Basil Dannebohm

J. Basil Dannebohm is a former Republican member of the Kansas House of Representatives, representing District 113.[1] He was the only non-incumbent to run unopposed during the 2014 election.[2]

Dannebohm served as Governor Sam Brownback’s appointee to the Kansas Commission for Disability Concerns and the Kansas Library Commission. Additionally, he served as administrator of his hometown’s Chamber of Commerce.

As a legislator, Representative Dannebohm quickly signed on as a supporter of the legalization of medical marijuana. He was quoted by Newsmax as saying that he was not concerned with breaking party lines in supporting legislation for medical marijuana. Dannebohm said he was in favor of it because of a constituent whose son suffered from severe seizures. Having exhausted all medical options, the constituent found that medical THC proved effective in easing her child’s symptoms.

"I don't know if it's breaking party lines.  I don't know if this is a party issue,” said Dannebohm. “You know I had a young constituent come to me with a son who has 30 seizures a day. They've tried everything. A child deserves to live a semi-normal life. How can I in good conscience not at least explore the opportunity? It's about getting voices heard.  It's about getting the data.  It's about getting over the stigma. I mean, my goodness gracious, alcohol was considered evil for quite a time in Kansas history. Let's start a dialogue.  Let's start a conversation."

Representative Dannebohm introduced HB 2136, which reinstated the Homestead Tax Credit for renters. He also sponsored HB2041, the Parkinson's disease public awareness and education act. He co-sponsored HCR5010, making an application to the U.S. congress to call a convention of the states; and HR6009, designating February 10, 2015, as Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Day at the Capitol.

On February 24, 2015, after serving only 42 days as a legislator, Dannebohm resigned citing health reasons.[3] He was replaced by Greg Lewis of St. John.[3]