Wednesday’s Highlights

Another mystery school finance bill was approved by a legislative committee. The House Education Committee approved a $102 million increase for schools but didn’t say where the money would come from. A day earlier, a Senate committee approved a three-year $455 million plan but didn’t identify where the funds would come from in the second and third years. The Kansas Supreme Court has given the Legislature an April 12 deadline to increase school funding and distribute the money more equitably.

l The Senate Judiciary Committee, in a 6-4 vote, endorsed a proposed constitutional amendment requiring Senate confirmation of Kansas Supreme Court appointees. Currently, governors appoint justices after nominations from a screening committee. The proposed amendment was drawn up by legislators upset over the court’s recent ruling overturning the death penalty.

Today’s schedule

9 a.m.: Gov. Kathleen Sebelius signs bill repealing law that forced many used-car buyers to pay higher taxes.

After first recess of the Senate: Senate Ways and Means Committee possible vote on Senate Bill 74 which would allow the conversion of classified positions at state higher educational institutions.