Ron Ryckman Jr.

In 2018, Ryckman instituted a new set of rules to end the century-old practice of the anonymous introduction of bills in the Kansas House. Any individuals including legislator, lobbyist, advocate, or organization that request the introduction of legislation is now posted publicly and visibly on the Legislature's website. This change was made in effort to improve transparency within the Legislative Branch.[5][6]

In 2013, Ryckman sponsored legislation to require welfare recipients to undergo drug testing. Specifically, only individuals who are suspected of using illegal drugs would be required to be tested. Any individual who is tested and fails to qualify can request a second test, and can be reimbursed for that test. This legislation was signed into law by Governor Sam Brownback in April of that year.[7]

After a shortened 2020 Legislative Session due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ryckman implemented several changes to House protocol in effort to keep legislators and staff safe and healthy during the 2021 session. Of these safety precautions most notable was the $3 million spent on upgrading the legislature's video and audio streaming, and teleconference technology, which allowed the public to participate virtually in the committee process for the first time.[2] In addition, half of the House members were seated by Ryckman in the east and west galleries to ensure appropriate social distance while in the House chamber.[8]