician, introduced a nonbinding resolution arguing against COVID-19 vaccination of children, in support of natural immunity to the virus and an end to “interference” by government public health officials. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Republican Sen. Mark Steffen, a Hutchinson area physician, introduced a nonbinding resolution arguing against COVID-19 vaccination of children, in support of natural immunity to the virus and an end to “interference” by government public health officials. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Steffen, a physician, asserts children risk brain damage from vax</h2>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/01/14/gop-senators-resolution-argues-for-derailment-of-covid-19-child-vaccination-campaign/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Sen. Mark Steffen introduced a COVID-19 resolution in the 
Kansas Senate declaring children shouldn’t be compelled to be 
vaccinated, people who had the virus ought to be exempted from all 
restrictions and that government needed to cease interfering with 
physicians recommending unorthodox treatments.Steffen, a Hutchinson Republican and anesthesiologist who cares for 
COVID-19 patients, has condemned what he referred to as mainstream 
medical and political propaganda contributing to unnecessary fatalities 
during the pandemic. He’s an advocate of state legislation stripping 
county health directors and the Kansas Department of Health and 
Environment of power to impose emergency restrictions.“We will win this vaccine battle. And, we will win the liberal, communist war being waged against us,” Steffen said.His nonbinding resolution introduced in the Senate Public Health and 
Welfare Committee on Thursday pushed back against the international 
effort by governments and medical leaders to deepen vaccination of 
populations in response to the pandemic. He put forward the resolution 
at a time when spread of COVID-19 in the United States was sharply 
escalating and hospitals were under duress from influx of critically ill
 patients.“Healthy children should not be subjected to forced vaccination,” 
Steffen’s said in the resolution. “There are negligible clinical risks 
from a COVID-19 infection for a healthy child under 18 years of age. The
 risks to the long-term health of children remain too high.”Steffen, who spoke at a September convention in Lenexa dedicated to 
ending compulsory vaccinations, said children receiving a COVID-19 shot 
“risked severe adverse events, including permanent damage to the brain, 
heart, immune system and reproductive system.”Since Steffen’s appearance at that Freedom Revival in the Heartland 
event, Kansas has documented an increase of 202,000 cases of COVID-19, 
4,000 additional hospitalizations for the virus and 1,225 more 
fatalities linked to COVID-19. The latest totals for Kansas: 601,800 
cases, 17,500 hospitalizations and 7,141 deaths.Steffen’s perspective on vaccination of children ran counter to 
recommendations of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 
In early January, CDC director Rochelle Walensky said children age 5 and
 older should be vaccinated and adolescents age 12 to 17 should receive a
 booster shot five months after the primary series.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642187875451.png" alt="Tim Williamson, a critical care physician at the University of Kansas Health System in Kansas City, Kan., said hospitalizations for COVID-19 were surging, including intake of children stricken by the virus. (Screen capture/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Tim Williamson, a critical care physician at the University of Kansas Health System in Kansas City, Kan., said hospitalizations for COVID-19 were surging, including intake of children stricken by the virus. (Screen capture/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>“It is critical that we protect our children and teens from COVID-19 
infection and the complications of severe disease,” Walensky said. “This
 booster dose will provide optimized protection against COVID-19 and the
 Omicron variant.”Tim Williamson, a critical care physician at the University of Kansas
 Health System in Kansas City, Kan., said Friday that record numbers of 
children were being hospitalized with COVID-19.“That is unfortunate,” he said. “You have to be really sick to get in
 a hospital now. They really are full of the sickest patients we’ve 
seen, I think, in my career in medicine.”Amber Schmidtke, chair of the division of natural sciences and 
mathematics at the University of St. Mary based in Leavenworth, said 
Kansas and Missouri lagged national averages in terms of vaccinating 
individuals age 5 to 18. Fifteen percent of Kansans and 13% of 
Missourians 5 to 11 have been fully vaccinated, she said, compared to 
the national figure of 19%. In the 12 to 17 age group, 48% of Kansans 
and 41% of Missourians have been vaccinated against 54% nationally.In the Senate resolution introduced by Steffen, he said “naturally 
immune” individuals, or those who contracted and recovered from 
COVID-19, “should not be subjected to any restrictions or vaccine 
mandates.” For example, Douglas County and some cities in Johnson County
 recently imposed mask mandates and the administration of President Joe 
Biden required COVID-19 vaccination, with exceptions, of health workers 
in hospitals receiving federal funding.“Natural immunity is the best long-lasting solution against the 
development of COVID-19 disease and its more serious outcomes,” Steffen 
said. “Naturally immune people have the lowest risk of virus 
transmission and should not be subject to travel, professional, medical 
or social restrictions. Natural immunity is the most effective source of
 herd immunity, a condition necessary for eradicating the COVID-19 
virus.”His resolution said government health agencies should be prohibited 
from interfering with doctors such as himself when treating COVID-19 
patients. He said insurance companies ought to stop blocking coverage of
 alternative medicines prescribed by physicians.

State senator’s resolution argues for derailment of COVID child vaccination

WASHINGTON (AP) — The federal website where Americans can request free COVID-19 tests will begin accepting orders on Wednesday as the White House looks to address nationwide shortages, but supplies will be limited to just four free tests per home.

Starting on Jan. 19, the website COVIDTests.gov will provide tests at no cost, including no shipping fee, the White House announced Friday.

As he faced criticism for low inventory and long lines for testing, President Joe Biden announced last month that the U.S. would purchase 500 million at-home tests to launch the program and on Thursday the president announced that he was doubling the order to 1 billion tests.

But Americans shouldn't expect a rapid turn-around on the orders and they will have to plan ahead and request the tests well before they meet federal guidelines for when to use a test.

The White House said “tests will typically ship within 7-12 days of ordering" through the U.S. Postal Service, which reports shipping times of 1-3 days for its first-class package service in the continental United States.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at-home testing when experiencing COVID-19 systems including fever, cough, sore throat, respiratory symptoms and muscle aches, five days after a potential COVID-19 exposure, or as part of test-to-stay protocols in schools and workplaces.

“Certainly if you’re going to gather with family, if you’re going to a gathering where people are immunocompromised or where they’re elderly or where you have people who might be unvaccinated or poorly protected from a vaccine that might be an opportunity you want to test,” said Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the CDC director, on Wednesday.

Officials emphasized that the federal website is just one way for people to procure COVID-19 tests. Starting on Saturday, private insurance companies will be required to cover the cost of at-home rapid tests, allowing Americans to be reimbursed for tests they purchase at pharmacies and online retailers. That covers up to eight tests per month.

The White House said the four-test limit on website orders will be applied to each residential address and will apply to the first tranche of 500 million tests. It estimates that the cost of purchasing and distributing the first block of tests at $4 billion.

Officials said they are cognizant that any launch of a website carries some risks — and memories of the disastrous roll-out during the Obama administration of Healthcare.gov are still fresh — but said they believe they are well-positioned to handle expected demand for tests.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642104330616.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The federal website where Americans can request free COVID-19 tests will begin accepting orders on Wednesday as the White House looks to address nationwide shortages, but supplies will be limited to just four free tests per home.Starting on Jan. 19, the website COVIDTests.gov will provide tests at no cost, including no shipping fee, the White House announced Friday.As he faced criticism for low inventory and long lines for testing, President Joe Biden announced last month that the U.S. would purchase 500 million at-home tests to launch the program and on Thursday the president announced that he was doubling the order to 1 billion tests.But Americans shouldn't expect a rapid turn-around on the orders and they will have to plan ahead and request the tests well before they meet federal guidelines for when to use a test.The White House said “tests will typically ship within 7-12 days of ordering" through the U.S. Postal Service, which reports shipping times of 1-3 days for its first-class package service in the continental United States.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at-home testing when experiencing COVID-19 systems including fever, cough, sore throat, respiratory symptoms and muscle aches, five days after a potential COVID-19 exposure, or as part of test-to-stay protocols in schools and workplaces.“Certainly if you’re going to gather with family, if you’re going to a gathering where people are immunocompromised or where they’re elderly or where you have people who might be unvaccinated or poorly protected from a vaccine that might be an opportunity you want to test,” said Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the CDC director, on Wednesday.Officials emphasized that the federal website is just one way for people to procure COVID-19 tests. Starting on Saturday, private insurance companies will be required to cover the cost of at-home rapid tests, allowing Americans to be reimbursed for tests they purchase at pharmacies and online retailers. That covers up to eight tests per month.The White House said the four-test limit on website orders will be applied to each residential address and will apply to the first tranche of 500 million tests. It estimates that the cost of purchasing and distributing the first block of tests at $4 billion.Officials said they are cognizant that any launch of a website carries some risks — and memories of the disastrous roll-out during the Obama administration of Healthcare.gov are still fresh — but said they believe they are well-positioned to handle expected demand for tests.

