organization for Kansas banks and bankers, and we provide education, legal and compliance support, and insurance services that meet the full range of our members’ needs.” ADVOCACY ROOTED IN COMMUNITY One of KBA’s most notable accomplishments is its leadership on House Bill 2152—a piece of legislation designed to reinvest taxpayer dollars back into Kansas communities. Spearheaded by the KBA and supported by a coalition of public sector partners including the Kansas Association of Counties, the League of Kansas Municipalities, and the Kansas Association of School Boards, the legislation aims to redirect more than $1 billion currently invested out-of-state back into local institutions. “It’s about putting Kansas money to work in Kansas,” explains Orel.“This bill not only supports our banks but also stimulates local economic development and could generate an estimated $130 million in new tax revenue.” The implementation of HB 2152 begins in stages through 2025, and KBA is leading joint training sessions with public agencies and local governments to ensure smooth execution. “Our bankers often wear multiple hats,” Orel adds. “They serve on city councils, school boards, and hospital boards. They care about more than their banks—they care about their communities.” INFRASTRUCTURE, HOUSING, AND A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE As Kansas navigates the realities of rural population shifts and economic stress in its core sectors, infrastructure and housing have become top-ofmind. KBA sees its advocacy efforts as integral to solving these challenges. “Infrastructure isn’t just roads and bridges—it’s about building communities where people want to live,” says VanZwoll.“By keeping money local, banks can lend for local development projects, and those dollars cycle right back into the community.” KBA also played a leading role in the passage of the largest housing investment in Kansas history—over $200 million directed toward low- and moderateincome housing. This includes grants, tax credits, and support for vertical infrastructure in rural towns. “Housing is a foundational need,” says Orel. “If families can’t find affordable homes, they can’t plant roots, build equity, or contribute meaningfully to their community.That’s bad for everyone—including banks.” 87 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 KANSAS BANKERS ASSOCIATION
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