Week 1 at the Kansas Capitol: Representing District 1 & Returning Power to the People

A fast start to the 2026 Legislative Session focused on accountability, sovereignty, and tax relief

Week 1 of the 2026 Legislative Session officially began Monday, January 12 at 2:00 PM as Speaker Dan Hawkins lowered the gavel. The Kansas Constitution states that it is to be a 90-day session, and Speaker Hawkins has made clear that we will abide by that precedent. With that said, the session is off to a very fast start.

As I was walking into the Kansas Capitol one morning, I passed a sign displaying a quote from the Kansas Constitution:
“All political power is inherent in the people.”

A couple of things struck me as I read those words.

It is truly an honor to represent District 1. I would not be in this position without your trust and support, and I strive every day to earn that trust. My goal is to represent you well and do what is best for our district, our state, and our nation.

The people hold the power. That is why I believe Kansans should once again determine who sits on the Kansas Supreme Court — just as the original Kansas Constitution intended. The judicial system should answer to the voters of Kansas. A constitutional amendment to return this power to the people will be on the ballot in August 2026.

Week in Review

Tuesday morning started early with a prayer breakfast where we were encouraged by the words of Dayton Moore, former manager of the World Series Champion Kansas City Royals. Following his testimony and encouragement, we spent time in prayer for our nation and its people.

That evening concluded with Governor Kelly delivering her final State of the State address.

Legislative Action Highlights

One of the first priorities of the Legislature was clarifying the intended language of SB 180, ensuring the Kansas Department of Revenue understands that sex and gender are the same when completing a Kansas driver’s license — a government identification document. While it is surprising this must be codified in statute, this bill is currently in the Judiciary Committee and is expected on the House floor next week.

The first bill passed this session was HB 2204, which states that the World Health Organization, United Nations, and World Economic Forum shall have no jurisdiction or authority within the State of Kansas. No rule, regulation, tax, fee, or mandate from these organizations may be enforced by Kansas or any political subdivision of the state.

While some may view this bill as unnecessary, it ensures Kansas remains a sovereign state — and there may come a time when we are grateful this foresight was taken.

Tax Relief & Fair Competition

Thursday brought the introduction of HB 2457, a bill Representative Roth and I worked on together to provide tax relief and promote fairness between nonprofit and for-profit businesses.

This bill includes two key provisions:

• Property tax freeze at age 65
  A resident’s property tax on their primary residence would be frozen upon turning 65 and remain frozen until the property is sold or the resident is deceased. This does not apply to business or additional property and offers much-needed relief for those on fixed incomes.

• Leveling the medical playing field
  Nonprofit medical entities competing with for-profit providers in the same or adjacent counties would no longer qualify for property tax exemptions. County appraisers would determine competition, with disputes handled by county commissioners. This ensures fair competition, supports independent providers, and protects patient choice.

Welfare Reform Committee Work

I am honored to serve as Vice-Chair of the Welfare Reform Committee this session.

Kansas’ SNAP error rate is currently too high. If it is not reduced, Kansas could be responsible for covering up to $40 million in federal funding penalties. SNAP benefits total approximately $400 million annually, with administrative costs split evenly between federal and state dollars.

This week, the committee questioned leadership from the Kansas Department of Children and Families regarding the causes of these errors and steps needed to correct them. Government agencies must be accountable, and taxpayer dollars must be used as intended.

Closing

I appreciate the opportunity to serve as your District 1 State Representative. If you ever have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out.

In service,
Dale Helwig