Order free COVID tests from federal website starting January 19

YORK COUNTY —State toopers arrested two people after locating 130 pounds of marijuana and a firearm during a traffic stop on Thursday.

Just after 4:00 p.m., a trooper observed a Ford Explorer fail to signal a turn after exiting Interstate 80 near Waco, according to a media release from the Nebraska State Patrol. During the traffic stop, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity.

A search of the vehicle revealed 130 pounds of marijuana, located in duffel bags in the cargo area. Troopers also located a handgun in the vehicle.

Troopers arrested the driver, Alexander Garcia, 24, of Summerfield, Florida, and passenger, Ashley Gornto, 29, of Belleview, Florida, on requested charges of possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession with intent to deliver, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, possession of a firearm during a drug violation, and no drug tax stamp. Both are being held in the York County Jail. It is approximately 2-hours north of Salina, Kansas.

YORK COUNTY —State toopers arrested two people after locating 130 pounds of marijuana and a firearm during a traffic stop on Thursday.Just after 4:00 p.m., a trooper observed a Ford Explorer fail to signal a turn after exiting Interstate 80 near Waco, according to a media release from the Nebraska State Patrol. During the traffic stop, the trooper became suspicious of criminal activity.A search of the vehicle revealed 130 pounds of marijuana, located in duffel bags in the cargo area. Troopers also located a handgun in the vehicle.Troopers arrested the driver, Alexander Garcia, 24, of Summerfield, Florida, and passenger, Ashley Gornto, 29, of Belleview, Florida, on requested charges of possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession with intent to deliver, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, possession of a firearm during a drug violation, and no drug tax stamp. Both are being held in the York County Jail. It is approximately 2-hours north of Salina, Kansas.

State troopers seize 130 pounds of marijuana during traffic stop

House majority leader unsure of higher education request’s feasibility

By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/01/12/kansas-board-of-regents-democrats-praise-governors-proposal-to-freeze-college-tuition/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas college students could soon benefit from a continued 
effort to minimize rising college tuition, pending approval on a 
provision in the governor’s budget.

In her budget, Gov. Laura Kelly included a request from the Kansas 
Board of Regents to pay $45.7 million to universities so that the 
institutions can freeze tuition for students. The proposal comes after 
years of debate and concern over rising college costs and attempts from 
lawmakers and the board to slow or stop them.

Some post-secondary institutions under the board of regents are 
already freezing tuition. At the University of Kansas, tuition has 
stayed steady for three straight years, and the other five KBOR 
universities have maintained tuition two out of the past three years.

“Student debt is a big issue for a lot of families, and the college 
going rate is going down in Kansas as well as nationally,” said Cheryl 
Harrison-Lee, chairwoman for KBOR. “The challenge becomes, as we are 
looking at economic development opportunities in the state of Kansas, we
 need to have the talent pool so that we’re able to attract visitors to 
the state. Being able to keep tuition flat creates an opportunity for 
affordability for a diverse population throughout the state of Kansas.”

Costs for students and their families have risen dramatically over 
the past decade and a half. At Kansas State University, tuition and 
academic fees per semester for a full-time undergraduate student from 
Kansas have risen 80% to more than $5,200. A similar student at KU would
 pay $5,600, an increase of 82% from 15 years ago.

Harrison-Lee feared without the infusion of funds from the state, 
universities would no longer be able to keep tuition flat. At a time 
when college attendance is decreasing, raising tuition could push 
enrollment down further, she said.

In her State of the State address Tuesday, Kelly also noted the 
fiscal impact of the pandemic as a reason to approve the tuition freeze 
effort. With an estimated budget surplus of $2.9 billion, now is a good a
 time as any to invest in higher education, she said.

“This virus took something from our students,” Kelly said. “And we 
are going to give them something back. Again, it’s a huge win for our 
young people and for all working Kansans.”

In the presentation of the budget to a joint committee of House and 
Senate members, Adam Proffitt, the governor’s budget director, credited 
recent increases in post-secondary funding with allowing state 
universities to keep tuition steady.

House Majority Leader Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican, was hesitant
 to commit to anything that could cost the state additional money.

“There’s a lot of money spent here,” Hawkins said. We have $3 
billion, and by the time you figure everything out, there’s a lot less.”

Sen. Tom Hawk, a Manhattan Democrat, was more optimistic about a proposal he said would surely benefit Kansas families.

“Universities will have adequate funds for their operations, and the 
freeze will reduce the burden on students and their families, hopefully 
encouraging more students to attend college,” Hawk said.

In addition to the tuition freeze, the governor is proposing an 
allotment of $25 million for the need-based Kansas Access Partnership 
Grant, which helps families with the cost of college. The investments 
would represent the largest year-over-year increase in program history.

The budget proposal also includes additional funds for two-year technical schools and cybersecurity.

“The governor’s budget proposal includes a historic investment in 
higher education, continuing her promise to be the education governor,” 
said Rep. Brandon Woodard, a Lenexa Democrat. “I look forward to the 
Legislature supporting her proposal and providing our universities with 
the resources to train the workforce of tomorrow, keep tuition flat and 
to recruit and retain the brightest faculty, staff, and students.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642088309529.png" alt="In the annual budget proposal, Gov. Laura Kelly is following through on a request from the Kansas Board of Regents to pay $45.7 million to universities so that universities can freeze tuition. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>In the annual budget proposal, Gov. Laura Kelly is following through on a request from the Kansas Board of Regents to pay $45.7 million to universities so that universities can freeze tuition. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>House majority leader unsure of higher education request’s feasibility</h2>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/01/12/kansas-board-of-regents-democrats-praise-governors-proposal-to-freeze-college-tuition/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas college students could soon benefit from a continued 
effort to minimize rising college tuition, pending approval on a 
provision in the governor’s budget.In her budget, Gov. Laura Kelly included a request from the Kansas 
Board of Regents to pay $45.7 million to universities so that the 
institutions can freeze tuition for students. The proposal comes after 
years of debate and concern over rising college costs and attempts from 
lawmakers and the board to slow or stop them.Some post-secondary institutions under the board of regents are 
already freezing tuition. At the University of Kansas, tuition has 
stayed steady for three straight years, and the other five KBOR 
universities have maintained tuition two out of the past three years.“Student debt is a big issue for a lot of families, and the college 
going rate is going down in Kansas as well as nationally,” said Cheryl 
Harrison-Lee, chairwoman for KBOR. “The challenge becomes, as we are 
looking at economic development opportunities in the state of Kansas, we
 need to have the talent pool so that we’re able to attract visitors to 
the state. Being able to keep tuition flat creates an opportunity for 
affordability for a diverse population throughout the state of Kansas.”Costs for students and their families have risen dramatically over 
the past decade and a half. At Kansas State University, tuition and 
academic fees per semester for a full-time undergraduate student from 
Kansas have risen 80% to more than $5,200. A similar student at KU would
 pay $5,600, an increase of 82% from 15 years ago.Harrison-Lee feared without the infusion of funds from the state, 
universities would no longer be able to keep tuition flat. At a time 
when college attendance is decreasing, raising tuition could push 
enrollment down further, she said.In her State of the State address Tuesday, Kelly also noted the 
fiscal impact of the pandemic as a reason to approve the tuition freeze 
effort. With an estimated budget surplus of $2.9 billion, now is a good a
 time as any to invest in higher education, she said.“This virus took something from our students,” Kelly said. “And we 
are going to give them something back. Again, it’s a huge win for our 
young people and for all working Kansans.”In the presentation of the budget to a joint committee of House and 
Senate members, Adam Proffitt, the governor’s budget director, credited 
recent increases in post-secondary funding with allowing state 
universities to keep tuition steady.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642088380738.png" alt="Despite a budget surplus, House Majority Leader Dan Hawkins was unsure if the state could afford the tuition freeze on top of other expenses. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Despite a budget surplus, House Majority Leader Dan Hawkins was unsure if the state could afford the tuition freeze on top of other expenses. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>House Majority Leader Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican, was hesitant
 to commit to anything that could cost the state additional money.“There’s a lot of money spent here,” Hawkins said. We have $3 
billion, and by the time you figure everything out, there’s a lot less.”Sen. Tom Hawk, a Manhattan Democrat, was more optimistic about a proposal he said would surely benefit Kansas families.“Universities will have adequate funds for their operations, and the 
freeze will reduce the burden on students and their families, hopefully 
encouraging more students to attend college,” Hawk said.In addition to the tuition freeze, the governor is proposing an 
allotment of $25 million for the need-based Kansas Access Partnership 
Grant, which helps families with the cost of college. The investments 
would represent the largest year-over-year increase in program history.The budget proposal also includes additional funds for two-year technical schools and cybersecurity.“The governor’s budget proposal includes a historic investment in 
higher education, continuing her promise to be the education governor,” 
said Rep. Brandon Woodard, a Lenexa Democrat. “I look forward to the 
Legislature supporting her proposal and providing our universities with 
the resources to train the workforce of tomorrow, keep tuition flat and 
to recruit and retain the brightest faculty, staff, and students.”

