2024 Harold A. Stones Government Relations Conference Highlights Feb. 7, Topeka Country Club he newly rebranded Harold A. Stones Government Relations Conference, formerly known as the Public Affairs Conference, concluded in early February with an outstanding turnout! Over 177 Kansas bankers gathered in Topeka for insightful discussions surrounding both state and federal legislative and regulatory policies impacting the banking sector. The event commenced with a warm welcome from KBA Board Chairman Mark Schifferdecker of GNBank, N.A., in Girard. Chairman Schifferdecker expressed gratitude for the collective effort in conveying a unified message to state lawmakers, elected officials and representatives from our Kansas Congressional Delegation on behalf of Kansas banks and the communities they serve. A brief moment of silence was observed in honor of Harold Stones, the esteemed figure after whom the conference is named, who sadly passed away last year after leading the KBA from 1981 to 1997. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly set the tone for the conference with an insightful overview of her legislative priorities and the current state of the Kansas economy. Following the governor’s address, KBA President & CEO Doug Wareham delved into critical federal issues facing the industry. Highlights of the conference included the engaging Legislative Leadership Panel, the graduation ceremony of the 2023 Bank Leaders of Kansas (BLOK) class and the introduction of the 2024 BLOK Class. In the afternoon sessions, attendees were provided with a comprehensive Federal Issues Update from the ABA, along with a captivating fireside chat featuring Jeffery Kuzbel, the new president and CEO of FHLB. KBA’s Senior Vice President of Government Relations Alex Orel provided an update on pertinent state legislative matters. Additionally, Doug Wareham delivered insights into the partnership between KBA and the Fort Hays State Robbins Banking Institute, along with the newly launched Internship Connection Program. Wareham concluded the conference proceedings before the eagerly awaited annual legislative reception, where over 100 Kansas lawmakers and distinguished guests engaged with bankers to discuss crucial industry matters. Heartfelt appreciation goes out to all who journeyed to Topeka for this enriching event, and we eagerly anticipate reconnecting with you next year on Feb. 7, 2025! T Kansas Governor Laura Kelly It was an honor to have Kansas Governor Laura Kelly at this year’s Government Relations Conference. She gave an overview of the state legislative affairs, covering topics from Medicaid expansion to tax reform. Chairman Schifferdecker thanked Governor Kelly and Senator Jerry Moran for their efforts that allowed farmers and landowners in the Rattlesnake Creek Basin more time to address impairment claims made by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 18
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