Newborns in Kansas will now benefit through a greater number of health screenings. The new law became effective July 1, to increase newborn screening from five tests to 29 tests. The Kansas Newborn Screening Program includes screening, follow-ups, diagnosis, management, education, and evaluation of metabolic deficiency illnesses. The additional screening services will be available for every baby born in Kansas. Many disorders in newborns are rare, but early diagnosis and treatment can help ensure normal growth and development as well as reduce significant human and financial costs.

Having grown up in a career military family, I am particularly pleased with this new law designed to address military children's unique educational needs. The Interstate Compact on Education Opportunities for Military Children is designed to help overcome the obstacles military children face from moving accross the country. Now issues such as the transfer of records and differing graduation requirements are addressed in legislation. Kansas was the first of 10 states to pass the Interstate Compact, allowing for the measure to be implemented nationwide.

Kansas dentists now have the opportunity to own 2 satellite offices in addition to their primary location. By providing more dental offices via satellite, rural Kansans will have the opportunity to benefit from dental care where it has been previously unavailable. The practices must meet the following two requirements: satellite offices are within 125-mile radius of primary office and satellite offices are located in counties with population of less than 10,000. This new law is another step in our efforts to address rural healthcare access issues.

Interim committees are back on my schedule. The new Home and Community Based Services Oversight Committee met for the first time to explore ways we can expand needed services to individuals in their community rather than in institutions. The Joint Building Construction Committee meets monthly to review all state leases and capital projects. The Board of Regents is required to give a quarterly update on deferred maintenance progress. Today, the Health Policy Oversight Committee meets to discuss efforts to make health care more accessible and more affordable for more Kansans. Next week, the Joint Committee on Pensions, Benefits and Investments will discuss COLAs for retirees. On a personal note, today is my youngest daughter, Molly's, 21st birthday. Happy Birthday, Molly!

Thank you for the honor of serving as your State Senator. You can get in touch by emailing at [email protected] or call me at home 785-357-5304. You can also send snail mail to 234 SW Greenwood Av, Topeka KS 66606. Given that it is an election year, don't be surprised if I show up at your doorstep!