IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 11, 2008  


For More Information:
Sherriene Jones-Sontag, 785/296-2302
Office of Speaker Melvin Neufeld

Wade Hapgood, 785/296-7662
Office of Majority Leader Ray Merrick

Jenna Keesling, 785/291-3500
Office of Speaker Pro Tem Don Dahl

House Republicans Announce 2008 Legislative Agenda

Topeka – Members of the Kansas House Republican Caucus announced their 2008 Legislative agenda.  The agenda builds upon the success last session that saw 40 out of 48 agenda items passed.

The Caucus’s 2008 Legislative Agenda keys in on eight important issues:  Budget, Taxes, Health Care, Immigration, Education, Economic Development and Tourism, Elections and Campaign Finance Reform, and Crime and Public Safety.

“There will be many tough decisions to make this year.  But as with last session, the House Republican Agenda sets a clear vision of fiscal responsibility, reduced taxes, and strong economic development that will make our state a great place to live and work,” said Speaker of the House Melvin Neufeld.  “It is what Kansas taxpayers want and expect of the legislature.”

The success of last year’s agenda can be attributed to the collaborative effort by all 78 member of the House Republican Caucus.  House Majority Leader Ray Merrick said this team work continued with the drafting of the 2008 agenda.

“Last year we listened to the concerns of the people, drafted an agenda that addressed those concerns, and followed through on our promises,” said Majority Leader Merrick.  “This year’s agenda was crafted in the same way with an emphasis on transparency and accountability.”

Speaker Pro-Tem Don Dahl said the team work that went into the 2008 agenda puts House Republicans on the same page, allowing a focused effort to support the best interests of the State.

“This is a great opportunity for the House Republican Caucus to build on the success of last year,” said Dahl. “House Republicans are continuing our commitment to integrity, fairness and open and responsible government.”

Speaker Neufeld said bills that will address much of the Caucus’ agenda will be introduced in the coming weeks.

Click here to read Caucus's Complete Agenda

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