Kan. Regents, Democrats praise Kelly proposal to freeze college tuition

TOPEKA — The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 19,414 to a total of 621,273 the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The state reported 21 additional COVID-19 deaths for a total of 7,162.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.

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

As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;

Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

TOPEKA — The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 19,414 to a total of 621,273 the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;&nbsp;The state reported 21 additional COVID-19 deaths for a total of 7,162.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642183255468.png" alt="Friday January 14, 2022 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Friday January 14, 2022 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

KDHE: 19,400 new cases, 21 more COVID deaths

FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an armed robbery in Garden City.

Just after noon Thursday, police were dispatched to the Sam's Club, 3010 Lareu Road in Garden City&nbsp; where a&nbsp; woman reported she had been robbed at gunpoint, according to a media release from police.

The investigation revealed that the woman was parked in the loading/unloading zone at Sam’s Club when an unknown man approached her near her vehicle, pointed a firearm at her, and demanded her purse. 

The suspect grabbed the woman’s purse as she attempted to keep her purse from him. The suspect was able to get the purse and fled the area southbound behind the business. The woman was not injured from the incident.

The suspect was described as a Hispanic man in his early 20s, wearing a grey beanie, black/blue coat, and blue jeans. He was last seen running south toward Old Navy, where he got into the passenger side of a black passenger vehicle. 

FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an armed robbery in Garden City.Just after noon Thursday, police were dispatched to the Sam's Club, 3010 Lareu Road in Garden City&nbsp; where a&nbsp; woman reported she had been robbed at gunpoint, according to a media release from police.The investigation revealed that the woman was parked in the loading/unloading zone at Sam’s Club when an unknown man approached her near her vehicle, pointed a firearm at her, and demanded her purse. The suspect grabbed the woman’s purse as she attempted to keep her purse from him. The suspect was able to get the purse and fled the area southbound behind the business. The woman was not injured from the incident.The suspect was described as a Hispanic man in his early 20s, wearing a grey beanie, black/blue coat, and blue jeans. He was last seen running south toward Old Navy, where he got into the passenger side of a black passenger vehicle.

Search continues for Kan. suspect in armed robbery at Sam's Club 

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A stretch of Interstate 70 westbound into Kansas City has been closed while crews assess damage from a fire that killed a homeless person.

KCTV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kctv5.com/news/local_news/i-70-into-kansas-city-remains-closed-friday-morning-while-modot-continues-to-inspect-bridge/article_5082fbdc-7528-11ec-bfb0-c3de08fea49e.html?block_id=991162">reports&nbsp;</a>that the fire was reported around 6 a.m. Thursday under an I-70 bridge over Truman Road. The interstate westbound into the city has been shut down ever since.

The Missouri Department of Transportation said in a statement that workers are inspecting the bridge to determine the damage and potential needed repairs. The department has alerted drivers that they should exit I-70 westbound at the Interstate 435 interchange to get around the closure.

“Certainly we understand the impacts of closing I-70 near downtown,” said MoDOT Kansas City District Office Assistant District Engineer Matt Killion. “We really want to make sure the bridge is safe for all travelers. That’s our number one priority.”

Fires at encampments have previously caused structural damage to a bridge in Kansas City. In 2015, a fire under the Beardsley Road Bridge damaged concrete and bent two bridge girders. It cost $400,000 to repair. A second fire at the same bridge in 2018 cost $2 million to repair.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642178362328.png" alt=" The interstate westbound into Kansas City has been shut down ever since-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption> The interstate westbound into Kansas City has been shut down ever since-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A stretch of Interstate 70 westbound into Kansas City has been closed while crews assess damage from a fire that killed a homeless person.KCTV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kctv5.com/news/local_news/i-70-into-kansas-city-remains-closed-friday-morning-while-modot-continues-to-inspect-bridge/article_5082fbdc-7528-11ec-bfb0-c3de08fea49e.html?block_id=991162">reports&nbsp;</a>that the fire was reported around 6 a.m. Thursday under an I-70 bridge over Truman Road. The interstate westbound into the city has been shut down ever since.The Missouri Department of Transportation said in a statement that workers are inspecting the bridge to determine the damage and potential needed repairs. The department has alerted drivers that they should exit I-70 westbound at the Interstate 435 interchange to get around the closure.“Certainly we understand the impacts of closing I-70 near downtown,” said MoDOT Kansas City District Office Assistant District Engineer Matt Killion. “We really want to make sure the bridge is safe for all travelers. That’s our number one priority.”Fires at encampments have previously caused structural damage to a bridge in Kansas City. In 2015, a fire under the Beardsley Road Bridge damaged concrete and bent two bridge girders. It cost $400,000 to repair. A second fire at the same bridge in 2018 cost $2 million to repair.

Deadly homeless camp fire in Kansas City closes westbound I-70 

Members of a large-scale theft ring have been charged by Federal and State prosecutors for their roles in an organization whose operations crossed state lines and caused more than $10 million in losses to retailers, according to U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson and Oklahoma Attorney General John O’Connor.

This week, local, state, and federal law enforcement arrested 24 defendants in Tulsa and the surrounding areas, as part of Operation Booster Buster. Five defendants remain at large.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office charged a total of 29 defendants with taking part in the largescale retail theft ring staged out of northeastern Oklahoma.

“Organized retail crime is costly to the economic well-being of our communities. This alleged retail theft ring is estimated to have caused retailers more than $10 million in losses,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “A joint team of investigators have worked meticulously over the past several years to connect the evidence and bring this case forward for prosecution. I am thankful for their professionalism and persistence.”

“This investigation was complex, challenging, and lengthy,” Oklahoma Attorney General John O’Connor said. “These are serious crimes. Organized crime is on the rise nationwide, and my office is committed to holding criminals accountable for their actions. I want to thank the state, local, and federal law enforcement agents and prosecutors for their work and partnership in this case.”

Charges were announced at a press conference Thursday. U.S. Attorney Johnson and Oklahoma Attorney General O’Connor were joined by Tulsa Chief of Police Wendell Franklin, Special Agent in Charge Christopher Miller of Homeland Security Investigations, Special Agent in Charge Christopher Altemus Jr. of IRS-Criminal Investigation, and Tulsa County Sheriff Vic Regalado.

Stores targeted include Reasor’s, Sprouts, Walmart, Sam’s Club, Costco, Walgreens, CVS, GNC and others.

For example, on Sept. 4, 2019, defendants&nbsp;Amber Clayson, Latoya Duhart&nbsp;and others allegedly boosted $1,329 worth of over-the-counter products, such as Flonase, Mucinex, Nexium, Zegerid, and Allegra, from a Reasor’s in Jenks, Oklahoma.

According to the federal indictment and the state’s probable cause affidavit, defendant&nbsp;Linda Been&nbsp;led the ring of “boosters” that netted $4.5 million from the sale of stolen merchandise and over-the-counter products to fencing organizations outside of Oklahoma. “Fences” then sold the stolen products through e-commerce sites, like eBay and Amazon.

Normally, fences paid Been half the market value for each item. Been, in turn, paid boosters half of her expected profit for each item they brought to her. Financial payments for stolen products were normally made through PayPal, Venmo, and Cash App, and some payments were made with drugs.

Been provided her boosters with a detailed list of items to steal and the pricing she would pay for each. She further instructed her ring on boosting techniques, including box stuffing. Box stuffing occurs when criminals conceal higher-value items inside lower-value item boxes and only paying for the lower-valued items.

Been and her team of boosters allegedly stole products from retailers in Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Missouri, Arkansas, and Colorado. Been would pay boosters’ expenses when they traveled outside the state. She would further pay boosters’ bond when arrested so they could continue boosting.

