Senator Brian Williams’ Legislative Column for Feb. 27, 2023

One of the best, and sometimes most difficult, aspects of being a state senator is listening to stories about how the laws legislators have passed, or need to pass, in Jefferson City affect Missourians. In an amazing, almost unbelievable turn of events, members of the Senate Judiciary Committee heard from several wrongfully convicted exonorees on Feb. 20 who testified during the hearing for my Senate Bill 253.

Exactly one week after Lamar Johnson was released on a provision I helped pass in 2021, he appeared in front of this committee and explained how people who are released because of innocence, not new DNA evidence, have no recourse, resources, programs or safety net to rely on when they are freed. I hope to change that with SB 253 and financially compensate those who served prison sentences for crimes they didn’t commit. At the very least, we owe the exonerated the means to start and live a new life as free men and women.

I am pleased to report two of my proposals advanced last week. Senate Bill 36 relaxes our state’s expungement policies, and Senate Bill 37 establishes a statewide conviction review unit to oversee claims of innocence. These measures were passed by the Senate Judiciary Committee on Feb. 20 and combined with Senate Bill 189.

On Feb. 22, I presented legislation to strengthen peace officer standards. Senate Bill 38 raises the minimum training hours for certification as a police officer to 600 hours and bolsters the disciplinary process for officers who act egregiously or test positive for illegal substances.

Wrapping up Black History Month

As the Senate deliberated on Senate Bill 4 over the past couple of weeks, the topic of race was at the forefront of multiple discussions. While the term “critical race theory” was removed from the perfected bill, I still believe the language included in SB 4 is problematic and will force teachers to avoid important, necessary discussions about the impact of racism in our society. I shared my take on racism on the Senate floor as a small tribute to Black History Month. Click the image above to see my presentation.

Capitol Update

This was a productive week in the Missouri Senate, so I wanted highlight some pieces of legislation that have gained traction. On Feb. 20, a hearing was conducted on Senate Bill 74, a proposal to create a DWI diversion program for first-time offenders. The program will require the person charged with DWI to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicles to prevent and avoid future DWI offenses.

Unmarried pregnant women will greatly benefit from the passage of Senate Bill 214. This legislation requires biological fathers who have established paternity to pay for half of the expectant mother’s pregnancy-related expenses, including insurance premiums.

New Suicide Prevention Resources Available

According to the Missouri Institute of Mental Health, suicide is the second leading cause of death among children aged 10-17 and the ninth leading cause of death in our state overall. To help reduce these alarming rates, Missouri launched a new, three digit code last summer to help prevent suicide and other behavioral health emergencies. If you or someone you know is in crisis, dial or text 988 to connect with a licensed counselor. Click the image below to access free 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline materials.

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