Despite the coronavirus pandemic continuing to spread throughout the state, Kansas’ budget has been approved through 2021.
Governor Laura Kelly officially signed Senate Bill 66 Wednesday afternoon approving a total budget estimated at $20 billion. $65 million have been set aside for coronavirus response with $15 million earmarked for disaster preparedness efforts and another $50 million designated for unexpected expenses.
After signing the budget, Governor Kelly applauded the swift bipartisan work of lawmakers to pass the budget while also dealing with an “unprecedented global public health pandemic.” After praising the work, Governor Kelly also warned legislators to avoid any unnecessary new spending when they return for their wrap-up session in April.
The Governor made the request stating, “As we get a handle on our new reality, I urge the Legislature to join me in showing fiscal restraint when they return for the annual wrap up session. It is critical that we act with utmost caution until we get a better sense of what the true budget implications of coronavirus will be.”
