KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man has been charged with multiple felony counts in connection with the fatal shooting on April 15, 2022 at a gas station on East Gregory Blvd. in Kansas City, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Justin J. Owens-Harrell, 31, faces Involuntary Manslaughter, Armed Criminal Action and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm charges.

According to court records, Kansas City police were dispatched to the 3800 block of East Gregory Blvd. on a reported shooting. They found the victim, Skyler J. Smith, suffering from a gunshot. He was pronounced deceased later at the hospital. Witnesses said the victim and suspect had been inside and outside the store of the gas station when they struggled over a gun and it fired, hitting the victim. The shooting was captured on surveillance video.

Prosecutors requested $100,000 cash only bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650577758801.png" alt="Owens-Harrell-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Owens-Harrell-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man has been charged with multiple felony counts in connection with the fatal shooting on April 15, 2022 at a gas station on East Gregory Blvd. in Kansas City, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Justin J. Owens-Harrell, 31, faces Involuntary Manslaughter, Armed Criminal Action and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm charges.According to court records, Kansas City police were dispatched to the 3800 block of East Gregory Blvd. on a reported shooting. They found the victim, Skyler J. Smith, suffering from a gunshot. He was pronounced deceased later at the hospital. Witnesses said the victim and suspect had been inside and outside the store of the gas station when they struggled over a gun and it fired, hitting the victim. The shooting was captured on surveillance video.Prosecutors requested $100,000 cash only bond.

Man died in struggle over a gun outside KC gas station

By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/governor-signs-bills-to-expand-state-crime-lab-state-law-enforcement-training-center/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —
 The state’s ability to “recruit, retain and train” law enforcement 
officers has been enhanced thanks to bills passed by the Nebraska 
Legislature, Gov. Pete Ricketts said Thursday.

Ricketts, during a press conference in Grand
 Island, highlighted bills he signed that he said “go the extra mile to 
attract the best and brightest to serve in law enforcement.”

“We’re also committed to providing our 
officers with training and resources that are second-to-none,” the 
Republican governor said in a press release.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609298844617.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/governor-signs-bills-to-expand-state-crime-lab-state-law-enforcement-training-center/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —
 The state’s ability to “recruit, retain and train” law enforcement 
officers has been enhanced thanks to bills passed by the Nebraska 
Legislature, Gov. Pete Ricketts said Thursday.Ricketts, during a press conference in Grand
 Island, highlighted bills he signed that he said “go the extra mile to 
attract the best and brightest to serve in law enforcement.”“We’re also committed to providing our 
officers with training and resources that are second-to-none,” the 
Republican governor said in a press release.Among the bills passed this year were:<ul>
 <li>Legislative Bill 124, which streamlines the process for out-of-state
 law enforcement officers to become certified to work in Nebraska. The 
bill also grants incentive payments for officers who take jobs in 
Nebraska and remain on the job in rural areas. Law enforcement officials
 testified they are<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/04/04/bonuses-and-streamlined-transfers-tried-as-ways-to-address-shortage-in-law-enforcement-ranks/"> getting only a fraction of the recruits</a> that they used to attract.</li><li>LB 1014, which allocates $47.7 million of federal American Rescue 
Plan Act (ARPA) funds to expand the Law Enforcement Training Center in 
Grand Island and reduce wait lists for training.</li><li>LB 1011, which allocates $16.9 million to upgrade and expand the 
State Patrol Crime Laboratory to handle increased workloads at the 
facility.</li>
 </ul>

Governor signs bills to expand state crime lab, state police training center

WASHINGTON (AP) — Applications for unemployment benefits inched down last week as the total number of Americans collecting aid fell to its lowest level in more than 50 years.

Jobless claims fell by 2,000 to 184,000 last week, the Labor Department said Thursday. The four-week average of claims, which levels out week-to-week volatility, rose by 4,500 to 177,250.

About 1.42 million Americans were collecting traditional unemployment benefits in the week of April 9, the fewest since February 21, 1970.

Two years after the coronavirus pandemic plunged the economy into a brief but devastating recession, American workers are enjoying extraordinary job security. Weekly applications for unemployment aid, which broadly track with layoffs, have remained consistently below the pre-pandemic level of 225,000.

Last year, employers added a record 6.7 million jobs, and they’ve added an average of 560,000 more each month so far in 2022. The unemployment rate, which soared to 14.7% in April 2020 in the depths of the COVID-19 recession, is now just 3.6%, barely above the lowest point in 50 years. And there is a record proportion of 1.7 job openings for every unemployed American.

The U.S. job market and overall economy has shown remarkable resiliency despite ongoing supply chain breakdowns, the economic consequences of Russia’s war against Ukraine and the highest consumer inflation in 40 years.

“The Kansas unemployment rate held steady at 2.5% in March,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “Despite a slowdown in job growth this month, Kansas employers continue to show gains compared to last year.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650294285258.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Applications for unemployment benefits inched down last week as the total number of Americans collecting aid fell to its lowest level in more than 50 years.Jobless claims fell by 2,000 to 184,000 last week, the Labor Department said Thursday. The four-week average of claims, which levels out week-to-week volatility, rose by 4,500 to 177,250.About 1.42 million Americans were collecting traditional unemployment benefits in the week of April 9, the fewest since February 21, 1970.Two years after the coronavirus pandemic plunged the economy into a brief but devastating recession, American workers are enjoying extraordinary job security. Weekly applications for unemployment aid, which broadly track with layoffs, have remained consistently below the pre-pandemic level of 225,000.Last year, employers added a record 6.7 million jobs, and they’ve added an average of 560,000 more each month so far in 2022. The unemployment rate, which soared to 14.7% in April 2020 in the depths of the COVID-19 recession, is now just 3.6%, barely above the lowest point in 50 years. And there is a record proportion of 1.7 job openings for every unemployed American.The U.S. job market and overall economy has shown remarkable resiliency despite ongoing supply chain breakdowns, the economic consequences of Russia’s war against Ukraine and the highest consumer inflation in 40 years.“The Kansas unemployment rate held steady at 2.5% in March,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “Despite a slowdown in job growth this month, Kansas employers continue to show gains compared to last year.”

Fewest Americans collecting jobless aid since 1970

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Google says it will invest more than $750 million in Nebraska in 2022, an investment that includes construction of a data center in Omaha. 

The Omaha World-Herald reported Thursday that the investment also includes an expansion of Google’s existing data center in Papillion.

 Company leaders did not provide specific financial details for that or any of the other projects during an event with elected leaders in Papillion.

 The new northwest Omaha data center will be the third Google data center to open in the region. 

Along with the facility in Papillion, Google has one in Council Bluffs.

By Associated PressOMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Google says it will invest more than $750 million in Nebraska in 2022, an investment that includes construction of a data center in Omaha. The Omaha World-Herald reported Thursday that the investment also includes an expansion of Google’s existing data center in Papillion. Company leaders did not provide specific financial details for that or any of the other projects during an event with elected leaders in Papillion. The new northwest Omaha data center will be the third Google data center to open in the region. Along with the facility in Papillion, Google has one in Council Bluffs.

Google plans $750 million investment in Nebraska

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden pledged an additional $1.3 billion Thursday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-business-europe-moscow-69f39ffb0c58c7fdbbf3154cca0a9230">for new weapons</a>&nbsp;and economic assistance to help Ukraine in its strong but increasingly difficult battle against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-putin-kyiv-business-europe-f0e1cd893715eda1e6bef696d9c47db3">the Russian invasion</a>, and he promised to seek much more from Congress to keep the guns, ammunition and cash flowing.

The latest military aid, Biden said, will be sent “directly to the front lines of freedom.”

“Putin is banking on us losing interest,” Biden said. The Russian president is betting that “Western unity will crack ... and once again we’re going to prove him wrong.”

The new package includes $800 million in military aid for much-needed heavy artillery, 144,000 rounds of ammunition and drones for the escalating&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-putin-business-europe-moscow-67da12473ccd75fe02992f0eb751c5f4">battle in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine</a>. It builds on roughly $2.6 billion in military assistance that Biden previously approved.

There’s also a fresh&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-business-world-bank-wally-adeyemo-e471f2542b0a02836cc4a5b3c92507e7">$500 million in direct economic assistance t</a>&nbsp;o Ukraine for government salaries, pensions and other programs. That raises the total U.S. economic support to $1 billion since Russia’s invasion began nearly two months ago.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude to the United States in his nightly address in Ukraine, saying the military aid was “just what we were waiting for.” Earlier in a virtual address to the World Bank meeting in Washington, he said his nation will also need up to $7 billion each month to make up for economic losses.

With tens of thousands of buildings damaged and key infrastructure in ruins, Ukraine “will need hundreds of billions of dollars to rebuild,” Zelenskyy said.

Biden underscored a need for the United States and Western allies to remain resolved in their support for Ukraine amid&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-europe-nato-3e68ceb4c389c84f395f6deecea3906d">signs that Americans may becoming more wary of the war</a>.

A poll published Thursday by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows Americans’ desire to get involved has waned somewhat. Some 32% say the U.S. should have a major role in the conflict. That’s ticked down from 40% last month, though it’s slightly higher than the 26% who said so in February. An additional 49% say the U.S. should have a minor role.

