Dear Constituents and Friends,

By now you have undoubtedly heard of my election as your new State Representative for the 17^th District.  In July, I was elected by vote of your precinct committee men and women to fill the remaining year of the retiring Stephanie Sharp’s term.  (Click speech to read Jill’s election day speech.)

As I get ready for my first legislative session in Topeka, I have been formulating my goals.

First, I will strive to keep the same level of communication that Stephanie had with constituents.  Through my newsletter, Jill’s Journal, I will keep you up to date on bills, providing background and both pros and cons of the issue.  I will seek your input, both your knowledge and opinions, to guide my vote.  I will tell you how I vote and why.  I will share my newcomer’s view of the political process in plain language.  It will be timely, straightforward, and objective.

Second, this will be a session with a high learning curve for me so I will be doing a lot of listening and learning. I will not be initiating much if any legislation myself.  I will be supporting bills that keep our public schools strong, that improve all Kansan’s access to health care, and that keep the Kansas economy strong. I will be a good steward of your tax dollars making tough decisions between competing needs.

To represent you adequately, I need to know your thoughts and opinions.  I encourage you to complete a simple on-line survey on current issues.  I will use the results and your comments to guide my votes this session.  (Click on survey to participate.)

I am honored and humbled by the responsibility of representing you in Topeka.  Know that I will be working hard to understand the issues, keep a pulse on the district’s views, and to keep you informed on all things legislative.  I thank you in advance for your involvement in the democratic process and for your support in terms of thoughts, prayers, and donations.

Together we will make a difference in the lives of all Kansans.

Jill Quigley