HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Business expansion, downtown redevelopment, golf course improvements and neighborhood safety were all on the agenda Monday night as the Hutchinson City Council approved or advanced several measures aimed at strengthening the local economy and improving quality of life across the community.

From authorizing industrial revenue bonds for a long-time employer to setting hearings on a proposed downtown financing district and deteriorating homes, council members described the actions as strategic investments and housekeeping steps designed to support growth while protecting neighborhoods.

IRBs approved for SDI expansion, 50+ jobs expected

The council unanimously approved issuing up to $2 million in taxable industrial revenue bonds (IRBs) for Sales Data, Inc. to help finance a 101,754-square-foot expansion of its south Hutchinson facility.

SDI supplies and services point-of-sale systems for more than 2,700 McDonald’s restaurants nationwide and has operated locally since 1976.

City and Greater Hutch officials said the expansion will:

SDI currently employs roughly 120–130 people locally with about $6 million in annual payroll. Officials noted most of the company’s revenue comes from outside Kansas, bringing new dollars into the Hutchinson economy.

“This is revenue that is being brought into Hutchinson and infusing our local economy,” said Lauren Storm with Greater Hutch.

Finance Director Angela Richard emphasized the IRBs do not use city tax dollars or create city debt.

“The city will not be responsible for any expenses related to issuing the bonds, and no city funds will be used,” Richard said.

A Kansas Department of Commerce cost-benefit analysis found the project’s long-term economic return would outweigh the temporary incentives, with projections showing the city’s investment recouped within about four years.

During the hearing, some residents questioned whether a successful private company should receive incentives and suggested SDI seek private financing.

Council members responded that IRBs are not direct public funding and are a long-standing economic development tool available to qualifying businesses statewide.

“This is not public money,” one council member said. “It’s a tool that helps companies grow and create jobs here rather than somewhere else.”

SDI co-owner Jerry Boone said the company chose to expand locally rather than in larger metro areas.

“We could grow in Chicago or Denver, but we choose to grow here,” Boone said. “The workforce here cares a little more.”

Landmark CID hearing set for downtown project

The council also voted to set a March 3 public hearing on a proposed Landmark Community Improvement District (CID) requested by Landmark LLC for a downtown property.

Monday’s vote only schedules the hearing and does not approve the district.

If later approved, a CID can allow;&nbsp;An additional sales tax within the district, or special property assessments.

Revenue generated inside the district must be used solely for improvements within that area, such as renovations or infrastructure upgrades. Costs are paid by customers or properties inside the boundary, rather than citywide taxpayers.

Council members characterized the step as procedural, with no formal details presented yet.

Golf course bonds reduced, improvements move forward

Council members also approved a scaled-back general obligation bond authorization of up to $428,000 to complete improvements at the municipal golf course.

Originally, staff proposed bonding roughly $840,000. However, unused funds from a past Orchard Park project were identified to offset costs, cutting the borrowing amount nearly in half.

Parks and Facilities Director Justin Combs said the city is about 70% complete with upgrades to holes 15 and 16, including:

“If we stopped today, we’d still owe the contractor for the work already completed and would be left with an unfinished hole,” Combs said.

Officials warned that operating with fewer than 18 holes could reduce revenue and jeopardize tournaments. The course generated about $847,000 last year and currently covers roughly 75–77% of its operating costs through user fees.

Council members described the action as finishing a project already budgeted rather than launching new spending.

“These are quality-of-life services for the community,” one member said.

April hearing scheduled for five unsafe homes

Finally, the council set an April 7 public hearing to address five residential properties city staff say may qualify as unsafe or condemned structures.

Building Official Jason Lovelady called them among the “worst of the worst” in the city’s backlog of abandoned homes.

Issues cited include boarded openings, code violations, lack of utilities, delinquent taxes and extended vacancy.

The hearing will allow owners to respond and the council to decide whether repairs or demolition are required. If owners fail to act, the city can remove the structures and place costs as a lien on the property.

Officials said removing dangerous buildings helps reduce fire risks, crime and declining property values.

