76th District Representative Eric Smith says there will be a lot on lawmakers’ plates when the 2023 legislative session convenes Monday.
Smith joined KVOE’s Morning Show Thursday to conclude KVOE’s annual legislative previews and says when it comes to the budget, he is pleased with where the state stands, especially after December tax collections topped estimates by almost 15 percent. That said, Smith says those dollars will be spent somewhere and legislatures need to be certain they are allocating funds to the right programs.
On the topic of Medicaid expansion, something his fellow lawmakers have called a “longshot” at best, Smith says he believes there are still supporters of that action, however, he is not among them.
On the topic of medical marijuana, a topic other legislators believe will see heavy debate this year, Smith says he expects a bill, if not several, to come before legislators. Last year Smith, along with 17th District Senator Jeff Longbine, sat on a special committee that heard testimony from neighboring states that have approved medical marijuana.
Smith says from the outside legalization seems like a simple issue, but the testimony from neighboring states made it clear it is anything but.
Smith says he is not for the current bill that is being considered by legislators ahead of the session, but that does not mean he is against the legalization of medical marijuana altogether. Smith tells KVOE if a “true medical structure” can be developed he would be more favorable of approving the legislation.
Smith will serve on the House Water Committee, Corrections and Juvenile Justice Committee as Vice Chair and House Judiciary Committee.
Smith’s interview Thursday follows Senator Longbine and House 60th District Representative Mark Schreiber who offered their thoughts on the upcoming session Monday and Wednesday. 13th District Representative Duane Droge (DROH-g), who is taking over for Joe Newland as Newland leads the Kansas Farm Bureau, will be chatting with KVOE News later this month.
