Senate Ways and Means advances a string of budget provisos, debates nursing‑home and SNAP funding

The Senate Ways and Means Committee met to consider a broad set of budget provisos and one‑time appropriations for fiscal 2027, approving several targeted additions while rejecting others after debate.

The committee accepted introductions for two bills at the start of the session, including RS 3520, a measure described by Senator Peck as “an act concerning the Department of Wildlife and Parks requiring legislative approval for any major changes in the structure or organization of wildlife and parks.” After procedural approval of prior minutes, committee members moved into substantive budget conversations.

Larned State Hospital and contract nursing: Senator Peck moved to remove a $10,000,000 add in FY27 intended for contract staff at Larned State Hospital, saying the proviso “gives to me the appearance that we don't have the confidence that they can fill this position.” Senator Owens and others countered that the subcommittee deliberately reduced a larger agency request to encourage other solutions; Peck’s motion to delete the $10,000,000 failed on a voice vote.

Mental‑health facilities and start‑up costs: A motion by Senator Penny to add $30,900,000 to fully fund opening costs for the South Central Regional Mental Health Hospital in Wichita drew debate over assumptions that the facility would be fully staffed at opening. The committee did…