Kansas budget woes spark talk of ag agency merger

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP)--The state's financial problems revive a proposal to merge two small agencies into the Department of Agriculture.

The proposal comes from the Legislature's audit committee, and supporters believe it could reduce spending by $3.5 million over five years.

Under the plan, the Department of Agriculture would absorb the duties of the currently independent Animal Health Department and State Conservation Commission.

However, both agencies are resisting the idea, questioning whether service to Kansans would be less responsive.

Similar proposals failed to get much support in 2005 and earlier this year.

But legislative researchers now project that the state will finish its current fiscal year on June 30 with a $141 million budget deficit.

1/5/09
2 Star EK\3-B

Date: 12/31/08

Click for related articles

No post-Thanksgiving rest for weary turkey farmers
Old Christmas trees can help overwintering birds
Senator Roberts- Manhattan chosen as NBAF site
Shop, sheds, hold place for enthusiast
Tarleton dean to head national task force
Tarleton professor steps into presidential role

---

article 2009- 2 - Kansasbudgetwoessparktalkof.cfm

Reader Comments showchihuahua — 01/02/2009 12:01:15 The Animal Health Department was developed when kennel inspections for Kansas kennels was begun. That responsibility was previously the Dept. of Agriculture and was poorly handled by uncaring, irresponsible inspectors. The kennels were not well managed, the rules and regulations were not enforced. The commercial dog breeders of Kansas provided less than humane housing and treatment for their animals. I believe the inspection service should not be changed to a different department. I am a small show dog kennel, with a hobby license. I have, in the past, had a retail breeders license. The animals in Kansas should not be desserted because of ill management of our states funds by the governor and other elected officials. Add Your Comment To post a comment on this story, enter your screen name and email address then click "Add Comment." Your email address will not be displayed. 499 Recommend | 1 Comments

---

	Web hpj.com

Copyright/Privacy
Copyright 1995-2011.  High Plains Publishers, Inc.  All rights reserved.  Any republishing of these pages, including electronic reproduction of the editorial archives or classified advertising, is strictly prohibited. If you have questions or comments you can reach us at High Plains Journal 1500 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd., P.O. Box 760, Dodge City, KS 67801 or call 1-800-452-7171. Email: webmaster@hpj.com