The president also announced that Russian-affiliated ships would be barred from U.S. ports, though that appeared to be largely symbolic. Russian ships bring a tiny amount of the cargo unloaded in the U.S., and “my guess is that ... a decent chunk of that was tankers transporting Russian oil which is now banned anyway,” said Colin Grabow, a research fellow who studies trade at the Cato Institute.

Overall, Biden said that $6.5 billion in security assistance that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-us-aid-package-41cc2e66c7714b37eca9d2bb8add53aa">Congress approved last month as part of a $13.6 billion package for Ukraine</a>&nbsp;could soon be “exhausted.” With the latest announcement, Biden has approved about $3.4 billion in military aid since Feb. 24. Congress’ overall total also included about $6.8 billion in direct economic assistance to care for refugees and provide economic aid to allies in the region impacted by the war — and additional funding for federal agencies to enforce economic sanctions against Russia and protect against cyber threats.

“Next week, I’m going to have to be sending to Congress a supplemental budget request to keep weapons and ammunition deployed without interruption,” Biden said.

Congress has signaled it is receptive to further requests and has been expecting there would be a need for further help for the Ukrainians. But the issue could become entwined with partisan fights over pandemic spending and immigration, complicating the pathway.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., has expressed a willingness to consider more aid for Ukraine in recent weeks. “I think we need to say we want the Ukrainians to win, and we’re prepared to do everything we can to help them win,” McConnell said Monday in Shelbyville, Kentucky.

“We want to do more,” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., told reporters at the Capitol, during an appearance with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. She said lawmakers would learn more about Biden’s latest funding request “in the next day or so, to be taken up as soon as we can. Next week.”

Biden has chosen retired Lt. Gen. Terry Wolff, a National Security Council official during the Obama administration, to oversee coordination of the security assistance to Ukraine, according to a White House official. The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the yet to be formally announced appointment, said Wolff was brought to the White House National Security Council team in recent days.

Biden spoke on the new assistance, and more broadly about the situation in Ukraine, hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed victory in the strategic city of Mariupol. Putin, however, ordered his troops not to risk more losses by storming the last pocket of Ukrainian resistance in the war’s iconic battleground.

Biden in an exchange with reporters following his remarks called Russia’s claim on Mariupol “questionable.”

Russian forces have destroyed much of southeastern port city, which has witnessed some of the fiercest fighting of the war. By Russian estimates, about 2,000 Ukrainian forces remain holed up in a sprawling steel plant, even as Russia continues to pound the industrial site and issue ultimatums for surrender.

Biden sought to make clear to Russians that plenty more military assistance for Ukraine would be coming.

“Sometimes we will speak softly and carry a large Javelin, because we’re sending a lot of those,” Biden said, paraphrasing Theodore Roosevelt and referring to an anti-tank missile system.

The new U.S. military assistance is to include 72 155mm howitzers, 144,000 artillery rounds, 72 vehicles used to tow to the howitzers onto battlefields, and over 121 Phoenix Ghost tactical drones, as well as field equipment and spare parts.

Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said the drones were developed by the Air Force and fit a specific need of Ukrainian forces in the battle for the Donbas. The drones are produced by a U.S. company, Aevex Aerospace, in a program that began before Russia invaded on Feb. 24. Kirby said the Phoenix Ghost is similar to the armed Switchblade kamikaze drones that the Pentagon already is providing to Ukraine.

The 72 howitzers are in addition to the 18 announced last week the U.S. was transferring to Ukraine.

Biden’s decision to quadruple the number pledged in an arms package announced just last week reflects what is shaping up as a major ground battle in the contested Donbas region of eastern Ukraine.

The Russians have been deploying additional artillery there in recent days as they aim to expand their offensive and attempt to take full control of the Donbas after retreating from a failed attempt to capture Kyiv, the capital. Heavy weaponry like artillery is expected to play a key role in the fighting in the relatively confined area where Ukrainian and Russian-backed separatists have been battling since 2014.

The announcements on new aid came against the backdrop of International Monetary Fund and World Bank meetings this week dominated by how to manage the spillover from Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Ahead of his remarks, Biden met with Ukrainian Prime Minister Shmyhal. The Ukrainian leader also met on Thursday with Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen as well as Pelosi.

Yellen at a news conference said the economic aid the U.S. and allies have sent “is only the beginning of what Ukraine will need to rebuild.” She added that she’d be discussing efforts to further aid Ukraine with her Western counterparts this week.

“I think we stand united in recognizing we’ve got to find ways to meet Ukraine’s needs,” she said.

The Biden administration also announced a new program Thursday aimed at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-putin-immigration-covid-health-3f7893e2f47f4024b07bd897caf305a9">streamlining refugee applications for Ukrainians&nbsp;</a>and others fleeing the fighting, while they are still in Europe. The U.S. will no longer routinely grant entry to those who show up at the U.S.-Mexico border seeking asylum, as thousands have.

The U.S. expects to admit up to 100,000 refugees from Ukraine and about 15,000 have come, mostly through Mexico.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden pledged an additional $1.3 billion Thursday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-business-europe-moscow-69f39ffb0c58c7fdbbf3154cca0a9230">for new weapons</a>&nbsp;and economic assistance to help Ukraine in its strong but increasingly difficult battle against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-putin-kyiv-business-europe-f0e1cd893715eda1e6bef696d9c47db3">the Russian invasion</a>, and he promised to seek much more from Congress to keep the guns, ammunition and cash flowing.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F511651257089093%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=143" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The latest military aid, Biden said, will be sent “directly to the front lines of freedom.”“Putin is banking on us losing interest,” Biden said. The Russian president is betting that “Western unity will crack ... and once again we’re going to prove him wrong.”The new package includes $800 million in military aid for much-needed heavy artillery, 144,000 rounds of ammunition and drones for the escalating&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-putin-business-europe-moscow-67da12473ccd75fe02992f0eb751c5f4">battle in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine</a>. It builds on roughly $2.6 billion in military assistance that Biden previously approved.There’s also a fresh&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-business-world-bank-wally-adeyemo-e471f2542b0a02836cc4a5b3c92507e7">$500 million in direct economic assistance t</a>&nbsp;o Ukraine for government salaries, pensions and other programs. That raises the total U.S. economic support to $1 billion since Russia’s invasion began nearly two months ago.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude to the United States in his nightly address in Ukraine, saying the military aid was “just what we were waiting for.” Earlier in a virtual address to the World Bank meeting in Washington, he said his nation will also need up to $7 billion each month to make up for economic losses.With tens of thousands of buildings damaged and key infrastructure in ruins, Ukraine “will need hundreds of billions of dollars to rebuild,” Zelenskyy said.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fposts%2F304157638565030&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="609" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>Biden underscored a need for the United States and Western allies to remain resolved in their support for Ukraine amid&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-europe-nato-3e68ceb4c389c84f395f6deecea3906d">signs that Americans may becoming more wary of the war</a>.A poll published Thursday by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows Americans’ desire to get involved has waned somewhat. Some 32% say the U.S. should have a major role in the conflict. That’s ticked down from 40% last month, though it’s slightly higher than the 26% who said so in February. An additional 49% say the U.S. should have a minor role.The president also announced that Russian-affiliated ships would be barred from U.S. ports, though that appeared to be largely symbolic. Russian ships bring a tiny amount of the cargo unloaded in the U.S., and “my guess is that ... a decent chunk of that was tankers transporting Russian oil which is now banned anyway,” said Colin Grabow, a research fellow who studies trade at the Cato Institute.Overall, Biden said that $6.5 billion in security assistance that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-us-aid-package-41cc2e66c7714b37eca9d2bb8add53aa">Congress approved last month as part of a $13.6 billion package for Ukraine</a>&nbsp;could soon be “exhausted.” With the latest announcement, Biden has approved about $3.4 billion in military aid since Feb. 24. Congress’ overall total also included about $6.8 billion in direct economic assistance to care for refugees and provide economic aid to allies in the region impacted by the war — and additional funding for federal agencies to enforce economic sanctions against Russia and protect against cyber threats.“Next week, I’m going to have to be sending to Congress a supplemental budget request to keep weapons and ammunition deployed without interruption,” Biden said.Congress has signaled it is receptive to further requests and has been expecting there would be a need for further help for the Ukrainians. But the issue could become entwined with partisan fights over pandemic spending and immigration, complicating the pathway.Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., has expressed a willingness to consider more aid for Ukraine in recent weeks. “I think we need to say we want the Ukrainians to win, and we’re prepared to do everything we can to help them win,” McConnell said Monday in Shelbyville, Kentucky.“We want to do more,” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., told reporters at the Capitol, during an appearance with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. She said lawmakers would learn more about Biden’s latest funding request “in the next day or so, to be taken up as soon as we can. Next week.”Biden has chosen retired Lt. Gen. Terry Wolff, a National Security Council official during the Obama administration, to oversee coordination of the security assistance to Ukraine, according to a White House official. The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the yet to be formally announced appointment, said Wolff was brought to the White House National Security Council team in recent days.Biden spoke on the new assistance, and more broadly about the situation in Ukraine, hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed victory in the strategic city of Mariupol. Putin, however, ordered his troops not to risk more losses by storming the last pocket of Ukrainian resistance in the war’s iconic battleground.Biden in an exchange with reporters following his remarks called Russia’s claim on Mariupol “questionable.”Russian forces have destroyed much of southeastern port city, which has witnessed some of the fiercest fighting of the war. By Russian estimates, about 2,000 Ukrainian forces remain holed up in a sprawling steel plant, even as Russia continues to pound the industrial site and issue ultimatums for surrender.Biden sought to make clear to Russians that plenty more military assistance for Ukraine would be coming.“Sometimes we will speak softly and carry a large Javelin, because we’re sending a lot of those,” Biden said, paraphrasing Theodore Roosevelt and referring to an anti-tank missile system.The new U.S. military assistance is to include 72 155mm howitzers, 144,000 artillery rounds, 72 vehicles used to tow to the howitzers onto battlefields, and over 121 Phoenix Ghost tactical drones, as well as field equipment and spare parts.Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said the drones were developed by the Air Force and fit a specific need of Ukrainian forces in the battle for the Donbas. The drones are produced by a U.S. company, Aevex Aerospace, in a program that began before Russia invaded on Feb. 24. Kirby said the Phoenix Ghost is similar to the armed Switchblade kamikaze drones that the Pentagon already is providing to Ukraine.The 72 howitzers are in addition to the 18 announced last week the U.S. was transferring to Ukraine.Biden’s decision to quadruple the number pledged in an arms package announced just last week reflects what is shaping up as a major ground battle in the contested Donbas region of eastern Ukraine.The Russians have been deploying additional artillery there in recent days as they aim to expand their offensive and attempt to take full control of the Donbas after retreating from a failed attempt to capture Kyiv, the capital. Heavy weaponry like artillery is expected to play a key role in the fighting in the relatively confined area where Ukrainian and Russian-backed separatists have been battling since 2014.The announcements on new aid came against the backdrop of International Monetary Fund and World Bank meetings this week dominated by how to manage the spillover from Russia’s war in Ukraine.Ahead of his remarks, Biden met with Ukrainian Prime Minister Shmyhal. The Ukrainian leader also met on Thursday with Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen as well as Pelosi.Yellen at a news conference said the economic aid the U.S. and allies have sent “is only the beginning of what Ukraine will need to rebuild.” She added that she’d be discussing efforts to further aid Ukraine with her Western counterparts this week.“I think we stand united in recognizing we’ve got to find ways to meet Ukraine’s needs,” she said.The Biden administration also announced a new program Thursday aimed at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-putin-immigration-covid-health-3f7893e2f47f4024b07bd897caf305a9">streamlining refugee applications for Ukrainians&nbsp;</a>and others fleeing the fighting, while they are still in Europe. The U.S. will no longer routinely grant entry to those who show up at the U.S.-Mexico border seeking asylum, as thousands have.The U.S. expects to admit up to 100,000 refugees from Ukraine and about 15,000 have come, mostly through Mexico.___

