MESSAGES FROM THE GOVERNOR

Senate Bill No. 5

An Act concerning elections; relating to the transparency in revenues underwriting elections act; prohibiting the use of funds provided by the United States government for the conduct of elections and election-related activities unless approved by the legislature; amending K.S.A. 25-2436 and repealing the existing section.

Message to the Legislature of the State of Kansas:

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.

Laura Kelly, Governor

Dated March 26, 2025.