The state Supreme Court has ruled today that the wording and cost projections in Proposition A are not misleading or inaccurate. Business groups challenging the minimum wage and paid sick leave law made those arguments, along with others.
The High Court goes on to say it does not have jurisdiction to decide whether Proposition A violated the state constitution’s requirements to have a single subject and a clear title. A separate opinion from Judge Robin Ransom says she does not believe the judges can rule on court challenges about a ballot title’s wording after the election is over.
The law raises the state’s minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2026 and requires employers to provide one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked.
More than 500 businesses joined the Missouri Business for a Healthy Economy Coalition in 2024, supporting Proposition A. It responded to Tuesday’s ruling.
“Business owners signed the Missouri Business for a Healthy Economy Statement, saying that raising the minimum wage boosts consumer spending at local businesses and, along with paid sick leave, will reduce costly employee turnover and lead to increased productivity, improved health and safety, and better customer service,” said a news release from the Coalition.
On the flip side, the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry opposed Proposition A.
“We are deeply disappointed by the Missouri Supreme Court’s decision regarding Proposition A. While we respect the Court’s authority, we believe today’s decision fails to address critical concerns regarding election irregularities and constitutional violations that occurred,” a statement from the Chamber said.
What’s next?
The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry said in light of the ruling, it is now imperative for the legislature to pass HB 567.
“This bill will provide much-needed clarity for business owners struggling with the onerous paid sick leave requirements and give employers the flexibility to tailor workplace policies to meet the needs of their workforce,” a news release from the Chamber said.
Senate Democrats have blocked two attempted votes on the bill over the past 10 days.
The clock is ticking. The paid sick leave requirements begin May 1.
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