With revenue falling short of projections, legislators are looking for an alternate source of income. Traditionally, a majority of Kansas Legislators have not supported the expansion of gaming in Kansas. It remains to be seen if this position will change. The Senate took a significant step toward easing the case load in courts with the passage of SB 14. The bill allows judges to order certain cases to mediation.
Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution.
The intent of mediation is to have plaintiffs and defendants work out their problems with the help of an impartial mediator. Often, the result of parties solving their own disputes is that both parties are much more satisfied with the outcome. Ultimately, satisfactory resolution will lower the number of repeat cases. With this legislation, judges could significantly reduce the case load on their dockets, and lower the burden for taxpayers. The Senate also passed SB 118.