“These are the ones that rise to the top because of how unsafe they’ve become,” Lovelady said.

Hutchinson City Council approves IRB's, sets date for CID hearing

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advanced American farmers and equipment owners’ lawful right to repair their farm and other nonroad diesel equipment. EPA’s guidance to manufacturers clarifies that the Clean Air Act (CAA) supports, rather than restricts, Americans’ ability to make repairs on their own, and makes clear manufacturers can no longer use the CAA to justify limiting access to repair tools or software. For America’s farmers, timely and affordable repairs are essential to planting, harvesting, and keeping operations running.

“EPA is proud to set the record straight and protect farmers. For far too long, manufacturers have wrongly used the Clean Air Act to monopolize the repair markets, hurting our&nbsp;farmers,” said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. “Common sense is following the law as it is written, and that is what the Trump EPA is committed to doing. By protecting every American’s right to repair, we’re not just fixing devices, we’re securing a stronger, more independent future for our country.”

“This is another win for American farmers and ranchers by the Trump Administration. By clarifying manufacturers can no longer use the Clean Air Act to justify limiting access to repair tools or software, we are reaffirming&nbsp;the lawful right of American farmers and equipment owners to repair their farm equipment,”&nbsp;said Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “Thank you, Administrator Zeldin, for continuing to put farmers first. This is expected to save our farmers thousands in unnecessary repairs, saving much needed funds after Bidenflation drove up equipment costs on average 45%.”

“EPA’s guidance affirming the Right to Repair will save our agricultural communities thousands of dollars by eliminating corporate middlemen and empowering farmers to fix their own equipment,”&nbsp;said Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler.&nbsp;“The Clean Air Act has long crushed family farmers across America – but under the Trump Administration, they are finally getting the regulatory relief to break free from burdensome Green New Scam rules and focus on the vital job of feeding, clothing, and fueling America and the world.”

For years, prominent equipment manufacturers have interpreted the CAA’s emission control anti-tampering provisions as preventing them from making essential repair tools available to all Americans. This has forced farmers to take their equipment exclusively to manufacturer-authorized dealers to be fixed, even though the repair could have been made in the field or at a nearby independent repair shop. Not only has this made repairs more costly, but it has also caused many farmers to&nbsp;opt for&nbsp;older agricultural equipment that lack modern emission controls simply because they can fix that equipment themselves.

<a href="https://dis.epa.gov/otaqpub/display_file.jsp?docid=64859&amp;flag=1">Click here to read the EPA's guidance.&nbsp;</a>

EPA’s guidance does not change the law, weaken emission standards, or reduce compliance obligations. Rather, it clarifies what the CAA already states, that temporary overrides of emission control systems are allowed when it is for the “purpose of repair” to that equipment to obtain proper functionality. This clarification applies to all nonroad diesel engines equipped with advanced emission control technologies including selective catalytic reduction and inducement systems as well as Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) system repairs. Importantly, farmers and equipment owners are not required to rely on authorized dealers exclusively to fix equipment. This makes clear that the law should not serve as a barrier to timely, affordable maintenance of agricultural equipment.

Monday's action will not only expand consumer choice and provide opportunities for farmers but also encourage the use of newer farm equipment. This underscores the agency’s commitment to both America’s farmers and EPA’s core mission of protecting human health and the environment.

EPA advances farmers’ right to repair

Parents of future preschool and kindergarten students in Buhler USD 313 are encouraged to mark their calendars for upcoming application clinics designed to help families prepare for the 2026–27 school year.

District officials say the clinics allow staff to accurately plan classroom space, staffing and resources while making the enrollment process easier for parents.

Families may attend any of the scheduled dates and locations, regardless of which school their child will attend. Teachers and office staff will ensure enrollment information is forwarded to the correct building.

District leaders noted that current Buhler preschool students who will turn 5 before Sept. 1 and are moving on to kindergarten do not need to attend. Enrollment paperwork will be sent home with those students.

