The House Committee on Appropriations held a meeting on January 23, 2025, where key discussions centered around scheduling and budget preparations, as well as addressing concerns related to the Board of Mortuary Arts.

Committee members announced that there would be no meeting the following day due to scheduling conflicts. This break is expected to be the last Friday without committee meetings as they gear up for budget discussions in the second week of February. The committee emphasized the importance of these upcoming sessions to ensure a thorough review and preparation of the budget.

Additionally, concerns were raised regarding complaints about the Board of Mortuary Arts. These complaints, which have been noted on a national level, include issues such as unexpected funeral costs, unethical conduct, negligence, and breaches of contract. The committee acknowledged that these issues could have local implications and expressed a commitment to addressing them.

In a lighter moment, the committee welcomed a new intern, Austin Crist, a senior at the University of Kansas studying political science. His presence is seen as a valuable addition to the team, and he will be assisting on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

As the committee prepares for the upcoming budget discussions, residents can expect a focus on addressing both financial planning and community concerns, particularly in the sensitive area of funeral services. The next meeting is scheduled for Monday at 9 AM, where further budget report outs will take place.