Legislators set sights on right to work, paycheck protection, and frivolous lawsuits.
Given the 2016 election results in Missouri, when citizens largely favored candidates representing smaller government and pro-business viewpoints, small business owners can expect quick movement on a variety of issues that the Legislature has not been able to pass before.
In addition to a variety of “do-overs” from the 2016 legislative session—such as tort reform and unemployment reform—there are several other issues on the priority list that seek to make Missouri a better place to do business. Here’s a look at what lawmakers are likely to tackle:
Right to Work
Legislators have attempted passing right to work legislation numerous times in the past, but have so far been unsuccessful in getting past Gov. Nixon’s veto pen. But in advance of 2017’s legislative session beginning in January, several bills have already been put forward, reported KSHB News. The goal is to make Missouri a more business-friendly environment by lessening union obstacles for companies.
Paycheck Protection
In addition to right to work, paycheck protection legislation is also likely to be proposed. This would help provide financial protections for workers by either prohibiting union dues from being deducted directly from paychecks or requiring written permission from members on the use of dues for political purposes.
Worker Discrimination
Missouri lawmakers also aim to rein in lawsuits against employers. Currently, in wrongful termination cases, workers simply have to establish that discrimination against them was a contributing factor in their termination rather than a motivating factor. Making the change would align state law with federal law and help limit frivolous lawsuits.
