Graduation Day

It is graduation season; across the country young men and women put on robes and mortar boards to take the next step toward their destiny.

A Lot Left to Do

Soon, the Kansas Legislature will return to Topeka for their wrap up session.

Traditionally this time is used for putting the final touches on the Omnibus Budget Bill and tying up loose ends. However, this year the Legislature has a lot left to do.

An important step for Kansas: Governor forms group to reduce CO2

Last week, I announced the formation of the Energy and Environmental Policy Advisory Group. This group will develop recommendations on how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Kansas.

Celebrating the Historic Achievements of Kansas Women

Each year, March is designated as Women’s History Month. Throughout our history, the vision and determination of women have strengthened and transformed Kansas.

A balanced approach

This year, the Legislature has begun a discussion of our long-term energy future and debated the impact various proposals will have on our environment, the health of Kansans and the future costs of electric power.

Health Care: Fixing our Broken Health Care System

Our health care system in Kansas is broken. The rising cost of care has become an increased burden for businesses and families and for too many an insurmountable obstacle to receiving much needed health services.

Look Forward, Moving Ahead 

As we welcome 2008, we look back on a year full of challenges, opportunities and accomplishments.

This year saw tens of thousands of Kansans going back to work as the state gained more than 23,000 new jobs, putting our unemployment rate below the national average.

As ice and snow blanketed the state last week, thousands of Kansas homes were left without power. School children crossed their fingers hoping for cancelled classes, Kansans checked in on their neighbors and a brave few still stood in line to purchase a coveted gift.

Preparing our students for tomorrow's working world

As the Kansas economy becomes increasingly global and highly competitive, we must prepare the children of Kansas with the training they need for the economy of the future.