Kansas House Bill HB2263

Kansas 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/4/25
• Refer: 2/4/25
• Report Pass: 2/14/25
• Engrossed: 2/25/25
• Refer: 2/26/25
• Report Pass: 3/13/25
• Enrolled: 4/10/25
• Passed: 4/10/25

Caption

Designating a future interchange on K-10 highway as the Kris Norton memorial interchange, a portion of K-5 highway as the Rep Marvin S Robinson memorial highway, a portion of United States highway 160 as the CPL Monte Wayne Forrest memorial highway, a portion of United States highway 77 as the POW MIA memorial highway and bridge No. 82-14-6.88 (026) in Clay county as the POW MIA memorial bridge, and redesignating a current portion of the Harry Darby memorial highway for interstate highway 635.

Impact

The enactment of HB 2263 will have both symbolic and practical implications for state transportation law. By officially naming highways and interchanges after individuals, the bill formalizes their legacy and integrates it into the fabric of state infrastructure. This action may promote tourism and local pride, as well as provide a reminder of significant historical figures along everyday travel routes. Furthermore, it sets a precedent for future memorials and designations, contributing to the state’s approach to recognizing local history.

Summary

House Bill 2263 aims to enhance the visibility and honor the contributions of notable individuals by designating several highways and interchanges as memorials. This includes the designation of the Kris Norton memorial interchange on K-10 highway and various portions of other highways, like the CPL Monte Wayne Forrest memorial highway and the POW MIA memorial highway. The bill illustrates a commitment to remembering and commemorating those who have served and contributed to the community, especially in the context of veterans and local leaders.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 2263 appears generally positive, reflecting a bipartisan agreement on the importance of honoring local figures and veterans. Legislators from both sides seem to support the intent of the bill, viewing it as a way to pay tribute to individuals who have made notable contributions. However, there may be underlying concerns regarding differentiation between essential highway infrastructural developments and commemorative practices.

Contention

While there seems to be broad support for the bill, a possible point of contention lies in the allocation of resources for maintaining commemorative signs versus essential highway infrastructure needs. Some lawmakers might argue that resources should be focused on functional improvements rather than commemorative designations. Nonetheless, the current adoption of the bill indicates a prevailing sentiment in favor of balancing both functional and commemorative aspects of state infrastructure planning.