Senator Barbara Anne Washington’s Legislative Column for Dec. 19, 2025

Stronger than Ever

Things were a little quieter in the city this week following the loss to the Chargers on Sunday and our beloved quarterback’s torn ACL injury. Luckily, the Chiefs have had a phenomenal decade of success and will most likely return to the playoffs next season. Having the last home game at Arrowhead on Christmas Day will give fans one last chance to show their appreciation, support and unconditional love for the team. We can all draw inspiration and acceptance from Patrick Mahomes’ advice to “Trust in God…and be back stronger than ever.”

Exempting Lifesaving Supplies from Sales Tax

With this “stronger than ever” sentiment in mind, I added four more proposals to my list of sponsored bills to help strengthen the state. Senate Bill 1433 authorizes a sales tax exemption for the sale of ALL diabetic supplies, including insulin; sales, rental, repairs and parts of medical equipment; prosthetics; or orthopedic devices. Lowering the costs of these lifesaving supplies will have a tremendous impact on families struggling to make ends meet. 

Youth Firearm Safety Training Course

Another way to support Missouri is to increase education about firearm safety. Senate Bill 1434 will authorize a tax credit for the costs incurred by a taxpayer enrolling their qualified youth in a firearm safety course. 

Communities across the state have identified youth carrying firearms as a huge concern and public safety risk. In fact, accidental discharges and unauthorized use are some of the leading causes of preventable injuries among youth. The importance of promoting gun safety cannot be overstated, and I believe increasing access and helping provide children with a structured environment to learn the primary rules of gun safety will go a long in reducing gun violence.

Under SB 1434, the Department of Public Safety will vet and list qualifying courses to guarantee the training provided is standardized, rigorous and effective. I hope you will support me in with this cause – education is power!

Thanks for Attending the Neighborhood Community Brunch! 

The Neighborhood Community Brunch I co-hosted with several area leaders on Dec. 13 was a huge success. I want to thank all the attendees for sharing their insights and give a shoutout to the local neighborhood associations that helped facilitate the event, including Blue Hills, Ivanhoe, Foxtown, Washington Wheatley and others. The pictures below showcase a few of the speakers and participants at the brunch.                                                                                                            

I also appreciate the assistance from my colleagues in the Missouri Legislature and local leaders who offered updates on legislation and other issues. I hope the event’s unifying message of strength through community resonates and inspires you to get involved in 2026 and beyond!

News for the 9th

Annual MLK Day of Service is Jan. 20

One tremendous way to support our community is to pitch in with the annual MLK Day of Service. With prices on everything continuing to soar, the need for food and neighborhood fellowship will be great this year. Please share this flyer on social media to help spread the word. 

Enjoy the light, joy and peace of the holidays.

Happy New Year, from my family to yours!

Senator Washington’s Sponsored Legislation for 2026

It is an honor representing the great people of Jackson County’s 9th Senatorial District. If you need assistance navigating state government or understanding the legislative process, please contact me by calling 573-751-3158 or emailing Barbara.Washington@senate.mo.gov. My team is here for you!