The Kansas Corporation Commission convened its regular business meeting on September 30, 2025, addressing a consent agenda of 16 items and a significant penalty order related to a local trucking company.
During the meeting, Chair French and Commissioners Keane and Keither reviewed the consent agenda, which was approved unanimously, with Commissioner Keane recusing himself from item number five.
The primary focus of the meeting was a proposed penalty order concerning Jaime Varela, operating as Varela Trucking, based in Garden City, Kansas. Following a compliance investigation conducted from August 6 to August 21, investigators identified 134 violations, leading to a total penalty of $11,650. Key violations included a $3,000 fine for using a driver previously declared out of service for not holding a commercial driver's license (CDL), as well as fines for exceeding weight limits and failing to maintain proper documentation.
Commissioner Keither expressed concern over the severity of the violations, highlighting the need for stringent enforcement to ensure safety on the roads. The penalty order was ultimately approved without further discussion.
The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, marking the end of the session. The commission's actions reflect its ongoing commitment to regulatory compliance and public safety in the transportation sector.