House and Senate Democrats today hosted a press conference and stated clearly their intent to help working and middle-class Kansans by unveiling several bills designed to do just that. In his opening remarks, House Minority Leader, Jim Ward acknowledged that these bills incur no additional cost to the state. This is very important in light of the push to pass a sensible, fair and comprehensive tax plan. CLICK HERE for more on the RISE UP KANSAS tax proposal.
One bill, to be co-sponsored by Representatives Crum and Stogsdill, seeks the restoration of due process rights for K-12 teachers. Due process protection affords teachers the right to advocate for their students without the fear of unfair reprisal while helping to attract great teachers to Kansas. The press conference was attended by dozens of working Kansans and labor organization members and representatives in a showing of support and solidarity. Like all bills, these have many steps to go through on their way to becoming law, but this is certainly an encouraging step.
CLICK HERE to read press coverage of today’s announcement.
CLICK HERE to view the press conference as it happened live.
We will have more coverage of late committee hearings in tomorrow’s edition of Under the Dome.