As Missouri workers prepare for the upcoming implementation of paid sick leave on May 1, 2025, workers’ rights groups have been organizing rallies across the state, including in Kansas City.
This change, stemming from Proposition A passed by voters last November, will grant workers the right to earn paid sick days, offering much-needed relief for employees who previously had to choose between working while sick or losing pay.
However, this progress is currently under threat, as a House bill moves through the state legislature to repeal the paid sick leave provision.
Despite these challenges, workers and community groups are standing firm in their support for paid sick leave, rallying in solidarity to protect their hard-earned rights.
Details of Paid Sick Leave and Proposition A
Proposition A, passed by Missouri voters in November 2024, aimed to improve conditions for workers across the state by increasing the minimum wage and providing employees with earned paid time off.
Under this new law, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave based on their work hours, helping them to take care of their health and well-being without the stress of losing wages.
Key Features of Paid Sick Leave (Proposition A):
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | May 1, 2025 |
| Eligibility | All employees in Missouri |
| Amount of Paid Sick Leave | Earned based on work hours |
| Minimum Wage Increase | Gradual increase in wages for Missouri workers |
| Employer Requirement | Employers must notify employees by April 15, 2025 |
| Repercussions for Non-Compliance | Fines for businesses that fail to comply with the law |
Rallies Across Missouri in Support of Paid Sick Leave
Ahead of the May 1 implementation, several rallies have been organized across Missouri to show support for the paid sick leave initiative. In Kansas City, dozens gathered outside Oddly Correct Coffee to advocate for the provision and to encourage business owners to embrace the upcoming changes.
Key figures in the rally included Fran Marion, a fast food worker and leader with the Missouri Workers Center.
Marion shared a personal story of the challenges she faced when her children were growing up, and how paid sick leave would have alleviated the financial stress of taking care of her family.
“If I had paid sick days, I wouldn’t have to worry about how my rent’s going to get paid,” Marion said, emphasizing the importance of being able to care for sick family members without the burden of losing pay.
Mike Schroeder, the owner of Oddly Correct Coffee, also participated in the rally. He shared how his business experienced success after raising wages and providing paid sick leave.
According to Schroeder, “It was a gamble, but it worked. People were happier, they did better work, our customers were happier, we saw a 20% increase in revenue after enacting living wages and paid sick leave.”
Opposition to Paid Sick Leave and Legislative Challenges
Despite the growing support for paid sick leave, there are opposing efforts within the state legislature. House Bill 567, currently under consideration, seeks to repeal the paid sick leave mandate. The bill has already passed in the House and is now moving through the Senate.
Furthermore, a lawsuit filed by Missouri business groups is challenging the results of Proposition A, requesting the state’s Supreme Court to rule in favor of overturning the paid sick leave provision.
Oral arguments were heard last month, and the business groups are pushing for a decision by April 15, ideally before the law takes effect on May 1.
As Missouri prepares for the implementation of paid sick leave on May 1, 2025, workers across the state are rallying in support of their right to earn paid time off for illness and personal care.
While this initiative represents a major step forward in workers’ rights, it faces significant opposition from business groups and legislators who are attempting to repeal the law.
The upcoming April 28 hearing will play a crucial role in determining the future of Proposition A and whether Missouri workers will continue to have access to earned paid sick leave.