Monthly Update
This month’s highlights:
Top News - Annie E. Casey Foundation released its 35th edition of its KIDS COUNT Data Book. See where Missouri and Kansas stand.
Missouri Update - Aligned joined child advocates from around the state filled the Millbotton Event Center in Jefferson City this week to celebrate the wins scored on behalf of Missouri children. Kids Win Missouri hosted the annual Salute to Champion of Children luncheon, which featured a recap of the 2024 legislative session, an update on the organization's community planning endeavors, and a discussion with their parent and provider fellows.
Kansas Update - On Tuesday, the Legislature passed a tax package that Governor Laura Kelly indicated she would sign. This package, which is expected to cost around $2 billion over the next five fiscal years, includes significant changes such as a two-tiered income tax structure, increased standard deduction and personal exemption, elimination of taxes on Social Security, and an expanded tax credit for child and dependent care.
Additional Highlights - We are focused on our interim projects, which we hope to share soon. Summer is always a great time to contemplate big-picture ideas and potential new directions our organization can pursue to strengthen the education system in Kansas and Missouri.