This bill authorizes the governing body of the unified government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, to create a port authority, subject to legislative approval through the enactment of a bill. It amends K.S.A. 12-3402 to outline the purpose and powers of port authorities, which include promoting economic development, fostering commerce, and providing employment opportunities. The bill also establishes that no port authority can be created without legislative approval and allows for the creation of joint port authorities through cooperative agreements between cities or counties.

Additionally, the bill includes several deletions from the existing law, such as the removal of specific language regarding the promotion of ports and the conditions under which port authorities can levy taxes. It clarifies that any tax levy for the port authority must be approved by a majority of the electors in the respective city or county. The bill also stipulates that obligations of the port authority are not obligations of the state or the creating city or county unless specifically approved by voters. Finally, the existing section of K.S.A. 12-3402 is repealed, and the act will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 12-3402
As introduced: 12-3402