By Kevin Hampton, The Lipco Group
From our humble beginnings in Northern Wisconsin in 1964 to our current home in Southwest Missouri, Lipco Group has grown to become a leading importer and manufacturer of wholesale gifts and souvenirs.
Unfortunately, policies like Proposition A are putting that progress at risk and making it more difficult to keep up with the competition.
Starting May 1, Proposition A will require businesses to provide paid sick leave to employees. By 2026, it will raise Missouri’s minimum wage to $15 an hour. After that, the minimum wage will continue to increase based on the rate of inflation.
At Lipco, we value our employees and strive to pay competitive wages. In fact, nobody on our team makes minimum wage. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, every employee continued to get a paycheck. We believe in doing right by our people.
But over the past decade, my payroll expenses have more than doubled. If Proposition A is fully implemented, it will become harder for companies like ours to provide raises. If Missouri continues to place mandates on businesses, it may be impossible for some to keep their doors open at all.
That’s why I’m asking the Missouri Senate to pass HB 567. This bill would provide a critical lifeline to businesses struggling with the implementation of Proposition A. It’s a practical solution that recognizes the financial pressure facing employers across the state.
I understand voters approved Prop A with good intentions, but I don’t believe many realized the consequences it would have on the business community.
Let’s help keep Missouri competitive. Please contact your legislators today and ask them to pass HB 567.