🎥U.S. dramatically ramps up delivery of artillery guns to Ukraine

By CLARK KAUFFMAN <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/easter-bunny-listed-prosecutor-hundreds-iowa-court-cases">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>

The Easter Bunny is representing the prosecution in several hundred Polk County criminal cases.

At least that’s what Iowa Courts Online, the court system’s official,
 statewide web-based repository of court records, indicates.

On April 4, the online docket sheets for hundreds of Polk County 
cases – primarily misdemeanors and drunken-driving cases – were revised 
to indicate the prosecution of those cases had been transferred from one
 particular assistant county attorney, Kailey Gray, to another 
“prosecutor” in the county attorney’s office by the name of “Easter 
Santa Bunny.”

And that’s where the cases remained as of Thursday morning.

Bret Lucas, an assistant county attorney, said Thursday the situation
 stems from a recent realignment of cases within the county attorney’s 
office. Gray took over a colleague’s cases, and Iowa Courts Online 
accurately reflects the transfer of those cases. But Gray’s old cases, 
he said, were “transferred” to the Easter Bunny until all of the work on
 the digital case transfer could be completed.

“We had contacted the Judicial Branch and they worked with their 
information technology department to facilitate the mass transfer of 
cases,” Lucas said. “Apparently, the Judicial Branch and the IT 
department decided to put that placeholder in there because, obviously, 
no one else would have that name… So they were all aware of that, and it
 sounds like they must still be in the middle of that transfer process.”

Stacy Curtis, a supervisor for the criminal division of the Polk 
County Clerk of Court’s Office, said the references to the Easter Bunny 
should not be visible to the public either through a name search or in 
the docket sheets for the individual cases. She said the office “took 
extra steps” to make sure members of the public didn’t see any reference
 to the Easter Bunny and only clerks, lawyers, judges and others with 
higher security clearance could see it. It appears that the opposite may
 have occurred, as the Easter Bunny references could be seen by members 
of the public who weren’t even logged into the site.

“This has been a nightmare for me,” Curtis said. “We moved everything
 from Kaylie to the Easter Bunny, and those should have all been cleaned
 up so you wouldn’t be able to see that.”

Many of the cases that were publicly “assigned” to the Easter Bunny 
are open, active cases, but hundreds of others are dormant, though not 
technically closed because of probationary sentences that have yet to be
 completed or fines that have yet to be paid.

The only practical effect of the Easter Bunny designation is that 
some defendants may see that information online and not know who to 
contact at the county attorney’s office about their case.

After being contacted by the Iowa Capital Dispatch on Thursday, court
 officials were working to erase from the website any mention of the 
Easter Bunny, and by late afternoon it appeared they had succeeded.

The Easter Bunny cases are not the only criminal matters listed on 
the court system’s official website to have featured nonexistent lawyers
 or defendants. In what appear to be training exercises for clerical 
staff, fictitious “test cases” are sometimes created and then posted to 
the public website but never removed.

For example, a December 1997 case shows Santa Claus being convicted 
of felony burglary and kidnapping, with a charge of assault on a peace 
officer dismissed by the court. The court records indicate a sentence of
 999 years in prison was imposed.

As part of that same test case, the court imposed a no-contact order 
prohibiting Santa from having any contact with Mickey Mouse. Santa’s 
bail – listed as “one million bucks” in a possible punning reference to 
Santa’s reindeer — is stated to have been “posted by Rudolph.”

In 2014, Santa Claus was charged with second-degree robbery in Scott 
County, according to the Iowa Courts Online site. Although there’s no 
record of a conviction in that case, Claus’ right to carry a gun was 
revoked.

The court system’s website also shows that in 2014, Mickey Mouse filed a small claims case against Donald Duck in Marion County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650575439511.png" alt="The Easter Bunny is representing the prosecution in several hundred Polk County criminal cases. At least that’s what Iowa Courts Online, the court system’s official, statewide web-based repository of court records, indicates. (Court documents are from Iowa Courts Online.) " />
 <figcaption>The Easter Bunny is representing the prosecution in several hundred Polk County criminal cases. At least that’s what Iowa Courts Online, the court system’s official, statewide web-based repository of court records, indicates. (Court documents are from Iowa Courts Online.) </figcaption>
 </figure>By CLARK KAUFFMAN <a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/easter-bunny-listed-prosecutor-hundreds-iowa-court-cases">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>The Easter Bunny is representing the prosecution in several hundred Polk County criminal cases.At least that’s what Iowa Courts Online, the court system’s official,
 statewide web-based repository of court records, indicates.On April 4, the online docket sheets for hundreds of Polk County 
cases – primarily misdemeanors and drunken-driving cases – were revised 
to indicate the prosecution of those cases had been transferred from one
 particular assistant county attorney, Kailey Gray, to another 
“prosecutor” in the county attorney’s office by the name of “Easter 
Santa Bunny.”And that’s where the cases remained as of Thursday morning.Bret Lucas, an assistant county attorney, said Thursday the situation
 stems from a recent realignment of cases within the county attorney’s 
office. Gray took over a colleague’s cases, and Iowa Courts Online 
accurately reflects the transfer of those cases. But Gray’s old cases, 
he said, were “transferred” to the Easter Bunny until all of the work on
 the digital case transfer could be completed.“We had contacted the Judicial Branch and they worked with their 
information technology department to facilitate the mass transfer of 
cases,” Lucas said. “Apparently, the Judicial Branch and the IT 
department decided to put that placeholder in there because, obviously, 
no one else would have that name… So they were all aware of that, and it
 sounds like they must still be in the middle of that transfer process.”Stacy Curtis, a supervisor for the criminal division of the Polk 
County Clerk of Court’s Office, said the references to the Easter Bunny 
should not be visible to the public either through a name search or in 
the docket sheets for the individual cases. She said the office “took 
extra steps” to make sure members of the public didn’t see any reference
 to the Easter Bunny and only clerks, lawyers, judges and others with 
higher security clearance could see it. It appears that the opposite may
 have occurred, as the Easter Bunny references could be seen by members 
of the public who weren’t even logged into the site.“This has been a nightmare for me,” Curtis said. “We moved everything
 from Kaylie to the Easter Bunny, and those should have all been cleaned
 up so you wouldn’t be able to see that.”Many of the cases that were publicly “assigned” to the Easter Bunny 
are open, active cases, but hundreds of others are dormant, though not 
technically closed because of probationary sentences that have yet to be
 completed or fines that have yet to be paid.The only practical effect of the Easter Bunny designation is that 
some defendants may see that information online and not know who to 
contact at the county attorney’s office about their case.After being contacted by the Iowa Capital Dispatch on Thursday, court
 officials were working to erase from the website any mention of the 
Easter Bunny, and by late afternoon it appeared they had succeeded.<h2>Santa bailed out by Rudolph</h2>The Easter Bunny cases are not the only criminal matters listed on 
the court system’s official website to have featured nonexistent lawyers
 or defendants. In what appear to be training exercises for clerical 
staff, fictitious “test cases” are sometimes created and then posted to 
the public website but never removed.For example, a December 1997 case shows Santa Claus being convicted 
of felony burglary and kidnapping, with a charge of assault on a peace 
officer dismissed by the court. The court records indicate a sentence of
 999 years in prison was imposed.As part of that same test case, the court imposed a no-contact order 
prohibiting Santa from having any contact with Mickey Mouse. Santa’s 
bail – listed as “one million bucks” in a possible punning reference to 
Santa’s reindeer — is stated to have been “posted by Rudolph.”In 2014, Santa Claus was charged with second-degree robbery in Scott 
County, according to the Iowa Courts Online site. Although there’s no 
record of a conviction in that case, Claus’ right to carry a gun was 
revoked.The court system’s website also shows that in 2014, Mickey Mouse filed a small claims case against Donald Duck in Marion County.

