(Jan. 15, 2026) – Today, the Senate Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee, chaired by Senator Brenda Dietrich (R-Topeka), heard an update from State Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt (R-Topeka).

Commissioner Schmidt highlighted the department's mission, noted $56.7 million in recoveries in 2025, emphasized the office's commitment to reducing fees and providing industries with certainty, and discussed the success of preventing fraud through legislative partnerships. Commissioner Schmidt also discussed health care costs and her proposal, informed by her own experience with early detection and treatment of breast cancer. Staff highlighted the legislative agenda and commended the Senate Resolution that would give states greater oversight of Medicare Advantage Plans.

Committee members asked what is left to do, and the Insurance Commissioner emphasized the need for consumer protection. The committee members asked how to bring more players into the market to increase competition. They also asked whether health insurance should go back to the states or whether the federal Affordable Care Act should be reformed.