Representative Martha Stevens (D) has announced that she will not be seeking reelection.

Yesterday:

Representative Martha Stevens (D) – Press Release – October 11, 2021

For Immediate Release
October 11, 2021

Rep. Martha Stevens: [….]

The following may be attributed to Representative Martha Stevens:

“For the past nine legislative sessions, first as an advocate and then as a legislator, I have had the privilege to work and push for public policy that improves the lives of Missourians across our state. I first got involved in Missouri politics in 2013 while working for Planned Parenthood and transitioned to working with the Missouri Rural Crisis Center organizing in support of Medicaid Expansion. Over the last five years as a State Representative, I have dedicated myself to advancing policy to support families with low incomes, people struggling with the disease of addiction, and many other priorities that reflect an agenda to promote social and economic justice for all Missourians.

“I am very proud of the priorities I have been able to shepherd into becoming law over the last five years. In 2018, I worked with colleagues to pass legislation to provide substance abuse & mental health services for new mothers suffering from the disease of addiction. In the 2021 legislative session I passed a bill to allow families who qualify for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to receive vouchers to utilize at their local farmers market. This bill was a win for families, farmers, and our local economies. I am deeply appreciative for the support of the people of the 46th District, the many stakeholders and advocates, and my fellow legislators who helped me get bills across the finish line.

“After much thought and deliberation, I have decided that I will not run in 2022, and this current term in office will be my last as State Representative. I did not come to this decision easily and I will never be able to express my gratitude to everyone who put their trust in me, knocked doors, made calls, and donated to our campaign over the years.

“It has truly been the honor of my lifetime to represent and fight for the progressive values we share in the 46th District. Without a doubt, I plan on continuing my career in advocacy as a social work professional and will take with me all the knowledge, skills, and lessons I have learned in Jefferson City to a new role after I finish my term in December 2022.”

One of the very best.