Governor Kelly Cuts Taxes for Suicide Prevention and Services for Senior and Disabled Kansans


TOPEKA
– Today, Governor Laura Kelly signed House Bill 2002, a bipartisan bill that creates two sales tax exemptions that will increase available resources for suicide prevention and provide services for elderly and disabled Kansans.

“Our Area Agencies on Aging and the Kansas Suicide Prevention HQ are vital to the lives of Kansans,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This bill stretches the impact of the funds they receive, furthering their ability to improve the quality of life for those they serve.”

The sales tax exemption will help Kansas Suicide Prevention HQ increase its ability to provide suicide prevention training and raise awareness of mental health resources in communities across the state.

The tax exemption for Area Agencies on Aging will expand their ability to serve Kansas seniors and individuals with disabilities through increased accessibility, services, and community.

“Kansas Area Agencies on Aging are the force behind essential services that older Kansans, people living with disabilities, and caregivers need to maintain their well-being in their communities and in their homes,” Julie Govert Walter, Executive Director of North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging, said. “This bill will help older Kansans and caregivers receive those services, including support for senior centers, Friendship Meals and home-delivered meals, and other in-home services to maintain an independent, positive quality of life.”

Other provisions in HB 2002 allow counties to provide tax notices electronically with taxpayer consent, authorize local elections to finance public safety projects in Dickinson and Grant Counties, and make other improvements to streamline administrative processes and provide mass appraisal courses.

Governor Kelly also signed Senate Substitute for House Bill 2010, which makes technical updates to statutes, amends definitions, and creates a special sentencing rule for the criminal discharge of a firearm by a convicted felon. The bill also creates a special sentencing rule for violations involving buildings and motor vehicles. Finally, it amends the law to allow more individuals to participate in SB 123-certified drug abuse treatment programs.

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