Boosters would then deliver the goods to predetermined locations in Tulsa, Sand Springs, and Cleveland, Oklahoma.&nbsp;Defendants Billy Osborne, Juston Osborne, Corey Fields, and Amanda Johnson&nbsp;allegedly helped manage the operation by storing stolen inventory at their residences or businesses and by prepping the merchandise for bulk shipments to fences outside the state. Been also stored stolen merchandise at her residences, prepared inventories, coordinated payment, and shipped the pallets of stolen items.

“Consumers and businesses incur a high price for thieves who commit larcenies and profit by selling their stolen goods to well organized theft rings,” said Tulsa Police Chief Wendell Franklin. “Thieves should take notice. Tulsa is not going to capitulate and allow criminals to disrupt commerce in our city.”

“These federal indictments are a result of the tremendous work and collaboration accomplished by our trusted law enforcement partners, said Christopher Miller, acting Special Agent in Charge HSI Dallas. “It does not matter where these criminal networks operate and sell their illegally acquired goods. We will work without end to ensure those involved are investigated and brought to justice.”

The investigation into the retail theft ring began in 2019 when an organized crime investigator from a pharmacy retailer shared information with Tulsa Police Detectives about bulk thefts at their Tulsa area locations. Investigators linked several boosters in the Tulsa area to&nbsp;Been and her son, state defendant&nbsp;Curtis Leon Gann Jr. They also noted that Been and Gann Jr. were allegedly selling over-the-counter medications, along with other commonly stolen items on their eBay accounts.

The Tulsa Police Department reached out to lead investigator Agent Thomas Helm with the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office. Once it was determined that crimes linked to Been’s retail theft organization also occurred in surrounding states, a federal investigation was launched.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office, Tulsa Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and IRS Criminal Investigation joined forces to lead Operation Booster Buster. HSI Task Force Officers from the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office also joined in the investigation.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Tulsa Police Department, Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office, and Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney’s Richard M. Cella and Reagan V. Reininger are prosecuting the case on behalf of the federal government. Senior Deputy Attorney General Joy Thorp and Assistant Attorney General Kenneth Dane Towery are prosecuting the case on behalf of the state of Oklahoma.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

*A “booster” is a person who steals goods and merchandise, specifically, but not limited to OTC from retail stores.

* A “fence” or “fencing operation” is a person, organization or entity that purchases or receives stolen goods and merchandise from boosters.&nbsp; The fence or fencing operation then re-sells the stolen goods and merchandise to third parties.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642110431914.png" alt="Tulsa County Sheriff Vic Regalado joined local, state and federal law enforcement officials and prosecutors on Thursday to announce the results of a joint investigation into a retail theft ring that cost retailers across the region $10 million.-photo Dept. of Justice " />
 <figcaption>Tulsa County Sheriff Vic Regalado joined local, state and federal law enforcement officials and prosecutors on Thursday to announce the results of a joint investigation into a retail theft ring that cost retailers across the region $10 million.-photo Dept. of Justice </figcaption>
 </figure>Members of a large-scale theft ring have been charged by Federal and State prosecutors for their roles in an organization whose operations crossed state lines and caused more than $10 million in losses to retailers, according to U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson and Oklahoma Attorney General John O’Connor.This week, local, state, and federal law enforcement arrested 24 defendants in Tulsa and the surrounding areas, as part of Operation Booster Buster. Five defendants remain at large.The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office charged a total of 29 defendants with taking part in the largescale retail theft ring staged out of northeastern Oklahoma.“Organized retail crime is costly to the economic well-being of our communities. This alleged retail theft ring is estimated to have caused retailers more than $10 million in losses,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “A joint team of investigators have worked meticulously over the past several years to connect the evidence and bring this case forward for prosecution. I am thankful for their professionalism and persistence.”“This investigation was complex, challenging, and lengthy,” Oklahoma Attorney General John O’Connor said. “These are serious crimes. Organized crime is on the rise nationwide, and my office is committed to holding criminals accountable for their actions. I want to thank the state, local, and federal law enforcement agents and prosecutors for their work and partnership in this case.”Charges were announced at a press conference Thursday. U.S. Attorney Johnson and Oklahoma Attorney General O’Connor were joined by Tulsa Chief of Police Wendell Franklin, Special Agent in Charge Christopher Miller of Homeland Security Investigations, Special Agent in Charge Christopher Altemus Jr. of IRS-Criminal Investigation, and Tulsa County Sheriff Vic Regalado.Stores targeted include Reasor’s, Sprouts, Walmart, Sam’s Club, Costco, Walgreens, CVS, GNC and others.For example, on Sept. 4, 2019, defendants&nbsp;Amber Clayson, Latoya Duhart&nbsp;and others allegedly boosted $1,329 worth of over-the-counter products, such as Flonase, Mucinex, Nexium, Zegerid, and Allegra, from a Reasor’s in Jenks, Oklahoma.According to the federal indictment and the state’s probable cause affidavit, defendant&nbsp;Linda Been&nbsp;led the ring of “boosters” that netted $4.5 million from the sale of stolen merchandise and over-the-counter products to fencing organizations outside of Oklahoma. “Fences” then sold the stolen products through e-commerce sites, like eBay and Amazon.Normally, fences paid Been half the market value for each item. Been, in turn, paid boosters half of her expected profit for each item they brought to her. Financial payments for stolen products were normally made through PayPal, Venmo, and Cash App, and some payments were made with drugs.Been provided her boosters with a detailed list of items to steal and the pricing she would pay for each. She further instructed her ring on boosting techniques, including box stuffing. Box stuffing occurs when criminals conceal higher-value items inside lower-value item boxes and only paying for the lower-valued items.Been and her team of boosters allegedly stole products from retailers in Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Missouri, Arkansas, and Colorado. Been would pay boosters’ expenses when they traveled outside the state. She would further pay boosters’ bond when arrested so they could continue boosting.Boosters would then deliver the goods to predetermined locations in Tulsa, Sand Springs, and Cleveland, Oklahoma.&nbsp;Defendants Billy Osborne, Juston Osborne, Corey Fields, and Amanda Johnson&nbsp;allegedly helped manage the operation by storing stolen inventory at their residences or businesses and by prepping the merchandise for bulk shipments to fences outside the state. Been also stored stolen merchandise at her residences, prepared inventories, coordinated payment, and shipped the pallets of stolen items.“Consumers and businesses incur a high price for thieves who commit larcenies and profit by selling their stolen goods to well organized theft rings,” said Tulsa Police Chief Wendell Franklin. “Thieves should take notice. Tulsa is not going to capitulate and allow criminals to disrupt commerce in our city.”“These federal indictments are a result of the tremendous work and collaboration accomplished by our trusted law enforcement partners, said Christopher Miller, acting Special Agent in Charge HSI Dallas. “It does not matter where these criminal networks operate and sell their illegally acquired goods. We will work without end to ensure those involved are investigated and brought to justice.”The investigation into the retail theft ring began in 2019 when an organized crime investigator from a pharmacy retailer shared information with Tulsa Police Detectives about bulk thefts at their Tulsa area locations. Investigators linked several boosters in the Tulsa area to&nbsp;Been and her son, state defendant&nbsp;Curtis Leon Gann Jr. They also noted that Been and Gann Jr. were allegedly selling over-the-counter medications, along with other commonly stolen items on their eBay accounts.The Tulsa Police Department reached out to lead investigator Agent Thomas Helm with the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office. Once it was determined that crimes linked to Been’s retail theft organization also occurred in surrounding states, a federal investigation was launched.The U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office, Tulsa Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and IRS Criminal Investigation joined forces to lead Operation Booster Buster. HSI Task Force Officers from the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office also joined in the investigation.U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Tulsa Police Department, Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office, and Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney’s Richard M. Cella and Reagan V. Reininger are prosecuting the case on behalf of the federal government. Senior Deputy Attorney General Joy Thorp and Assistant Attorney General Kenneth Dane Towery are prosecuting the case on behalf of the state of Oklahoma.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*A “booster” is a person who steals goods and merchandise, specifically, but not limited to OTC from retail stores.* A “fence” or “fencing operation” is a person, organization or entity that purchases or receives stolen goods and merchandise from boosters.&nbsp; The fence or fencing operation then re-sells the stolen goods and merchandise to third parties.

29 charged in shoplifting ring that hit pharmacies in Kansas

BARTON COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just before 12:30p.m. Thursday in Barton County.

A 2005 Mack truck configured as a water hauler and driven by&nbsp;Eric Steinert, 36, rural Russell County was southbound on 130 Northeast Avenue, according to Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir.

A 1995 Peterbilt semi  loaded with a Kenworth truck-tractor driven by David Wirth, 66, of rural Ellinwood was westbound on Northeast 70th Road.&nbsp; The two vehicles collided at the intersection, according to Bellendir.

