With the 90th Day of Session just one day away, Republican Leadership continues to hold a number of legislative priorities hostage in a last-ditch effort to pass irresponsible energy legislation.

"The coal issue has consumed the House leadership, particularly Speaker Melvin Neufeld," Senate Minority Leader Anthony Hensley said. "In January, I told local news media that I feared Speaker Neufeld would hold important issues until the final days of session. Unfortunately, my fears have been proven true. This year has the potential of being the most unproductive session in my 32 years as an elected official."

"The legislature has deferred action on a number of important priorities because HB 2412 has taken center stage," said Senator Marci Francisco. "A cost-of-living adjustment benefitting thousands of retired Kansas public employees, money to continue funding the Kansas Autism Task Force, and a comprehensive health reform plan have all been pushed aside. These issues are important to every person in our state. We are truly letting the people of Kansas down."

"According to Article 2, Section 16 of the Kansas Constitution, no bill shall contain more than one subject, except appropriation bills and bills for revision or codification of statutes," said Representative Davis, a lawyer by trade. "In a last-ditch effort to pass legislation, Speaker Neufeld has thrown coal plants into House Bill 2412, which already includes income taxation, economic development, and administrative law regulations. This is clearly in violation of the two-subject provision. These bills each deserve to be debated on their own merit."

"Speaker Neufeld and Republican leaders should be ashamed of themselves," said Representative Annie Kuether. "They have reverted to school yard bullies in an effort to pass poor policy."

She added, "HB 2412 is not only unconstitutional, but it puts funding for important economic development proposals at risk. These proposals are being used as pawns to advocate for legislation that is unlawful."

"This is the most transparent trading of votes I have every seen," said Senator Hensley. "Because Speaker Neufeld is unable to get enough votes to override the governor’s veto, he’s attempting to trade votes. Ironically, this comes just days after Speaker Neufeld accused the governor of trading votes."