Show-Me State Times

Representatives from Missouri's business community are expressing opposition to Proposition A, a ballot initiative set to increase the cost of dining out, grocery shopping, and retail purchases. The measure proposes raising Missouri’s minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2026, exceeding the current federal minimum wage of $7.25. Post-2026, this wage would continue to rise with inflation. Since 2013, Missouri's minimum wage has remained above the federal level.

Proposition A also mandates paid sick leave for local businesses. This would impose new requirements on all employers regarding their employees' use of paid leave and related policy enforcement.

Several organizations, including Associated Industries of Missouri, the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and others urge a NO vote on November 5. They argue that "businesses with tight profit margins are already struggling with the effects of inflation," and Proposition A could further increase operational costs statewide.

Critics highlight potential issues such as restricting employers’ ability to manage time-off policies suited to their workforce needs. The sick leave mandate could lead to frivolous lawsuits against employers due to penalties for “retaliatory personnel action,” complicating investigations into sick leave misuse.

Navigating these changes could prove burdensome for businesses due to unclear components or conflicts with existing federal mandates implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic.

While acknowledging employees as their greatest asset and the importance of competitive wages and benefits, the business community opposes additional government mandates they believe do not foster job growth. They advocate voting NO on Proposition A to maintain economic stability in Missouri.