Additional details about preschool and wraparound care programs are available on the district website at <a href="http://USD313.org.">USD313.org.</a>

School officials say early registration helps ensure a smooth start to the school year for students, families and staff alike.

USD 313 schedules Preschool and Kindergarten application clinics

A familiar face in the classroom and on the sidelines is being recognized for making an early impact at Trinity Catholic School.

Isaac Miller has received the St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Award for Outstanding New Teacher in the Diocese of Wichita, an honor presented during Catholic Schools Week to celebrate excellence among early-career educators.

Now in his second year at Trinity Catholic, Miller teaches English at both the junior high and high school levels. In addition to his classroom responsibilities, he also serves as a coach for football, track, and forensics, giving students opportunities to grow both academically and through extracurricular activities.

School leaders say Miller’s commitment to students inside and outside the classroom has quickly made him a valued member of the Trinity Catholic community. His involvement across multiple programs reflects the school’s emphasis on mentorship, leadership, and well-rounded student development.

The St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Award recognizes new teachers across the Diocese who demonstrate dedication, faith-centered service, and a strong impact on their school communities.

Trinity Catholic officials say they feel fortunate to have Miller on staff and congratulate him on the well-deserved honor.

Trinity teacher recognized as outstanding new teacher

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United Way Reaches Campaign Goal to Support Reno County Programs

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — United Way of Reno County is proud to announce it has met its 2025-26 campaign goal of raising $1.35 million, ensuring continued support for 37 local nonprofit programs serving Reno County residents in the year ahead.

Reaching this milestone was truly a community effort, made possible by donations of every size fromlong-time supporters to first-time givers. Contributions came in many forms—from direct checks and cash gifts to employee payroll deductions and business support—reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening Reno County.

“This achievement belongs to our entire community,” said UWRC CEO, Lacey Mills. “Because people chose to give in ways that were meaningful to them, and because they trust UWRC to invest their gift back into this community, we can continue supporting local programs which serve residents at every stage of life and meet a variety of needs.”

Meeting the campaign goal means local organizations can continue providing vital services to local residents, addressing needs across the entire lifespan—from newborns receiving free therapy services in their homes to end-of-life care being available on a sliding scale. Through these 37 funded programs, United Way of Reno County and its donors will help touch the lives of approximately 19,000 people, representing 1-in-4 Reno County neighbors.

“This goal was reached because our community said yes—to giving, to connection, and to taking action,” said Campaign Co-Chairs, Rion and Darcy Rhoades. “We’re proud to have helped champion this work, which will create real, long-lasting impact across Reno County.”

United Way of Reno County would like to extend sincere gratitude to every donor, volunteer, workplace partner, and business who helped make this impact possible. Together, their generosity ensures that local solutions remain available for local people—today and throughout the coming year.

United Way of Reno County reaches campaign goal

One of Cancer Council of Reno County’s biggest traditions is also its biggest lifeline.

The Reno Roundup fundraiser returns Feb. 21 to the Reno County Fairgrounds, marking the event’s 30th anniversary and bringing with it a sold-out crowd, a throwback casino theme and a renewed focus on helping neighbors facing cancer.

“We’re really excited,” said Katie Brown the Director of Development for the Cancer Council of Reno County “This is our biggest fundraiser of the year, but it’s more than just raising money. It’s about creating a sense of community and connecting our neighbors, patients and families.”

Nearly 860 attendees are expected for the evening event, which has grown from humble beginnings into one of the largest annual fundraisers in Reno County.

From kitchen table to countywide impact

Cancer Council leaders say the Roundup actually predates the organization itself. The event began in the late 1990s benefiting the American Cancer Society’s local chapter before community leaders formed the Cancer Council to keep more of the money raised local.

“Cancer Council started around a kitchen table in 1998,” Brown said. “The goal was to make sure funds raised here stayed here.”

Today, every dollar raised supports local patients directly through financial and emotional assistance.

Ashley Thompson, patient care director, works one-on-one with more than 360 patients and families across the county.

