Veterans and Military
Supporting our military members, veterans, and their families remains one of my highest priorities. Fort Riley and the soldiers who serve there are vital to the strength of our state and nation, and our communities have a long tradition of standing behind those who answer the call to serve. During the 2025–2026 legislative session, I supported efforts to expand veterans' services, protect veterans from fraud and exploitation, improve employment opportunities for veterans and National Guard members, and strengthen recognition of the sacrifices made by military families. I will continue working to ensure that service members have the resources they need while in uniform and that veterans receive the support, respect, and opportunities they have earned after their military service ends.
HB 2214 – SAVE Act
Created limits on compensation for assisting veterans with benefits claims.
Established consumer protections and disclosure requirements for claims assistance providers.
HB 2273
Updated Kansas statutes by expanding and clarifying the definition of "veteran" and "disabled veteran" through federal regulatory references.
HB 2274
Designated Kansas as a Purple Heart State.
Allowed homeless veterans alternative proof of identity and residency when obtaining identification cards.
Eliminated certain fees for homeless veterans seeking identification documents.
HB 2256
Directed the Governor to create the "Order of the Sunflower" to recognize military spouses for community service and support.
HB 2105
Designated portions of U.S. Highway 77 and a bridge in Clay County as POW/MIA memorials.
Military & National Guard
HB 2188 – Defend the Guard Act
Prescribed circumstances under which the Kansas National Guard may be deployed from the state for active-duty combat operations.
One of the most discussed military policy bills of the session.
HB 2626
Expanded veterans' preference in government employment to include current Kansas National Guard members and eligible spouses.
Included provisions establishing a military affairs commission and a memorial registry honoring Kansans killed in action.
Veteran Tax Relief
SB 434 – Veterans' Valor Property Tax Relief Act
Established a property tax relief program through income tax credits or refunds for qualifying veterans.
Modified certain existing sales tax exemptions for veterans.