Kansas lawmakers are considering a bill that would shorten the amount of time they spend at the Statehouse. The proposal would cap sessions at 60 days during odd-numbered years, down from the normal 90 days.
Republican Representative Marvin Kleeb says while the session is only scheduled to last 90 days, in reality it often stretches into five months. He says that length discourages many average Kansans from serving in the Legislature.
“You have people who can’t leave their businesses that long. You have employees who are unable to earn their income. It impedes their career, so it impacts their lives,” says Kleeb.
Democratic Senator Tom Holland says shortening the session would save the state money. Cutting 30 days off the session would save almost $2 million.
“Let’s be serious here, we’re talking to our constituents, to the state of Kansas about finding efficiencies. We’re great about talking the talk. We need to walk the walk,” says Holland.
Republican Representative Amanda Grosserode says they don’t need the legislation. She says if legislative leaders set strict deadlines they could already have shorter sessions.