Kansas.gov Blog

Coming Soon!

2011-05-19T14:37:00.004-05:00

Locate. Discover. Connect. The all-new Kansas.gov Web Site is coming soon!

File Your Annual Report Online Today!

2011-04-14T09:51:00.002-05:00

Over 65,000 electronic filings completed in 2010

TOPEKA, Kan., – April 14, 2011 – The time is now for many Kansas businesses to file their annual report. The Kansas Secretary of State’s office partnered with Kansas.gov, a service of the Information Network of Kansas, Inc., to provide Kansas businesses with a fast and hassle-free option to file their annual report online: www.sos.ks.gov/business.

“We encourage business entities to file forms electronically,” said Secretary of State Kris Kobach. “The business wins because of the convenience of filing online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Kansas wins because the cost to process filings is significantly reduced when the Internet is used.”

The state originally launched the annual reports online filing service in 2004. Last year, the Kansas Secretary of State received over 65,000 electronic filings. Do not risk forfeiture—file your annual report today at: www.sos.ks.gov/business.

About Kansas.gov

The Information Network of Kansas Inc., (INK) is responsible for the oversight of the development of the official Web site for the state of Kansas, Kansas.gov. The portal operates through a public-private partnership between INK and the Kansas Information Consortium, LLC, to help Kansas government entities Web-enable their information services. The Kansas Information Consortium builds, operates, maintains and markets Kansas.gov and is part of eGovernment firm NIC’s (NASDAQ: EGOV) family of companies.

About Kansas Secretary of State

Created by the Kansas Constitution, the Office of the Secretary of State serves all Kansans by performing numerous statutory duties related to the administration of statewide elections, business entities and the uniform commercial code. As diverse as its duties are, one characteristic is common to all – quality service. The agency’s purpose is to provide the people of Kansas with economical and efficient, responsible and responsive service.

About NIC

NIC Inc. is the nation’s leading provider of official government portals, online services, and secure payment processing solutions. The company’s innovative eGovernment services help reduce costs and increase efficiencies for government agencies, citizens, and businesses across the country. The NIC family of companies provides eGovernment solutions for more than 3,000 federal, state, and local agencies that serve 98 million people in the United States. Additional information is available at http://www.nicusa.com

Hurry, Time Is Running Out! File Your 2010

2011-04-01T15:03:00.000-05:00

Over 86,000 filings completed so far this year

TOPEKA, Kan. – April 1, 2011 – The 2010 Individual Income Tax Return deadline is April 18, 2011. The Kansas Department of Revenue encourages residents to file 2010 Individual Income Tax Returns online with the new version of the easy-to-use Kansas WebFile (https://www.kansas.gov/webfile).

“Our goal is to make it easy and inexpensive for people to file their state tax returns online,” said Revenue Secretary Nick Jordan. “Kansas WebFile is not only free and simple to use, but people who have their refunds deposited electronically will receive their money much faster than a paper check.”

This year, the state is distributing a limited number of paper income tax forms and booklets to save taxpayer dollars. Online filing through WebFile is secure, fast and paperless. It also allows citizens to have their refunds directly deposited in their bank accounts much quicker than they would receive a paper check. Direct deposit refunds may be received in less than a week, and online filers requesting paper check refunds receive theirs up to 80 percent sooner than paper filers. In addition, paper filed returns do not qualify for direct deposit refunds.

The state originally launched WebFile in 2002. Last year, the Revenue Department received 80 percent of the 1.5 million individual income tax returns electronically, up from 68 percent filed online in 2009.

Save time and file online today at: https://www.kansas.gov/webfile.

About Kansas.gov
The Information Network of Kansas Inc., (INK) is responsible for the oversight of the development of the official Web site for the state of Kansas, Kansas.gov. The portal operates through a public-private partnership between INK and the Kansas Information Consortium, LLC, to help Kansas government entities Web-enable their information services. The Kansas Information Consortium builds, operates, maintains and markets Kansas.gov and is part of eGovernment firm NIC’s (NASDAQ: EGOV) family of companies.

About Kansas Department of Revenue
The Kansas Department of Revenue collects taxes and fees, administers Kansas tax laws, issues a variety of licenses and provides assistance to Kansas citizens and units of government. The Revenue Department is committed to hard work every day for the people of Kansas; to treat our taxpayers, our employees, and each other with respect; to conduct business with integrity, fairness and civility; and to be held accountable for our efforts. We will collect taxes and fees, fairly, cheerfully, accurately and efficiently.