Deputies found the trucks completely engulfed in flames and were told that the driver of one of the vehicles was still in the cab.

Steinert was pronounced dead at the scene by the Barton County Coroner's Office. Wirth was transported to the Great Bend hospital by Claflin EMS with non-life-threatening injuries. He was treated and released.

The fire traveled down the ditch on both sides of the roadway setting fire to two fields and multiple round bales of hay that were approximately one-quarter mile away. The Claflin Fire Department was able to bring the blaze under control.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642168311054.jpeg" alt="Photo Barton Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Barton Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just before 12:30p.m. Thursday in Barton County.A 2005 Mack truck configured as a water hauler and driven by&nbsp;Eric Steinert, 36, rural Russell County was southbound on 130 Northeast Avenue, according to Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir.A 1995 Peterbilt semi loaded with a Kenworth truck-tractor driven by David Wirth, 66, of rural Ellinwood was westbound on Northeast 70th Road.&nbsp; The two vehicles collided at the intersection, according to Bellendir.Deputies found the trucks completely engulfed in flames and were told that the driver of one of the vehicles was still in the cab.Steinert was pronounced dead at the scene by the Barton County Coroner's Office. Wirth was transported to the Great Bend hospital by Claflin EMS with non-life-threatening injuries. He was treated and released.The fire traveled down the ditch on both sides of the roadway setting fire to two fields and multiple round bales of hay that were approximately one-quarter mile away. The Claflin Fire Department was able to bring the blaze under control.

Sheriff: Kansas man dies after trucks collide, catch fire

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — More&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;districts are closing and warning of potential closure as the COVID-19 outbreak sickens staff.

The Eudora districts pulled the plug on classed Friday because of a lack of substitutes and increased numbers of COVID-19 cases.

“Our current reality is that we simply do not have enough substitutes to appropriately maintain operations,” Superintendent Stu Moeckel wrote.

The Kansas City, Kansas, district also warned parents to start preparing for school closures and said buses would be 15 to 20 minutes late Friday because of staff shortages.

Earlier this week, the Wichita district, which is the state's largest, warned that school closures might be necessary.

The staffing shortages are so severe that the state announced this week that substitute teachers in Kansas will not be required to have college credit hours. The Kansas State Board of Education said the changes will last only until June 1, when the more stringent requirements will return.

On Wednesday, the Bonner Springs and El Dorado school districts announced classes would be cancelled for the rest of the week because of high numbers of staff and student illnesses.

The Rock Creek district in Pottawatomie County said an elementary and middle school were closed Thursday and Friday because of staffing issues. The DeSoto, Eudora and Manhattan-Ogden districts were set to be closed Friday.

In addition, Fairfield USD 310 in Langdon is closed though next week and activities are also canceled due a sharp increase in quarantines and positive COVID cases 

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — More&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;districts are closing and warning of potential closure as the COVID-19 outbreak sickens staff.The Eudora districts pulled the plug on classed Friday because of a lack of substitutes and increased numbers of COVID-19 cases.“Our current reality is that we simply do not have enough substitutes to appropriately maintain operations,” Superintendent Stu Moeckel wrote.The Kansas City, Kansas, district also warned parents to start preparing for school closures and said buses would be 15 to 20 minutes late Friday because of staff shortages.Earlier this week, the Wichita district, which is the state's largest, warned that school closures might be necessary.The staffing shortages are so severe that the state announced this week that substitute teachers in Kansas will not be required to have college credit hours. The Kansas State Board of Education said the changes will last only until June 1, when the more stringent requirements will return.On Wednesday, the Bonner Springs and El Dorado school districts announced classes would be cancelled for the rest of the week because of high numbers of staff and student illnesses.The Rock Creek district in Pottawatomie County said an elementary and middle school were closed Thursday and Friday because of staffing issues. The DeSoto, Eudora and Manhattan-Ogden districts were set to be closed Friday.In addition, Fairfield USD 310 in Langdon is closed though next week and activities are also canceled due a sharp increase in quarantines and positive COVID cases

More Kansas districts close, warn parents to be ready

WASHINGTON (AP) — All but conceding defeat, President Joe Biden said Thursday he’s now unsure the Democrats’ major elections and voting rights legislation can pass Congress this year. He spoke at the Capitol after a key fellow Democrat, Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, dramatically announced her refusal to go along with changing Senate rules to muscle the bill past a Republican filibuster.

Biden had come to the Capitol to prod Democratic senators in a closed-door meeting, but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/voting-rights-joe-biden-elections-voting-congress-6f8d20e337743c53cc39f7d9372c4108">he was not optimistic</a>&nbsp;when he emerged. He vowed to keep fighting for the sweeping legislation that advocates say is vital to protecting elections.

“The honest to God answer is I don’t know whether we can get this done,” Biden said. He told reporters, his voice rising, “As long as I’m in the White House, as long as I’m engaged at all, I’m going to be fighting.”

Sinema all but dashed the bill’s chances minutes earlier, declaring just before Biden arrived on Capitol Hill that she could not support a “short sighted” rules change.

She said in a speech on the Senate floor that the answer to divisiveness in the Senate and in the country is not to change filibuster rules so one party, even hers, can pass controversial bills. “We must address the disease itself, the disease of division, to protect our democracy,” she said.

The moment once again leaves Biden empty-handed after a high-profile visit to Congress. Earlier forays did little to advance his other big priority, the “Build Back Better Act” of social and climate change initiatives. Instead, Biden returned to the White House with his agenda languishing in Congress.

Biden spoke for more than an hour in private with restive Democrats in the Senate, including Joe Manchin of West Virginia, who also opposes changing Senate rules.

Manchin said in a statement later: “Ending the filibuster would be the easy way out. I cannot support such a perilous course for this nation.”

Both senators went to the White House Thursday evening for an additional hour, which the White House later described as “a candid and respectful exchange of views.”

Since taking control of Congress and the White House last year, Democrats have vowed to counteract a wave of new state laws, inspired by former President Donald Trump’s false claims of a stolen election, that have made it harder to vote. But their efforts have stalled in the narrowly divided Senate, where they lack the 60 votes out of 100 needed to overcome a Republican filibuster.

For weeks, Sinema and Manchin have come under intense pressure to support rules changes that would allow the party to pass their legislation with a simple majority — a step both have long opposed.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., called Sinema’s speech an important act of “political courage” that could “save the Senate as an institution.” Her own colleagues weren’t as charitable.

Sen. Angus King, a Maine independent who once opposed changing the Senate rules said, “She believes that the risk of changing the filibuster is greater than the risk of what’s going on in the states. I hope profoundly that she’s right. I fear that she’s wrong.”

The Democratic package of voting and ethics legislation would usher in the biggest overhaul of U.S. elections in a generation, striking down hurdles to voting enacted in the name of election security, reducing the influence of big money in politics and limiting partisan influence over the drawing of congressional districts. The package would create national election standards that would trump the state-level GOP laws. It would also restore the ability of the Justice Department to police election laws in states with a history of discrimination.

Biden’s trip to the Capitol, where he served for decades as a senator from Delaware, was part of weeklong effort to jolt the stalled legislation. On Tuesday he gave a fiery speech in Atlanta, likening opponents of the legislation to racist historical figures and telling lawmakers they will be “judged by history.”

Republicans are nearly unanimous in opposing the legislation, viewing it as federal overreach that would infringe on states’ abilities to conduct their own elections. And they’ve pointed out that Democrats opposed changes to the filibuster that Trump sought when he was president.

But for Democrats and Biden, the legislation is viewed as a political imperative. Failure to pass it would break a major campaign promise to Black voters, who helped hand Democrats control of the White House and Congress, and would come just before midterm elections when slim Democratic majorities will be on the line.

During the closed-door meeting, Biden and the senators engaged in a spirited conversation, the president drawing on his own years in the chamber, senators said. He fielded questions and comments, including from Manchin, who expressed reluctance to changing Senate rules. Biden’s message to the senators: It’s an “opportunity to do something that will do so much good for so many at a time where it’s so necessary,” according to Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va.

Democrats have still pledged to force a public showdown over the bill on the Senate floor, which could stretch for days and carry echoes of civil rights battles a generation ago that led to some of the most famous filibusters in Senate history.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer had initially set Monday’s Martin Luther King Jr. holiday as a deadline to either pass the voting legislation or consider revising the filibuster rules. But after one Democratic senator tested positive for COVID-19 and went into isolation, denying the party a needed vote, Schumer canceled a planned Senate recess week and said debate would instead begin Tuesday.

