Kansas governor Laura Kelly had ceremonial signing events in Wichita on Monday for two bills that were approved by the state legislature earlier this year.
In an appearance at Goodwill Industries, the governor signed the AO-K to Work Bill that will expand adult education opportunities and help Kansas companies find more skilled workers.
AO-K stands for Accelerated Opportunities-Kansas and it will allow adults who have not earned their Kansas high school diploma to study in college programs. When they complete their program, they will be awarded a high school equivalency and then they will be able to immediately enter the workforce. Goodwill vice president Chris Stanyer said the bill brings hope for the future to Kansas who want to improve their lives. Stanyer says many adults are facing challenges in working several jobs and raising a family, and it has been difficult for them to continue their education.
Governor Kelly said the program will give students the opportunity to earn a high school equivalency credit, by achieving certain requirements that will lead to career readiness.
Later in the day, the governor went to the Sedgwick County Courthouse for another ceremonial signing. She signed Senate Bill 130, which will allow voters to cast ballots at any polling place on election day if the machines are technologically capable. The bill was officially signed by the governor in April and it will go into effect once regulations are in place.
