Government

The Kansas House has given first-round approval to a bill that would change how appeals court judges are selected. The bill allows the governor to appoint appellate court judges, who would then be confirmed by the state Senate.

Critics of the current system say it isn't democratic enough, because a nine-person nominating commission selects candidates. Five of the nine are attorneys.

Rep. Lance Kinzer is an Olathe Republican, he says the change would be a step in the right direction.

Kansas senators approved a bill Thursday that would require many of the state's elected officials and applicants for certain welfare benefits to undergo drug testing.

Applicants for Temporary Assistance to Need Families (or TANF) would undergo testing, as well as the governor, legislators and other state workers. Supporters say the measure is designed to help poor residents kick their addictions, get job training skills, and find employment. Opponents say the bill perpetuates the stereotype that poor people are also drug users.

The Kansas Senate has tentatively approved legislation requiring drug tests for some people seeking certain welfare benefits, after amending it to require the same scrutiny of legislators.

Wednesday night's vote advanced the bill to final Senate action Thursday. Passage would send it to the House.

The bill would require the Department of Children and Family Services to screen applicants for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits for illegal drug use.

During a City Council Workshop Tuesday, Wichita Mayor Carl Brewer thanked the city maintenance crew that cleared snow from streets.

"Through this entire time frame, through both of the snows, we have to say hats off to our guys that were out there working the streets," said Brewer.

Brewer said the crew worked through the first storm and then immediately prepared for the next one to come in.

"They did an outstanding job in getting our streets all taken care of and getting them all cleaned up." said Brewer.