Democrats shifted their legislative strategy, too, as they sought to pressure Manchin and Sinema. Under their new approach, which uses a procedural shortcut, they will be able to debate the bill without being blocked by a filibuster — a feat after Republicans used the filibuster four times in recent months to stop deliberation.

The mechanics work like this: The House amended and passed an unrelated bill that was already approved by both chambers of Congress, combining Democrats’ voting proposals into one bill. Because that bill already passed both chambers, it can be called for debate in the Senate with a simple majority, though Senate Republicans can still block a final vote to pass the measure.

“Members of this chamber were elected to debate and vote, particularly on an issue as vital to the beating heart of democracy as this one,” Schumer said late Thursday.

Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock questioned the wisdom of Manchin and Sinema’s reflexive pursuit of bipartisanship.

“It can’t be the only important thing,” said Warnock, who is Georgia’s first Black senator. “Slavery was bipartisan. Jim Crow segregation was bipartisan. The denial of women’s suffrage was bipartisan.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642158990209.png" alt="President Biden leaving a meeting with Democrats Thursday-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Biden leaving a meeting with Democrats Thursday-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — All but conceding defeat, President Joe Biden said Thursday he’s now unsure the Democrats’ major elections and voting rights legislation can pass Congress this year. He spoke at the Capitol after a key fellow Democrat, Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, dramatically announced her refusal to go along with changing Senate rules to muscle the bill past a Republican filibuster.Biden had come to the Capitol to prod Democratic senators in a closed-door meeting, but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/voting-rights-joe-biden-elections-voting-congress-6f8d20e337743c53cc39f7d9372c4108">he was not optimistic</a>&nbsp;when he emerged. He vowed to keep fighting for the sweeping legislation that advocates say is vital to protecting elections.“The honest to God answer is I don’t know whether we can get this done,” Biden said. He told reporters, his voice rising, “As long as I’m in the White House, as long as I’m engaged at all, I’m going to be fighting.”Sinema all but dashed the bill’s chances minutes earlier, declaring just before Biden arrived on Capitol Hill that she could not support a “short sighted” rules change.She said in a speech on the Senate floor that the answer to divisiveness in the Senate and in the country is not to change filibuster rules so one party, even hers, can pass controversial bills. “We must address the disease itself, the disease of division, to protect our democracy,” she said.The moment once again leaves Biden empty-handed after a high-profile visit to Congress. Earlier forays did little to advance his other big priority, the “Build Back Better Act” of social and climate change initiatives. Instead, Biden returned to the White House with his agenda languishing in Congress.Biden spoke for more than an hour in private with restive Democrats in the Senate, including Joe Manchin of West Virginia, who also opposes changing Senate rules.Manchin said in a statement later: “Ending the filibuster would be the easy way out. I cannot support such a perilous course for this nation.”Both senators went to the White House Thursday evening for an additional hour, which the White House later described as “a candid and respectful exchange of views.”Since taking control of Congress and the White House last year, Democrats have vowed to counteract a wave of new state laws, inspired by former President Donald Trump’s false claims of a stolen election, that have made it harder to vote. But their efforts have stalled in the narrowly divided Senate, where they lack the 60 votes out of 100 needed to overcome a Republican filibuster.For weeks, Sinema and Manchin have come under intense pressure to support rules changes that would allow the party to pass their legislation with a simple majority — a step both have long opposed.Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., called Sinema’s speech an important act of “political courage” that could “save the Senate as an institution.” Her own colleagues weren’t as charitable.Sen. Angus King, a Maine independent who once opposed changing the Senate rules said, “She believes that the risk of changing the filibuster is greater than the risk of what’s going on in the states. I hope profoundly that she’s right. I fear that she’s wrong.”The Democratic package of voting and ethics legislation would usher in the biggest overhaul of U.S. elections in a generation, striking down hurdles to voting enacted in the name of election security, reducing the influence of big money in politics and limiting partisan influence over the drawing of congressional districts. The package would create national election standards that would trump the state-level GOP laws. It would also restore the ability of the Justice Department to police election laws in states with a history of discrimination.Biden’s trip to the Capitol, where he served for decades as a senator from Delaware, was part of weeklong effort to jolt the stalled legislation. On Tuesday he gave a fiery speech in Atlanta, likening opponents of the legislation to racist historical figures and telling lawmakers they will be “judged by history.”Republicans are nearly unanimous in opposing the legislation, viewing it as federal overreach that would infringe on states’ abilities to conduct their own elections. And they’ve pointed out that Democrats opposed changes to the filibuster that Trump sought when he was president.But for Democrats and Biden, the legislation is viewed as a political imperative. Failure to pass it would break a major campaign promise to Black voters, who helped hand Democrats control of the White House and Congress, and would come just before midterm elections when slim Democratic majorities will be on the line.During the closed-door meeting, Biden and the senators engaged in a spirited conversation, the president drawing on his own years in the chamber, senators said. He fielded questions and comments, including from Manchin, who expressed reluctance to changing Senate rules. Biden’s message to the senators: It’s an “opportunity to do something that will do so much good for so many at a time where it’s so necessary,” according to Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va.Democrats have still pledged to force a public showdown over the bill on the Senate floor, which could stretch for days and carry echoes of civil rights battles a generation ago that led to some of the most famous filibusters in Senate history.Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer had initially set Monday’s Martin Luther King Jr. holiday as a deadline to either pass the voting legislation or consider revising the filibuster rules. But after one Democratic senator tested positive for COVID-19 and went into isolation, denying the party a needed vote, Schumer canceled a planned Senate recess week and said debate would instead begin Tuesday.Democrats shifted their legislative strategy, too, as they sought to pressure Manchin and Sinema. Under their new approach, which uses a procedural shortcut, they will be able to debate the bill without being blocked by a filibuster — a feat after Republicans used the filibuster four times in recent months to stop deliberation.The mechanics work like this: The House amended and passed an unrelated bill that was already approved by both chambers of Congress, combining Democrats’ voting proposals into one bill. Because that bill already passed both chambers, it can be called for debate in the Senate with a simple majority, though Senate Republicans can still block a final vote to pass the measure.“Members of this chamber were elected to debate and vote, particularly on an issue as vital to the beating heart of democracy as this one,” Schumer said late Thursday.Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock questioned the wisdom of Manchin and Sinema’s reflexive pursuit of bipartisanship.“It can’t be the only important thing,” said Warnock, who is Georgia’s first Black senator. “Slavery was bipartisan. Jim Crow segregation was bipartisan. The denial of women’s suffrage was bipartisan.”___

President Biden all but concedes defeat on voting, election bills

KANSAS CITY (AP)—Distrust, misinformation and delays because of the holidays and bad weather have combined to produce what authorities say are alarmingly low COVID-19 vaccination rates in U.S. children ages 5 to 11.

As of Tuesday, just over 17% were fully vaccinated, more than two months after shots became available to the age group. While Vermont is at 48%, California is just shy of 19% and Mississippi is at only 5%.

Vaccinations among the elementary school set surged after the shots were introduced in the fall, but the numbers have crept up slowly since then, and omicron’s explosive spread appears to have had little effect.

The low rates are “very disturbing,” said Dr. Robert Murphy, executive director for the Institute for Global Health at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. “It’s just amazing.”

Parents who hesitate “are taking an enormous risk and continuing to fuel the pandemic,” Murphy said.

Hospitalizations of children under 18 with COVID-19 in the U.S. have climbed to their highest levels on record in the past few weeks. Many have other conditions made worse by COVID-19, though many aren’t sick enough to require intensive care.

The low vaccination rates and rising hospitalizations are “a gut punch, especially when we’ve been working so hard to keep these kids well,” said Dr. Natasha Burgert, a pediatrician in Overland Park, Kansas.

The vaccines have proved highly safe and effective at reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death.

Overall, 63% of Americans are fully vaccinated. Among children 12 to 17, the rate is 54%.

COVID-19 shots for young children have been authorized in at least 12 countries. In Canada, where Pfizer shots were cleared for ages 5 to 11 in November, just 2% are fully vaccinated.

Snowstorms, tornadoes and other heavy weather in December are believed to have slowed the pace of vaccination in the U.S., along with the busy holiday season. Also, some parents are distrustful because the vaccine is so new, and many have other concerns.

Chicago mother Kendra Shaw has resisted shots for her two school-age children, saying she worries about possible risks and isn’t convinced the benefits are worth it.

But this week, her 10-year-old daughter pleaded to get vaccinated so she wouldn’t miss school, and her soon-to-be 7-year-old son asked for his shots so he could have a big birthday party.

Shaw scheduled their first doses for Wednesday but said: “I’m really on the fence.”

