Democrats file complaint against Kansas House SpeakerDemocratic leaders in the Kansas House filed a formal complaint Friday against Speaker Mike O'Neal over the Hutchinson Republican's legal work on behalf of business groups suing the state.
A six-member legislative panel will investigate the complaint and forward any recommended response to the House for a vote. O'Neal could face punishment ranging from nothing to expulsion from the chamber he leads.
O'Neal again denied any wrongdoing Friday and said Democrats are trying to create a distraction from more important Statehouse issues.
O'Neal, an attorney, represents a coalition of businesses and trade groups suing the state over a 2009 legislative budgeting decision. To balance the budget, lawmakers voted to dip into funds set up for professional regulatory agencies. O'Neal's clients — the Kansas Bankers Association, Kansas Association of Realtors and others — represent professionals who pay dues to support those regulatory funds.
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