“We try to fill the gaps that insurance doesn’t cover — those unexpected out-of-pocket costs,” Thompson said. “From medication co-pays and prosthetics to rent and utility bills, we pivot with each patient because every cancer journey is different.”

Support doesn’t stop when treatment ends. Patients remain eligible for help for up to five years after diagnosis, including during remission and follow-up care.

“We recognize that even when there’s no evidence of disease, it’s not over,” Thompson said. “It’s still life-changing.”

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with food and drinks, followed by a program and live auction. This year’s “casino night” theme brings gaming tables where guests can win chips and trade them for chances at jackpot prizes.

A silent auction and raffle items will also be available, with online bidding opening the Monday before the event so even those not attending can participate.

Tickets and tables are sold out, but organizers say a wait list is available and raffle entries can be purchased online.

The event’s presenting sponsor, Midway Motors, is returning for its 11th year.

“We’re so thankful for their dedication,” Brown said. “Their support helps make all of this possible.”

In addition to financial assistance, the Cancer Council offers emotional support through monthly groups, including a women’s Hope Group and Cancer Connections for patients, caregivers and family members.

The nonprofit has also begun expanding into early detection efforts. Last year, it hosted a prostate cancer screening that drew more than 40 participants, with several requiring follow-up care. This year’s awareness focus will be colorectal cancer.

Organizers say the mission remains simple: take care of local people when they need it most.

“Everything we raise stays right here,” Brown said. “It’s your friends, your family, your neighbors. We’re completely funded by this community, and we’re just so grateful.”

Those interested in donating auction items, purchasing raffle tickets or making a direct contribution can find more information on the <a href="https://cancercouncilrenocounty.org/">Cancer Council of Reno County's website.</a>

Reno Roundup celebrates 30 years of supporting local cancer patients in Reno County

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. ——————————————

Hunter	Ray	Mcvey		2/3/2026 6:15&nbsp;AM	Failure to Appear

Obery	Lee	Logan	Sr	2/3/2026 6:39&nbsp;AM	Criminal Trespass; Defiance of Order,					Probation Violation

Curtis	Wayne	Mattox		2/3/2026 1:20&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation,					Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant,					Failure to Appear

Ashley	Nicole	Adkins		2/3/2026 3:35&nbsp;PM	Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant,					Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misdemeanor case, Execution of Misdemeanor Warrant,					Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body,					Poss of marijuana

Desie	Martez	Chatfield		2/3/2026 4:05&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation

Jeffrey	Jericho	Payne		2/3/2026 4:30&nbsp;PM	Dist. fentanyl dose 250 or more units;1000ft school,					Unlawful to acquire proceeds from drug transaction; Value &lt; $5,000,					Drugs; Arrange sale/purchase of controlled substance using a communication facility,					Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body,					Distribute heroin/certain stim/fentanyl; &lt; 1 gram,&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Distribute opiate/narc/stim; Dose &lt;10 1000 ft sch

Destin	Lucas	Pope		2/3/2026 6:08&nbsp;PM	Poss of THC,					Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body,					Pedestrian; Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs upon Roadway,					Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

Erik	Dale	Pettay		2/3/2026 6:09&nbsp;PM	Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misdemeanor case, Execution of Misdemeanor Warrant,					Possession of marijuana,					Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

Steven	Arthur	Wooten		2/3/2026 8:09&nbsp;PM	Drugs; Distribute Marijuana or Analog thereof; 25g to &lt; 450g,					Possession of Paraphernalia with Intent to Manufacture/Plant/Cultivate/Distribute Controlled Substance

Kristi	Jean	Taylor		2/3/2026 8:27&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Daily Bookings

Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt is backing new legislation aimed at helping Kansans set aside money for insurance costs through a state tax-advantaged savings option.

Schmidt testified this week in favor of House Bill 2430, which would establish an Insurance Savings Account, or ISA. The proposal, introduced by the Kansas Department of Insurance, would allow residents to save money tax-free at the state level to cover property and casualty insurance expenses such as home and auto premiums and deductibles.

