IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FEB. 8, 2007

Topeka – The Kansas House of Representatives and Senate worked quickly this week to approve legislation to help bring the proposed National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) to Kansas

Lawmakers began working on the three pieces of legislation Monday and gave their final approval today.  The bills are now on their way to the governor’s office for her signature.

“I applaud all members of the Kansas Legislature for setting aside their political differences to improve our state’s chances of landing the facility,” House Speaker Melvin Neufeld, R-Ingalls, said.  “Our state has established itself as a world-leader in animal and plant bio-sciences – making the NBAF a great fit.  Our work in the statehouse will put us in the lead for this world-class facility.”

Senate President Steve Morris, R-Hugoton, stated, “The unity and will demonstrated today by the entire Kansas Legislature leaves no doubt about the state’s commitment to the proposed NBAF. Kansas is well prepared to serve this incredibly important role for our nation; we stand united in our efforts to bring the NBAF to Kansas.”

HB 2303 - Creates the Kansas NBAF Interagency Working Group.

SB 0252 – Conveys land from Kansas State University for the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility to the Department of Homeland Security.  

HB 5009 - Concurrent Resolution which pledges full support of the Kansas Legislature to do what ever is necessary for Kansas to be selected as the site for the NBAF.

“I am pleased Democrats and Republicans, Senators and Representatives recognized the importance of this project for the future of our state and the defense of our country,” said Rep. Kenny Wilk, R-Lansing.  “Our quick action and united support will speak volumes to the Department of Homeland Security.”

Rep. Tom Hawk, D-Manhattan said the rapid work of this legislature and of previous legislatures to establish the Kansas Bioscience Authority has placed Kansas in an extremely strong position for selection for the new facility.

Hawk continued, “Local community support in Manhattan and Leavenworth, the expertise of Kansas State University with its new Biosecurity Research Institute facility, along with the clear commitment of our legislation highlight our state’s willingness to step forward to protect our nation’s food supply with this new facility.”

Vice-Chairman of the Select Committee on Kansas Security, Sen. Jay Emler, R-Lindsborg, echoed Hawk’s comments.

 “This is a tremendous opportunity for Kansas.  Our actions demonstrate the State of Kansas’ solid commitment behind Manhattan, Leavenworth and Kansas State University and their efforts to obtain the NBAF and its mission,” said Sen. Emler,

The NBAF would replace the aging Plum Island facility, the federal government’s most secure location for animal disease research. The $451 million dollar facility will employ between 250 – 500 scientists, technicians and other support staff.  Sites in Leavenworth and Manhattan are among 18 sites in 12 states which have advanced to the next phase of the competitive process.  Applications for that next phase are due February 16, 2007.

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