Steve Butz

Stephen F. Butz is a Democratic member of the Missouri General Assembly, representing the 81st House district. He has been actively involved in state politics since his election, focusing on various legislative issues that impact his constituents and the broader community. Butz has a background in business and management, which informs his approach to public service and policy-making. He has been elected multiple times to serve in the Missouri House, demonstrating his continued support among voters in his district.

Early life and career

Steve Butz was born on February 28, 1959. While specific details about his early life and education are not provided, his professional background indicates a strong foundation in business and management. He is the president of Crawford-Butz Insurance Agency, a position that likely contributes to his understanding of economic and regulatory issues that affect both individuals and businesses in Missouri. Additionally, he manages Eagle Hurst Ranch, located in Steelville, Missouri, which suggests a connection to the local community and an understanding of rural and agricultural concerns.

Butz's entry into politics began with his candidacy for the Missouri House of Representatives in 2016. He ran against the incumbent Fred Wessels, marking the start of his political career. Although he faced a challenging opponent, Butz's campaign laid the groundwork for his future electoral successes. His political journey took a significant turn when he was elected unopposed on November 6, 2018. This unopposed victory indicates a strong base of support within his district, as well as a favorable political climate for Democratic candidates at that time. Following this, he was again unopposed in the 2020 election, further solidifying his position in the Missouri House.

In 2022, Butz faced a primary challenger, Bill Stephens, but successfully defeated him, showcasing his ability to maintain his political standing and appeal to the Democratic electorate in his district. His electoral history reflects a consistent presence in Missouri politics and a commitment to serving his constituents.

Legislative service

As a member of the Missouri House of Representatives, Steve Butz has engaged in various legislative activities and initiatives. His tenure has been marked by a focus on issues relevant to his constituents and the state at large. Butz's legislative service is characterized by his active participation in discussions and votes on a range of topics, including law enforcement, education, and public health.

One notable aspect of Butz's legislative focus is his stance on law enforcement. He has expressed support for a state takeover of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, indicating his interest in addressing public safety and police accountability issues. In 2024, he took further action by requesting Governor Mike Parson to deploy the Missouri Highway Patrol to assist on St. Louis highways, reflecting his commitment to enhancing public safety in urban areas.

Butz's engagement with public health issues is also significant. In 2025, he challenged Republican efforts aimed at weakening paid sick leave provisions, advocating for workers' rights and protections. This stance illustrates his alignment with labor interests and his commitment to supporting the workforce in Missouri. Additionally, he has opposed cuts to income tax, indicating a focus on maintaining fiscal responsibility while ensuring that essential services are funded adequately.

Education policy is another critical area of focus for Butz. He has shown support for school choice initiatives, which often involve the transfer of funds from public schools to charter schools. While he initially gave preliminary approval for a bill that would facilitate such transfers, he later voted against it due to concerns about the legislative process and the lack of opportunity for discussion. This decision highlights the complexities of education reform and the balancing act legislators must perform when considering the interests of various stakeholders.

In 2024, Butz was one of three Democrats to vote in favor of a bill aimed at expanding a state credit program for private school tuition, which also included provisions for expanding charter schools to Columbia, Missouri. This vote reflects his willingness to engage with controversial education policies while navigating the political landscape of the Missouri House.

Policy focus and district

Steve Butz represents the 81st House district, which encompasses parts of Missouri that may have unique demographic and economic characteristics. His policy focus is shaped by the needs and interests of his constituents, which include a diverse range of issues from public safety to education and economic development.

As a Democratic legislator, Butz's policy positions often align with the broader values of the Democratic Party, particularly regarding social issues. He opposes abortion but has expressed that he does not support legislation that would ban abortion without exceptions for cases of rape or incest. This nuanced position reflects a commitment to balancing personal beliefs with the need for compassionate policy-making.

Butz's advocacy for law enforcement reform and public safety measures indicates a recognition of the challenges faced by urban communities, particularly in St. Louis. His requests for state intervention in local law enforcement suggest a proactive approach to addressing crime and safety concerns, which are often top priorities for constituents in urban districts.

In addition to his legislative efforts, Butz's background in business and management informs his understanding of economic issues that affect his district. His leadership roles in local businesses may provide him with insights into the challenges faced by small businesses and the importance of fostering a supportive economic environment.

Overall, Steve Butz's legislative service reflects a commitment to addressing the diverse needs of his constituents in the 81st House district. His focus on public safety, education, and economic issues demonstrates his engagement with the pressing challenges facing Missouri residents. Through his continued service in the Missouri House, Butz seeks to represent the interests of his district while navigating the complexities of state governance.