Dear Friends,

This week wraps up the regular legislative session this year and will be composed primarily of conference committee meetings. Last week we were on the floor three days all day, debating and voting on bills. Beginning next week, the Kansas Legislature will be off for a little over three weeks before returning for "veto session" at the end of April.

The stomach flu hit me pretty hard a few weeks ago and I have been trying to play catch-up ever since. At least I only missed one day of voting but I'm sorry I haven't kept up with the legislative newsletters.

SCR 1611 passed both the House and Senate with overwhelming support. Most people were quite surprised to find out the Kansas Supreme Court ruled unanimously in 1905 that section 4 of the Kansas Constitution referred to a collective right to bear arms instead of an individual right despite the clear wording, "The people have the right to bear arms for their defense and security."

To make it abundantly clear the right is an individual right in line with the U.S. Constitution as specified in Heller vs D.C., the proposed change is, "“A person has the right to keep and bear arms for the defense of self, family, home and state, for lawful hunting and recreational use, and for any other lawful purpose.” This amendment will now be considered on the ballot for your vote at the general election in Nov., 2010.

Several bills are now in conference committees where three members of the House and three members of the Senate are in the process of negotiating final outcomes in legislative language. This is often when some language could get inserted into a bill without the knowledge of the general members. We rely heavily on the integrity of the conference committee chairmen during these times.

Please see other legislation we passed by going to my website at the Legislative Reports page and look at the latest summaries.

The next NWJCR meeting will be held at Barley's off Midland Drive on Monday, April 6 at 6:30 pm. I will be giving a legislative update at this meeting and you will have the opportunity to ask me questions about any legislation during this time.

In addition, because we have such a difficult time enforcing the laws in our state in regards to late-term abortions, Michelle Armesto has agreed to come speak about her experience and direct encounter with George Tiller. You'll will also learn about the Kansas Board of Healing Arts and their role in protecting Kansas citizens' health.

You are encouraged to order food or drinks. It's a great atmosphere and we are a very friendly crowd.

Best regards,
Mary Pilcher Cook