Daniel Kotzin, of Denver, said he is convinced he made the right decision not to vaccinate his 5-year-old daughter and 7-year-old son because most omicron cases seem to be mild.

“They are essentially at no risk of harm, so I really don’t understand the reason to vaccinate them,” he said.

Doctors say that kind of thinking is misguided and part of the problem.

“It’s true, kids in general do better than adults with COVID,” said Dr. Elizabeth Murray, a pediatric emergency medicine physician in Rochester, New York, and a spokeswoman for the American Academy of Pediatrics, “but ‘not too sick’ still can mean miserable with fevers and muscle aches for a week. It can also mean MIS-C or long COVID.”

MIS-C, or multisystem inflammatory syndrome, is a rare but serious condition linked to COVID-19 that can affect many organs and typically requires hospitalization.

Authorities don’t think omicron is making children and adults more seriously ill than other variants, and say hospitalization rates are up partly because it is so much more contagious.

Some children have been admitted for conditions such as lung disease, diabetes and sickle cell disease that have worsened because of an omicron infection, doctors say.

Dr. Jesse Hackell, a pediatrician in Pomona, New York, said that at least 25% of his patients ages 5 to 11 are vaccinated, but that after an initial rush in the fall, the numbers have dwindled.

“It’s a tough sell,” he said. “We’re not ready” is a common comment, Hackell said. “When I ask, ‘What are you waiting for?’ I get kind of a shrug. I’ve had a few say, ’We’re not going to be the first million. We’ll wait to see what happens.”’

A frustrated Hackell said the government’s vaccination campaign is clearly struggling against misinformation and “pseudoscience,” the likes of which he has never seen before in his 40-plus years as a pediatrician.

He said the government needs to get tough and mandate the shots.

“If we could get every kid vaccinated across the board, it would go a long way. It wouldn’t end the pandemic, but it would end the severe disease,” Hackell said. “It could help turn the virus into nothing more serious than the common cold, and we can deal with that.’’

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642082002561.png" alt="COVID vaccination by county across the U.S. Some states may appear to have a lower percentage of vaccination coverage when viewed by county because &gt; 25% of their vaccination reports are missing or the state does not report. -CDC image" />
 <figcaption>COVID vaccination by county across the U.S. Some states may appear to have a lower percentage of vaccination coverage when viewed by county because &gt; 25% of their vaccination reports are missing or the state does not report. -CDC image</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP)—Distrust, misinformation and delays because of the holidays and bad weather have combined to produce what authorities say are alarmingly low COVID-19 vaccination rates in U.S. children ages 5 to 11.As of Tuesday, just over 17% were fully vaccinated, more than two months after shots became available to the age group. While Vermont is at 48%, California is just shy of 19% and Mississippi is at only 5%.Vaccinations among the elementary school set surged after the shots were introduced in the fall, but the numbers have crept up slowly since then, and omicron’s explosive spread appears to have had little effect.The low rates are “very disturbing,” said Dr. Robert Murphy, executive director for the Institute for Global Health at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. “It’s just amazing.”Parents who hesitate “are taking an enormous risk and continuing to fuel the pandemic,” Murphy said.Hospitalizations of children under 18 with COVID-19 in the U.S. have climbed to their highest levels on record in the past few weeks. Many have other conditions made worse by COVID-19, though many aren’t sick enough to require intensive care.The low vaccination rates and rising hospitalizations are “a gut punch, especially when we’ve been working so hard to keep these kids well,” said Dr. Natasha Burgert, a pediatrician in Overland Park, Kansas.The vaccines have proved highly safe and effective at reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death.Overall, 63% of Americans are fully vaccinated. Among children 12 to 17, the rate is 54%.COVID-19 shots for young children have been authorized in at least 12 countries. In Canada, where Pfizer shots were cleared for ages 5 to 11 in November, just 2% are fully vaccinated.Snowstorms, tornadoes and other heavy weather in December are believed to have slowed the pace of vaccination in the U.S., along with the busy holiday season. Also, some parents are distrustful because the vaccine is so new, and many have other concerns.Chicago mother Kendra Shaw has resisted shots for her two school-age children, saying she worries about possible risks and isn’t convinced the benefits are worth it.But this week, her 10-year-old daughter pleaded to get vaccinated so she wouldn’t miss school, and her soon-to-be 7-year-old son asked for his shots so he could have a big birthday party.Shaw scheduled their first doses for Wednesday but said: “I’m really on the fence.”Daniel Kotzin, of Denver, said he is convinced he made the right decision not to vaccinate his 5-year-old daughter and 7-year-old son because most omicron cases seem to be mild.“They are essentially at no risk of harm, so I really don’t understand the reason to vaccinate them,” he said.Doctors say that kind of thinking is misguided and part of the problem.“It’s true, kids in general do better than adults with COVID,” said Dr. Elizabeth Murray, a pediatric emergency medicine physician in Rochester, New York, and a spokeswoman for the American Academy of Pediatrics, “but ‘not too sick’ still can mean miserable with fevers and muscle aches for a week. It can also mean MIS-C or long COVID.”MIS-C, or multisystem inflammatory syndrome, is a rare but serious condition linked to COVID-19 that can affect many organs and typically requires hospitalization.Authorities don’t think omicron is making children and adults more seriously ill than other variants, and say hospitalization rates are up partly because it is so much more contagious.Some children have been admitted for conditions such as lung disease, diabetes and sickle cell disease that have worsened because of an omicron infection, doctors say.Dr. Jesse Hackell, a pediatrician in Pomona, New York, said that at least 25% of his patients ages 5 to 11 are vaccinated, but that after an initial rush in the fall, the numbers have dwindled.“It’s a tough sell,” he said. “We’re not ready” is a common comment, Hackell said. “When I ask, ‘What are you waiting for?’ I get kind of a shrug. I’ve had a few say, ’We’re not going to be the first million. We’ll wait to see what happens.”’A frustrated Hackell said the government’s vaccination campaign is clearly struggling against misinformation and “pseudoscience,” the likes of which he has never seen before in his 40-plus years as a pediatrician.He said the government needs to get tough and mandate the shots.“If we could get every kid vaccinated across the board, it would go a long way. It wouldn’t end the pandemic, but it would end the severe disease,” Hackell said. “It could help turn the virus into nothing more serious than the common cold, and we can deal with that.’’

Kids' low COVID-19 vaccination rates are 'very disturbing'

WASHINGTON — The IRS today announced the availability of Free File, 
providing taxpayers online tax preparation products available at no 
charge. Today's launch of <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">IRS Free File</a>,
 available only through IRS.gov, provides people an early opportunity to
 file their taxes and claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, the 
enhanced Child Tax Credit, the Earned Income Tax Credit, and other 
important credits. Taxpayers can use Free File to claim the remaining 
amount of their Child Tax Credit and claim any advance payments of the 
Child Tax Credit they did not receive in 2021.

Leading tax software providers make their online products available 
for free as part of a 20-year partnership with the Internal Revenue 
Service. This year, there are eight products in English and two in 
Spanish. IRS Free File is available to any person or family who earned 
$73,000 or less in 2021.

"Free File is part of a wide selection of services available on 
IRS.gov to help people file taxes during this challenging period," said 
IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. "IRS Free File offers taxpayers an easy, 
free way to do their taxes from the safety of their own home. Free File 
also provides electronic filing with direct deposit, which is the best 
way to avoid delays and receive refunds quickly and securely."

Because the filing season starts on January 24, 2022, IRS Free File 
providers will accept completed tax returns and hold them until they can
 be filed electronically on that date. The Free File Fillable Forms, the
 electronic version of IRS paper forms, will be available on January 24,
 2022. Free File Fillable Forms is available for use by everyone, 
regardless of income, but should be used only by people who are 
comfortable preparing their own taxes.

Other important information related to the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/2022-tax-filing-season-begins-jan-24-irs-outlines-refund-timing-and-what-to-expect-in-advance-of-april-18-tax-deadline">January 24 start of tax season</a> is available on IRS.gov, including <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/get-ready-for-taxes-bookmark-irsgov-resources-and-online-tools-to-use-before-during-and-after-filing">important filing tips</a>.

Each IRS Free File provider sets its own eligibility rules for 
products based on age, income, and state residency. However, for those 
who make $73,000 or less, they will find at least one product that 
matches their needs, and usually more. Some providers also offer free 
state income tax return preparation. [Some state tax benefits, such as 
state Earned Income Tax Credits, are based on information contained on 
the taxpayer's federal income tax return. Taxpayers are encouraged to 
check with their <a href="https://www.taxadmin.org/state-tax-agencies">state tax agency</a>
 about state tax benefits and requirements to file a state income tax 
return.] Active-duty military can use any IRS Free File product if their
 income was $73,000 or less.

