Gov. Laura Kelly vetoes abortion, foreign land ownership bills

“While I agree that it is important for our state to implement stronger protections against foreign adversaries, this legislation contains multiple provisions that are likely unconstitutional and cause unintended consequences.

“Many of the provisions in House Substitute for Senate Bill 172 are overly broad and not narrowly tailored to enhance our state’s security while limiting the disruption of legitimate investment and business relationships. Additionally, the retroactive nature of this legislation raises further serious constitutional concerns. I am not willing to sign a bill that has the potential to hurt the state’s future prosperity and economic development.

“If the Legislature is serious about protecting Kansans from foreign adversaries, it should consider more narrow, forward-looking proposals that are focused on bad actors while ensuring legitimate business relationships with potential trading partners and small businesses are not impacted.”

Gov. Laura Kelly

“I’m deeply disappointed that the governor vetoed this critical legislation. Kansas, like the rest of our nation, faces serious threats from foreign adversaries, and this decision leaves our state vulnerable. I remain committed to protecting our military installations and ensuring that the Chinese Communist Party and other foreign adversaries do not compromise Kansas’s safety.”

Speaker Pro Tempore Blake Carpenter

“This veto is beyond disappointing, leaving Kansas, its military bases, and critical resources wide open for adversarial foreign governments. The assets of this state are too important for us to sit on our hands and wait until it’s too late. This bill was carefully designed with input from everyone who wanted a say on how we should move forward. We will continue our fight to strengthen the security of our home.”

House Majority Leader Chris Croft

“This divisive legislation has broad and sweeping implications that undermine the will of the majority of Kansans who voted overwhelmingly in 2022 to protect the constitutional rights of women to make decisions about pregnancy. This is another blatant attempt by extreme politicians in the Legislature to take more control over women and their families’ personal, private medical decisions.

“Kansans already made it very clear that they don’t want lawmakers involved in personal matters. It’s time we listen to them. As I have said before, I refuse to sign legislation that goes against the will of the majority of Kansans who voted on August 2, 2022.”

Gov. Laura Kelly

“Women facing an unexpected pregnancy need support long before the baby is born. Between doctor’s appointment copays, sonograms, and other costs, prenatal expenses can get very pricey for women to handle simply on their own. The Governor’s veto of this bill has failed Kansas women by dismissing financial accountability for the father.”

House Majority Leader Chris Croft, Speaker Pro Tempore Blake Carpenter and House Speaker Dan Hawkins joint statement