Concerns over fire safety for vulnerable populations dominated the Kansas Senate Committee on Government Efficiency meeting on September 9, 2025. Testimonies revealed strong opposition to Senate Bill 276, which critics argue would jeopardize fire safety protections for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in adult care homes.

Advocates, including representatives from the Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities (KCDD), highlighted alarming statistics: individuals with disabilities are eight times more likely to perish in fires than the general population. They warned that the bill would strip the Kansas State Fire Marshal of the authority to enforce fire codes in these facilities, potentially leading to delayed safety fixes and increased risks during emergencies. “Every second matters in an emergency, and lives will be lost if we weaken these protections,” stated a KCDD representative, urging lawmakers to prioritize safety over financial concerns.

Matthew Allen, the city manager of Garden City, echoed these sentiments, opposing any expansion of the State Fire Marshal's authority. He emphasized the effectiveness of local inspections and plan reviews, which have been in place for decades. Allen argued that local municipalities are better equipped to handle fire safety regulations tailored to their communities, citing concerns over the potential inefficiencies of a centralized state system.

State Fire Marshal Mark Ingholm defended the need for a consistent statewide fire code, asserting that local codes should enhance, not undermine, state standards. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the fire service in Kansas, including staffing shortages and the need for updated fire codes to address modern construction materials that burn faster and hotter.

The meeting underscored a critical debate: balancing safety regulations with local control and efficiency. As discussions continue, the fate of Senate Bill 276 remains uncertain, with advocates calling for a commitment to protect the most vulnerable Kansans from fire hazards.