Legislators to propose oversight panel for KanCare; Huelskamp to open satellite office in Manhattan; 2 police officers dead in Topeka.
Legislators To Propose KanCare Oversight Panel
Kansas legislators are planning to introduce measures during the 2013 session to create oversight of the state's new KanCare Medicaid system.
House Representitive David Crum and Senator Mary Pilcher-Cook are expected to announce their plans Monday during a Statehouse news conference.
KanCare is the new federally approved system for Medicaid in Kansas, providing health care services to the poor and disabled. Lawmakers will propose creating an oversight panel to which KanCare officials will report regular progress on the system.
Similar panels have been in place in the Legislature to oversee state programs and initiatives. Joining the legislators, will be Lt. Gov. Jeff Collier who led the state's KanCare waiver application process. Three managed care organizations will begin implementing health care in January.
Huelskamp Opening Field Office In Manhattan
U.S. Rep. Tim Huelskamp says he'll open a satellite office in Manhattan as the city becomes part of Kansas' sprawling 1st Congressional District.
The office will be staffed by Steven Howe, who now works out of Huelskamp's office in Salina. Howe is expected to divide his time between the two cities.
Manhattan has been part of the 2nd Congressional District for decades. This year's redistricting moved it into the Big First, effective Jan. 3. Huelskamp made the announcement last week during a stop in Manhattan, where he said local officials had lobbied for a field office.
Manhattan will be the largest city in the 1st Congressional District, which includes more than half the state's 105 counties.
2 Kansas Officers Fatally Shot In Topeka
Police in Topeka say two of their officers that were shot outside a grocery store have died at a hospital.
Wichita Schools To Have Crisis Teams On Hand Monday
The Wichita School District says it will have crisis teams on hand Monday for students who have questions about the shootings in Connecticut.
In an email Superintendent John Allison told parents the district's crisis teams would be available today to support students who have questions or concerns about the shootings in Newtown, CT.
Allison also reassured parents that the Wichita School District, which has about 50,000 students, has comprehensive safety plans at each school. He also suggested several ways to help children through the crisis, including assuring children they're safe at school.
KS Water Authority Mulls Possible Legislation
The Kansas Water Authority is holding a special meeting this week to discuss any possible 2013 legislation. The agency's agenda for the session Wednesday also includes approval of a water quality study above El Dorado Reservoir. The meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m. at the Kansas Water Office in Topeka.