Many Kansas Entrepreneurs Receive Help from the Kansas Business Center

2010-06-23T09:21:00.000-05:00

TOPEKA, Kan., – June 22, 2010 – Welcoming approximately 33,000 page views per month, the Kansas Business Center (http://www.kansas.gov/businesscenter) is the official state resource for information, regulatory filings, and personal assistance needed to start or maintain a Kansas-based business. The Kansas Business Center is a statewide initiative involving 11 state agencies and associations, including the Kansas Center for Entrepreneurship (dba NetWork Kansas).

As quoted by Erik Pedersen, Network Kansas Associate Director, "We believe the Kansas Business Center has proven to be a huge success for Kansas business owners. With the FREE help of our Referral Coordinators, we have been able to assist and guide many entrepreneurs through the process of planning, starting or growing a Kansas-based business.”

The Kansas Business Center offers the following resources to Kansas business owners:

One-stop-shop

Find what you need to start and maintain a Kansas business, including government forms
Referral Coordinators offer FREE help through the process

Easily process regulatory filings online

Annual Report Filin
Business Dissolution/Cancel/Withdraw Amendmen
Business Entity Searc
Business Formation Filin
Business Name Availability Searc
Business Name Chang
Business Name Reservatio
Business Tax Registratio
Letter/Certificate of Good Standing Request
Resident Agent/Registered Office Amendment

About NetWork Kansas
NetWork Kansas was established as a component of the Kansas Economic Growth Act of 2004 to further establish entrepreneurship and small business as a priority for economic and community development in the State of Kansas. Backed by nearly 500 partners statewide, the NetWork Kansas service promotes an entrepreneurial environment by establishing a central portal that connects entrepreneurs and small business owners with expertise, education and economic resources when they are needed most. Entrepreneurs and small business owners are encouraged to visit www.networkkansas.com or call (877) 521-8600 to speak with a NetWork Kansas referral coordinator.

Kansas 150 Website Highlights Kansas State Sesquicentennial Commemoration at KS150.org

2010-05-20T16:45:00.001-05:00

TOPEKA, Kan., – May 19, 2010 – Kansas will mark 150 years of statehood on January 29, 2011. The Kansas 150 Advisory Committee partnered with Kansas.gov, a service of the Information Network of Kansas, Inc., to provide a Website where communities across Kansas can connect with agencies and resources and participate in events and programs that commemorate the anniversary of statehood.

As quoted by Mary Madden, Kansas 150 Statewide Coordinator, "We believe the KS150.org Website will be the key to success for the Kansas Sesquicentennial Commemoration. It will allow all people, organizations, and communities across Kansas to share their resources, programs, projects, and events with others thereby embracing our goal to make Kansas150 a true grassroots celebration of statehood."

The Kansas 150 Website was made possible through a grant from the Information Network of Kansas and developed by Kansas.gov. “INK is pleased to support the Kansas 150 Website and look forward to seeing communities connect online to celebrate the sesquicentennial commemoration of Kansas,” stated Jim Hollingsworth, executive director for the Information Network of Kansas.

KS150.org offers a variety of ways to get involved to commemorate the anniversary of statehood:

• View and contribute to a Calendar of Events
• Register and search for programs/services such as storyteller, music, arts & crafts, food, etc.
• Access the marketing toolkit for the KS150 logo, sample news releases and 150+ event ideas

About Kansas 150
The Kansas 150 Advisory Committee is comprised of the Kansas Historical Society, Kansas African-American Affairs Commission, Kansas Division of Travel and Tourism, Kansas Arts Commission, Kansas Department of Transportation, Kansas Hispanic & Latino American Affairs Commission, Kansas Humanities Council, Kansas Lottery, Kansas Governor’s Office, Kansas State Department of Education, Kansas Wildlife and Parks, and the State Library of Kansas.

Easily Renew Your Kansas Professional Healthcare License Online

2010-05-17T10:28:00.001-05:00

TOPEKA, Kan., – May 17, 2010 – The renewal period for Doctors of Medicine and Surgery has begun (May 15 – June 30, 2010). Renewals received after June 30 will be accepted with a late fee (July 1 – 31, 2010). The Kansas State Board of Healing Arts (KSBHA) partnered with Kansas.gov, a service of the Information Network of Kansas, Inc., to provide healthcare professionals currently licensed by KSBHA to renew their credentials online at http://www.kansas.gov/healingarts.

KSBHA online renewals provide the following benefits:

• Enables you to easily renew your professional healthcare license online
• Secure credit card or electronic check payments
• 24-hour access for your convenience
• Ability to print your confirmation while waiting to receive your permanent card in the mail.

About Kansas State Board of Healing Arts
The mission of the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts is to safeguard the public through licensure, education and discipline of those who practice the healing arts in Kansas.

