Cities, counties want to regain control over political signs in Kansas

Cities and counties in Kansas are asking the Legislature to repeal a 2015 law banning local regulations on political signs in public rights of way.

They say the law has led to confusion, safety problems and a proliferation of signage in the 45-day period leading up to elections.

Further complicating the issue is case law that suggests all types of signs should be allowed all the time in unlimited numbers.

Amanda Stanley, attorney for the League of Kansas Municipalities, and Jay Hall, attorney for the Kansas Association of Counties, pleaded with the House Local Government Committee to provide for local control.

Stanley said people are livid with city leaders and no one knows what the law means. There are questions about whether people can stick signs in the front yard of someone else’s home, or in parks and medians.

She raised concerns about the possibility of being forced to allow Westboro Baptist Church or adult entertainment signs to be placed throughout the city.

House Bill 2135 would remove the 2015 law from statute.

“This bill wasn’t brought because local city officials are anti-First Amendment,” Stanley said. “It wasn’t brought because they don’t appreciate free speech. It was brought because they don’t have the luxury of only caring about political signs. They have to weigh the good of their constituents and what their constituents desire.”