“Insurance Savings Accounts are a sustainable way for Kansans to save state-tax free for their insurance costs,” Schmidt said. “As the legislature works to address affordability, they should include this tool for Kansas families.”

If approved, Kansas taxpayers could open an ISA through a financial institution and contribute up to a set annual limit based on their filing status. Funds in the account could then be used for qualified insurance expenses, including premiums and out-of-pocket deductibles. According to the department, a married couple contributing the maximum could save as much as $670 per year on their state taxes.

Supporters say the accounts would give families more flexibility and a dedicated way to budget for rising insurance costs, while providing tax relief.

The bill was heard by the Kansas House Committee on Taxation. It marks the second consecutive year the department has proposed similar ISA legislation.

Schmidt also highlighted the agency’s broader consumer protection efforts, noting the department has recovered more than $202 million for Kansas policyholders since she took office in 2019.

The full text of HB 2430 is available on the Kansas Legislature’s website.

Schmidt proposes law to help Kansans save on insurance costs

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">Click here for the KSStorm.info 7-day forecast.&nbsp;</a>

Three-day Outlook

KINGMAN COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Tuesday in Kingman County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Chevy Spark driven by Keibyn&nbsp;Mijares Mendoza, 20, Wichita, was westbound on U.S. 54 just east of K14.&nbsp; The car struck a deer that had already been struck and was laying in the roadway. The driver lost control of the ar. It traveled into the ditch north of the highway and came to rest on the passenger side.

EMS transported&nbsp;Mijares Mendoza and a passenger Caterine&nbsp;Quintero Romero, 24, Wichita, to the Kingman Healthcare Center. Both were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kan. couple hospitalized after car strikes a dead deer on the road

Washington&nbsp;– On Tuesday, President Trump signed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026," into law. The legislation advances several key healthcare priorities long championed by Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall.

“The legislation provides $418 million for rural health, strengthens our healthcare workforce, maintains critical funding for Community Health Centers, and extends telehealth and hospital-at-home flexibilities that Kansans rely on,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“It also invests in maternal and child health, mental health services, and life-saving medical research, while cutting over $100 million in unnecessary HHS bureaucracy.”

Senator Marshall also emphasized that Republicans stepped in to prevent Medicaid spending from continuing on an unsustainable trajectory that threatened the program’s future.&nbsp;

Prior proposals would have allowed unchecked growth, threatening long-term access for the most vulnerable. This package introduces responsible reforms that protect beneficiaries while ensuring Medicaid remains viable for future generations.

“Medicaid was on a path to bust – crowding out care for the truly vulnerable and burdening states and taxpayers,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“Republicans fought to protect this vital safety-net program by improving oversight, targeting resources appropriately, and ensuring Medicaid remains available for those who need it most today and for generations to come.”

Labor, Health and Human Services (L/HHS) Appropriations Highlights

The package provides a&nbsp;discretionary total of $116.6 billion&nbsp;for the Department of Health and Human Services while reducing unnecessary federal bureaucracy by&nbsp;over $100 million.

Senator Marshall championed several of the provisions included in the package. These include:

Health Extenders Package: Strengthening Medicaid and Medicare Medicaid Reforms

The package includes targeted reforms to Medicaid while improving access and accountability:

The legislation delivers long-term certainty for providers and expanded access for seniors by:

Public Health Extenders and Programs

The package extends and strengthens critical public health initiatives, including:

The package includes commonsense reforms to lower prescription drug costs and increase transparency for patients and taxpayers, including:

Senator Marshall delivers healthcare wins for Kansas in FY26 appropriations 

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — An ongoing battle between the attorney general and Kansas governor about releasing Kansans’ personal data to the federal government made its way to a Tuesday committee hearing on a bill intended to force the governor’s hand.

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb428/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 428</a>&nbsp;requires the secretary of the Department for Children and Families to respond to federal data requests from the U.S. Department of Agriculture of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and release the data within 90 days.&nbsp;

The bill results from the Department for Children and Family’s&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/09/22/kansas-governors-office-disputes-accuracy-of-kobachs-claims-about-snap-funding/">refusal to share private data&nbsp;</a>of food program applicants and recipients with the USDA, Attorney General Kris Kobach told the Senate Committee on Government Efficiency, or COGE.