Easily Renew Your Kansas Pharmacy License Online

2010-05-17T10:25:00.001-05:00

TOPEKA, Kan., – May 17, 2010 – The renewal period has begun for Kansas Pharmacy licenses (May 15 – June 30, 2010). This renewal period applies to all pharmacy licenses except Retail Dealers and Technicians. A grace period will be allowed for license renewals received July 1 - 31, 2010. The Kansas State Board of Pharmacy (KSBP) partnered with Kansas.gov, a service of the Information Network of Kansas, Inc., to provide healthcare professionals currently licensed by KSBP to renew their credentials online at http://www.kansas.gov/pharmacyrenewals.

KSBP online renewals provide the following benefits:

• Enables you to easily renew your pharmacy license online
• Secure credit card or electronic check payments
• 24-hour access for your convenience
• Ability to print your confirmation while waiting to receive your permanent card in the mail.

About Kansas State Board of Pharmacy
The mission of the Kansas Board of Pharmacy is to ensure that all persons and entities conducting business relating to the practice of pharmacy in this state are properly licensed and registered so as to protect the public's health, safety and welfare and to promote the education and understanding of pharmacy related practices.

Conveniently Renew Your Kansas Health Occupation Credentials Online

2010-05-17T10:20:00.002-05:00

TOPEKA, Kan., – May 17, 2010 – The renewal period for Adult Care Home Administrators has begun (May 15 – June 30, 2010). Renewals received after June 30 will be accepted with a late fee (July 1 – 31, 2010). The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) partnered with Kansas.gov, a service of the Information Network of Kansas, Inc., to provide healthcare professionals currently licensed by KDHE to renew their licenses online at http://www.kansas.gov/hocrenewals.

KDHE Health Occupations Credentialing online license renewals provides the following benefits:

• Enables you to easily renew your health occupations credentials online
• Secure credit card or electronic check payments
• 24-hour access for your convenience

About KDHE Health Occupations Credentialing
Kansas law recognizes over 30 health occupational groups for which licensing, registration, or certification is provided. There are 11 regulatory bodies that issue credentials to those professions. Health Occupations Credentialing issues licenses to dietitians, speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and adult care home administrators. Certification programs administered by HOC include nurse aides, home health aides, and medication aides. Other related professions or paraprofessions administered through this section include operators of residential care facilities or assisted living facilities, activities directors, and social service designees for adult care homes in Kansas.

Securely Renew Your Kansas Technical Profession License Online

2010-05-03T09:51:00.000-05:00

TOPEKA, Kan., – May 3, 2010 – The license renewal period for Kansas Land Surveyors and Professional Engineers is currently open. Land Surveyors whose last name begins with A-L can renew online through May 31. Professional Engineers whose last name begins with A-L can renew online through June 29. The Kansas Board of Technical Professions (KSBTP) partnered with Kansas.gov, a service of the Information Network of Kansas, Inc., to provide current KSBTP licensees with the ability to renew their credentials online at http://www.kansas.gov/ksbtprenewals.

KSBTP online renewals provide the following benefits:
• Enables you to easily renew your technical profession license online
• Secure credit card or electronic check payments
• 24-hour access for your convenience

About Kansas Board of Technical Professions
The mission of the Kansas Board of Technical Professions (KSBTP) is to provide maximum protection of the health, safety, and welfare of the people of Kansas by assuring that the practice of engineering, architecture, land surveying, landscape architecture, and geology in the state is carried out only by those persons who are proven to be qualified as prescribed by the statutes and rules and regulations of the Board of Technical Professions.

Easily Pay Your Kansas Property Taxes Online

2010-04-27T08:20:00.001-05:00

TOPEKA, Kan., – April 27, 2010 – The May 10 deadline for Kansas Property Tax payments is quickly approaching! To make filings easier, Kansas offers online property tax payments at http://www.kansas.gov/propertytax. The Kansas County Treasurer’s Association has partnered with Kansas.gov, a service of the Information Network of Kansas, Inc.

The convenient and easy-to-use Kansas Online Property Tax Payment service is available 24 hours a day. Credit card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express & Discover) and electronic check payments are processed through Kansas.gov’s secure payment system.

About Kansas County Treasurer’s Association
The mission of the Kansas County Treasurer’s Association (KCTA) is to enhance the professional credentials of its members; to insure that all members are respectful, ethical, innovative, and financially responsible to the citizens of their county; to encourage cooperation among our peer associations and the Kansas County Officials Association; to diligently pursue all avenues to insure that all responsibilities of County Treasurers are equitable and fair to the taxpayers of the State of Kansas.

