Back to the Capitol

Lawmakers returned to the State Capitol on Jan. 4 for the start of the 2023 legislative session. The First Regular Session of the 102nd General Assembly got underway as newly elected and recently reelected senators raised their right hands and took the oath of office. As I am beginning my second term in the Missouri Senate, I was one of those sworn in on the first day of session. It is truly and honor and privilege to represent residents of the 16th Senatorial District in the Missouri Senate.

Due to legislative redistricting, the boundaries of the 16th Senatorial District have changed. Beginning this year, I will represent three counties that were previously assigned to other Senate districts. I welcome residents of Maries, Laclede and Wright counties to the district and look forward to getting to know you better and addressing your needs and concerns.

The first week of the session was largely ceremonial, with most of our efforts devoted to members settling into their offices, reconnecting with colleagues and preparing for the legislative session ahead. It will be a couple of weeks before we know our committee assignments and the work of considering bills and resolutions can begin.

More than 450 separate bills and resolutions have been put forward since pre-filing began in December. Clearly we have our work cut out for us. I’m looking forward to digging into the various legislative proposals before us, and I’ll be sure to keep you informed of significant developments as they occur. In the meantime, I encourage all residents of the 16th Senatorial District to contact my office if you have concerns about Missouri state government, or if you’d like to share your thoughts on pending legislation.

It’s my honor to serve as your senator for the 16th District. If you have questions or need any assistance, please call my office at 573-751-5713 or log onto my webpage at https://www.senate.mo.gov/brown for more information.