Gov. Laura Kelly on Monday issued executive orders moving back the deadlines for filing tax returns and renewing driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations.
“These executive orders are necessary steps to help Kansas families during this crisis,” Kelly said in a statement.
“During these trying times we need essential services to continue to function to secure our public safety and health,” she said. “We also need some leniency when it comes to deadlines.”
Kelly signed an executive order setting July 15 as the new income tax deadline for filing 2019 tax returns as part of the state’s response to dealing with the coronavirus pandemic.
The governor also is extending the filing date for homestead and property tax relief refund claims to Oct. 15.
The Revenue Department will use its discretion for waiving penalties and interest if the governor’s state of emergency is lifted before July 15.
Meanwhile, the governor also has delayed driver’s license and vehicle registration renewals for 60 days after the emergency declaration ends.
Vehicle owners will not be hit with late fees or interest if they’re late renewing their registration after it’s due.
The state also is extending temporary 60-day tags for vehicles purchased since Jan. 1.
The temporary tags are also good until the state of emergency expires.
The governor is urging law enforcement to use their discretion and consider the ongoing public health crisis when examining state documents while the state of emergency is in place.