A bill that would exempt private health clubs and gyms from property taxes has stalled in a committee.
Wednesday, a conference committee working on tax issues decided not to take up the health club measure.
Supporters of the bill, including health club owners, say they face competition from tax-free organizations like the YMCA and publicly owned health clubs. The controversial legislation prompted hundreds of emails about the issue to lawmakers.
Kansas legislators have been working on some weighty issues this legislative session.
Legislation that includes tax reform and changes to abortion law are under consideration. A bill signed into law by Gov. Brownback changes how appeals court judges are selected.
Lawmakers are expected to pass legislation through this week, then begin a wrap-up session May 8.
Incumbent city council member Lavonta Willams kept her seat, beating out Dave Thomas with 71 percent of the vote. Thomas had 28 percent of the vote.
Wichita City Council, District 3
James Clendenin grabbed the District 3 Wichita city council seat in a close race with Clinton Coen. Clendenin had 52 percent of the vote, Coen had 46 percent.