‘Easter Bunny’ listed as prosecutor in hundreds of Iowa court cases

OMAHA, NEB.&nbsp; — One person was injured, and another arrested, after a suspect fled a traffic stop and crashed this morning on Interstate 80 in Omaha.

At approximately 8:15 a.m. a trooper observed a Toyota Sienna traveling southbound at an estimated 90 miles per hour on Interstate 680. As the vehicle merged onto eastbound I-80, the trooper attempted a traffic stop. The vehicle accelerated and fled. After approximately 30 seconds, the vehicle lost control and crashed into the jersey barrier that separates eastbound and westbound lanes. The Toyota then struck another vehicle, a Chevrolet Impala, causing minor damage.

The driver of the Toyota, Nicholas Brady, 32, of Omaha, was extricated from the vehicle by Omaha Fire and Rescue and was then transported to Bergan Mercy Hospital with what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the Impala, Tylon Holmes, 27, of Omaha, was not injured. Holmes had an active warrant. He was arrested and lodged in Douglas County Jail.

Charges are pending for Brady. The Omaha Police Department is investigating the crash.

By Nebraska State PatrolOMAHA, NEB.&nbsp; — One person was injured, and another arrested, after a suspect fled a traffic stop and crashed this morning on Interstate 80 in Omaha.At approximately 8:15 a.m. a trooper observed a Toyota Sienna traveling southbound at an estimated 90 miles per hour on Interstate 680. As the vehicle merged onto eastbound I-80, the trooper attempted a traffic stop. The vehicle accelerated and fled. After approximately 30 seconds, the vehicle lost control and crashed into the jersey barrier that separates eastbound and westbound lanes. The Toyota then struck another vehicle, a Chevrolet Impala, causing minor damage.The driver of the Toyota, Nicholas Brady, 32, of Omaha, was extricated from the vehicle by Omaha Fire and Rescue and was then transported to Bergan Mercy Hospital with what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the Impala, Tylon Holmes, 27, of Omaha, was not injured. Holmes had an active warrant. He was arrested and lodged in Douglas County Jail.Charges are pending for Brady. The Omaha Police Department is investigating the crash.

Suspect crashes after fleeing traffic stop

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Thursday announced he has approved an additional $800 million in military aid to help Ukraine fight back against the Russian invasion, but warned Congress will need to approve additional assistance. 

The new military assistance package includes much needed heavy artillery, 144,000 rounds of ammunition, and drones for Ukrainian forces in the escalating battle for the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine , and builds on roughly $2.6 billion in military assistance that Biden had previously approved for Ukraine. 

Biden said that $13.6 billion approved last month by Congress for military and humanitarian assistance is “almost exhausted.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Thursday announced he has approved an additional $800 million in military aid to help Ukraine fight back against the Russian invasion, but warned Congress will need to approve additional assistance. <div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F511651257089093%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=31" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The new military assistance package includes much needed heavy artillery, 144,000 rounds of ammunition, and drones for Ukrainian forces in the escalating battle for the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine , and builds on roughly $2.6 billion in military assistance that Biden had previously approved for Ukraine. Biden said that $13.6 billion approved last month by Congress for military and humanitarian assistance is “almost exhausted.”

🎥 Biden sending another $800M in military assistance to Ukraine

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service encourages taxpayers who 
missed Monday's April 18 tax-filing deadline to file as soon as 
possible. While taxpayers due a refund receive no penalty for filing 
late, those who owe and missed the deadline without requesting an 
extension should file quickly to limit penalties and interest.

Families who don't owe taxes to the IRS can still file their 2021 tax
 return and claim the Child Tax Credit for the 2021 tax year at any 
point until April 15, 2025, without any penalty. This year also marks 
the first time in history that many families with children in Puerto 
Rico will be eligible to claim the Child Tax Credit, which has been 
expanded to provide up to $3,600 per child.

Some taxpayers automatically qualify for extra time to file and pay taxes due without penalties and interest, including:

Some people may choose not to file a tax return because they didn't 
earn enough money to be required to file. But they may miss out on 
receiving a refund. The only way to get a refund is to file a tax 
return. There's no penalty for filing after the April 18 deadline if a 
refund is due. Taxpayers are encouraged to use electronic filing options
 including IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> which is available on IRS.gov through October 17 to prepare and file 2021 tax returns electronically.

While most tax credits can be used to reduce the tax owed, there are a
 few credits that allow taxpayers to receive money beyond what they owe.
 The most common examples of these refundable credits are the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit-eitc">Earned Income Tax Credit</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/child-and-dependent-care-credit-information">Child and Dependent Care Credit</a> and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/does-my-childdependent-qualify-for-the-child-tax-credit-or-the-credit-for-other-dependents">Child Tax Credit</a>.
 Those who don't usually file and didn't qualify for a third-round 
Economic Impact Payment or got less than the full amount may be eligible
 to claim the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit">2021 Recovery Rebate Credit</a>
 when they file their 2021 tax return. Taxpayers often fail to file a 
tax return and claim a refund for these credits and others for which 
they may be eligible.

Generally, the IRS issues nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21 days
 for taxpayers who e-file and choose direct deposit. However, it's 
possible a tax return may require <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/tax-season-refund-frequently-asked-questions">additional review</a> or take longer. The IRS processes paper tax returns in the order they are received.

Taxpayers can track their refund using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a> tool on IRS.gov, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> or by calling the automated refund hotline at <a href="tel:800-829-1954">800-829-1954</a>.
 Taxpayers need the primary Social Security number on the tax return, 
the filing status and the expected refund amount. The refund status 
information updates once daily, usually overnight, so there's no need to
 check more frequently.

Taxpayers should file their tax return and pay any taxes they owe as 
soon as possible to reduce penalties and interest. An extension to file 
is not an extension to pay. An extension to file provides an additional 
six months with a new filing deadline of October 17. Penalties and 
interest apply to taxes owed after April 18 and interest is charged on 
tax and penalties until the balance is <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">paid in full</a>.

Filing and paying as much as possible is key because the late-filing penalty and late-payment penalty add up quickly.

Even if a taxpayer can't afford to immediately pay the full amount of
 taxes owed, they should still file a tax return to reduce possible 
delayed filing penalties. The IRS offers a variety of options for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/what-if-i-cant-pay-my-taxes">taxpayers who owe the IRS but cannot afford to pay</a>.

Usually, the failure to file penalty is 5% of the tax owed for each 
month or part of a month that a tax return is late, up to five months, 
reduced by the failure to pay penalty amount for any month where both 
penalties apply. If a return is filed more than 60 days after the due 
date, the minimum penalty is either $435 or 100% of the unpaid tax, 
whichever is less.

The failure to pay penalty rate is generally 0.5% of unpaid tax owed 
for each month or part of a month until the tax is fully paid or until 
25% is reached. The rate is subject to change. For more information see 
the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/penalties">Penalties</a> page on IRS.gov.

Taxpayers may qualify for penalty relief if they have filed and paid 
timely for the past three years and meet other important requirements, 
including paying or arranging to pay any tax due. For more information, 
see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/penalty-relief-due-to-first-time-penalty-abatement-or-other-administrative-waiver">first time penalty abatement</a> page on IRS.gov.

Pay taxes due electronically on IRS.gov/payments

Those who owe taxes can pay quickly and securely via their <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/your-online-account">Online Account</a>, IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-your-taxes-by-debit-or-credit-card">debit or credit card or digital wallet</a>, or they can <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application">apply online for a payment plan (including an installment agreement)</a>. Taxpayers paying electronically receive immediate confirmation when they submit their payment. With <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a> and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)</a>, taxpayers can receive email notifications about their payments.

