FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, July 10, 2025
Contact: Hannah Edwards
Kansas City – Missouri Jobs with Justice released the following statement after Governor Kehoe today signed legislation to repeal Proposition A’s paid sick leave provision entirely and give businesses a way to evade the will of the people. Governor Kehoe did not respond to the organization’s letter on June 2nd requesting that he consider Proposition A an investment in Missouri’s economy and workforce. Governor Kehoe recently called a special session to approve spending millions of taxpayer dollars to subsidize billionaire-owned stadiums. Gov Kehoe’s priorities are clearly out of step with the vast majority of Missourians.
“Simply put, Missouri workers and their families do not deserve to see their newly earned paid sick leave stripped away. So many people are for the first time experiencing the relief of paid sick leave. We know people drive the economy—it’s our labor, skills, spending and contributions that build prosperity for all. With Governor Kehoe’s decision to sign HB 567 into law, workers will again face increased economic insecurity when balancing being sick with maintaining their job. Not only is this a slap in the face to workers asking for an opportunity to earn paid sick leave, it’s an insult to over 57% of Missourians who voted for Proposition A in November. We remain hopeful that businesses across Missouri will demonstrate their dedication to fairness and ensure that their business reflects the best values of America by keeping or adopting paid sick leave policies.”
Richard Von Glahn, Policy Director of Missouri Jobs with Justice had this to say, “Proposition A should not have been messed with at all by politicians in Jefferson City or their corporate lobby buddies- all of whom testified that they have this benefit. This makes our workplaces and communities less safe. It was passed overwhelmingly, upheld unanimously by the Supreme Court and it went into effect over two months ago as the voters intended. It works. Now workers may again face the reality of having no paid sick time to take care of their families without losing out on a check. This move by the Missouri legislature sets a dangerous precedent for democratic processes in our state. I encourage business owners in Missouri to do their best to implement paid sick leave regardless of what this bill says to demonstrate their dedication to workers and their families.”
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More About Missouri Jobs with Justice:
Missouri Jobs with Justice is a coalition of community, labor, faith-based, and student groups and individuals working to build power through direct action and strong relationships rooted in justice, equity, and solidarity. An organization of, by and for working people, we hope to build a Missouri where all people can lead safe and healthy lives. In addition to our local and state partners, we are proud to be affiliated with national Jobs with Justice as well as People’s Action. Companion 501(c)(4) organization Missouri Jobs with Justice Voter Action builds Missouri’s worker justice movement through workplace campaigns, ballot initiatives, and other community fights.