TOPEKA, Kan. - Kansas legislative leaders have modified their schedule for the remainder of the week as a major winter storm heads across the state.
 
     House Speaker Ray Merrick and Senate President Susan Wagle announced Wednesday afternoon that neither chambers would hold sessions on Thursday and that Friday would be a modified schedule. Most committee meetings were being canceled Thursday and Friday.
 
     The National Weather Service is predicting the winter storm system will drop heavy snow across the state, with more than a foot expected in many areas.
 
     Legislative deadlines for measures clearing committees were also pushed back until Tuesday ahead of a key session deadline on March 1.
 
     Gov. Sam Brownback is meeting with emergency management officials to assess the storm and make a decision about state government operations.