Hello from Topeka!  The build-up to the start of the Kansas Legislative session is over and it is time to get to work. I am writing this article before the state of the state address, so we will discuss that next week.  There has been a lot written and discussed about what needs to happen over the next 100 days or so, from calls of bipartisanship to holding your ground to praying to ‘put the fear of God’ into these legislators to do what is right.   I am probably somewhere in the middle of all of this. I have had many meetings and conversations about thoughts and ideas of how we continue to move Kansas forward, and truly believe that in the end we will be where we need to be. This process will make sausage makers cringe, but if we truly have a plan and stick with it, we will be successful. 

I have talked with many legislators in anticipation of where we start and who’s idea is best. The final product of taxes, school finance, health care, developmentally disabled or other items which will come before the house and senate will be a product of discussions, give and take and for certain, that dreaded word: compromise.

One of the keys to any situation being successful is communication.  I hope throughout this session, you communicate with me your questions, concerns and opinions.  I, along with State Senators Elaine Bowers and Rick Billinger along with Representatives Don Heineman and Eber Phelps will be holding legislative updates in our respective counties on breaks and weekends, come see us and visit with us. 

Congratulations to Ms. Gail Dunbar, Superintendent of Plainville Schools on being named Plainville’s Citizen of the Year for 2016. A well-deserved honor for someone who is such a positive influence to so many people.

My office has moved in the State Capital Building, I am now in Room: 352-S. I believe my phone number stayed the same at (785) 296-7676 and email is: ken.rahjes@house.ks.gov or my cell number is (785) 302-8416.  You can also follow along with what is going on through social media: kenforkansas on Facebook, @kenrahjes on twitter or my website: kenforkansas.com.

Here’s to a great session!  It is my honor to by your representative.