Olathe school bus blackouts — “The Olathe School District may soon consider implementing rolling blackouts in bus services as the district struggles to maintain enough bus drivers … While neighboring school districts like Shawnee Mission and Blue Valley have reduced services for paid bus routes based on distance, Olathe has not put any additional limits on its paid rider program.” [Fox 4]

Johnson County state legislative priorities — “On Thursday, Dec. 1, the Board of County Commissioners adopted the 2023 state legislative platform, used to provide direction on legislative issues … [the] Platform identifies four priorities, including … support Medicaid expansion.” [Johnson County] 

Lenexa couple faces federal fraud charges — “A Lenexa, Kansas, man and woman have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a $2.9 million conspiracy to defraud Medicare. Timothy A. Chin, 64, and Lauren M. Sword, 36, were charged in a 23-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Tuesday, Nov. 29.” [DOJ]

Kelly pushes for immediate food sales tax cut —“In a brief interview, [Gov. Laura] Kelly also sounded confident that the Republican-controlled Legislature would approve immediately ending the state sales tax on food after approving a gradual repeal earlier this year. And the governor said she planned to meet with legislative leaders in her latest attempt to pass Medicaid expansion.” [Kansas City Star]

Winter fireplace and chimney safety tips — “Colder weather is upon us! Check out these tips to stay safe while using your fireplace this winter and don’t forget to have a professional inspect your fireplace and chimney each year.” [Overland Park Fire Department]