Politics

Education funding took center stage on the first day of the 2013 Kansas legislative session.

Lawmakers returned to Topeka just days after a district court ruled that the state needs to increase school funding. Some lawmakers may try to change the Kansas Constitution in response to the ruling.

The South Central Delegation heard from business, government and community leaders Thursday during their annual meeting in Wichita.

More than 30 Kansas lawmakers who are part of the delegation heard presentations on the budget, the need to fund transportation projects, the Equus Beds Aquifer, preserving Wichita's workforce, and the importance of funding education.

During a break, Kansas Senator Oletha Faust-Goudeau said education remains a top priority.

The South Central Delegation will hold its annual meeting Thursday at the Wichita State University Metroplex. Wichita leaders will share their agenda with state lawmakers before the 2013 legislative session starts Monday.

Fifty state representatives and senators make up the South Central Delegation and more than half are expected to be in attendance.

A large tax overhaul takes effect in Kansas now that the New Year has begun, but it may not remain "as-is" for long.

Governor Sam Brownback believes there's a good chance lawmakers could again look at taxes. And the governor himself may address taxes in his budget plans.