Show-Me State Times

The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry addressed the recent decision by the Missouri Supreme Court concerning Proposition A. Kara Corches, the President and CEO of the Chamber, expressed frustration with the court's decision in the case of Raymond McCarty, et al. v. Missouri Secretary of State, et al.

"We are deeply disappointed by the Missouri Supreme Court’s decision regarding Proposition A,” stated Corches. She emphasized that while the court’s authority is respected, the decision did not tackle issues related to election irregularities and constitutional violations.

Proposition A has been a point of contention for its multiple mandates regarding Missouri employers. The Chamber stressed that the Missouri Constitution requires ballot initiatives to focus on a single subject, whereas Proposition A introduces several distinct mandates affecting wages, sick leave policies, and their enforcement. The Chamber noted that the court did not render an opinion on whether Proposition A breached the single-subject rule.

Corches also reiterated the Chamber's stance on employer autonomy: "Missouri employers know their employees are their greatest asset and recognize the importance of offering competitive wages and benefits," but she argued that businesses should have the freedom to operate without excessive government mandates.

The Chamber is advocating for the passage of HB 567 by the Missouri General Assembly following the court's ruling. Corches mentioned that this bill is crucial for providing clarity on the burdensome paid sick leave requirements imposed by Proposition A. "We urge the Missouri Senate to take immediate action on HB 567 and ensure Missouri’s economic climate is not adversely impacted by Proposition A’s implementation,” she urged.