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Jolie JustusAmerican lawyer and politician
Date of Birth: 24.02.1971
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Jolie Justus: Trailblazing Jurist and Advocate
- Legal Career and Legislative Service
- Kansas City Council
- Legislative Accomplishments
- Personal Life
Jolie Justus: Trailblazing Jurist and Advocate
Early Life and EducationJolie Justus, an American lawyer and politician, was born and raised in Branson, Missouri. She attended Branson High School before pursuing higher education at Missouri State University-Springfield and the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law.
Legal Career and Legislative Service
In 2006, Justus was elected to the Missouri State Senate, representing Kansas City and Grandview. She became the Senate Minority Leader in her final two years in office. Prior to her election, she was a partner at Shook, Hardy, & Bacon LLP, where she led the firm's pro bono program to become one of the nation's top 100.
Kansas City Council
In 2015, Justus ran for and won the 4th District City Council seat in Kansas City, Missouri. She is currently Chair of the Airport Committee, Co-Chair of the Legislative Committee, and Vice-Chair of the Finance Committee. She has also served on the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee and the Neighborhood Market Oversight Committee.
Legislative Accomplishments
Justus has been a vocal advocate for progressive legislation, including:
- A bill that reformed the foster care system, allowing children who age out of foster care to re-enter state custody up to age 21.
- The Missouri Non-Discrimination Act (MONA), which prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Reforms to the Criminal Code in 2014, designed to reduce recidivism and mass incarceration.
Personal Life
Justus is the first openly gay member of the Missouri Senate and only the third openly gay member of the Missouri General Assembly. She is a strong believer in equality and social justice.