Hurry, Time Is Running Out! File Your 2009 Kansas Individual Income Tax Return Online

2010-04-01T08:05:00.000-05:00

TOPEKA, Kan., – April 1, 2010 – The 2009 Kansas Individual Income Tax return deadline is April 15. Kansas WebFile provides a fast, easy and secure way to file Kansas individual income tax returns and Homestead claims online. The service is FREE for most filers. File now at: https://www.accesskansas.org/ssrv-webfile/index.html.

Kansas WebFile offers the following services:

• 24/7 Access
• File an amendment to your individual 2009 tax return
• Online payment for taxes due

All Kansas residents and non-residents who filed a Kansas income tax return last year can use WebFile, even if the return is itemized. Kansas residents who are first-time filers can also use WebFile. Visit Kansas WebFile today to avoid filing late and risking costly penalties and fees.

About Kansas Department of Revenue

The Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR) collects taxes and fees, administers Kansas tax laws, issues a variety of licenses and provides assistance to Kansas citizens and units of government. KDOR is committed to hard work every day for the people of Kansas; to treat our taxpayers, our employees, and each other with respect; to conduct business with integrity, fairness and civility; and to be held accountable for our efforts. We will collect taxes and fees, fairly, cheerfully, accurately and efficiently.

Conveniently Renew Your Kansas Real Estate Appraiser License Online

2010-03-01T08:43:00.002-06:00

TOPEKA, Kan., – March 1, 2010 – The renewal period for Kansas Real Estate Appraiser licenses has begun (March 1 – May 31, 2010). Renewals received after May 31 will be accepted with a late fee (June 1 – September 30, 2010). The Kansas Real Estate Appraisal Board (KREAB) partnered with Kansas.gov, a service of the Information Network of Kansas, Inc., to allow appraisers currently licensed by KREAB to renew their credentials online at http://www.kansas.gov/kreabrenewals.

KREAB online renewals provide the following benefits:

• Enables you to easily renew your real estate appraiser license online

• Secure credit card or electronic check payments

• 24-hour access for your convenience

About Kansas Real Estate Appraisal Board

The Kansas Real Estate Appraisal Board regulates real estate appraiser's licenses, provides access to appraisers' education resources and informs appraisers of industry news.

Easily Renew Your Kansas Professional Healthcare License Online

2010-02-25T09:42:00.001-06:00

TOPEKA, Kan., – February 24, 2010 – The renewal period for Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants and Respiratory Therapists has begun (February 15 – March 31, 2010). Renewals received after March 31 will be accepted with a late fee (April 1 – 30, 2010). The Kansas State Board of Healing Arts (KSBHA) partnered with Kansas.gov, a service of the Information Network of Kansas, Inc., to provide healthcare professionals currently licensed by KSBHA to renew their credentials online at http://www.kansas.gov/healingarts.

KSBHA online renewals provide the following benefits:

• Enables you to easily renew your professional healthcare license online

• Secure credit card or electronic check payments

• 24-hour access for your convenience

• Ability to print your confirmation while waiting to receive your permanent card in the mail.

About Kansas State Board of Healing Arts

The mission of the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts is to safeguard the public through licensure, education and discipline of those who practice the healing arts in Kansas.

Kansas Day 2010

2010-01-29T09:05:00.002-06:00

January 29, 2010 - Today the State of Kansas will celebrate its 149th Birthday. Visit the Kansas State Historical Society to find out how you can participate in this annual celebration!

Kansas County District Court Records

2010-01-19T15:50:00.002-06:00

TOPEKA, Kan., – January 12, 2010 – Kansas county district court records are now even easier to search online. The Kansas Judiciary partnered with Kansas.gov to launch a new option for searching district court records, called “Instant Access” which allows citizens to pay with a credit card at http://www.kansas.gov/courts.

Kansas County District Court Search Instant Access service provides:

• Access to all 105 county district courts.

• Only $1 per search with a credit card payment.

• Convenient, 24/7 access.

• Decreased time and costs that paper and over-the-counter requests have on district court staff.

Kansas.gov subscribers will continue to have full access to the current Kansas County District Court Search service and will be billed on a monthly basis. The new Instant Access service will be available to anyone on a pay-by-search basis with a credit card for individual district court records.

Kansas Department of Motor Vehicles Launches New Online Access to Motor Vehicle Records

2010-01-05T09:42:00.000-06:00

Citizens and businesses now have easier access to view Kansas Motor Vehicle Records.

The Kansas Department of Motor Vehicles partnered with Kansas.gov to launch an Instant Access online search for motor vehicle records at http://www.kansas.gov/mvr. Citizens and businesses now have 24/7 access to view and securely pay for motor vehicle records online.

