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Minutes for HB2353 - Committee on Ways and Means

Short Title

Revising qualified vendor requirements under state use law.

Minutes Content for Wed, Apr 5, 2017

Chairperson McGinn opened the hearing on HB 2353.  Chuck Reimer provided an overview of the bill.  (Attachment 1)

Natalie Bright testified in support of the bill as it will bring clarity to the Kansas State Use Law (SUL).  Kansas has long supported those with disabilities and this bill would provide for a definition of what it means to be disabled and well as clarifies that the SUL employee must reside in Kansas.  There is still high unemployment rate for those in Kansas with disabilities and this will help continue to grow the program.  (Attachment 2)

Pat Terick spoke as a proponent of the bill.  The Use Law vendors he is involved with pay commensurate wages and provide benefits for their employees but this bill would provide clarification on what is a disability.  (Attachment 3)

Shelby Fry testified as a proponent of the bill.  The bill will move things forward to make it easier for those with disabilities to find employment.  We need to make sure vendors are living up to the intent of the law while working toward employing everyone who wants employment.  (Attachment 4)

Written testimony in support of the bill was submitted by:

Mike Montana, Envision  (Attachment 5)

Andy Manion, KETCH  (Attachment 6)

Mike Burgess spoke as a neutral conferee.  His organization was previously opposed to the bill but their concerns were addressed by House amendments.  (Attachment 7)

There being no further conferees, Chairperson McGinn closed the hearing on HB 2353.

Senator Schmidt moved, Senator Kelly seconded, to recommend HB 2353 favorably for passage and be placed on the consent calendar.  Motion carried.