The IRS offers tips to help taxpayers <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tips-to-help-people-choose-a-reputable-tax-preparer">choose a Tax Professional</a> to assist in tax return preparation.

The <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>
 can help taxpayers find tax return preparers who hold a professional 
credential recognized by the IRS or who have completed IRS requirements 
for the Annual Filing Season Program.

Taxpayers have fundamental rights under the law that protect them when they interact with the IRS. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxpayer-bill-of-rights">Taxpayer Bill of Rights</a> presents these rights in 10 categories. IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-1">Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer</a>, highlights these rights and the agency's obligation to protect them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service encourages taxpayers who 
missed Monday's April 18 tax-filing deadline to file as soon as 
possible. While taxpayers due a refund receive no penalty for filing 
late, those who owe and missed the deadline without requesting an 
extension should file quickly to limit penalties and interest.Families who don't owe taxes to the IRS can still file their 2021 tax
 return and claim the Child Tax Credit for the 2021 tax year at any 
point until April 15, 2025, without any penalty. This year also marks 
the first time in history that many families with children in Puerto 
Rico will be eligible to claim the Child Tax Credit, which has been 
expanded to provide up to $3,600 per child.Some taxpayers automatically qualify for extra time to file and pay taxes due without penalties and interest, including:<ul>
 <li>Members of the military who served or are currently serving in a combat zone. They may qualify for an <a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p3#en_US_2021_publink100050111">additional extension of at least 180 days</a> to file and pay taxes.</li><li>Support personnel in combat zones or a contingency operation in support of the Armed Forces. They may also <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/extension-of-deadlines-combat-zone-service">qualify for a filing and payment extension</a> of at least 180 days.</li><li>Taxpayers outside the United States. U.S. citizens
 and resident aliens who live and work outside the U.S. and Puerto Rico,
 including military members on duty who don't qualify for the combat 
zone extension, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-54">may qualify for a 2-month filing and payment extension</a>.</li><li>Some disaster victims. Those who qualify have <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations">more time to file and pay</a> what they owe.</li>
 </ul><h2>File without penalty to get a tax refund</h2>Some people may choose not to file a tax return because they didn't 
earn enough money to be required to file. But they may miss out on 
receiving a refund. The only way to get a refund is to file a tax 
return. There's no penalty for filing after the April 18 deadline if a 
refund is due. Taxpayers are encouraged to use electronic filing options
 including IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> which is available on IRS.gov through October 17 to prepare and file 2021 tax returns electronically.While most tax credits can be used to reduce the tax owed, there are a
 few credits that allow taxpayers to receive money beyond what they owe.
 The most common examples of these refundable credits are the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit-eitc">Earned Income Tax Credit</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/child-and-dependent-care-credit-information">Child and Dependent Care Credit</a> and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/does-my-childdependent-qualify-for-the-child-tax-credit-or-the-credit-for-other-dependents">Child Tax Credit</a>.
 Those who don't usually file and didn't qualify for a third-round 
Economic Impact Payment or got less than the full amount may be eligible
 to claim the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit">2021 Recovery Rebate Credit</a>
 when they file their 2021 tax return. Taxpayers often fail to file a 
tax return and claim a refund for these credits and others for which 
they may be eligible.Generally, the IRS issues nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21 days
 for taxpayers who e-file and choose direct deposit. However, it's 
possible a tax return may require <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/tax-season-refund-frequently-asked-questions">additional review</a> or take longer. The IRS processes paper tax returns in the order they are received.Taxpayers can track their refund using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a> tool on IRS.gov, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> or by calling the automated refund hotline at <a href="tel:800-829-1954">800-829-1954</a>.
 Taxpayers need the primary Social Security number on the tax return, 
the filing status and the expected refund amount. The refund status 
information updates once daily, usually overnight, so there's no need to
 check more frequently.<h2>File to reduce penalties and interest</h2>Taxpayers should file their tax return and pay any taxes they owe as 
soon as possible to reduce penalties and interest. An extension to file 
is not an extension to pay. An extension to file provides an additional 
six months with a new filing deadline of October 17. Penalties and 
interest apply to taxes owed after April 18 and interest is charged on 
tax and penalties until the balance is <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">paid in full</a>.Filing and paying as much as possible is key because the late-filing penalty and late-payment penalty add up quickly.Even if a taxpayer can't afford to immediately pay the full amount of
 taxes owed, they should still file a tax return to reduce possible 
delayed filing penalties. The IRS offers a variety of options for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/what-if-i-cant-pay-my-taxes">taxpayers who owe the IRS but cannot afford to pay</a>.Usually, the failure to file penalty is 5% of the tax owed for each 
month or part of a month that a tax return is late, up to five months, 
reduced by the failure to pay penalty amount for any month where both 
penalties apply. If a return is filed more than 60 days after the due 
date, the minimum penalty is either $435 or 100% of the unpaid tax, 
whichever is less.The failure to pay penalty rate is generally 0.5% of unpaid tax owed 
for each month or part of a month until the tax is fully paid or until 
25% is reached. The rate is subject to change. For more information see 
the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/penalties">Penalties</a> page on IRS.gov.Taxpayers may qualify for penalty relief if they have filed and paid 
timely for the past three years and meet other important requirements, 
including paying or arranging to pay any tax due. For more information, 
see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/penalty-relief-due-to-first-time-penalty-abatement-or-other-administrative-waiver">first time penalty abatement</a> page on IRS.gov.<h2>Pay taxes due electronically on IRS.gov/payments</h2>Those who owe taxes can pay quickly and securely via their <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/your-online-account">Online Account</a>, IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-your-taxes-by-debit-or-credit-card">debit or credit card or digital wallet</a>, or they can <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application">apply online for a payment plan (including an installment agreement)</a>. Taxpayers paying electronically receive immediate confirmation when they submit their payment. With <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a> and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)</a>, taxpayers can receive email notifications about their payments.<h2>Selecting a tax professional</h2>The IRS offers tips to help taxpayers <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tips-to-help-people-choose-a-reputable-tax-preparer">choose a Tax Professional</a> to assist in tax return preparation.The <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>
 can help taxpayers find tax return preparers who hold a professional 
credential recognized by the IRS or who have completed IRS requirements 
for the Annual Filing Season Program.<h2>Taxpayer Bill of Rights</h2>Taxpayers have fundamental rights under the law that protect them when they interact with the IRS. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxpayer-bill-of-rights">Taxpayer Bill of Rights</a> presents these rights in 10 categories. IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-1">Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer</a>, highlights these rights and the agency's obligation to protect them.

Missed the tax deadline? File now to limit penalties, claim Child Tax Credit

OMAHA, NEB.— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested multiple people after pursuits in Omaha and Lincoln.

Tuesday, at approximately 6:20 p.m., a trooper observed a Mercury Mariner driving recklessly on Park Avenue, near 30th Street in Omaha. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the vehicle fled. The trooper initiated a pursuit, but it was discontinued quickly out of concern for public safety. A few minutes later the trooper located the driver as she was exiting the vehicle at an apartment complex.

The driver, Chalecia Trotter, 22, of Omaha, was taken into custody without incident. She was lodged in Douglas County Jail for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, and an outstanding warrant.

At approximately 1:55 a.m. Wednesday in Lincoln, a trooper observed a Ford F-150 speeding on Cornhusker near NW 4th Street. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the vehicle fled. The trooper initiated a pursuit. The vehicle fled through residential streets before exiting the roadway and coming to a stop in a ditch. The driver then attempted to flee on foot, but he was apprehended quickly by the trooper. The entire pursuit lasted approximately five minutes.

The driver, James Fox, 49, of Hastings, was arrested for flight to avoid arrest, DUI – 3rd Offense, reckless driving, obstructing a peace officer, driving during revocation, and possession of an open alcohol container. He was lodged in Lancaster County Jail.

By Nebraska State PatrolOMAHA, NEB.— Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested multiple people after pursuits in Omaha and Lincoln.Tuesday, at approximately 6:20 p.m., a trooper observed a Mercury Mariner driving recklessly on Park Avenue, near 30th Street in Omaha. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the vehicle fled. The trooper initiated a pursuit, but it was discontinued quickly out of concern for public safety. A few minutes later the trooper located the driver as she was exiting the vehicle at an apartment complex.The driver, Chalecia Trotter, 22, of Omaha, was taken into custody without incident. She was lodged in Douglas County Jail for flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, and an outstanding warrant.At approximately 1:55 a.m. Wednesday in Lincoln, a trooper observed a Ford F-150 speeding on Cornhusker near NW 4th Street. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the vehicle fled. The trooper initiated a pursuit. The vehicle fled through residential streets before exiting the roadway and coming to a stop in a ditch. The driver then attempted to flee on foot, but he was apprehended quickly by the trooper. The entire pursuit lasted approximately five minutes.The driver, James Fox, 49, of Hastings, was arrested for flight to avoid arrest, DUI – 3rd Offense, reckless driving, obstructing a peace officer, driving during revocation, and possession of an open alcohol container. He was lodged in Lancaster County Jail.

Multiple arrests after pursuits in Omaha, Lincoln

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department is filing an appeal seeking to overturn a judge’s order that voided the federal mask mandate on planes, trains and travel hubs, officials said Wednesday.

