Recent layoffs and shrinking of the Kansas Bioscience Authority’s operations are being seen as signs that the quasi-governmental agency might be on its last legs.

KBA president Duane Cantrell says the agency’s reputation has been irreparably damaged by the uncertainty over its future. The Topeka Capital-Journal reports the KBA laid off about half of its full-time staff over the past few days after chronic underfunding from the state.

Created in 2004, the authority was supposed to receive $35 million a year from the state, but just $23 million has made it to the agency over the past four years. Appropriated funds often have been held back by Gov. Sam Brownback’s administration.

The KBA helps invest in Kansas companies engaged in agribusiness, animal health, human health and life sciences.