Sunflower State News

The Kansas Legislature concluded its regular session on April 11, 2025. Dan Murray, the State Director of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), hosted a virtual event to review the legislative outcomes. He discussed several successes, challenges, and future reform opportunities.

One major success was SB 35, which provides broad-based property tax relief. This legislation aims to reduce property taxes by $80-$100 million and was identified as a top priority by NFIB Kansas members. Another victory is Sub for SB 54, enhancing transparency in Kansas' legal landscape by requiring disclosure of third-party financial interests in litigation. HB 2291 offers regulatory relief for startups by allowing them to operate within a "regulatory sandbox" without burdensome regulations.

Challenges faced included proposed bills that could complicate small business operations through new taxes and employer mandates. Notable among these were SB 108, which allows counties to implement an earnings tax up to 1%, and SCR 1609, which sought to repeal the "right to work" provision in the state constitution. Although these proposals did not pass, they may be reintroduced next year.

Looking ahead, there are opportunities such as SB 109 and HB 2089 that aim to support retailers and reduce credit card swipe fees on taxes and tips respectively. HB 2343 seeks to protect home-based businesses from excessive municipal regulations.

Murray emphasized the importance of continued engagement with state lawmakers: "While there are many pro-small business lawmakers in the Kansas Legislature, your advocacy makes a difference!"