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 </figure>The Kansas Legislature has adjourned until an undetermined future date, but leaders continue to navigate the current crisis brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.Kansas was quick to recognize the situation and we were one of the first states to shut down public gatherings and recommend residents restrict contact while others made light of the situation by heading to the beach for Spring Break, partying on Bourbon Street and ignoring stern warnings. The virus will escalate, but hopefully our diligence and holding each other accountable to stay quarantined will pay off. There will always be an opportunity to make money, but the value of good health is beyond measure. Elected officials will reduce spending on projects that are not critical to maintaining basic services. Ball games, festivals and events with historically large crowds will be cancelled. I have confidence those who serve on boards and commissions will stand strong and make the good choices. With declining tax revenue, this is the time to re-evaluate our priorities and invest accordingly. The best projects require the sweat equity of those who benefit. Now is the time to compromise and cooperate instead of playing party politics.New opportunities will evolve from this chaos and we need to be prepared to act on them. Tax laws will be revised and the “playing field” leveled as transparency reveals whose pay provides government dollars and who receives them. Manufacturing products in this country will be recognized as a good choice and we commend companies for their commitment to doing what’s best for everyone and not focus solely on investors. Americans who produce food, stock shelves, drive trucks and operate cash registers will be recognized as some of the most important people in the community.Health care will change to account for the millions of Americans who do not have insurance. Exercising costs less than surgery to remove weight, and living in a less populated area may be one of the healthiest choices one can make. Everyone can experience the satisfaction of helping maintain a park, beautifying a neighborhood, speaking a kind word or providing services to someone in need.The pandemic has brought on a reminder that painful lessons that were learned by previous generations will be taught again. We will use this time to regroup, refocus and move ahead using what we have learned. Our priorities will be measured with a different gauge.Change is difficult and painful, but easier to accept if we have a compassionate friend and neighbor. Kansans have provided leadership to get this country through tough times, and we will do so again. Now is the time to reach out together, for each other and to the stars through difficulties. Ad Astra Per Aspera. God will bless this state and it’s people. Be nice, stay positive and contact me with your questions and suggestions as we navigate the tumultuous days ahead. Dave

Baker's Briefs by 68th District State Representative Dave Baker