Committee work is at its height at this point of the legislative session. Several issues are being considered. It can be difficult to discern which are gaining enough traction to make it through the committee process. Floor action has been limited to a few large, timely issues and a handful of less controversial bills.

Last week, I discussed the economic incentive bill for the large “mystery” company. Here were my concluding remarks: “Initially (as the bill came over from the Senate), I believed the ongoing cost of this package exceeded the value relative to existing taxpayers. With the (House commerce committee) changes, I believe we have a win-win for the new business and existing Kansans.”

Those changes included removing the 50 percent property tax reduction from the package, lowering the payroll credit from 10 to 7.5 percent, and stretching the investment tax credit over 10 years rather than three. Those changes were key to manage the financial impact to the state. To further vet the measure, I spoke directly with (Democrat) David Toland, the lieutentant governor and Secretary of Commerce, and (Republican) Sean Tarwater, chair of the House Commerce Committee.

While I do not know the details of the business in question, both of these leaders have been talking with the company and have toured their existing facility. I asked if the deal works financially and if it is the right thing to do for Kansas. Both men clearly stated that they believe it is the best opportunity we have for long-term growth and planning.

Further, it is unusual for the Democratic Governor’s office and Republican House leaders to agree. The bi-partisan agreement continued, passing the House this week with a vote of 80 yes to 41 no. If we gain the business, its growth and the supporting entities will be a significant boost to the state’s economy and revenues over time. If the package does not attract the company, then no incentives are paid out. We should know what will happen in the next few weeks.

Last year’s winter storm saw natural gas prices spike from $2.54 to $622.78 per unit in just a few days. House Concurrent Resolution 5023 calls on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the Kansas Attorney General to investigate and prosecute any entity engaged in price gouging during the storm. Any monies recovered are to first be used to reduce rates for Kansas consumers. The bill passed on a vote of 114 to 2.

I was fortunate to have my first pages this week since the pandemic began. Brian Rush from

Brian Rush from Ellsworth brought his children to serve with me. Pastor Dean Apel from Assaria Lutheran delivered the opening prayer for the session on that day. We had an interesting

We had an interesting day with voting on the House floor and touring the capitol. I very much appreciated each of the guests and thank them for taking time to join us in Topeka. It is encouraging to spend time with engaged members of our community. Please contact my office if you have questions or are able to visit in Topeka at (785) 296-7696 or email at steven.johnson@house.ks.gov. Have a great week!

Have a great week!