Washington

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A Busy Lame-Duck Congress?
U.S. Comptroller General David Walker has sent a letter to incoming congressional leaders urging them to focus on three broad issues when the lame-duck session convenes in January: 1) oversights in federal contracting, 2) computer security, and 3) a reduction of the tax gap. Given the mid-term election results, it is widely expected the session will be abridged. Even legislation pending from last session, including healthcare information technology, may not be considered. It may take a larger issue to transcend partisan politics.  

Jefferson City

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Blunt Awards $1.3 Million to At-Risk Programs
Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt recently designated the state Division of Workforce Development to award more than $1.3 million for funding school-to-work programs for at-risk students throughout Missouri. The Jobs for Missouri Graduates (JMG) grants are being released for the 2006-2007 school year throughout the state, including in the Greater Kansas City area and in Eastern Jackson County. Approximately 800 students will benefit from the program this year. The program is modeled on a similar program at the federal level.  

Topeka

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Sebelius Targets Healthcare in 2007
Providing coverage to uninsured Kansans, particularly small children and working parents, will be among the priorities that Gov. Kathleen Sebelius presents to the Kansas Legislature during her second term. Sebelius hasn’t detailed her plans for the legislative term, beyond confirming that she will renew her efforts to provide state healthcare coverage for all children though age 5. In attempting to help working parents, she has said lawmakers will need to consider a range of strat-egies, including stimulating the private insurance market.