Updating references and corresponding changes related to 2021 Executive Reorganization Order No. 48 and the transfer of the division of tourism from the department of wildlife and parks to the department of commerce.
Impact
The passage of HB2332 involves several amendments to long-standing statutes governing the capturing and management of wildlife and tourism in Kansas. The bill modifies existing provisions concerning the powers and duties of state officers related to tourism, thereby affecting how tourism efforts are coordinated across state agencies. Supporters argue that this reorganization will ensure that tourism policy is more aligned with economic growth and development strategies, potentially leading to increased funding and more robust marketing efforts for tourism in Kansas.
Summary
House Bill 2332 seeks to transfer the Division of Tourism from the Department of Wildlife and Parks to the Department of Commerce in Kansas. This legislation aims to streamline operational functions and enhance the focus on tourism as an economic driver. By placing tourism under the Department of Commerce, the bill underscores a strategic shift towards viewing tourism as part of broader economic development initiatives within the state.
Sentiment
General sentiment around HB2332 appears positive among proponents of economic development, suggesting that tying tourism management closely with commerce will yield benefits. However, critics of restructuring express concerns regarding the potential dilution of wildlife and environmental protections that were historically associated with the Department of Wildlife and Parks. This bifurcation of interests raises questions about the oversight of wildlife management as it relates to tourism development and could lead to tension over priorities.
Contention
One notable point of contention in the discussions surrounding HB2332 is the balance between promoting economic interests through tourism and maintaining rigorous environmental standards which have been the hallmark of wildlife management. Stakeholders worry that moving tourism to a commercial context could edge out conservation-focused priorities and lead to conflicts between tourism growth and wildlife preservation efforts. Lawmakers and advocates emphasize the need for careful consideration to ensure that environmental stewardship remains a priority in the department's newly structured mandate.
Creating the Kansas office of natural resources within the executive branch and transferring certain duties of the Kansas water office, and the department of agriculture, division of conservation and division of water resources to such office.
Prescribing documentation requirements to determine eligibility for any benefit derived from a service-connected disability, requiring that federal disability determinations for veterans be probative, establishing the Kansas office of veterans services, updating references and corresponding changes relating to the transfer of powers and duties from the Kansas commission on veterans affairs office to the Kansas office of veterans services, updating the veterans claims assistance program to include references to veterans affairs medical centers and cross-accreditation requirements, modifying the definition of veteran and disabled veteran, clarifying disability evaluations for benefits granted to disabled veterans and updating the definition of armed forces to include the space force.
An Act Concerning The Transfer Of Functions From The Departments Of Public Works, Information Technology And Public Safety And The Judicial Selection Commission To The Department Of Administrative Services And Establishing The Department Of Construction Services.
An Act Implementing The Provisions Of The Budget Concerning The Judicial Branch, Child Protection, Criminal Justice, Weigh Stations And Certain State Agency Consolidations.
Creating the Kansas office of natural resources within the executive branch and transferring certain duties of the Kansas water office, and the department of agriculture, division of conservation and division of water resources to such office.