The Kansas Department of Motor Vehicles has 2.2 million licensed drivers. The Driver Control Bureau processes nearly 26,000 paper and over-the-counter requests for motor vehicle records each year. By providing citizens and businesses the option to view motor vehicle records online, the department hopes to make these requests more convenient for the users and minimize the impact the paper and over-the-counter requests have on its staff.

Kansas.gov subscribers will continue to have full access to the current online motor vehicle records service. The new Instant Access service will be available to citizens and businesses on a pay-by-search basis for regular driver license records.

About Kansas Department of Motor Vehicles

The Kansas Department of Motor Vehicles, Driver Control Bureau maintains driving records and processes changes to driving privileges such as restrictions, suspensions, revoked licenses and reinstated licenses. The Driver Control Bureau also coordinates administrative hearings on chemical test failures and test refusals, and manages proof of insurance requirements for drivers.

Kansas Department of Agriculture Launches New Online Business License Renewals

2009-11-03T09:01:00.007-06:00

Restaurants and Lodging Establishments Now Have Easy Online Access to Renew Business Licenses

TOPEKA, Kan. - Restaurants and lodging establishments now have easier access to renew their state licenses. The Kansas Department of Agriculture partnered with Kansas.gov to launch online business license renewal services at http://www.kansas.gov/lodging and http://www.kansas.gov/restaurant. These businesses now have 24/7 access to renew and securely pay for their license renewals online.

The Kansas Department of Agriculture is responsible for licensing and inspecting more than 10,000 restaurants and nearly 900 lodging establishments statewide. To accomplish the annual license renewal process the department has had to hire temporary help. Now, by providing businesses the option to renew licenses online, the department hopes to minimize the impact the annual license renewal has on its staff.

Restaurant and lodging establishment licenses expire December 31 each year, and online renewals will be available from November 1 through January 31. Business owners who need a new license, or who want to renew between February 1 and October 31, must contact Nancy Anderson at the Kansas Department of Agriculture at (785) 296-5193.

About Kansas Department of Agriculture

The Kansas Department of Agriculture is a regulatory agency that serves all Kansans. It is charged by law to ensure: a safe food supply; responsible and judicious use of pesticides and nutrients; the protection of Kansas' natural and cultivated plants; integrity of weighing and measuring devices in commerce; and, that the state's waters are put to beneficial use.

2009 Kansas State Fair

2009-09-08T16:03:00.014-05:00

The Kansas State Fairground gates will open this Saturday, September 11, to kick off the annual Kansas State Fair. This year’s event will run September 11–20. More than 340,000 people from across Kansas and neighboring states are expected to attend.
This year’s fair will feature hundreds of commercial exhibits, agricultural and educational displays, carnival rides and once again, the famous butter sculpture. If it’s competitive exhibits you wish to see, there are more than 30,000 entries this year, ranging from blue-ribbon animals to homemade crafts.

Visit the Kansas State Fair Web site at http://www.kansasstatefair.com/ to view the 2009 events calendar, ticket information, maps and directions and information about the Kansas State Fair.

The 2009 Kansas State Fair is "going social" by communicating across online social networks. Keep track of event news and updates posted on the following 2009 State Fair accounts:

Twitter: http://twitter.com/KansasStateFair/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=36969568213

Live on UStream TV: http://www.ustream.tv/KansasStateFair

WordPress Blog: http://kansasstatefair.wordpress.com

MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/ksstatefair

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/KansasStateFair

As stated on their FaceBook page, the Kansas State Fair promises to be “weird, wild and wonderful...with a world-class Midway, blue-ribbon animals galore and activities for the whole family, the fair is pure Americana — an event not to be missed.”

Hope to see you there!

New Web Site Connects Kansans to More than 175 Mentoring Programs Across the State

2009-08-10T16:42:00.007-05:00

Kansas Mentors launches new and improved Web site at http://www.kansasmentors.org to better connect young people with mentors

TOPEKA, Kan., – August 3, 2009 – Kansans will now find it easier to connect with mentoring efforts around the state with today’s launch of Kansas Mentors’ newly redesigned Web site at www.kansasmentors.org, a partnership with Kansas.gov.

“Since our beginning in 2006, we have been dedicated to recruiting mentors for every young Kansan,” said Kansas State head football coach, Bill Snyder, Chair of Kansas Mentors. “With more people communicating electronically, our enhanced site will be a crucial component to provide every Kansan with the resources they need to make a difference in a young person’s life.”

The redesigned Kansas Mentors site includes information for Kansans interested in mentoring as well as a directory of more than 175 mentoring programs in the state that individuals can contact directly to begin volunteering. In addition, the enhanced Web site provides an in-depth resource center for the state’s mentoring efforts ensuring that all young Kansans are served by quality and effective programs.