It came minutes after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention asked the Justice Department to appeal the decision handed down by a federal judge in Florida earlier this week.

A notice of appeal was filed in federal court in Tampa.

The CDC said in a statement on Wednesday that it is its “continuing assessment that at this time an order requiring masking in the indoor transportation corridor remains necessary for the public health.”

The CDC said it will continue to monitor public health conditions to determine if a mandate would remain necessary. It said it believes the mandate is “a lawful order, well within CDC’s legal authority to protect public health.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622894132711.png" alt="The CDC said in a statement on Wednesday that it is its “continuing assessment that at this time an order requiring masking in the indoor transportation corridor remains necessary for the public health.”-photo Kansas City International Airport" />
 <figcaption>The CDC said in a statement on Wednesday that it is its “continuing assessment that at this time an order requiring masking in the indoor transportation corridor remains necessary for the public health.”-photo Kansas City International Airport</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department is filing an appeal seeking to overturn a judge’s order that voided the federal mask mandate on planes, trains and travel hubs, officials said Wednesday.It came minutes after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention asked the Justice Department to appeal the decision handed down by a federal judge in Florida earlier this week.A notice of appeal was filed in federal court in Tampa.The CDC said in a statement on Wednesday that it is its “continuing assessment that at this time an order requiring masking in the indoor transportation corridor remains necessary for the public health.”The CDC said it will continue to monitor public health conditions to determine if a mandate would remain necessary. It said it believes the mandate is “a lawful order, well within CDC’s legal authority to protect public health.”

Justice Dept. to appeal order voiding travel mask mandate

MOSCOW (AP)— The Russian Defense Ministry reported the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/00963402.2022.2038907?needAccess=true">first launch</a> of its new Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile. President Vladimir Putin said this weapon is unique and will make those who threaten Russia “think twice.”

The ministry said said the missile was launched Wednesday from the Plesetsk launch facility in northern Russia and its practice warheads hit designated targets at the Kura firing range on the far eastern Kamchatka Peninsula.

The Sarmat is a heavy missile, intended to replace the Soviet-made Voyevoda missile which was code-named Satan by the West. Putin and his officials said it's capable of penetrating any prospective missile defense.

Putin called this “a big, significant event” for Russia’s defense industry. He said the Sarmat will ensure Russia’s security from external threats and make those who, in the heat of frantic, aggressive rhetoric, try to threaten our country, think twice.”

Russia relies on land-based ICBMs as the core of its nuclear deterrent, and is counting on the Sarmat for decades to come.

The U.S. has its own ICBMs, but postponed and then called off an intercontinental nuclear-capable missile test to avoid escalating tensions with Russia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645673092575.png" alt="President Vladimir Putin called this “a big, significant event” for Russia’s defense industry. photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Vladimir Putin called this “a big, significant event” for Russia’s defense industry. photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>MOSCOW (AP)— The Russian Defense Ministry reported the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/00963402.2022.2038907?needAccess=true">first launch</a> of its new Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile. President Vladimir Putin said this weapon is unique and will make those who threaten Russia “think twice.”The ministry said said the missile was launched Wednesday from the Plesetsk launch facility in northern Russia and its practice warheads hit designated targets at the Kura firing range on the far eastern Kamchatka Peninsula.The Sarmat is a heavy missile, intended to replace the Soviet-made Voyevoda missile which was code-named Satan by the West. Putin and his officials said it's capable of penetrating any prospective missile defense.Putin called this “a big, significant event” for Russia’s defense industry. He said the Sarmat will ensure Russia’s security from external threats and make those who, in the heat of frantic, aggressive rhetoric, try to threaten our country, think twice.”Russia relies on land-based ICBMs as the core of its nuclear deterrent, and is counting on the Sarmat for decades to come.The U.S. has its own ICBMs, but postponed and then called off an intercontinental nuclear-capable missile test to avoid escalating tensions with Russia.

Threat: Russia tests new intercontinental nuclear missile

WASHINGTON (AP) —The Justice Department said Tuesday it will not appeal a federal district judge’s ruling that ended the nation’s federal mask mandate on public transit unless the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention believes the requirement is still necessary.

In a statement released a day after a Florida judge ended the sweeping mandate, which required face coverings on planes and trains and in transit hubs, Justice Department spokesman Anthony Coley said officials believe that the federal mask order was “a valid exercise of the authority Congress has given CDC to protect the public health.” He said it was “an important authority the Department will continue to work to preserve.”

Coley said the CDC had said it would continue to assess public health conditions, and if the agency determined a mandate was necessary for public health, the Justice Department would file an appeal.

As of Tuesday, the agency hadn’t made a determination, officials said.

The federal judge’s ruling did away with the last major vestige of federal pandemic rules and led to a mishmash of new locally created rules that reflected the nation’s ongoing divisions over how to battle the virus.

Major airlines and airports in places like Dallas, Atlanta, Los Angeles and Salt Lake City quickly switched to a mask-optional policy. Los Angeles County dropped its mandate for mass transit and a train conductor in New Jersey told commuters of their masks Tuesday: “Feel free to burn them at will.”

New York City, Chicago and Connecticut, however, continued to require masks for travelers.

The ride-sharing companies Lyft and Uber announced on their websites Tuesday that masks will now be optional while riding or driving.

Even Walt Disney World in Florida on Tuesday announced it was lifting its mask requirement for its monorail, buses and sky gondola.

For many, the news was welcome. A video showed some passengers on a Delta Air Lines flight cheering and applauding as they removed masks upon hearing the announcement they were now optional. One man happily twirled his mask on his finger.

However Brooke Tansley, a television producer and former Broadway performer, was incensed after boarding a flight with her 4-year-old and 8-month-old baby— neither old enough to be vaccinated — only to learn the mask mandate had ended mid-flight.

“Very very angry about this,” she said in a tweet, noting her baby was too young to wear a mask.

President Joe Biden went all-in on flexibility Tuesday when asked if Americans should mask up on planes.

“That’s up to them,” Biden declared during a visit to Portsmouth, New Hampshire. But the White House continues to require face coverings for those traveling with him on Air Force One, citing CDC guidance.

In Portland, Oregon, transit employees immediately began taking down “mask required” announcements and signs, but said it would likely take several days to remove everything.

The city joined Atlanta, Boston, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Kansas City, Missouri, and two of Alaska’s largest cities, Anchorage and Juneau, in making masking optional on mass transit.

Some passengers at Chicago’s Union Station said the rules were confusing. Amtrak dropped its requirement. The Chicago Transit Authority and Metra, the regional commuter rail service, kept the requirement at first but dropped it late Tuesday.

“It’s like this patchwork of different rules and enforcement of it,” said Erik Abderhalden, who wore a mask as he waited for a Metra train to his home in suburban Naperville. “I mean, it’s like Swiss cheese ... there’s no uniformity and it seems pretty laissez-faire.”

Subway rider Cooper Klinges was pleased that New York City’s public transit system wasn’t following the trend and planned to keep its mask requirement in place. As he waited at a Brooklyn train station, he said he canceled a flight earlier this year over concerns about the virus.

“I don’t think we are out of the woods yet,” said Klinges, a teacher, citing concerns about the BA.2 omicron subvariant of the coronavirus. “It is still around. We have to still stick it out.”

The CDC had recently extended the mask mandate, which was set to expire Monday, until May 3 to allow more time to study the subvariant, which is now responsible for the vast majority of U.S. cases. But the court ruling puts that decision on hold.

After a winter surge fueled by the omicron variant that prompted record hospitalizations, the U.S. has seen a significant drop in virus spread in recent months that led most states and cities to drop mask mandates.

