On Thursday, January 15, 2026, significant events unfolded across Kansas, reflecting key political and social issues. Protests, legislative actions, and community safety measures dominated the headlines, showcasing the state’s ongoing challenges and community responses.
Anti-Trump Protests Intensify in Topeka
Hundreds gathered at the Statehouse in Topeka to express their opposition to the Trump administration’s policies. Organized by a coalition of fourteen groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union and Planned Parenthood, demonstrators voiced concerns over immigration enforcement, food insecurity, health care, and climate change. Protesters also engaged in a lively atmosphere, chanting and singing protest songs.
Kansas City Moves to Ban Federal Immigration Centers
The Kansas City Council voted to prohibit the development of federal immigration detention centers in the area. This decision followed a visit by federal agents who inspected a facility potentially designated for use as a detention center. Council member Johnathan Duncan emphasized the detrimental effects such a center would have on the community.
Upcoming Changes in KCK Police Department
As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare to relocate to Wyandotte County, the Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department plans to increase its officer count. Currently staffed with approximately 330 officers, the department hopes to hire an additional 50 to ensure public safety around the new stadium.
Cell Phone Use for Students Under Review
Kansas lawmakers are deliberating a proposed ban on cell phone usage during school hours for K-12 students. While there is bipartisan support for the bill, concerns have been raised regarding its implications for local school districts and academic performance.
New Tenure Policy Approved by Kansas Regents
The Kansas Board of Regents passed a new policy simplifying the process for dismissing tenured professors at public universities. The policy requires annual reviews, with consequences for consecutive unsatisfactory evaluations.
School Closures Due to Illness Outbreaks
The Fairfield School District in Reno County closed its schools for the remainder of the week following an outbreak of illnesses. This precautionary measure aims to protect the health of students and staff, though specifics about the illnesses were not disclosed.
Proposed Bill on Drone Hunting
A legislative proposal in Kansas seeks to permit hunters to utilize drones for locating wounded or deceased deer. However, the bill enforces strict regulations to ensure that drones do not disturb wildlife unnecessarily.
Governor’s Budget Proposal Highlights Education and Welfare
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has introduced a budget plan featuring increased funding for special education and welfare administration. The proposal includes an additional $50 million targeted at special education, highlighting the need for federal assistance to meet state obligations.
Concerns About Future ACA Subsidies
With the deadline approaching for Affordable Care Act (ACA) enrollments, uncertainty surrounding government subsidies continues to impact small businesses in Kansas and Missouri. Experts warn that failure to extend these subsidies could lead to millions losing their health coverage.
Progress on Food Assistance Overpayment Issues
Kansas officials report ongoing efforts to reduce overpayments in food assistance programs. The state is under pressure to lower its error rate below 6% to avoid losing federal funding, with recent figures indicating some improvement.
Risks of Radon Exposure in Kansas Homes
Recent findings suggest that one in three homes in Kansas may have radon exposure, a radioactive gas linked to lung cancer. Winter is identified as an optimal time for homeowners to conduct radon testing, as heating systems can influence radon levels.
Funding Challenges for KU’s Fungi Collection
The University of Kansas faces funding shortages for its world-renowned fungi collection, crucial for agricultural research. The collection heavily relies on federal support, which has declined, prompting the team to initiate an endowment to secure its future.
Terence Newman Enters College Football Hall of Fame
Former Kansas State University cornerback Terence Newman is set to be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2026. Newman, a consensus All-American and 2002 Jim Thorpe Award winner, joins a prestigious group of K-State talents being recognized for their contributions to college football.
These stories illustrate the dynamic political landscape and community concerns in Kansas as the state navigates various challenges and changes.