“With the launch of this site we are not only excited to connect more Kansans with the rewards of a caring mentoring relationship, we are also very pleased to provide additional resources to our partner programs as they continue to effectively serve our youth with reduced resources,” said Ella Todd, Program Director of Kansas Mentors.

Kansans interested in mentoring are encouraged to visit the new site at www.kansasmentors.org to learn more about how they can serve as a role model to our youth and to connect with mentoring efforts in their area of the state.

About Kansas Mentors

Kansas Mentors, a statewide mentoring partnership, is partnered with over 175 mentoring programs serving 86 Kansas counties. The organization is committed to providing every young Kansan access to a caring and quality mentor and in reflection of that mission provides resources to the state’s existing and developing mentoring efforts while encouraging Kansans to get involved. To learn more, visit http://www.kansasmentors.org or call the Kansas Mentors office at (785) 296-8873.

KanSite Enables Easy Web Site Development for Kansas Governments

2009-06-10T09:58:00.006-05:00

Now any Kansas government agency, city or county can have an online presence with no programming or design expertise needed.

KanSite (http://www.kansas.gov/kansite) was created as a Web site content management system for Kansas governmental entities. KanSite is easy to use, improves public access to government services, reduces service-processing costs, and enables governments to deliver a higher quality of services to their constituents. KanSite provides the ability to easily create and maintain a Web site without prior programming or design experience.

This content management system is specifically designed for state and municipal governments and offers a full range of solutions for Web design and management. The system utilizes common templates, which were created to provide a cohesive look-and-feel throughout state & local government, including common navigation items. KanSite is administered completely from the Web, so the Web site can be accessed anytime, anywhere.

The KanSite package provides the following for government agencies:
Setup
Site Design
Template Development
Information Architecture
Search Engine
Support
System Maintenance
Hosting
Security
Training
Marketing
Press Releases
Social Networking Integration
Kansas.gov Site Promotions
Flyers

KanSite is a simple, cost-effective way for state and local government agencies to go online. KanSite is maintained and supported by Kansas.gov, the state’s official Web site. Contact Kansas.gov to get started: 1-800-4-KANSAS.

“Kansas.gov delivers successful digital government services to agencies across Kansas government. Our staff is trained to help state and local government agencies get started in building their organization’s Web site by using this simple tool to connect businesses, citizens, and government," said Lisa Counts, Kansas.gov General Manager.

KPTS - New Season of Kansas Health Watch

2009-05-07T10:06:00.003-05:00

Wichita, KS – May 1, 2009 – Thursday, May 7 at 8:00 p.m., Kansas Health Watch begins it's fifth season with "The Policy of Health"; an in-depth examination of state health reform and the vital role it plays in the future of Kansas' health.

Betty Ann Bowser, health reporter for NEWSHOUR with Jim Lehrer, tells Kansas Health Watch, "This is the first time in history when everybody's miserable. There was a time when farmer was happy, doctor was happy and the hospitals were happy...now, no one's happy. And when everyone's unhappy you might have a chance to get something done...but who knows."

The state faces a huge challenge in addressing the critical need for state health reform, amidst a recession and looming state deficit.

The Kansas Health Policy Authority, or KHPA, has been tasked with presenting health reform priorities and recommendations. The KHPA accounts for $2 billion a year in state spending, but not everyone agrees with their state health reform efforts.

State Legislative representative Brenda Landwher charges that the KHPA has become a "lobbying group" and last year she spearheaded a major re-examination of the agency.

In examining the role the KHPA plays in the state's health care and the future of health care in Kansas, Kansas Health Watch speaks with Marci Neilson, the KHPA's Executive Director; Barb Langner, the agency's Policy Director; and Sen. Jim Barnett, who helped create the KHPA four years ago.

Kansas Health Watch is produced by KPTS and is funded, in part, by Kansas.gov, Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Kansas, Kansas Hospital Association, Wichita Medical Research and Educational Foundation, and Sedgwick County Health Department.

This episode of Kansas Health Watch airs Thursday, May 7 at 8:00 p.m. on KPTS 8.1 and will be rebroadcast on Monday, May 11 at 7:00 p.m. on KPTS Explore 8.2.

KPTS is a locally owned, not-for-profit public television station serving south central Kansas since 1970. The station thrives to provide high-quality telecommunications services that deliver knowledge, information and entertainment. In addition, KPTS programming reflects the diversity of the region through local initiatives.

Hurry! Today is the FINAL Day to File Your 2008 Kansas Individual Income Tax Return Online with WebFile.