But several Northeast cities have seen a rise in hospitalizations in recent weeks, leading Philadelphia to bring back its mask mandate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608050594352.png" alt="The CDC had recently extended the mask mandate, which was set to expire Monday, until May 3 to allow more time to study the subvariant, which is now responsible for the vast majority of U.S. cases. But the court ruling puts that decision on hold.-photo courtesy Eisenhower Wichita National Airport" />
 <figcaption>The CDC had recently extended the mask mandate, which was set to expire Monday, until May 3 to allow more time to study the subvariant, which is now responsible for the vast majority of U.S. cases. But the court ruling puts that decision on hold.-photo courtesy Eisenhower Wichita National Airport</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —The Justice Department said Tuesday it will not appeal a federal district judge’s ruling that ended the nation’s federal mask mandate on public transit unless the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention believes the requirement is still necessary.In a statement released a day after a Florida judge ended the sweeping mandate, which required face coverings on planes and trains and in transit hubs, Justice Department spokesman Anthony Coley said officials believe that the federal mask order was “a valid exercise of the authority Congress has given CDC to protect the public health.” He said it was “an important authority the Department will continue to work to preserve.”Coley said the CDC had said it would continue to assess public health conditions, and if the agency determined a mandate was necessary for public health, the Justice Department would file an appeal.As of Tuesday, the agency hadn’t made a determination, officials said.The federal judge’s ruling did away with the last major vestige of federal pandemic rules and led to a mishmash of new locally created rules that reflected the nation’s ongoing divisions over how to battle the virus.Major airlines and airports in places like Dallas, Atlanta, Los Angeles and Salt Lake City quickly switched to a mask-optional policy. Los Angeles County dropped its mandate for mass transit and a train conductor in New Jersey told commuters of their masks Tuesday: “Feel free to burn them at will.”New York City, Chicago and Connecticut, however, continued to require masks for travelers.The ride-sharing companies Lyft and Uber announced on their websites Tuesday that masks will now be optional while riding or driving.Even Walt Disney World in Florida on Tuesday announced it was lifting its mask requirement for its monorail, buses and sky gondola.For many, the news was welcome. A video showed some passengers on a Delta Air Lines flight cheering and applauding as they removed masks upon hearing the announcement they were now optional. One man happily twirled his mask on his finger.However Brooke Tansley, a television producer and former Broadway performer, was incensed after boarding a flight with her 4-year-old and 8-month-old baby— neither old enough to be vaccinated — only to learn the mask mandate had ended mid-flight.“Very very angry about this,” she said in a tweet, noting her baby was too young to wear a mask.President Joe Biden went all-in on flexibility Tuesday when asked if Americans should mask up on planes.“That’s up to them,” Biden declared during a visit to Portsmouth, New Hampshire. But the White House continues to require face coverings for those traveling with him on Air Force One, citing CDC guidance.In Portland, Oregon, transit employees immediately began taking down “mask required” announcements and signs, but said it would likely take several days to remove everything.The city joined Atlanta, Boston, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Kansas City, Missouri, and two of Alaska’s largest cities, Anchorage and Juneau, in making masking optional on mass transit.Some passengers at Chicago’s Union Station said the rules were confusing. Amtrak dropped its requirement. The Chicago Transit Authority and Metra, the regional commuter rail service, kept the requirement at first but dropped it late Tuesday.“It’s like this patchwork of different rules and enforcement of it,” said Erik Abderhalden, who wore a mask as he waited for a Metra train to his home in suburban Naperville. “I mean, it’s like Swiss cheese ... there’s no uniformity and it seems pretty laissez-faire.”Subway rider Cooper Klinges was pleased that New York City’s public transit system wasn’t following the trend and planned to keep its mask requirement in place. As he waited at a Brooklyn train station, he said he canceled a flight earlier this year over concerns about the virus.“I don’t think we are out of the woods yet,” said Klinges, a teacher, citing concerns about the BA.2 omicron subvariant of the coronavirus. “It is still around. We have to still stick it out.”The CDC had recently extended the mask mandate, which was set to expire Monday, until May 3 to allow more time to study the subvariant, which is now responsible for the vast majority of U.S. cases. But the court ruling puts that decision on hold.After a winter surge fueled by the omicron variant that prompted record hospitalizations, the U.S. has seen a significant drop in virus spread in recent months that led most states and cities to drop mask mandates.But several Northeast cities have seen a rise in hospitalizations in recent weeks, leading Philadelphia to bring back its mask mandate.

Feds will appeal mask ruling only if mandate still needed

SAN FRANCISCO&nbsp; (AP) — Netflix’s video streaming service suffered the first loss in worldwide subscribers in its history, leading to a massive sell-off of its shares. The company’s customer base fell by 200,000 subscribers during the January-March period, according to a quarterly report released Tuesday; its stock dropped over 25% in after-market trading.

The subscription figure was far worse than company management’s forecast for a conservative gain of 2.5 million subscribers. The news deepens troubles at the streaming service that have been mounting since a surge of signups from a captive audience during the pandemic began to slow.

It marks the first time Netflix’s worldwide subscribers have contracted, although the service previously saw a decline in U..S. subscribers in 2019. Now Netflix is bracing for things to get even worse with a projected loss of another 2 million subscribers during the April-June period.

The disappointing performance caused Netflix’s stock price to plunge 26% in extended trading. Investors had already been bailing out of the company's once high-flying stock amid a dramatic slowdown in subscriber growth. If the shares behave similarly in Wednesday’s regular trading session, Netflix’s stock will have lost more than its value so far this year.

It marks the fourth time in the last five quarters that Netflix’s subscriber growth has fallen below the gains of the previous year, raising investor fears that its streaming service is mired in a malaise that has been magnified by stiffening competition from well-funded rivals such as Apple and Walt Disney.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615571482496.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SAN FRANCISCO&nbsp; (AP) — Netflix’s video streaming service suffered the first loss in worldwide subscribers in its history, leading to a massive sell-off of its shares. The company’s customer base fell by 200,000 subscribers during the January-March period, according to a quarterly report released Tuesday; its stock dropped over 25% in after-market trading.The subscription figure was far worse than company management’s forecast for a conservative gain of 2.5 million subscribers. The news deepens troubles at the streaming service that have been mounting since a surge of signups from a captive audience during the pandemic began to slow.It marks the first time Netflix’s worldwide subscribers have contracted, although the service previously saw a decline in U..S. subscribers in 2019. Now Netflix is bracing for things to get even worse with a projected loss of another 2 million subscribers during the April-June period.The disappointing performance caused Netflix’s stock price to plunge 26% in extended trading. Investors had already been bailing out of the company's once high-flying stock amid a dramatic slowdown in subscriber growth. If the shares behave similarly in Wednesday’s regular trading session, Netflix’s stock will have lost more than its value so far this year.It marks the fourth time in the last five quarters that Netflix’s subscriber growth has fallen below the gains of the previous year, raising investor fears that its streaming service is mired in a malaise that has been magnified by stiffening competition from well-funded rivals such as Apple and Walt Disney.

Netflix suffers first loss in worldwide subscribers in its history

By SUZANNE PEREZ <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/education/2022-04-18/suburban-school-officials-predict-chaos-if-kansas-lets-out-of-district-students-transfer-freely">Kansas News Service</a>

WICHITA, Kansas — Kansas stands on the verge of letting students attend any public school — regardless of where they live.

Conservatives
 love the plan. They say it would give poor families stuck in failing 
school districts a chance at a life-changing escape.

But school 
administrators running well-heeled suburban districts already are taking
 measures to demonstrate their classrooms are full — the one exception 
the proposed change would allow from barring students who want to 
transfer into a district they don’t live in.

They say they have 
little choice if they’re going to protect their taxpayers from the cost 
of teaching a flood of students they’re not prepared for and who come 
with needs they can’t afford to accommodate.

“We believe in 
neighborhood schools,” said Brett White, superintendent of Andover 
schools east of Wichita. “The open borders would just throw into chaos 
what's an established policy.”

Open enrollment proposals passed in both <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20220323102801_716700/" target="_blank">the Kansas House</a> and <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb455/" target="_blank">Senate</a> before lawmakers left for their spring break this month. They echo measures in more than two dozen other states where <a href="https://schoolchoiceweek.com/public-school-transfer/" target="_blank">public school transfers are seen as a hallmark of school choice</a>.

If a compromise bill is approved, here’s how it likely would work:

By
 January 2023, every Kansas school district would be required to 
establish enrollment capacity limits by grade level and school building.
 By May 1, districts would determine the number of open seats at each 
grade level and would publish them by June 1.

Students could apply
 to districts outside their residential area — if the other district has
 space. If there are more requests than open seats, districts would use a
 random lottery to fill them. In October, the process would begin again 
for the spring semester.

That allows school districts to determine
 their own enrollment and capacity levels — and to go on record saying 
they can’t take in more students.

“They would determine if there 
was any room at the inn,” said Republican Sen. Molly Baumgardner, chair 
of the Senate Education Committee.

Districts wouldn’t have to 
accept students with histories of absenteeism, suspensions or 
expulsions. But they could not deny students based on a disability or 
special-education status.

The state’s portion of education funding would follow the student to the new district.

Republican
 Rep. Sean Tarwater, a member of the House K-12 Budget Committee who 
supports open enrollment, said boundaries based on a student’s address 
create academic segregation.

“One of the things that we hear is … 
‘Why doesn’t the student just move into a better district if they want a
 better school?’ Unfortunately, homes or apartments in some of the 
better districts are unattainable for most of the families that live in 
the districts that might be failing,” Tarwater said. “This bill simply 
allows those children to have a choice and a chance.”

Supporters point to <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-11-23/test-scores-show-kansas-students-fell-further-behind-during-pandemic" target="_blank">declining test scores</a> as evidence of struggling districts — and the nearby schools they might flee to.

In Kansas City, Kansas, for instance, <a href="https://ksreportcard.ksde.org/assessment_results.aspx?org_no=D0500&amp;rptType=2" target="_blank">more than two-thirds of students scored below grade level in math</a> last spring. In nearby Blue Valley, <a href="https://ksreportcard.ksde.org/assessment_results.aspx?org_no=D0229&amp;rptType=2" target="_blank">only 16% scored below grade level</a> — half the state average.

At Heights High School in northeast Wichita, <a href="https://ksreportcard.ksde.org/assessment_results.aspx?org_no=D0259&amp;bldg_no=1846&amp;rptType=1" target="_blank">more than 72% of students scored below grade level</a> in math. At Andover Central High School, about 15 miles away in a different district, only <a href="https://ksreportcard.ksde.org/assessment_results.aspx?org_no=D0385&amp;bldg_no=5186&amp;rptType=1" target="_blank">22% scored below grade level</a>.

