23 February 2006

Sebelius signs bills on traffic safety, improving government efficiency
Governor signs six bills into law

Today, Governor Kathleen Sebelius signed into law six bills dealing with issues ranging from improved traffic safety, to making government more efficient, to recognizing firefighters’ service.

So far in the 2006 Session, Governor Sebelius has signed nine bills into law and has vetoed none.

Improving traffic safety through good visibility for drivers

SB 372 limits the maximum width of appurtenances or accessories attached to motor homes and travel trailers so they may not extend beyond the vehicle’s rearview mirrors. Currently, the law places a 108-inch restriction. It will take effect upon publication in the register.

Saving Kansas money by extending the life of license plates

HB 2628 allows for a phase-in of new license plate designs. Currently, Kansas issues the same license plate for five years, with one-year extensions being granted for plates in good condition. The fiscal note for this bill reports phasing-in new plates over three years would result in a significant future savings – up to $4.5 million – when compared to current policy. This measure takes effect on publication in the statute book.

Recognizing firefighters’ service with motorcycle license plates

HB 2631 recognizes firefighters’ service to our communities by granting them a distinctive motorcycle license plate. Similar to the current firefighter license plate for cars and trucks, a Kansas resident who submits proof to the Director of Vehicles that the resident is a firefighter will be eligible to receive the motorcycle plate. This law will be in effect after publication in the statute book.

Clarifying weight restrictions for trucks

HB 2630 exempts truck tractors and dump semi-trailers or truck-trailer combinations from the federal “bridge formula” when these vehicles are operated on the interstate system. If the bill did not go into effect, operators of these vehicles would be required to reduce payload and productivity or purchase new equipment. This bill will take effect when published in the register.

Changing Kansas law to comply with new federal requirements

HB 2629 brings Kansas statutes into compliance with federal law enacted in 2005, increasing the length limitation of drive-away saddle mount combination vehicles from 75 feet to 97 feet. It will take effect after publication in the register.

Transferring duties to the Health Policy Authority

HB 2608 bill requires the Health Policy Authority to use the Department of Administration’s Office of Administrative Hearings to conduct adjudicative hearings under the Kansas Administrative Hearings Procedure Act. The agency would assume responsibilities currently belonging to Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services and Department of Administration. This law takes effect upon publication in the statute book