2009-04-15T08:34:00.003-05:00

With a deadline of today, April 15th, this is the FINAL day to file 2008 Kansas income tax returns. Kansas WebFile provides a fast, easy, and secure way to file Kansas individual income tax returns online and the service is FREE for most filers. Those filing a 2008 Kansas individual income tax return can do so 24 hours a day at https://www.accesskansas.org/ssrv-webfile/index.html.

Kansas WebFile offers the following services:- File your individual 2008 income taxes- File an amendment to your individual 2008 tax return- Pay taxes due

All Kansas residents and non-residents who filed a Kansas income tax return last year can use WebFile, even if the return is itemized.Kansas WebFile performs the necessary financial calculations , automatically submits the return to the Department of Revenue, and provides a personal confirmation number to verify the return was filed. If there is an overpayment, the refund can be deposited directly into a checking or savings account. For a balance due, users may schedule their payment submission by electronic check or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express). The process is fast, secure, and completely paper-free.

Kansas Board of Examiners in Optometry (KSBEO) Launches New Online License Renewal & Verification

2009-04-07T17:06:00.004-05:00

Optometrists and Insurers Now Have Easy Online Access to License Renewal and Verification at http://www.kansas.gov/optometry.

TOPEKA, Kan., – April, 7, 2009 – Today, optometrists have easier access to the tools they need to renew their licenses. The Kansas Board of Examiners in Optometry (KSBEO) partnered with Kansas.gov to launch its enhanced Web site at http://www.kansas.gov/optometry. Optometrists now have 24/7 access to renew and securely pay for their licenses online.
The online renewal system is using OE TRACKER to integrate continuing education information directly into the renewal process. When a license is renewed online, hours that are stored will automatically be integrated into the Kansas license renewal system. This system will replace the long-standing tradition of mailing stacks of paper copies of continuing education certificates to the Board.
Entities that provide malpractice insurance coverage for optometrists will also find the new system convenient. These companies can now access and verify optometrists’ license information online at any time. Information available includes license renewal deadlines and status, as well as any disciplinary actions.
The KSBEO currently licenses 652 optometrists throughout the state of Kansas. The enhanced Web site’s online license renewal and verification services provide convenience to optometrists and insurers.
About Kansas Board of Examiners in Optometry:
The Kansas Board of Examiners in Optometry administer and enforce the provisions of Kansas Optometry Law to ensure the highest quality of comprehensive eye care is available to the citizens of Kansas and delivered by qualified optometric practitioners.

Hurry! File Your 2008 Kansas Individual Income Tax Return Online with WebFile.

2009-04-01T09:18:00.007-05:00

With a deadline of April 15th, time is running out to file 2008 Kansas income tax returns. Kansas WebFile provides a fast, easy, and secure way to file Kansas individual income tax returns online and the service is FREE for most filers. Those filing a 2008 Kansas individual income tax return can do so 24 hours a day at https://www.accesskansas.org/ssrv-webfile/index.html.

Kansas WebFile offers the following services:
- File your individual 2008 income taxes
- File an amendment to your individual 2008 tax return
- Pay taxes due

All Kansas residents and non-residents who filed a Kansas income tax return last year can use WebFile, even if the return is itemized.

Kansas WebFile performs the necessary financial calculations , automatically submits the return to the Department of Revenue, and provides a personal confirmation number to verify the return was filed. If there is an overpayment, the refund can be deposited directly into a checking or savings account. For a balance due, users may schedule their payment submission by electronic check or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express). The process is fast, secure, and completely paper-free.

Government Transparency

2009-03-26T06:41:00.015-05:00

NIC Launches Government Transparency Web Site

With the recent passing of the Federal Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, governments are now working hard to monitor and report on the spending of those dollars, and share that oversight with taxpayers. But transparency does not begin or end with the federal stimulus money. Governments across the country are providing online services that offer insight into budget spending, lobbyist spending, legislative tracking, and more.

A one-stop source for accessing this information just launched today --http://www.transparent-gov.com/ is a free resource that tracks the transparency services offered by federal, state, and local governments nationwide in their efforts to make information more available to citizens. The site offers links to online transparency, stimulus, and recovery initiatives and allows users to suggest additional content through a public feedback link.

The Transparent-Gov Web site was created by NIC. Based in Olathe, Kansas, NIC (NASDAQ: EGOV), is the nation’s leading provider of official government portals, online services, and secure payment processing solutions.

Quirky Kansas Ready-Made Adventure

2009-03-05T14:19:00.005-06:00

If you're looking for fun vacation ideas, and want to stay close to home, you need to check out travelks.com. The folks at the Kansas Travel and Tourism Division of the Kansas Department of Commerce have put together a great guide to Kansas attractions and events.

