Some Kansas legislators are saying that perhaps legislative sessions are too long. Perhaps, they should be shortened, curtailed to expedite decisions and save taxpayer money. At first blush, this seems to make sense.

The House Committee on Appropriations held a hearing last Thursday to discuss a bill that would shorten the session in odd numbered years to 60 days. Even-numbered years would remain at 90 days as required by the Kansas Constitution.

Republican Rep. Marvin Kleebs from Overland Park was one of many members who testified that the shorter session would allow them to spend more time with their families and return to their businesses. They also said it would push lawmakers to discuss bills in a more efficient manner.

Kleebs added that a shorter session could save taxpayers more than $1.9 million a year. That sounds good.

This is a good idea only if our elected officials actually get things done. As we’ve seen over the past couple of years, even the 90 days hasn’t been long enough.

Well, perhaps that should be rephrased. There was enough time had lawmakers cut their bickering and gotten down to business.

We pay these folks’ salaries and they are, or should be, held accountable by us. Maybe this will give them a kick in the behind.

Dale Hogg