Message from Governor Kathleen Sebelius

Statement

Fellow Kansan,

This month has been an incredible journey through moments of peril, times of reverence, and visions of a brighter tomorrow.

On May 4th our state was devastated by storms- most notably in the town of Greensburg, which was all but wiped from the map.

The resilience of Kansans was demonstrated in the days and weeks following the storm as neighbor helped neighbor, and compassion poured in from around the nation.

During these trying times we still took time to remember those serving in our armed forces and military - as Memorial Day was a moment for reflection, thanks and prayers.

As we picked up the pieces of a shattered town, empowered by those who protect us at home and abroad, Kansas moved forward.

Kansas will always move forward. And, for that we should all take a moment to be proud.

Governor signs Greensburg relief bill

To help aid victims of storms that devastated the town of Greensburg and surrounding areas in early May, Governor Sebelius signed a disaster relief bill creating a $5 million Business Restoration Assistance Program for businesses in Kiowa County. Qualifying businesses will be eligible for payments of up to 10 percent of the investment made by June 30, 2008 to rebuild and up to $3,500 for each full-time employee rehired by that date.

The relief bill also includes a sales tax exemption for items and services purchased to construct, reconstruct, enlarge or remodel a business facility (including agricultural fencing) within Kiowa County damaged by the May 4 storm.

Governor declares "Innovation America Week"

As part of an effort to strengthen the economic competitiveness of the United States by improving our capacity for innovation, Governor Kathleen Sebelius joined governors across the country in proclaiming May 14-18 as Innovati on America Week.

Based on the year-long Innovation America initiative championed by Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano, chair of the National Governors Association, governors across the nation are emphasizing their commitment to ensuring a better America for the next generation. Sebelius serves on NGA's Innovation America task force. The group met last week in the Kansas City area.

More Kansas families to have access to health coverage

With nearly 300,000 Kansans lacking health insurance, and rising health costs impacting those with coverage, Governor Sebelius signed a bill to assist more Kansas families and businesses obtain health care while a long-term plan for full coverage is prepared.

The bill, SB 11, directs the Kansas Health Policy Authority to develop a plan to move the state to a future where all Kansans have health insurance while providing assistance to low income uninsured families with incomes of up to 100% of the federal poverty level to help them buy private insurance coverage.

It also provides $500,000 in grants and loans to help small businesses form group plans, as well as loan guarantees for up to $15 million in loans to safety net clinics so they can continue to serve the uninsured.

Memorial Day: A time for remembering, honoring

Governor Kathleen Sebelius was joined by families, veterans and fellow Kansans at a Memorial Day ceremony on Monday, May 28 honoring those who have died while serving our country.

"Our fallen heroes will always be remembered for their courage and valor, and for their willingness to sacrifice on behalf of our freedom and liberty," --- Kathleen Sebelius.

Energy producers commit to Governor's renewable energy challenge

Flanked by the CEOs of Kansas' six largest energy producers, Governor Sebelius and Lt. Governor Parkinson stated their goal of Kansas receiving ten percent of its power from wind by 2010 and twenty percent by 2020.

The energy executives applauded the Governor's leadership and Lt. Governor Parkinson's extensive effort in engaging the discussion and building a consensus among energy producers and consumers.

A comprehensive strategy involving renewable sources of power and better energy efficiency throughout the state will move Kansas away from fossil fuels and towards a brighter future.

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