Highlights of Wednesday’s activities at the Kansas Legislature:

¢ The House Judiciary Committee heard testimony on a proposed constitutional amendment to eliminate merit selection for Supreme Court justices in favor of having them appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate.

¢ Children couldn’t view Internet pornography or check out R-rated movies at public libraries anywhere in Kansas under a bill that won first-round approval in the House.

¢ Despite an anti-abortion provision, the House easily approved a bill to make it easier for state universities to provide low-cost health insurance to students.

Also:

¢ Senators tentatively approved bills regulating the use of golf carts and toy vehicles, as well as doubling the fines for speeding in a school zone. Final action is expected Thursday.

¢ Kansans who fail to file a timely tax return and are owed a refund from the state would be penalized up to $250 of the refund under a bill receiving tentative approval in the Senate.

Clock is ticking:

Wednesday was the 31st calendar day of the session, out of 90 scheduled.