KEY QUOTE: "That’s why I’m asking you tonight to, again, meet me in the middle. On so many issues facing our state – from tax relief to water to health care – the best solutions aren’t Republican or Democrat. They’ll come from compromise and collaboration…finding common-sense, and middle-of-the-road solutions.

Over the next four years, we must see each other as partners, not as foes, to build on all we’ve accomplished in the last four years. Together, we will make Kansas the very best place in America to raise a family."
-Governor Laura Kelly

What They're Saying:

Overall Response

“I am filled with hope and optimism as we enter Governor Kelly’s second term. With no election at stake, Kansas Republicans have nothing to hide behind when they obstruct these common-sense policies that will improve their constituents’ lives. Kansans who support the vision for our state laid out this evening by Governor Kelly should not accept any games by the supermajority but demand progress and cross-party cooperation.  

“The Governor and Lieutenant Governor Toland have done a tremendous job of getting our state back on track, and now have the opportunity to continue their work making Kansas the best place to raise a family. Our caucus is excited to help make their vision a reality for our neighbors and their families.” 
-Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes 

“The Governor echoed many of our shared values in her address tonight. Her commitment to a prosperous state and structural balance through a sustainable approach is the reason the people elected her a second time. Governor Kelly’s leadership has led to a spike in revitalization efforts across the state and I could not be more excited to support her over the next four years.” 
-Kansas House Minority Leader Vic Miller 

“I appreciated Governor Kelly’s State of the State’s directive that we must work across party lines and across branches of government on behalf of all Kansans to make this the best place to work, live and raise a family. We must continue the road of fiscal responsibility while prioritizing workforce development for immediate needs and education to position for our future needs.”  
-Senator Jeff Pittman (D), District 5 

Education and Childcare

“As working parents of a three-year-old, my wife and I know first-hand the challenges of accessing affordable, quality childcare. That’s why I’m so excited that Governor Kelly has prioritized this critical issue. Working together, I know we can make Kansas the best place in America to raise a family and support our kids during this critical time in their development.” 
-Senator Ethan Corson (D), District 7 

“Funding special education is an imperative of Kansans from all over the state and from both sides of the aisle. We all know exceptional Kansas students who benefit from special education programming. Our statutory obligation is a responsibility we can afford to meet and still have a budget surplus. Our SPED formula has stood the test of time for forty years, and it’s time for us to meet the needs of all Kansas kids.” 
-Representative Jarrod Ousley (D), District 24

Medicaid Expansion

“I expected Governor Kelly to mention the need to pass a Medicaid Expansion bill this year and she delivered! Governor Kelly heard from Kansans, healthcare providers, small business owners and city chambers of commerce.  Her comments reflected her commitment to broaden access to healthcare through Medicaid expansion.” 
-Representative Susan Ruiz (D), District 23

Medical Marijuana

“Governor Kelly was correct in her State of the State address to say that the legislature’s failure to legalize medical marijuana has resulted in trampling on the civil liberties of the people of our state.  People who use marijuana to treat chronic health issues aren’t criminals, and we need to pass a medical marijuana bill in order to better protect people’s basic rights as citizens.” 
-Representative Brett Fairchild (R), District 113

“The tribute to David Auble (a veteran and advocate for medicinal cannabis) was bittersweet. David and his friend Chris Howell made several trips to the Capitol over the past few years advocating for the legalization of medicinal Cannabis. Even up until his passing in May, David was pleading for the legislature to take action. I will forever have the memory of his last days etched in my mind as he grew weaker and Senate leadership refused to move the bill forward. Having his friend Chris join us for the SOTS address was an absolute honor.  My hope is that we finish the job this year so Kansans will have more options to ease their suffering.”  
-Senator Cindy Holscher (D), District 8

Fentanyl Test Strips

“I'm very thankful and excited that the governor has elevated the need to decriminalize fentanyl testing strips. It is one of the simplest yet most compassionate steps we can take to save lives, and prevent unnecessary overdose deaths from fentanyl poisoning” 
-Representative Jason Probst (D), District 102