Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly on Wednesday announced she was banning evictions and foreclosures for the next six weeks, adding to her administration's response to the unprecedented crisis caused by COVID-19.
The executive order, which the governor signed earlier in the week without making it public, prohibits mortgage foreclosures by financial institutions operating in Kansas, as well as commercial and residential evictions.
The order is in effect until May 1.
"We understand that this pandemic is creating unprecedented challenges for people across the state," Kelly said. "Kansas families need our support, and my administration is committed to doing everything it can to make sure Kansans can stay in their homes and businesses. It's a necessary step to further protect Kansans' health and safety."
Kelly also has issued executive orders to close public schools, limit mass gatherings and block utilities from disconnecting services. She also announced state workers under her supervision will be sent home for two weeks, starting Monday.
House Majority Leader Dan Hawkins, R-Wichita, said some members of his caucus are concerned with the governor's orders.
"Leadership wants to make it clear that we are doing everything possible to retain maximum oversight and flexibility in the legislative branch," Hawkins said. "Accountability is good for Kansans."
At least 19 individuals have tested positive for the novel coronavirus in Kansas, including two visitors from out of state. Johnson County has recorded 11 cases, with three in Wyandotte County and one in Butler, Franklin, Douglas, Ford and Miami counties.
Ascension Via Christi, which operates seven hospitals and 75 other sites in Kansas, announced it will limit elective and non-emergent medical services in preparation for COVID-19.
Surgeons and physicians are asked to postpone the services for at least 45 days.
"There is no substitute for that independent medical judgment, but it's critical that we all be good stewards of our healthcare resources," said Bob Copple, president of Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan.
Lawmakers were working to reconcile differences between competing budgets passed by the Senate and House, and wrap up other high-priority legislation before adjourning early, possibly late Wednesday or early Thursday.
"We could have been done with all of this days ago," said Rep. Stephanie Clayton, who tweeted her frustrations. "We are all risking not only our health, but the health of staff, our families, and our constituents when we return home. Anyone who is trying any nonessential legislation today is trash. I have spoken."