“They don’t want the USDA to share the names of (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipients with other federal agencies,” Kobach said. “Now, why would they not want that? I’m almost certain they don’t want it to be shared with the Justice Department so that a SNAP recipient who is fraudulently getting this money could be prosecuted.”

Kobach also said the governor didn’t want the data shared because the Department of Homeland Security could use it to identify people in the country illegally who receive food assistance.&nbsp;

People who are legal permanent residents can qualify for SNAP.

Gov. Laura Kelly’s spokeswoman, Olivia Taylor-Puckett, said DCF has concerns about whether USDA’s stated intent on using the data is legal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The Governor’s administration has been repeatedly raising concerns about the legality of the USDA’s data request as it pertains to the ‘Routine Use 8′ provision, which includes sharing Kansans’ personal private data, including full Social Security numbers, with foreign entities,” she said in an emailed statement. “It is both disappointing and disturbing that the Attorney General still doesn’t know the basic issues with the USDA’s request.”

Taylor-Puckett’s statement referred to a USDA notice published in the Federal Register that detailed how the data would be used. One section allowed the information to be shared with foreign entities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas is one of 21 states, all of which are participants in a Massachusetts lawsuit, that question whether the USDA’s intended use of the data is allowed in their data sharing contract. The case is still being decided.&nbsp;

Kobach told the committee the state will lose $20.8 million as part of its SNAP program because DCF did not release the data. DCF appealed the penalty so no money has been withheld from state SNAP administrative funds.&nbsp;

A hearing on the state’s appeal will be held Feb. 17, a governor’s office spokesperson said.&nbsp;

Travis Couture-Lovelady, a lobbyist with FGA Action, testified in favor of the bill, citing concerns with the integrity of the SNAP program.&nbsp;

“The goal is simple — reserve benefits for truly needy families and hold the fraudsters accountable,” he said.

Couture-Lovelady said the food assistance program has been “plagued” with improper payments, eligibility errors and fraud, as well as large-scale losses to benefit card theft and hacking schemes.&nbsp;

“In 2024, as the attorney general said, that’s the most recent data we have, Kansas’ SNAP error rate was nearly 10%, meaning roughly one out of every $10 in benefits was issued improperly, and that level of error is completely unacceptable,” he said.&nbsp;

The state’s SNAP error rate is not tied to fraud but instead tracks data entry errors, incomplete or inaccurate applicant information and other problems,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/08/26/kansas-official-defends-refusal-to-turn-over-private-food-program-data-in-face-of-political-attacks/">according to DCF secretary Laura Howard</a>. Fraud cases are handled through a separate department and aren’t included in the SNAP error rate.&nbsp;

DCF is working to&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/01/22/kansas-agency-working-to-improve-accuracy-of-snap-payments-to-avoid-costly-federal-sanction/">drop the error rate</a>, which was under the 6% federally set threshold in August, at 5.5%.&nbsp;

Haley Kottler, an anti-hunger campaign director with Kansas Appleseed, submitted written testimony opposing the bill.&nbsp;

“This most recent conflict between 21 states and the federal government illustrates the extreme risk Kansas would be taking by enacting SB 428,” she said. “The provisions of this bill would not allow DCF and KDHE to contest federal data requests, despite the potential for serious concerns regarding privacy protection, the burden imposed on state resources and administrators, the misuse of data, liability, and compliance with eventual court decisions.”

She also raised concerns that threats to privacy would deter eligible households from seeking food assistance.&nbsp;

Proposed bill would require Kansas gov. to submit personal food assistance data to feds

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (AP) — A man convicted of trying&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-assassination-routh-guilty-c56e9dbdc640cfc377aa2267107697df">to assassinate President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;on a Florida golf course in 2024 was sentenced Wednesday to life in prison.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-classified-documents-smith-c66d5ffb7ba86c1b991f95e89bdeba0c">U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon</a>&nbsp;pronounced Ryan Routh’s fate in the same Fort Pierce courtroom that erupted into chaos in September when he tried to stab himself shortly after jurors&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-shooting-attempt-d49985a690e678a9ccbf3610c102704d">found him guilty</a>&nbsp;on all counts.

