2019 Kansas Legislature Update

Our guest, Zack Pistora, is the Kansas Sierra Club Lobbyist. He and host Richard Mabion will provide listeners with an overview of legislation expected and legislation needed as well as his perspective on the possible reception of the Kansas House and Senate to earth care concerns.

Zack says “we need to convince lawmakers that Kansas can do better in promoting conservation, ecotourism, local food production, and clean energy sectors. We need to improve state regulations to ensure accountability by oil and gas injectors responsible for man-made earthquakes that have damaged homes and buildings. The State Water Plan needs more funding, especially as our state deals with ongoing water quality and quantity problems.  Kansas should focus on protections for rural property owners against pesticides and location of factory farms and industrial plants. Lowering sales tax on food is also essential, starting with farmers market exemptions.”

The wish list goes on. However, what state legislators pass will depend on their courage and leadership and the pressure they get from Kansans to make these improvements. This year is especially significant with Governor Laura Kelly and Lieutenant Governor Lynn Rogers taking the reins. Both Kelly and Rogers are environmental champions and are ready to lead the state in a bipartisan fashion. For Kansas to make real progress on environmental issues, Governor Kelly will have to play a major role to lead Kansas toward a future that appreciates and protects our natural environment.


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