Stuart listening for ideas with session poised to start

COLLINSVILLE – As the new legislative session approaches, state Rep. Katie Stuart, D-Edwardsville, is asking residents to submit ideas for new legislation.

“As state representative, I have made it my priority to find solutions to the issues that the residents in my district are facing every day,” said Stuart. “The best way to learn about the issues that matter to my constituents is to hear from them directly, and it’s important to me that everyone has their voice heard. If my constituents have ideas for new legislation for the upcoming year or problems they think can be solved through legislation, I ask that they send me their ideas.”

Over the past year, Stuart introduced and passed six new laws, including legislation to crack down on out-of-state drug dealers and a pay freeze for lawmakers. This year, Stuart continues to push for no pay legislation to ensure that no lawmaker is paid when the state is without a budget.

“As the legislature reconvenes in the next week, I’ll continue to spend my time back home going door-to-door to meet with residents, hosting coffee shop meetings through my district, sponsoring seminars and events to help connect residents to resources, and learning more about the people I represent,” said Stuart.

Stuart is hosting Coffee with Katie on Sunday, Jan. 28, from 2 to 3 p.m. at Starbucks, located at 1077 Collinsville Crossing Blvd. in Collinsville.

“I know it has been cold these past few weeks, and I would like to thank everyone who braved the weather to attend my last Coffee with Katie during the cold spell,” said Stuart. “The Collinsville community always brings out a great crowd and with session quickly approaching, I would like to make sure I meet with local residents to discuss pressing issues affecting our community.”

Coffee with Katie meetings are open to the public and no RSVP is required. These informal meetings give local residents the opportunity to meet with Stuart in a casual setting at local coffee shops and diners throughout the 112th District.