Highlights from the Kansas Legislature

Highlights of Thursday’s activities at the Kansas Legislature:

  • A Senate committee endorsed Gov. Kathleen Sebelius’ gambling proposals after expanding the legislation to allow slot machines at bowling alleys and some other sites.
  • A Republican proposal for saving highway projects from being canceled cleared a House committee, but the state’s top transportation official said it’s unrealistic.
  • A House committee began debate on a $92 million school finance plan offered by the chamber’s Republicans, who were far from united on the merits of the proposal.

Also:

  • The Senate approved, 33-6, a proposed “Scruffy’s Law,” making cruelty to animals a felony instead of a misdemeanor.
  • Two bills sought by anti-abortion activists won tentative House approval. One measure would set minimum health and safety standards for abortion clinics.
  • A Senate committee endorsed a proposed $2.3 billion budget for services for the poor and disabled, including Sebelius’ plan to increase spending on programs for young children.

Clock is ticking:

Thursday was the 67th day of the session, out of 90 scheduled.