Topeka – Kansas Speaker of the House of Representatives Melvin Neufeld today announced he has invited Kansas U.S. Senator Pat Roberts to address a joint session of the Kansas House and Senate.

Senator Roberts will talk to state lawmakers about our state’s efforts to bring the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) to Kansas.

“Senator Roberts has been our strong voice in Washington on why Kansas is the right place for the proposed facility,” Speaker Neufeld said.  “I want Kansas lawmakers to understand why it is important we back his and the efforts of the Kansas NBAF Task Force recently named by Governor Sebelius – and what we need to do as state lawmakers to put Kansas in the lead.”

The NBAF would replace the aging Plum Island facility, the federal government’s most secure location for animal disease research. Sites in Leavenworth and Manhattan are among 18 sites in 14 states which have advanced to the next phase of the competitive process.

"Competition across the country for this facility is intense," Roberts said. "However, Kansas is well positioned and fits the Department of Homeland Security criteria. In particular, we are fortunate to have world-renowned expertise in the animal health arena at Kansas State University and through the numerous animal health companies located in the Kansas City Area.  We need the support of the Kansas Legislature to convince the decision makers in Washington that locating this new facility in America’s heartland is a natural fit."  

“Our state has established itself as a world-leader in animal and plant bio-sciences,” Neufeld said.  “I am confident we can pass the right legislation that makes Kansas the only place in the country for NBAF.”

Senator Roberts will address the joint-session Monday, February 5, 2007 at 10 a.m.  Others expected to be in attendance include representatives from the cities of Leavenworth and Manhattan, Riley and Leavenworth Counties, Kansas State University, and the Kansas Bioscience Authority.

A news conference will follow Senator Roberts' address, beginning at 11 a.m. in Room 313-S, Old Supreme Court Room.

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