I especially like the travel planning section, which allows you to plan your own trip or pick from one of their ready-made adventures. For instance, the Quirky Kansas Ready-Made Adventure plans out a four-day trip through western Kansas and includes stops at the largest ball of twine, an eight-story replica of a Van Gogh painting, a museum dedicated to losing presidential candidates, the World's Largest Outdoor Concrete Municipal Swimming Pool, and much more. The trip planner even includes fun bed & breakfasts to stay at and quirky restaurants to try.

Travelks.com includes more than 10 ready-made adventures, plus lots of other attractions and event listings. Don't let the economic difficulties stop you from taking a vacation. Instead, use it as an excuse to check out some fun destinations closer to home!

African Dinosaurs in Kansas!

2009-02-27T15:21:00.012-06:00

There's still time to catch the GIANTS! African Dinosaurs exhibit at the Stauth Memorial Museum in Montezuma, Kansas. From travelks.com:

For the first time, the groundbreaking dinosaur discoveries of Africa are gathered together in one exhibit. This exhibition showcases bones and fossils as objects of beauty and wonder. The result: an immersion experience that will transport visitors to the exhibit to a prehistoric lost world.

Have your picture taken next to a pair of six-foot-tall Jobaria femurs or look into the eyes of a Carcharodontosaurus. There's even a "touch gallery" where you can actually reach out and feel dinosaur bones instead of just looking at them through glass.
The exhibit runs through March 8th, 2009. Call for more information. Business hours are: Tue-Sat 9am-12pm, 1-4:30pm, Sun 1:30-4:30pm. Closed Mondays & major holidays. Admission is free, but a donation is encouraged.

111 N Aztec St
Stauth Memorial Museum
Montezuma, KS 67867
Phone: (620) 846-2527
Fax: (620) 846-2810

Subscribe to the Kansas.gov YouTube Channel

2009-02-26T13:45:00.000-06:00

Subscribe to the latest videos on the Kansas.gov YouTube Channel. Visitors to this channel can expect to see videos relevant to Kansas state government. The channel also serves as a gateway to other state agencies and associations highlighting topical information relevant to the citizens of Kansas. Send us a message and let us know what types of information you would like to see posted to the channel.

Kansas.gov is Tweeting!

2009-02-26T08:50:00.000-06:00

In order to further its mission of connecting the citizens of Kansas with their government, Kansas.gov has established a presence on the popular social networking site Twitter. Twitter is a free social messaging utility for staying connected in real-time, allowing users to send and read other user's updates (tweets). The concept is similar to a blog, but each text-based message is limited to 140 characters.

There is a great video on YouTube that explains how Twitter works in plain english.

If you have a Twitter account, hop on over and follow us! If you don't have an account yet, its free, fun and easy, not to mention addictive! Give it a try today!

Tornado Season Just Around the Corner

2009-02-23T16:29:00.001-06:00

February is coming to a close, and many Kansans are eagerly awaiting spring's arrival. As warmer weather approaches, however, the conversation predictably turns to tornado and severe weather safety.

In 2008, Kansas experienced a record 187 tornadoes, resulting in 4 deaths and millions of dollars of damage. Although we can all hope for a less active spring this year, there is no reason for any Kansan to be caught off-guard by severe weather. To help prepare for violent spring weather, the 2009 Kansas Severe Weather Awareness Week will take place March 9-13, and the statewide tornado safety drill will occur on Tuesday, March 10th.

Get more info on Awareness Week, as well as some very cool pictures, stories and graphs from the 2008 season.

Kansas.gov joins Facebook

2009-02-23T13:08:00.000-06:00

Kansas.gov, The Official Web site of the State of Kansas has joined the ranks of several other Government entities by establishing a presence on the popular social networking web site, Facebook. Facebook has some staggering statistics, which Kansas.gov hopes to leverage, regarding General Growth and User Engagement.

Visitors to the Kansas.gov Facebook page are presented with a plethora of opportunities to interact with state government online. One of the many roles of being the official web site for the State of Kansas is providing citizens, businesses and state and local government agencies a direct link to the many resources available in Kansas. Facebook helps extend the reach of state government by providing a platform in which Kansas.gov can exist for the sole purpose of exposing all Kansans to hundreds of online services.

Welcome!

2009-02-20T14:01:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the Kansas.gov blog. This site will be updated regularly by the Kansas.gov staff and will include web design tips, favorite links, Kansas stories and pictures, events, press releases and more! We welcome your comments and look forward to using this blog to further link the citizens of Kansas to their State and local governments!