JEFFERSON CITY — Today the Missouri State Senate made history by advancing legislation to make Missouri a right-to-work state. House Bills 116 & 569, which bars employers from requiring employees to engage in or cease engaging in certain labor practices, passed out of the Senate this evening.
Majority Floor Leader Ron Richard, R-Joplin, said not only was right-to-work legislation one of his top priorities, it was long overdue.
“Ever since I became the mayor of Joplin, and throughout my political career, my main goal has been job creation,” said Richard. “Right-to-work creates a competitive business climate with a faster rate of job growth. Missouri is losing jobs and population to our right-to-work neighboring states. This legislation will bring more businesses to the Show-Me State, increase our job numbers and foster a better environment for workers.”
House Bills 116 & 569 allows workers the freedom to decide if a labor union deserves their financial support. A worker cannot be fired for refusing to pay dues or fees to union officials. If an employer violates the rights of employees guaranteed under this law, any agreement will be declared null and void.
Bill handler Sen. Dan Brown, R-Rolla, said this bill is about employee choice and giving employees the power over their future.
“Employees should have the right to work any job without being compelled to join a labor union or pay union dues as a condition of employment,” said Brown. “This measure is about protecting employees and making unions more accountable to their members.”
The measure will now be sent to the House for final consideration. For more on this legislation and others, visit www.senate.mo.gov. |
