Dozens of students from Washington High School in Kansas City, Kansas, walked out of class on Monday and Tuesday to protest a new state budget provision aimed at restricting student protests. The amendment allows Kansas school districts to face fines equivalent to the superintendent's annual salary for each school day a student walkout occurs if the district fails to discipline participating students or obtain parental consent. This provision is set to take effect on July 1 and could result in fines exceeding $280,000 for the Kansas City Kansas Public Schools if students engage in similar protests next year. Senior Andrew Colwell expressed concerns about the suppression of student voices, stating that it is essential for students to have the opportunity to express their opinions. The provision was passed by Republican lawmakers using their supermajority to override Governor Laura Kelly's veto, raising questions about the legislative process as it was included in a larger budget bill without formal review. Kansas City Kansas Public Schools spokesperson Edwin Birch affirmed the district's respect for students' rights to express their views while prioritizing safety and a focused learning environment.