As KPOA is heading into the busy season. I want to update you on some things we have been working on to support Kansas Law Enforcement.  We have engaged in talks and correspondence with Ed Klump, our association's lobbyist about several bills and proposals that will need our support or opposition.  We’ve already weighed in on proposals like mandatory towing of vehicles for registration violations, and to mandate training of dispatchers in T-CPR.  We rely heavily on Ed’s guidance and the input we receive from you to take the proper stand for Kansas Law Enforcement.  We have also worked closely with the Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police, the Kansas Sheriff Association, Kansas COPS, state agencies, and others to create or organize a foundation to provide services and support for agencies and families of fallen officers similar to the Colorado Fallen Hero Foundation.  Stay tuned for more information about this effort.

Members of the executive committee of the KPOA recently met and trained several District Governors on their responsibilities and the benefits of the KPOA.  Please reach out to them with questions, ideas, or concerns.  Our Governors are a great group dedicated to improving Kansas Law Enforcement.  Additionally, we are actively vetting training for our Fall Conference in September and are excited about the potential line-up. 

Next week we will provide more information about the training conference and legislative matters, including continued discussions with legislatures to provide a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for KPERS retirees and modifications to or replacement of KPERS III.  We will meet with Legislators at the Legislative Conference in Topeka on January 28th.  Please make arrangements to attend, and I hope to see you there.

Sincerely,

Lt. Tim Greenwood
Hays Police Department
KPOA President