Senator Barbara Anne Washington’s Legislative Column for Jan. 16, 2026

New Year, New Legislative Session

I returned to Jefferson City to convene the Second Regular Session of the 103rd General Assembly, which officially began with the drop of the gavel at noon on Jan. 7. Since 2025 was not an election year, my committee assignments remain unchanged, and Senate leaders were able to the business of reading bills and referring them to committees for consideration right out of the gate. 

The Legislature certainly has an abundance of issues to discuss and legislation to tackle this session. Since pre-filing began on Dec. 1, 721 bills have been enumerated in the Senate, and another 1000 or so have been filed in the Missouri House of Representatives. With only a fraction of these likely to make it all the way to the governor’s desk before adjournment in May, I look forward to lengthy and lively debates during 2026.

I am proud to once again vice-chair the Senate Progress and Development Committee this session. In addition, I will vet legislation by serving on the following Senate committees: Appropriations; Agriculture, Food Production and Outdoor Resources; Economic and Workforce Development; and Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Safety. Committee hearings are the bread and butter of the process, allowing the bill sponsor to thoroughly explain the goals of the bill and fellow members to hear from experts, advocates and the general public about the proposed legislation. To find the weekly hearing schedule and the legislation that will be on the agenda, visit the Senate website and click on the “Hearings” tab. 

State of the State

On Jan. 13, senators joined their colleagues in the Missouri House of Representatives and leaders of the executive branch for the governor’s annual State of the State. In his address, which centered on the theme, “Build a foundation for growth,” he outlined his priorities for the legislative session and trimming down the operating budget for fiscal year 2027.

Addressing Missouri’s High Maternal Mortality Rates

It has long been a goal of mine to address the state’s persistently high maternal mortality rates. Not only is Missouri eighth in the nation when it comes to these premature, mostly preventable deaths, Black mothers are two and a half times more likely to perish in the year following birth than white and Latin women. When I presented Senate Bill 871 to the Senate Progress and Development Committee on Jan. 13, I explained the importance of diversifying, expanding and making the current Pregnancy-Associated Mortality Review Board more representative of the populations and responsive to demographic needs. Investing in this board and making it a more effective shield could save lives, close the gaps in care and give new families a healthy start. 

Housing for Survivors of Domestic Violence

I also had the opportunity to present Senate Bill 873 in the same hearing. The lack of affordable, safe housing oftentimes keeps those who want to escape domestic violence trapped as victims of abuse, instead of survivors. My goal with SB 873 is to turn the tide on the domestic violence survivor housing crisis with a private/public approach. I believe offering tax credits for converting abandoned buildings into suitable shelters and for renting to survivors will help families get on the road to recovery and restore safety in blighted communities.

Welcoming Special Guests

One of the highlights of the opening week was welcoming and meeting Sophie Cunningham. This former Mizzou Tiger turned WNBA star was introduced on the Senate floor on Thursday.

Senator Washington and her colleagues welcome Sophie Cunningham.

A few minutes later, senators welcomed one of our counterparts from Ireland, Mark Daly, and presented Senate Concurrent Resolution 14, which recognizes and celebrates the special relationship between the United States and Ireland.

Irish Senator Mark Daly smiles in the chamber.

Senator Washington welcomes Jackson County Executive Phil LeVota.

Senator Washington speaks with Stala Wulf Brennen of Amethyst Place following her testimony on SB 873.

My outlook for this session and year remain optimistic, despite the obstacles that clouded the metro area and legislative sessions in 2025. I’m bereft about the loss of the Chiefs and know this will impact many families in District 9. I am also deeply concerned by the outcome of the extraordinary session in September that resulted in Kansas City being separated into three congressional districts, as well as a passed resolution that will ask voters to change the initiative petition process, potentially putting an end to direct democracy and the process that has been in place for 100 years. What motivates me to keep charging forward is the strength of our community and the resilience of those who have overcome decades of physical, racial, political and unfair practices in the past. I think Maya Angelou explains my sentiments best: “I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it.” Stay strong, Kansas City! I’ve got your back at the State Capitol!

News for the 9th

Annual MLK Day of Service is Jan. 19

To honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and remind people of the importance of giving, my sorority will host the annual MLK Day of Service on Monday, Jan. 19. 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 and prepare to share your means with those in need. 

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!