2026 APPA Legislative Rally

Representatives from KMEA staff and several member cities recently attended the American Public Power Association (APPA) Legislative Rally, held February 23–25, 2026, in Washington, D.C. The Kansas Municipal Utilities (KMU) facilitated participation for Kansas communities, ensuring strong representation.  Stacie Eichem of Wamego, Dustin Bedore of Goodland, Jose Chan of Garden City, Jonathan Mitchell of Hoisington, and KMEA General Counsel, Terri Pemberton all attended. Although Washington, D.C. was forecast to receive three to six inches of snow during the days leading up to the rally, the group fortunately avoided major weather impacts, though a few members experienced minor travel delays upon arrival.

Throughout the week, the Kansas delegation met with several members of the Kansas congressional delegation and at their offices. Meetings included visits with Representative Ron Estes’ office on Monday; Representatives Sharice Davids, Tracey Mann, Eric Schmidt, and Senator Roger Marshall on Tuesday; and Senator Jerry Moran on Wednesday. These discussions were productive and appeared to be well received, offering an opportunity to share local perspectives on federal issues affecting municipal utilities.  Collectively, the event served as an important platform for Kansas public power representatives to strengthen relationships with federal legislators, remain informed on national policy developments, and ensure that the needs of community‑owned utilities continue to be heard at the federal level.