Topeka ? State Rep. Lee Tafanelli, R-Ozawkie, has been named chairman of a special committee to oversee state agencies assisting Greensburg’s recovery from the May 4 tornado.

“In this year alone, we have experienced the worst ice storm and worst tornado in our state’s history,” Tafanelli said. “We must ensure we have coordinated and integrated response and recovery plans that cover the spectrum of disasters.”

House Speaker Melvin Neufeld, R-Ingalls, said he chose Tafanelli to chair the committee because of his expertise gained as vice chairman of the House Appropriations Committee and as a colonel in the Kansas National Guard.

The Kansas Legislature approved a measure to allow the State Finance Council authority to transfer up to $25 million to help recovery efforts related to the tornado.