By Dewey Terrill
JC Post
Issues ranging from federal debt to state education funding and a proposed state military tax bill allowing a property tax rebate for disabled veterans were on the minds of elected officials attending a Chamber of Commerce Legislative Coffee in Junction City on Saturday.
Derek Schmidt, 2nd District Congressman, is serving his first term in the U.S.House. Schmidt stated he does not forsee substantial federal tax cuts. "If we do they'll be on things the President talked about in the campaign, tax on tips, tax on domestic car interest."
Schmidt referred to what he calls the three I's...legal immigration at the border, inflation and intrusion of big government into our lives. "The area we've made the most progress is on the border so far."
Shawn Chauncey, 65th District State Representative, explained that in Topeks they're trying to ensure education is fully funded and has been this year. Work is still being done on special education funding. It has not been voted on yet, but Chauncey also referred to a military tax bill that would allow 100% of disabled veterans to receive a propery tax rebate. Legislators are trying to reduce property taxes as they try to figure out how to bring military back to the state or keep them here in Kansas.
Mike Argabright, 17th District State Senator, addressed proposed Senate Bill 4 which would require the return of advance voting ballots by 7 p.m. the day of the election. The senator noted that mail is a problem and he supported keeping the election day the election day. Argabright touched on a measure requiring any flashing light along the side of the road to be treated like it's an emergency vehicle.
Dr. Beryl New, State Board of Education member, discussed federal changes in funding and how they impact students with special needs.
The Legislative Coffee was held at Blu Restarant. Numerous questions from the public received discusssion during the event.