By Trish Svoboda/Image courtesy Canva

Health policy issues continued to move forward during the seventh week of the 2026 Kansas legislative session, according to a weekly update from the Kansas Health Institute.

Lawmakers returned to the Statehouse following Turnaround Day on Feb. 19, when most bills must pass one chamber to remain active. While legislative activity slowed slightly, several health-related proposals advanced in committees and on the floor.

Among the measures discussed were bills related to interstate licensure compacts for health professionals, behavioral health services for students with autism in schools, and updates to child welfare policies.

One proposal would allow private providers to deliver medically necessary applied behavior analysis services to students with autism during school hours if parents provide documentation and consent for coordination with school districts. Supporters say the services can improve communication and classroom participation, while some school officials raised concerns about potential conflicts with school operations and special education processes.

Lawmakers also considered bills addressing optometry scope-of-practice laws, juvenile justice policies and tax deductions for members of health care sharing ministries.

Budget discussions continued as well, including proposals that would increase Medicaid and home- and community-based services funding and support behavioral health services.

Meanwhile, Gov. Laura Kelly announced an agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture ensuring Kansas will not lose $10.4 million in administrative funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program after resolving concerns about sharing program data.