Top Film News for Thursday, January 15, 2026
The latest film news revolves around significant events occurring on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Here are the key happenings making headlines today.
Anti-Trump Protests Erupt in Topeka
In Topeka, Kansas, a large group of protestors gathered at the Statehouse. They rallied against the policies of the Trump administration. This event was organized by a coalition of 14 groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union and Planned Parenthood.
Throughout the rally, demonstrators expressed their discontent with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) through chants. Topics discussed included food insecurity, voting rights, climate change, and healthcare. Participants also sang protest songs, showcasing their commitment to various social issues.
Kansas City Council Takes Action Against ICE Detention Centers
The Kansas City Council decided to ban the development of federal immigration detention centers. This decision comes in response to a recent tour by federal agents of a warehouse potentially set for conversion into a detention facility.
Council member Johnathan Duncan stated that establishing a detention center would negatively impact the community. Reports indicated that Kansas City is one of seven locations targeted by the Trump administration for such facilities.
Upcoming Changes in Kansas City Public Safety
As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare to move to Wyandotte County, the Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department is planning to hire additional officers. Police Chief Karl Oakman noted that the department currently employs about 330 officers and can recruit 50 more, though they have faced challenges in attracting candidates.
Kansas Legislature Considers Cell Phone Ban in Schools
Kansas lawmakers are reviewing a proposed bill to implement a statewide ban on cell phone usage for K-12 students during school hours. While bipartisan support exists for the legislation, some students expressed concerns about its impact on their academic performance and local autonomy.
New Tenure Policy Approved for Kansas University Professors
The Kansas Board of Regents has unanimously voted for a new tenure policy. This policy simplifies the process for public universities to dismiss tenured professors. Under the new rule, annual reviews will determine professor qualifications, and dismissal may occur after two unsatisfactory reviews.
Health Concerns Prompt School Closures in Kansas
A school district in rural Kansas, Fairfield USD 310, has canceled classes due to an outbreak of illnesses. Superintendent Richard Spencer emphasized the need for precaution to safeguard the health of students and staff.
Proposed Bill Allows Drone Use for Hunters
A new bill in the Kansas legislature could permit hunters to use drones for locating injured or deceased deer. Hunter operators must be federally licensed, and the use of drones for disturbing wildlife would remain prohibited.
Governor’s Budget Prioritizes Education and Welfare Funding
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly’s proposed budget aims to increase funding for special education, water management, and welfare administration. Lawmakers are set to examine the $50 million allocation for special education, amidst discussions about the financial sustainability of these programs.
Small Businesses Face Uncertainty Amid ACA Enrollment Deadlines
The impending deadline for Affordable Care Act enrollment raises concerns for small businesses. Uncertainty about future subsidies threatens healthcare coverage for many business owners in Kansas and Missouri, with estimates suggesting that millions could lose coverage if improvements are not made.
Monitoring Food Assistance Overpayments
Kansas officials are actively working to decrease overpayments in the food assistance program. The state risk losing federal funding if its error rate remains above 6%. Recent measures aim to address documentation issues and enhance technology usage.
Awareness Campaign on Radon Exposure in Kansas Homes
New statistics indicate that radon exposure affects one in three homes in Kansas. This colorless, odorless gas is linked to lung cancer. Experts advise residents to test their homes during winter when radon levels can be highest.
Funding Challenges for KU Fungi Collection
The University of Kansas faces funding issues with its renowned fungi collection. This unique resource supports agricultural research but has recently lost federal support. An endowment has been established to help sustain the collection’s important work.
Former K-State Player Inducted into College Football Hall of Fame
Terence Newman, a former cornerback for Kansas State University, has been selected for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame. The ceremony will take place on December 8, 2026, highlighting his significant contribution to the sport.
