TOPEKA (KSNT) — After a new budget report shows big growth in the Sunflower State, state leaders are hopeful that lower taxes and expanded services could soon be coming to Kansas citizens.
Staff with the Kansas Division of the Budget (KDOB) released new state general fund revenue estimates on Nov. 5. The estimates show that during fiscal year 2027, which began in July of this year, the state of Kansas is projected to earn over $400 million more than expected.
“The economy in Kansas is strong,” said Kansas State Budget Director Adam Proffitt. “There has been a lot of work that’s gone into economic development over the past several years. We’ve seen growth and tens of thousands of new jobs in the state of Kansas all across the state of Kansas. I don’t think the state’s finances have ever been stronger.”
The report also shows that in 2028, state revenues are expected to grow by another $300 million. Most of this growth comes from increased income tax and sales tax revenues.
Additionally, the state is expected to spend less on K-12 education and the Medicaid program. This is due to declining enrollment.
Officials said the state could be in a budget surplus as early as 2028. Currently, Kansas is in a budget deficit, meaning the state is spending more money than it is earning.
Our Kansas Capitol Bureau sat down with Proffitt on Monday, Nov. 9. He credits Kansas Governor Laura Kelly for the positive growth this new report shows.
“There is zero doubt in my mind that the leadership that Governor Kelly has instilled and the budgeting practices she has instilled over the past 8 years are what has led us to where we are at today,” Proffitt said.
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However, Kansas Republican lawmakers believe they deserve some recognition as well for the work they’ve done.
“House Republicans took control of the budget process because Kansans deserve more accountability for how their hard-earned money is spent,” Kansas House Speaker Daniel Hawkins (R) said in a statement release on Friday, Nov. 6. “We’re keeping a close eye on spending, protecting our reserves, and working to put our state on stronger financial footing.”
Proffitt tells our Kansas Capitol Bureau that the KDOB, as well as members of Kelly’s administration, plan to work with the new incoming governor to ensure these good numbers continue. Proffitt said the administration has already met with Sen. Cindy Holscher who holds the lead in the contested race for Kansas governor that has yet to be officially called in her favor.
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