TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas House has given first-round approval to a bill that would give legislators more oversight of bonds or other debt for major building projects. The measure advanced Friday on a voice vote. The House expects to take final action Monday. The bill would require the Legislature to approve the debt for a project worth $25 million or more. Legislative leaders and the governor could approve smaller projects. The requirements also would cover lease-purchase agreements. The measure is a reaction to two projects that did not receive prior legislative approval. A nonprofit corporation formed by the University of Kansas is financing major campus improvements with $327 million in bonds issued by a Wisconsin agency. And Governor Sam Brownback recently canceled a $20 million plan for a new power plant near the Statehouse.
Kansas House Advances Bill to Tighten Control of State Debt
