In this time-sensitive episode, we break down Kansas Senate bill 363 and why health care providers, food banks, disability advocates, senior organizations, and faith leaders are warning about the harm it will cause. The bill would increase administrative costs for Medicaid and SNAP, raising error rates, costing more for taxpayers, and causing eligible Kansans to lose access to health care and food.

We break down the testimony from the hearings held February 10 & 11, 2026, and ask a critical question: If SB 363 increases costs and coverage losses, what problem is it really solving?

What's ahead for Kansas lawmakers in 2026? In this episode we are joined by Sean Gatewood of Sunflower Public Affairs to break down how the Kansas Legislature works, what to watch during this shortened session, and how Kansans can get involved in the process in real time.

We dig into the committees to watch and the big issues likely to dominate the session, including the state budget, proposed cuts, and health concerns like Medicaid and Medicaid expansion.

We also give tips on clear ways to get involved in the legislative process, including the best ways to contact your legislators and provide testimony when it matters the most.

If you want to stay informed and make your voice heard this session, this episode is a great starting point.

For more information, visit the Alliance for a Healthy Kansas's website, HealthyKansas.org. You can also find us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube at HealthyKansasOrg.

In this episode of Health in the 34th, we’re joined by Nathan Kessler, Principal Economist at Kansas Action for Children, to break down the real tax implications of H.R. 1, otherwise known as the “Big Beautiful Bill” passed this summer.

Nathan walks us through what Kansas families can expect when they file their taxes next spring and why more than 25,000 Kansas children stand to lose their federal child tax credit under the law’s new eligibility rules. He also explains how H.R. 1 might lead to higher interest rates for all of us, and what Kansans should be paying attention to as we head into the upcoming Kansas legislative session.

If you are looking for a clear, accessible breakdown of how federal tax changes could impact Kansas families, budgets, and the broader economy, this episode is a must-listen.