The 2009 Legislative Session is underway in Topeka. I am excited once again to have the honor of serving you and our neighbors in the 119th House District.

2009 Session Begins
The number one issue facing the Legislature and Governor this session will be to address the state’s dire financial situation. The state faces a billion dollar revenue shortfall. You will hear much debate on which state programs should be cut or eliminated or whether recent tax cuts should be reversed.

You also can expect more debate on a statewide energy plan, a new transportation plan and many other issues from our across state.

While we have some very difficult decisions before us this session, the state’s long-range outlook remains bright. Kansas has many positive things going for it.

- It was confirmed that Manhattan, Kansas will be the new home for $450 million National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF). The long-term, economic impact across the state is expected to be huge - $20 billion over the next 20 years is a safe estimate.

- Also - Western Kansas is still enjoying low unemployment rates and many new jobs are coming to Ford County in the coming months.

This month also marks an historical event for our county – the swearing-in of our first African-American President, Barack Obama. Many Americans are filled with renewed hope. I wish him and our country the best during the next four years. Let’s hope this change will be positive for our country.

Committee Assignments
Each new legislative term brings many changes. In the Kansas House of Representatives, we have new leadership on both sides of the aisle, several new members, new committee assignments and new offices.

For me, changes this session include five new committees:

• House Committee on Taxation
• House Vision 2020 Committee (I will serve as its Vice-Chairman)
• House Committee on Veterans, Military and Homeland Security
• House Committee on Economic Development and Tourism
• Joint Committee on Economic Development

These committees will undertake a number of important issues and I am looking forward to working on all of them. I also will continue my work as a member and Chairman of the State Employee Pay Plan Oversight Committee.

How to contact me
I also am in a new office this year. You will find me over in the Docking State Office Building on the 7th Floor. I would love for you to stop by for a visit any time you are in the Capitol. Just call my secretary, Judy Marks, at 785/296-7655 and she will explain how to get to the office.

Also feel free to send me an email when you have a question or concern about legislation before the Legislature: pat.george@house.ks.gov or check out my website at www.patgeorge.org.

Legislative Events
By far, my favorite event of the legislative session is hosting the annual Dodge City Night. Many members of the Dodge City Chamber and Ford County Development Corp join me in sharing a good Dodge City steak with my colleagues from the House and Senate. This year’s night is set for March 2nd.

Opportunity for Students
Every year I have the privilege of hosting a number of our neighbors as they visit me at the Statehouse. We also have opportunities for middle and high school students who would like to be a page for the day in the House. Please call my secretary, Judy Marks at 785/296-7655 for more information.

As always, it is an honor to serve you. Please do not hesitate to call or email me if I can be of any assistance.

Sincerely,
Pat

Rep. Pat George
119th House District
785/296-7655