Topeka ? 19 days – The state Supreme Court has given lawmakers until April 12 to produce a constitutional school finance plan.

Thursday’s highlights:

• The Kansas Senate gave preliminary approval to a bill that strengthens regulation of abortion clinics, a proposal similar to one vetoed by Gov. Kathleen Sebelius in 2003. Final Senate action is planned for today.
• House members approved a bill restricting the sale of the table form of cold medicines containing ephedrine, which can be used as an ingredient in the manufacture of illegal methamphetamine.

Quote of the day

“They’re screaming for excellence and funding for mediocrity.” — Former Lt. Gov. Gary Sherrer on legislative plans to fund public schools

Today’s schedule:

7:50 a.m. Gov. Kathleen Sebelius welcomes USA Wrestling Championships to Kansas Expocentre.

9:30 a.m. Senate convenes and will likely take up conference committee report on school finance later in the day.