Volume 44 - Issue 18 - May 1, 2025

State of Kansas

Office of the Governor

Message from the Governor Regarding Senate Bill 5

Restricting federal funds for elections and election-related activities without legislative approval is not just unnecessary micromanagement; it undermines our ability to conduct secure and efficient elections.

Some legislators have voiced concerns about voter fraud and foreign interference, but state and local election officials would be much more capable of addressing these threats if they received necessary funding from Congress. It doesn’t make sense to turn down these resources that make our local elections in Kansas safe, secure, and accurate.

Given that the Legislature only convenes for three months each year, how can we expect them to approve funding when they are not available year-round? Instead of obstructing our electoral process, lawmakers should concentrate on the real issues impacting Kansans, rather than complicating the management of election funds.

Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto Senate Bill 5.

Dated March 26, 2025.

Laura Kelly
Governor

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