Governor Laura Kelly Reflects on Key Achievements in 2024: Bipartisan Legislation, Education Funding, Tax Relief, and Economic Growth

As 2024 ended, Governor Laura Kelly reflected on significant achievements during her second term. She signed 103 bipartisan bills, including the Kansas Blueprint for Literacy to improve educator training and student outcomes, an overhaul of the workers’ compensation system, and the creation of an independent Office of the Child Advocate.

Education was a key focus, with the governor fully funding K-12 education for the sixth year and investing $1.3 billion in higher education. She also secured $75 million to work toward fully funding special education.

Governor Kelly also signed a $2 billion tax relief package, which raised the residential property tax exemption, eliminated state taxes on Social Security income, and expanded child and dependent care credits.

Water infrastructure continued to receive attention, with the state maintaining its $35 million annual investment and adding $16 million for small community projects.

In early childhood, 1,200 new child care slots were added, and the governor introduced $18 million in expanded tax credits.

The Kelly administration also attracted $3.4 billion in economic development, creating over 5,100 jobs. In addition, the state improved infrastructure by repairing roads and bridges, and invested in broadband expansion to enhance internet access. Finally, a new unemployment insurance system was launched, modernizing services for Kansans.

“I am proud of all my administration has accomplished throughout this year,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “By working with the Legislature, our state agencies, stakeholders, and Kansans from across the state, we were able to reach new heights in 2024. I look forward to carrying this momentum into 2025 as we continue striving to make Kansas the best place to live, work, and raise a family.”

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