~~ Also signs legislation to increase access to higher education for government veterans ~~
Topeka – Signed by Governor Laura Kelly Senate Bill 66, a bipartisan bill that would allow Kansas to participate in the Interstate Teacher Movement Agreement, making it easier for educators within the multistate agreement to move and work in Kansas. The measure also expands scholarship opportunities in Kansas studying to become a teacher.
“Teacher shortages were a national challenge, but they were particularly acute in rural communities.” Governor Laura Kelly said:. “This bill addresses the teacher shortage here in Kansas by helping fill vacancies with talented educators who want to relocate to Kansas. It’s good for a growing economy.”
“I am very proud that Governor Kerry signed SB 66 into law.” Kansas Senate Sixth District Senator Pat Petty said: “This bipartisan law maintains the existing state-based licensing system while creating an alternative path to licensing for teachers traveling in and out of compact states. Not only does it create a more streamlined regulatory framework, it also speeds up the transfer application process for licensees, reduces the time and resources spent by licensing agencies, and adds another tool to the State Board of Education’s licensing toolbox. will be
In addition to Senate Bill 66, Governor Kerry signed Senate Bill 123This expands the workforce of Kansas educators by expanding the Promise Scholarship program to students pursuing primary and secondary education degrees. The bill also creates the Adult Learners Grant Act, a grant for adult learners who pursue specific areas of study. It will also create incentive programs to help schools support students in their pursuit of career and technical education, and help veterans and their families qualify for in-state tuition.
“Investing in education at all levels is good for the economy as well as the students.” said Governor Laura Kelly. “As the daughter of a career Army officer, I am pleased with the steps this bill has taken to make college more affordable for our military heroes and their dependents. This bill is here in Kansas. We keep our workforce strong by investing in students who seek to pursue a degree, career, or technical education in our state.”
“I was a military kid myself, so I knew the pain of having to move out of a school district that I fell in love with.” Senator Jeff Pittman said. “Military dependents make daily sacrifices, experiencing fear and distinct challenges as a result of their parents serving our country. I am one of two sponsors of SB 123, formerly stationed in Kansas, but then deployed elsewhere. We are proud to offer in-state college tuition to military dependents, and to a community that sacrifices so much, this is a small way for Kansas to say “welcome back.” ”
“We must use all available resources to ensure that students at all levels have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.” Kansas Board of Regents member Cynthia Lane said: “This bill will open the door to students pursuing higher education, whether at a four-year institution, community college, or vocational school, and remove barriers to success. We thank Governor Kerry and the Legislature for their cooperation on this matter.”
Governor Kerry also signed three other bipartisan bills into law.
Senate Bill 132: Provides a unique license plate for Buffalo Soldiers.
Senate Bill 189: Applicants seeking employment in law enforcement must disclose previous employment records that include misconduct.
Representatives on Senate Bill 116: Eliminate concealed handgun carrying licensing fees and barriers to concealed carrying safety training.
Governor Kerry also vetoed Senators replacing Senate Bill 26, Senate Bill 180, Senate Bill 228, and House Bill 2138. This veto came after certain discriminatory and federally non-compliant provisions were added to SB 228 and S Sub HB 2138.
The following veto messages are from Gov. Kerry regarding her vetoes on behalf of Senators on Senate Bill 26, Senate Bill 180, Senate Bill 228, and House Bill 2138.
“The company has made it clear that it is not interested in doing business with a state that discriminates against workers and their families. These bills will break economic records and undermine our ability to continue to win new business deals.
“I’m focused on the economy. Anyone want to join me?”
“Under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I veto Senate Bill 26, Senate Bill 180, Senate Bill 228, and House Bill 2138.”
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