Here's a step-by-step overview of how to find the right Free File product:

No computer? No problem. Taxpayers can complete and file their 
tax return using IRS Free File products through smart phones or tablets.

Child Tax Credit, 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit and other tax benefits

IRS Free File is all taxpayers need to claim the Child Tax Credit 
(CTC), 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, and other tax benefits such as the 
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

The IRS also continues to urge people who received one or more 
advance Child Tax Credit payments in 2021 to carefully review their 
taxes before filing. Families who received advance payments will need to
 compare the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/2021-child-tax-credit-and-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-topic-h-reconciling-your-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-on-your-2021-tax-return">advance Child Tax Credit payments</a>
 they received in 2021 with the amount of the Child Tax Credit they can 
properly claim on their 2021 tax return. To help taxpayers who received 
an advance Child Tax Credit payment, the IRS started sending Letter 
6419, 2021 Advance CTC, in late December 2021.

The letter contains important information on advance Child Tax Credit
 payments that can help ensure the tax return is accurate. People who 
received the advance CTC payments can also check the amount of their 
payments by using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-update-portal">CTC Update Portal</a> available on IRS.gov.

In late January, the IRS will begin sending Letter 6475, Your Third 
Economic Impact Payment, to individuals who received a third stimulus 
payment in 2021, including initial and "plus-up" payments. While most 
eligible people already received their Economic Impact Payments, or 
stimulus payments, this letter will help them determine if they are 
eligible to claim the 2021 <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit">Recovery Rebate Credit</a> for missing stimulus payments. If so, they must file a 2021 tax return to claim this credit. People can also use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/your-online-account">IRS online account</a> to view both payment amounts.

IRS Free File also can be used by workers to claim the EITC, which 
provides a refundable tax credit based on a filer's income and family 
size.

Please remember that unemployment benefits paid by states are taxable
 income. States should send Forms 1099-G to those who received jobless 
benefits.

For 2022, these providers are participating in IRS Free File:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The IRS today announced the availability of Free File, 
providing taxpayers online tax preparation products available at no 
charge. Today's launch of <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">IRS Free File</a>,
 available only through IRS.gov, provides people an early opportunity to
 file their taxes and claim the 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, the 
enhanced Child Tax Credit, the Earned Income Tax Credit, and other 
important credits. Taxpayers can use Free File to claim the remaining 
amount of their Child Tax Credit and claim any advance payments of the 
Child Tax Credit they did not receive in 2021.Leading tax software providers make their online products available 
for free as part of a 20-year partnership with the Internal Revenue 
Service. This year, there are eight products in English and two in 
Spanish. IRS Free File is available to any person or family who earned 
$73,000 or less in 2021."Free File is part of a wide selection of services available on 
IRS.gov to help people file taxes during this challenging period," said 
IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. "IRS Free File offers taxpayers an easy, 
free way to do their taxes from the safety of their own home. Free File 
also provides electronic filing with direct deposit, which is the best 
way to avoid delays and receive refunds quickly and securely."Because the filing season starts on January 24, 2022, IRS Free File 
providers will accept completed tax returns and hold them until they can
 be filed electronically on that date. The Free File Fillable Forms, the
 electronic version of IRS paper forms, will be available on January 24,
 2022. Free File Fillable Forms is available for use by everyone, 
regardless of income, but should be used only by people who are 
comfortable preparing their own taxes.Other important information related to the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/2022-tax-filing-season-begins-jan-24-irs-outlines-refund-timing-and-what-to-expect-in-advance-of-april-18-tax-deadline">January 24 start of tax season</a> is available on IRS.gov, including <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/get-ready-for-taxes-bookmark-irsgov-resources-and-online-tools-to-use-before-during-and-after-filing">important filing tips</a>.<h2>How IRS Free File works</h2>Each IRS Free File provider sets its own eligibility rules for 
products based on age, income, and state residency. However, for those 
who make $73,000 or less, they will find at least one product that 
matches their needs, and usually more. Some providers also offer free 
state income tax return preparation. [Some state tax benefits, such as 
state Earned Income Tax Credits, are based on information contained on 
the taxpayer's federal income tax return. Taxpayers are encouraged to 
check with their <a href="https://www.taxadmin.org/state-tax-agencies">state tax agency</a>
 about state tax benefits and requirements to file a state income tax 
return.] Active-duty military can use any IRS Free File product if their
 income was $73,000 or less.Here's a step-by-step overview of how to find the right Free File product:<ol>
 <li>Go to <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">IRS.gov/freefile</a>.</li><li>Use the "Free File Online Look up" tool for help in finding the right product, or</li><li>Review each offer by a provider using the "Browse All Offers" tool.</li><li>Select a product.</li><li>Follow links to the provider's website to begin a tax return.</li>
 </ol>No computer? No problem. Taxpayers can complete and file their 
tax return using IRS Free File products through smart phones or tablets.<h2>Child Tax Credit, 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit and other tax benefits</h2>IRS Free File is all taxpayers need to claim the Child Tax Credit 
(CTC), 2021 Recovery Rebate Credit, and other tax benefits such as the 
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).The IRS also continues to urge people who received one or more 
advance Child Tax Credit payments in 2021 to carefully review their 
taxes before filing. Families who received advance payments will need to
 compare the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/2021-child-tax-credit-and-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-topic-h-reconciling-your-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-on-your-2021-tax-return">advance Child Tax Credit payments</a>
 they received in 2021 with the amount of the Child Tax Credit they can 
properly claim on their 2021 tax return. To help taxpayers who received 
an advance Child Tax Credit payment, the IRS started sending Letter 
6419, 2021 Advance CTC, in late December 2021.The letter contains important information on advance Child Tax Credit
 payments that can help ensure the tax return is accurate. People who 
received the advance CTC payments can also check the amount of their 
payments by using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-update-portal">CTC Update Portal</a> available on IRS.gov.In late January, the IRS will begin sending Letter 6475, Your Third 
Economic Impact Payment, to individuals who received a third stimulus 
payment in 2021, including initial and "plus-up" payments. While most 
eligible people already received their Economic Impact Payments, or 
stimulus payments, this letter will help them determine if they are 
eligible to claim the 2021 <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit">Recovery Rebate Credit</a> for missing stimulus payments. If so, they must file a 2021 tax return to claim this credit. People can also use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/your-online-account">IRS online account</a> to view both payment amounts.IRS Free File also can be used by workers to claim the EITC, which 
provides a refundable tax credit based on a filer's income and family 
size.Please remember that unemployment benefits paid by states are taxable
 income. States should send Forms 1099-G to those who received jobless 
benefits.<h2>IRS Free File participants</h2>For 2022, these providers are participating in IRS Free File:<ul>
 <li>1040Now.NET</li><li>ezTaxReturn.com (available in Spanish)</li><li>FreeTaxReturn.com INC</li><li>FileYourTaxes.com</li><li>On-Line Taxes at OLT.com</li><li>TaxAct</li><li>FreeTaxUSA ®</li><li>TaxSlayer (coming soon in Spanish)</li>
 </ul>

IRS Free File now available; filers can claim important tax benefits

DECATUR COUNTY —Two people died in separate accidents Thursday evening in Northwest Kansas.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported that just after 7p.m., a 2003 Chevy Tahoe driven by Robert L. Papp, 54, Jennings, was northbound on 2400 Road just north of Jennings.

The driver lost control of the SUV. It rolled several times and the driver was ejected. Papp was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Pauls Funeral Home. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

At 7:20p.m., a Pontiac Grand Am driven by Barbara J. Herrington, 77, Brush, Colorado, was southbound on U.S 161 just north of S Road in Cheyenne County.

The vehicle veered left, traveled off the road and rolled.&nbsp; Herrington was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Knodel Funeral Home. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

DECATUR COUNTY —Two people died in separate accidents Thursday evening in Northwest Kansas.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported that just after 7p.m., a 2003 Chevy Tahoe driven by Robert L. Papp, 54, Jennings, was northbound on 2400 Road just north of Jennings.The driver lost control of the SUV. It rolled several times and the driver was ejected. Papp was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Pauls Funeral Home. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.At 7:20p.m., a Pontiac Grand Am driven by Barbara J. Herrington, 77, Brush, Colorado, was southbound on U.S 161 just north of S Road in Cheyenne County.The vehicle veered left, traveled off the road and rolled.&nbsp; Herrington was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Knodel Funeral Home. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.