The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry commends House lawmakers on the passage of HB 567, legislation that will provide much-needed clarity for business owners struggling with the implementation of Proposition A. The bill is sponsored by Rep. Sherri Gallick (R-Belton).
Proposition A mandates businesses provide paid sick leave to employees. It also increases Missouri’s minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2026, well above the current federal minimum wage of $7.25. After 2026, the minimum wage will continue to increase based on the rate of inflation.
“We have heard from hundreds of business owners across the state. Implementing this mandate is not just a burden – it will force many to reduce their workforce or close their doors entirely,” said Kara Corches, president and CEO of the Missouri Chamber. “HB 567 will help address some of the unintended consequences of Proposition A and give employers the flexibility to tailor workplace policies to meet the needs of their workforce.”
HB 567 helps business owners by removing the onerous paid sick leave requirements. It maintains the $15 minimum wage but eliminates the annual increases based on the Consumer Price Index.
The bill now heads to the Missouri Senate for consideration.
“Without legislative action, Proposition A will be a job killer. In fact, more than a third of Missouri business leaders say Prop A will cause them to hire fewer employees,” Corches said. “We urge the Senate to address the issue swiftly and ensure Missouri’s economic climate is not adversely impacted by Proposition A’s implementation.”