Prosecutors had asked for life without parole, saying Routh is unrepentant and has never apologized. A defense attorney brought in for his sentencing asked for 27 years, noting that Routh is already turning 60.

Routh also received a consecutive seven-year sentence for one of his gun convictions.

Routh's sentencing had initially been scheduled for December, but Cannon agreed to move the date back after Routh decided to use an attorney during the sentencing phase instead of representing himself as he did for most of the trial.

Prosecutors said in a sentencing memorandum that Routh has yet to accept any responsibility and should spend the rest of his life in prison, in accordance with federal sentencing guidelines. He was convicted of trying to assassinate a major presidential candidate, using a firearm in furtherance of a crime, assaulting a federal officer, possessing a firearm as a felon and using a gun with a defaced serial number.

“Routh remains unrepentant for his crimes, never apologized for the lives he put at risk, and his life demonstrates near-total disregard for law,” the memo said.

Routh's new defense attorney, Martin L. Roth, asked for a variance from sentencing guidelines: 20 years in prison on top of a seven-year, mandatory sentence for one of the gun convictions.

“The defendant is two weeks short of being sixty years old,” Roth wrote in a filing. “A just punishment would provide a sentence long enough to impose sufficient but not excessive punishment, and to allow defendant to experience freedom again as opposed to dying in prison.”

Prosecutors said Routh spent weeks plotting to kill Trump before aiming a rifle through shrubbery as the Republican presidential candidate played golf on Sept. 15, 2024, at his West Palm Beach country club.

At Routh’s trial, a Secret Service agent helping protect Trump on the golf course testified that he spotted Routh before Trump came into view. Routh aimed his rifle at the agent, who opened fire, causing Routh to drop his weapon and run away without firing a shot.

In the motion requesting an attorney, Routh offered to trade his life in a prisoner swap with people unjustly held in other countries, and said an offer still stood for Trump to “take out his frustrations on my face.”

“Just a quarter of an inch further back and we all would not have to deal with all of this mess forwards, but I always fail at everything (par for the course),” Routh wrote.

In her decision granting Routh an attorney, Cannon chastised the “disrespectful charade” of Routh's motion, saying it made a mockery of the proceedings. But the judge, nominated by Trump in 2020, said she wanted to err on the side of legal representation.

Cannon signed off last summer on Routh’s request to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-shooting-attempt-florida-644c71bc607e4ebad5115f2a490b314c">represent himself</a>&nbsp;at trial. The U.S. Supreme Court has held that criminal defendants have the right to represent themselves in court proceedings, as long as they can show a judge they are competent to waive their right to be defended by an attorney.

Routh’s former federal public defenders served as standby counsel and were present during the trial.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fbi-assassination-attempt-fee81d8bcf737bfcde2ee8e5cea88465">Routh had multiple previous felony convictions</a>&nbsp;including possession of stolen goods, and a large online footprint demonstrating his disdain for Trump. In a self-published book, he encouraged Iran to assassinate him, and at one point wrote that as a Trump voter, he must take part of the blame for electing him.

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (AP) — Federal prosecutors are seeking a sentence of life without parole for the man convicted of trying&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-assassination-routh-guilty-c56e9dbdc640cfc377aa2267107697df">to assassinate President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;on a Florida golf course in 2024.

Ryan Routh was scheduled to appear Wednesday before U. S. District Judge Aileen Cannon in Fort Pierce. Her courtroom erupted into chaos in September when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-shooting-attempt-d49985a690e678a9ccbf3610c102704d">Routh tried to stab</a>&nbsp;himself in the neck with a pen shortly after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-shooting-attempt-d49985a690e678a9ccbf3610c102704d">jurors found him guilty</a>&nbsp;on all counts.

