The first week of Session was, as always, very busy.

Our first day back we received a report from the Legislative Division of Post Audit. Most all legislators are surprised at the input based calculation, a model based on meeting established state academic requirements. Legislators caucused throughout the week with Post Audit Staff and learned that the input based calculations were derived from a very conservative approach. Also revealed was that schools have achieved a very impressive upward climb in proficiency scores.

School Finance will be addressed this year as well as issues relating to Eminent Domain. Sexual Predator laws will be strengthened. I always appreciate that in elections years, the legislative process is usually more pro-active and productive.

Wednesday, I made the motion in the Joint House and Senate Transportation Committee Hearing to completed the bonding that had been promised in order to complete the Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP). We are thankful for completed projects in Miami county and look forward to the economic boost given by the completion of projects on Hwy. 69.

I have submitted three requests for new legislation (bills):

I am again thankful to have Maureen Stinson return as Committee Secretary to the House Governmental Organization and Elections (GOE) Committee which I chair. Maureen is who you speak with when you call our office at (785)296-6014.

It is always a challenge to keep up with the numbers of bills as they are assigned to the GOE Committee. I read each bill and discuss the proposed legislation with the Sponsor so that we make the most of our limited time in Committee.

I look forward to your thoughts and questions on the issues we face.