Senator Brian Williams’ Legislative Column for Jan. 30, 2026

The first month of the 2026 legislative session is in the books, and February looks to be equally busy and productive. The last day to file bills is Feb. 27, and at my last check, 781 bills had been filed in the Senate. Many have been second read and referred to committee, including all of my legislation.  

My proposal allowing pregnant women to file for legal separation or divorce to escape an abusive husband, Senate Bill 946, has been referred to the Senate Families, Seniors and Health Committee. This measure has bipartisan support, including a nod from the governor. I will work hard to steer this through the legislative process before adjournment in May. If you have any personal stories or statistics to share with lawmakers, please contact my team. 

Senate Bill 853, my property tax assessment proposal, was referred to the Select Committee on Property Taxes and the State Tax Commission. I hope to present the merits of SB 853 and advance this bill in the coming weeks. Reining in property tax assessments is an urgent matter that could provide immediate relief to Missourians.

Confirming the Governor’s Appointees

On Jan. 21, I was honored to sponsor Stephanie Dooley during her confirmation hearing in the Senate, pictured left. This dedicated public servant was appointed by the governor to serve on the Missouri Ethics Commission. I know Ms. Dooley’s passion, expertise and knowledge will enhance this board.

On Jan. 28, I was pleased to sponsor Jamie Redding’s appointment to the Child Abuse and Neglect Review Board, below. She has worked with vulnerable families for years and brings experience and compassion to the table. I cannot imagine how heart wrenching it is to review these severe cases, and I’m thankful we have dedicated public servants like Ms. Redding at the helm.

Whose House? Our House!

Hundreds of enthusiastic advocates filled the halls of “our house” on Jan. 21, chanting the question above and demanding fair representation in Washington, DC. Attendees and organizations at the “Stand Up, Fight Back” rally asked the Legislature to uphold the will of voters and stop overturning the amendments they pass at the ballot box. I appreciate those who took the day off and boarded buses early to make your voices heard. Thanks for showing up and showing out, Missouri. I agree with one of the messages ringing in the Capitol yesterday: This is what democracy looks like!

Warming Centers Open This Weekend

Temperatures are supposed to plummet again this weekend, so if you know someone who needs a warming center, please have them call 211 or visit this link: https://stlouiscountymo.gov/st-louis-county-government/county-executive/county-executive-news/saint-louis-county-opens-winter-warming-emergency-shelter/.

 It is an honor representing each of you in the Missouri Senate. If you have any ideas to improve St. Louis County or questions about legislation, please contact my office at 573-751-4106 or visit my Senate website at senate.mo.gov/Williams.