Moving Missouri Forward

Representative Steve Roberts is running for State Senate in Missouri’s 5th District. Roberts is a Democrat serving in his second term as State Representative of the 77th District. As Chairman of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus, Steve Roberts has led the caucus in advocating for criminal justice reform, voter empowerment and women’s rights.

Roberts, who served as a prosecutor in St. Louis City, has used his unique perspective to work as an advocate for criminal justice reform and economic development. Last year, he filed the Money Bail Reform Act, legislation aimed at preventing nonviolent and low-level offenders from being unnecessarily confined while awaiting trial. He also authored legislation to incentivize employers to provide full-time employment to felons seeking a second chance.

“Social justice and economic development will continue to be a central focus in my campaign and in my work as a state senator,” said Roberts, adding, “During my time as a prosecutor, I saw firsthand how the system can ensnare those who come into contact with it, especially low-income offenders and people of color. I promise to work for a criminal justice system that is applied fairly, and actually works for the people it is supposed to protect.” Roberts currently serves as the ranking minority party member on the Special Committee for Criminal Justice, as well as on the Judiciary Committee.

Roberts has also been committed to issues such as expanding Medicaid and senior services, neighborhood stabilization and preservation, economic development, voting rights and women’s issues. He serves on the Committee for Workforce Development and was appointed to the Missouri Arts Council Trust Fund by the Speaker of the House. While serving on the Utilities Committee, Roberts worked on legislation that lowered the costs of utility rates in St. Louis.

Recognizing that education is the key to many of these reforms, Roberts has worked to expand access to STEM fields and co-sponsored an adult high school bill with Republican colleagues, which led to the opening of the first high school in St. Louis city targeted at adult learners. He also hosts a yearly Back to School Fair at Yeatman-Liddell Middle school, providing free backpacks, school supplies and other necessities to students across the district.

“Providing a quality public education to all Missourians is among the chief responsibilities of our government,” Roberts said. “Education is the most important factor in achieving the social and economic reforms that are so necessary in our state.”

“The fifth district is the vibrant and exciting center of the region,” Roberts said. “If elected, I would be honored to represent the district and its diverse population, and will work tirelessly to make sure all its people’s voices are heard.”

“There is also no substitute for being in the community and listening to your input. You can contact me anytime at 314-256-4600 or send an e-mail to steven@robertsforstl.com. Together, we can continue to move Missouri forward.” –Steve Roberts

Criminal Justice Reform:

Roberts believes we need to eliminate the root causes of crime, enact common sense gun laws, & end racial profiling. He sponsored criminal justice reform bills to raise the age and prevent children from being tried as adults. Roberts also sponsored bills to end racial profiling and require implicit bias training.

Equality:

Roberts is a strong defender of women’s reproductive choice, equal pay, minority inclusion in contracts, the LGBT community, expanding Medicaid, and defending funding of Planned Parenthood. As State Representative, Roberts was glad to have 100% approval rating from NARAL Pro-Choice Missouri and received the endorsement of Planned Parenthood in the past.

Economic Justice:

Roberts strongly supports raising the minimum wage, promoting start-ups & innovation to create jobs, and defending the rights of workers. When Ameren received a $167 million Federal tax cut windfall, Roberts help champion legislation requiring them to reduce electric rates to consumers by 6.1%. He also passed legislation to help pharmacies save us money on prescription drugs.

Education:

Roberts is fighting to restore cuts to public schools, colleges, and universities. He was a strong advocate and co-sponsor for the adult high school and STEM technology bills.