A Tribute to Gail Finney: A Voice for the People.
Gail Finney dedicated her life to public service, standing as a steadfast representative for the people of Wichita in the Kansas House of Representatives. As the voice of the 84th District, she brought integrity, compassion, and resolve to the statehouse – qualities that defined not only her career, but her character. I had the privilege of witnessing that dedication firsthand, and it is a standard I carry with me every day. I had the ultimate honor of introducing House Bill 2024 commonly known as the “Gail Finney Foster Care Bill of Rights” in 2023 personally shepherding it into law where it stands today.
Her commitment to children and families was unwavering. Gail understood that the most vulnerable members of our communities deserve the strongest protection, and she made childcare and foster care reform a cornerstone of her work. Through her persistent advocacy, she fought to ensure that young Kansans had the support and stability they needed to thrive. I saw the depth of that commitment, and it is one I have made my own.
Gail also had the courage to champion causes that others were slow to take up. She was a pioneer and principled voice for cannabis legalization in Kansas, recognizing its potential to create economic opportunity and expand access to medical care for those in need. She kept that conversation moving forward, even when progress was difficult—and I have committed to continuing that work in her name.
As a final act of leadership, Gail personally chose me to succeed her. I do not take that trust lightly. It was a decision that spoke to her deep investment in the future of this district, and every day I serve, I carry the weight and honor of that responsibility.
I am committed to continuing Gail Finney’s mission in the Kansas State House—strengthening childcare and foster care systems and advancing cannabis legalization in Kansas. In doing so, I hope to ensure that her legacy does not simply endure—it continues to serve the people she loved so deeply.
Gail Finney’s work was a gift to Wichita and to Kansas. Her memory lives on in every policy she fought for and in every life, she worked to improve. It is my honor to carry that work forward.