Government

The union representing teachers in Kansas says its members were prevented from offering their opinion on a bill that affects unions. The bill would scale back some of the mandatory bargaining rights of teachers.

Currently, the negotiations process between the union and a school district includes lots of items. They are required to negotiate how teachers are evaluated and the process for firing a teacher, among other things.

The Kansas House has given first-round approval to a bill that would change how appeals court judges are selected. The bill allows the governor to appoint appellate court judges, who would then be confirmed by the state Senate.

Critics of the current system say it isn't democratic enough, because a nine-person nominating commission selects candidates. Five of the nine are attorneys.

Rep. Lance Kinzer is an Olathe Republican, he says the change would be a step in the right direction.

Kansas senators approved a bill Thursday that would require many of the state's elected officials and applicants for certain welfare benefits to undergo drug testing.

Applicants for Temporary Assistance to Need Families (or TANF) would undergo testing, as well as the governor, legislators and other state workers. Supporters say the measure is designed to help poor residents kick their addictions, get job training skills, and find employment. Opponents say the bill perpetuates the stereotype that poor people are also drug users.

The Kansas Senate has tentatively approved legislation requiring drug tests for some people seeking certain welfare benefits, after amending it to require the same scrutiny of legislators.

Wednesday night's vote advanced the bill to final Senate action Thursday. Passage would send it to the House.

The bill would require the Department of Children and Family Services to screen applicants for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits for illegal drug use.