Judge sentences President Trump's would-be assassin

LAS VEGAS (AP) — A suspected biolaboratory found in a Las Vegas home and now under investigation by authorities is linked to the owner of an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chinese-lab-biological-weapons-fears-california-5ca5824b09ad5b8c2c65b639743e8507">unauthorized California biolab</a>&nbsp;who was arrested in 2023, officials said Monday.

SWAT officers served a search warrant on Saturday after receiving a tip that a biolab was located at the house on the city’s east side, according to a statement from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Officers took one person, the property manager of the residence, into custody but there was no immediate information about possible charges.

Investigators “located evidence of possible biological material, including refrigerators containing vials with unknown liquids,” the statement said.

Authorities said there is no threat to the public.

Sheriff Kevin McMahill said the home is owned by a man who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/california-biolab-covid19-test-kits-china-arrest-3ee30af1548356e017276860ebb21f53">arrested in 2023 on charges</a>&nbsp;of not obtaining the proper permits to manufacture tests for COVID-19, pregnancy and HIV, and mislabeling some of the kits for a biolab in Reedley, California.

The owner, Jia Bei Zhu, is scheduled to go on trial in that case in April. His attorney Anthony Capozzi said Monday that his client has been in federal custody for three years.

“He is not involved in any kind of a biolab being conducted in a home in Las Vegas,” Capozzi said. “What went on in that residence we are unaware of.”

Law enforcement took special precautions when serving the warrant on the Las Vegas home, including using a robot to clear the home and taking multiple air samples, McMahill said. Hazmat teams worked to remove items from the home.

Police discover massive bio lab at a home in Nevada

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A suspect charged in connection with a violent abduction shown on a doorbell video in Wichita is due back in court.

 Daniel T. Espitia Guevara, 22, will appear Judge Tyler Roush's courtroom for a preliminary hearing, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Espitia Guevara was charged with&nbsp;aggravated domestic battery and misdemeanor counts of domestic battery and&nbsp; criminal restraint, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. He is also on an Immigration and Customs Enforcement hold.

The Wichita Police Department asked for the community’s help in identifying and locating a woman in a doorbell video who was seen being taken by force on October 12, at approximately 2 AM., in the 1400 block of North Volutsia in Wichita.

Just after 3p.m. October 14, Wichita Police Investigators received a phone call, from a woman claiming to be the individual investigators were attempting to identify. Investigators immediately responded to her location, made contact, and transported her to City Hall so detectives could conduct a victim interview. Police confirmed the identity of the woman as a 35-year-old who lives in the area where the video was captured. Police determined the incident is a case of domestic violence where the woman was victimized by her boyfriend. The woman did not have any significant injuries.

Just after 7 p.m. October 14, officers with the Wichita Police Domestic Intervention and Violence Reduction team (DIVRT) located and arrested Guevara and booked him into jail.

He remains in custody on a $75,000 bond, according to the district attorney's office.

Preliminary hearing for suspect in Kan. doorbell camera abduction video 

By DAVID A. LIEB, HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTH and MORGAN LEE Associated Press

With tensions high over federal&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/immigration">immigration</a>&nbsp;enforcement, some state and local officials are pushing back against the Trump administration's attempts to house thousands of detained immigrants in jails, converted warehouses and privately run facilities in their communities.

Federal officials have been scouting cities and counties across the U.S. for places to hold immigrants as they roll out a massive $45 billion&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-immigration-ice-deportation-budget-be983b14f60a5cdfc17af7cf0307f1c9">expansion of detention facilities</a>&nbsp;financed by President Donald Trump's recent tax-cutting law.

The fatal shootings of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-shooting-minneapolis-minnesota-9aa822670b705c89906f2c699f1d16c5">Renee Good</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-ice-b0cec9d1c5bae4b62469011775082300">Alex Pretti</a>&nbsp;by immigration enforcement officers in Minneapolis have amplified an already intense spotlight on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, increasing scrutiny of its plans for new detention sites.

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