Senator Mary Elizabeth Coleman, 22nd Senatorial District

Capitol Building, Rm. 334, Jefferson City, MO 65101

For Immediate Release: Feb. 23, 2023

Contact: Seth York, 573-751-1492

JEFFERSON CITY — Senate Bill 82, sponsored by State Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, R-Arnold, will simplify the process for Missourians to apply for and verify their eligibility to continue to receive state benefits. It also provides recipients the opportunity to work their way out of dependency. Senate Bill 82 cleared the Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support and now moves on to the Missouri House of Representatives.

“We can and should streamline our safety net programs to make them more efficient. Missourians deserve to know that our safety net programs are working to help those who need it most,” said Sen. Coleman. “We also need to make sure that only those who are eligible to receive these state benefits are able to receive them.” 

Senator Coleman’s legislation would reform this system with a benefit transition that, as a worker’s income rises, creates a pathway to independence through incremental decreases in benefits. These transitional benefits would provide a progression into self-sufficiency while incentivizing work and financial stability.

“Our current safety net programs trap people in dependency,” Sen. Coleman said. “Our system should not close the door to the dignity of work.”

Please visit Sen. Coleman’s official Missouri Senate website for more information on her legislative agenda at senate.mo.gov/Coleman. 

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