But
 the open enrollment proposal doesn’t require districts to provide 
transportation for transfer students. So opponents say only wealthier 
parents will take advantage of the option, snagging any available spots 
in high-achieving districts because they can afford to drive their kids 
to school.

That could leave struggling urban districts in even 
worse shape, critics say, with a greater percentage of high-need 
students and less state funding.

“This bill creates two tiers,” 
said Sen. Cindy Holsher, a Democrat from Overland Park. “We have 
children (whose) parents have the means to get them maybe an hour away 
to another school. But there are a number of children in districts who 
don’t have that advantage.”

Many suburban superintendents oppose 
open enrollment in part because they say local taxpayers shouldn’t have 
to subsidize out-of-district students.

“Blue Valley is among the 
highest-performing districts in Kansas — indeed competing nationally — 
and, as such, would find our districts overwhelmed with requests from 
non-residents,” Blue Valley Superintendent Tonya Merrigan said in <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/committees/ctte_s_ed_1/documents/testimony/20220308_09.pdf" target="_blank">written testimony to the Senate Education Committee</a>.

“Without
 intending to sound elitist, it is nonetheless true that housing costs 
in our districts often provide a check on resident student growth.”

In
 Andover, some residents complained on social media that an influx of 
outside students would increase traffic and pollution and deteriorate 
the district’s sense of community.

Sen. Renee Erickson, a Wichita Republican, called those arguments elitist.

“Based
 on what the superintendents said, I think it’s very clear,” Erickson 
said. “‘We want our high socioeconomic status to remain. We’re born on 
third and think we hit a triple, and we don’t want anyone interfering 
with that.’”

Under the House bill, districts would get to define 
the term “capacity” and set their own capacity limits. The Kansas State 
Board of Education would audit only one district each year to determine 
whether they complied with the law.

About 20,000 Kansas students 
currently attend schools outside their district. More than 90% of 
districts reported accepting at least some out-of-district students. 
Andover, for example, allows children of full-time district employees to
 enroll in Andover schools regardless of where they live.

White, 
the Andover superintendent, said open enrollment would be a logistical 
nightmare. He said it’s hard enough to predict enrollment trends within 
his district, which has grown steadily for the past decade.

Setting
 new capacity guidelines, handling applications and then readjusting for
 latecomers — possibly having to hire additional teachers just before 
school starts — would be an unnecessary burden, White said.

“We have a system that works,” he said. “Why would Topeka want to create a whole new bureaucracy for us at the local level?”

Suzanne Perez reports on education for KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter @SuzPerezICT.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650376535786.png" alt="Substitute teacher Serle McNeil leads an algebra class at Andover High School. Andover leaders say opening enrollment to out-of-district students would strain the district's resources. Suzanne Perez / KMUW" />
 <figcaption>Substitute teacher Serle McNeil leads an algebra class at Andover High School. Andover leaders say opening enrollment to out-of-district students would strain the district's resources. Suzanne Perez / KMUW</figcaption>
 </figure>By SUZANNE PEREZ <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/education/2022-04-18/suburban-school-officials-predict-chaos-if-kansas-lets-out-of-district-students-transfer-freely">Kansas News Service</a>WICHITA, Kansas — Kansas stands on the verge of letting students attend any public school — regardless of where they live.Conservatives
 love the plan. They say it would give poor families stuck in failing 
school districts a chance at a life-changing escape.But school 
administrators running well-heeled suburban districts already are taking
 measures to demonstrate their classrooms are full — the one exception 
the proposed change would allow from barring students who want to 
transfer into a district they don’t live in.They say they have 
little choice if they’re going to protect their taxpayers from the cost 
of teaching a flood of students they’re not prepared for and who come 
with needs they can’t afford to accommodate.“We believe in 
neighborhood schools,” said Brett White, superintendent of Andover 
schools east of Wichita. “The open borders would just throw into chaos 
what's an established policy.”Open enrollment proposals passed in both <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/vote_view/je_20220323102801_716700/" target="_blank">the Kansas House</a> and <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb455/" target="_blank">Senate</a> before lawmakers left for their spring break this month. They echo measures in more than two dozen other states where <a href="https://schoolchoiceweek.com/public-school-transfer/" target="_blank">public school transfers are seen as a hallmark of school choice</a>.If a compromise bill is approved, here’s how it likely would work:By
 January 2023, every Kansas school district would be required to 
establish enrollment capacity limits by grade level and school building.
 By May 1, districts would determine the number of open seats at each 
grade level and would publish them by June 1.Students could apply
 to districts outside their residential area — if the other district has
 space. If there are more requests than open seats, districts would use a
 random lottery to fill them. In October, the process would begin again 
for the spring semester.That allows school districts to determine
 their own enrollment and capacity levels — and to go on record saying 
they can’t take in more students.“They would determine if there 
was any room at the inn,” said Republican Sen. Molly Baumgardner, chair 
of the Senate Education Committee.Districts wouldn’t have to 
accept students with histories of absenteeism, suspensions or 
expulsions. But they could not deny students based on a disability or 
special-education status.The state’s portion of education funding would follow the student to the new district.Republican
 Rep. Sean Tarwater, a member of the House K-12 Budget Committee who 
supports open enrollment, said boundaries based on a student’s address 
create academic segregation.“One of the things that we hear is … 
‘Why doesn’t the student just move into a better district if they want a
 better school?’ Unfortunately, homes or apartments in some of the 
better districts are unattainable for most of the families that live in 
the districts that might be failing,” Tarwater said. “This bill simply 
allows those children to have a choice and a chance.”Supporters point to <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-11-23/test-scores-show-kansas-students-fell-further-behind-during-pandemic" target="_blank">declining test scores</a> as evidence of struggling districts — and the nearby schools they might flee to.In Kansas City, Kansas, for instance, <a href="https://ksreportcard.ksde.org/assessment_results.aspx?org_no=D0500&amp;rptType=2" target="_blank">more than two-thirds of students scored below grade level in math</a> last spring. In nearby Blue Valley, <a href="https://ksreportcard.ksde.org/assessment_results.aspx?org_no=D0229&amp;rptType=2" target="_blank">only 16% scored below grade level</a> — half the state average.At Heights High School in northeast Wichita, <a href="https://ksreportcard.ksde.org/assessment_results.aspx?org_no=D0259&amp;bldg_no=1846&amp;rptType=1" target="_blank">more than 72% of students scored below grade level</a> in math. At Andover Central High School, about 15 miles away in a different district, only <a href="https://ksreportcard.ksde.org/assessment_results.aspx?org_no=D0385&amp;bldg_no=5186&amp;rptType=1" target="_blank">22% scored below grade level</a>.But
 the open enrollment proposal doesn’t require districts to provide 
transportation for transfer students. So opponents say only wealthier 
parents will take advantage of the option, snagging any available spots 
in high-achieving districts because they can afford to drive their kids 
to school.That could leave struggling urban districts in even 
worse shape, critics say, with a greater percentage of high-need 
students and less state funding.“This bill creates two tiers,” 
said Sen. Cindy Holsher, a Democrat from Overland Park. “We have 
children (whose) parents have the means to get them maybe an hour away 
to another school. But there are a number of children in districts who 
don’t have that advantage.”Many suburban superintendents oppose 
open enrollment in part because they say local taxpayers shouldn’t have 
to subsidize out-of-district students.“Blue Valley is among the 
highest-performing districts in Kansas — indeed competing nationally — 
and, as such, would find our districts overwhelmed with requests from 
non-residents,” Blue Valley Superintendent Tonya Merrigan said in <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/committees/ctte_s_ed_1/documents/testimony/20220308_09.pdf" target="_blank">written testimony to the Senate Education Committee</a>.“Without
 intending to sound elitist, it is nonetheless true that housing costs 
in our districts often provide a check on resident student growth.”In
 Andover, some residents complained on social media that an influx of 
outside students would increase traffic and pollution and deteriorate 
the district’s sense of community.Sen. Renee Erickson, a Wichita Republican, called those arguments elitist.“Based
 on what the superintendents said, I think it’s very clear,” Erickson 
said. “‘We want our high socioeconomic status to remain. We’re born on 
third and think we hit a triple, and we don’t want anyone interfering 
with that.’”Under the House bill, districts would get to define 
the term “capacity” and set their own capacity limits. The Kansas State 
Board of Education would audit only one district each year to determine 
whether they complied with the law.About 20,000 Kansas students 
currently attend schools outside their district. More than 90% of 
districts reported accepting at least some out-of-district students. 
Andover, for example, allows children of full-time district employees to
 enroll in Andover schools regardless of where they live.White, 
the Andover superintendent, said open enrollment would be a logistical 
nightmare. He said it’s hard enough to predict enrollment trends within 
his district, which has grown steadily for the past decade.Setting
 new capacity guidelines, handling applications and then readjusting for
 latecomers — possibly having to hire additional teachers just before 
school starts — would be an unnecessary burden, White said.“We have a system that works,” he said. “Why would Topeka want to create a whole new bureaucracy for us at the local level?”Suzanne Perez reports on education for KMUW in Wichita and the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter @SuzPerezICT.