Kansas Legislature has Agriculture on the Agenda
Written by Shahira Stafford, legislative consultant.
The 2026 Kansas Legislative Session began on January 12 with a packed agenda that could impact the state’s soybean producers and broader agricultural community. With a shortened session calendar, lawmakers are moving quickly on several key issues, holding hearings on major proposals as early as January 13.
Property Tax Relief Takes Center Stage
Property tax relief has emerged as a top priority, with multiple constitutional amendment proposals being considered. Senate Concurrent Resolution 1616, sponsored by Senate Tax Chair Caryn Tyson, proposes limiting annual increases in property tax assessments to 3%. A hearing has already been held – demonstrating the urgency lawmakers feel on this issue. Three other constitutional amendments aimed at lowering property taxes have also been proposed.
The Kansas Soybean Association is closely monitoring these proposals to ensure that any property tax relief does not shift the tax burden from residential to commercial and agricultural property. As land values have increased, Kansas farmers have faced mounting property tax burdens that strain already tight operating margins.
Water Funding Remains Critical
Water continues to be a priority issue for Kansas agriculture and the legislature. KSA supports increased funding for water programs and conservation efforts, including full, statutorily required funding of the State Water Plan. Stakeholders are anxiously awaiting the Water Program Task Force to present their initial report by the end of January. Reliable water resources are essential for sustainable soybean production across Kansas, and adequate, long-term state investment in water infrastructure and conservation programs will benefit future generations.
Biodiesel Tax Credit Still in Play
House Bill 2161, which creates an income tax credit for retailers selling biodiesel, carries over from last year and remains alive. KSA will advocate for this legislation, which would incentivize biodiesel use and create additional demand for soybean oil—a key value-added opportunity for Kansas producers.
Protecting Agricultural Operations
Several prefilled bills address agricultural security and regulatory clarity. HB 2413 and HB 2422 would increase penalties for livestock, implements of husbandry, and grain theft respectively, providing stronger deterrents against crimes that can devastate farm operations. Additionally, KSA supports tort reform measures that would allow EPA-approved pesticide labels to satisfy “duty to warn” requirements, providing legal clarity for farmers who follow approved application guidelines.
Watching for Potential Challenges
The KSA is monitoring HB 2425, which would restrict certain food ingredients—part of a broader federal MAHA trend. Such restrictions could create market disruptions and unintended consequences for food processors who purchase soybeans and soybean products. The bill is currently restricted to meals provided in K-12 schools.
Immigration policy also bears watching. Any bills requiring private employers to use E-Verify when hiring could create significant workforce challenges for agricultural operations that already struggle with labor availability.
Looking Ahead
Given the compressed session calendar, legislators are expected to move quickly on essential issues. We will continue tracking developments and advocating for policies that support sustainable, profitable soybean production across Kansas. Members are encouraged to stay engaged with their local legislators on these critical issues.