MESSAGES FROM THE GOVERNOR

House Bill No. 2618

An Act concerning elections; relating to election crimes; prohibiting the use of funds provided by the United States government for the conduct of elections or election-related activities unless approved by the legislature; requiring specific intent of the offender as an element of the offense of false representation of an election official; amending K.S.A. 25-2436 and 25-2438 and repealing the existing sections.

Message to the Legislature of the State of Kansas:

There is no evidence of widespread voter fraud or instances of individuals impersonating election officials in Kansas.

Additionally, there is no reason to potentially restrict the use of federal funds for election purposes. Kansas is already one of the lowest-ranking states for use of utilizing federal funding. Accepting these dollars helps Kansas ensure smooth administration of our elections.

Restrictive voting legislation of any kind is wrong. Instead of making it more challenging for Kansans to participate in our democracy or focusing on problems that do not exist, I would urge the legislature to focus on real issues impacting Kansans.

Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto House Bill 2618.

Laura Kelly, Governor

Dated April 19, 2024.