On February 6, 2017, Missouri became the 28th right-to-work state in the United States. Governor Eric Greitens signed SB 19 into law, making Missouri the sixth state to adopt a right-to-work law since 2012.
Key Facts
- Missouri became the 28th right-to-work state in the United States.
- Governor Eric Greitens signed a bill into law in 2017, making Missouri a right-to-work state.
- The legislation, known as SB 19, was approved by the Senate on January 25, 2017, and passed in the House on February 2, 2017.
- The law was scheduled to go into effect on August 28, 2017.
- Right-to-work laws allow workers to seek employment without being required to join or pay dues to a labor union if they are hired.
- Supporters of right-to-work laws argue that they create a better business environment and provide workers with the freedom to choose whether or not to join a union.
- Opponents of right-to-work laws believe that they undermine labor unions and can lead to lower wages and fewer worker protections.
Legislative History of SB 19
The Missouri Senate approved SB 19 on January 25, 2017, by a vote of 21-12. The Missouri House of Representatives passed the bill on February 2, 2017, by a vote of 100-59. Governor Greitens, a vocal supporter of right-to-work legislation during his campaign, signed the bill into law on February 6, 2017. The law went into effect on August 28, 2017.
Provisions of SB 19
SB 19 prohibits most employers, both public and private, from requiring a person to join or remain a union member as a condition of employment. It also prohibits employers from requiring employees to pay dues, fees, assessments, or similar charges to a labor organization. The law does not apply to the federal government, entities operating in federal enclaves (such as military bases), or employers covered by the Railway Labor Act (such as airlines and railroads).
Arguments For and Against Right-to-Work Laws
Supporters of right-to-work laws argue that they create a more favorable business environment by attracting new employers and encouraging investment. They also contend that right-to-work laws give workers the freedom to choose whether or not to join a union, thereby protecting their individual rights.
Opponents of right-to-work laws argue that they undermine labor unions and can lead to lower wages and fewer worker protections. They contend that right-to-work laws make it more difficult for unions to organize workers and bargain for better wages and benefits.
Conclusion
The debate over right-to-work laws is likely to continue. Supporters and opponents of these laws have strong arguments to make, and the issue is complex. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to adopt a right-to-work law is a matter of public policy that each state must decide for itself.
References
- “Missouri Joins Ranks Of Right-To-Work States.” Fisher Phillips, 2017, https://www.fisherphillips.com/en/news-insights/missouri-joins-ranks-of-right-to-work-states.html.
- “Missouri Becomes 28th Right to Work State.” ABC News, 2017, https://www.abc.org/News-Media/Newsline/missouri-becomes-28th-right-to-work-stateaspx.
- “Could Missouri become a Right to Work state?” ABC17 News, 2023, https://abc17news.com/politics/2023/09/04/could-missouri-become-a-right-to-work-state/.
FAQs
Is Missouri a right-to-work state?
Yes, Missouri is a right-to-work state.
When did Missouri become a right-to-work state?
Missouri became a right-to-work state on August 28, 2017, when SB 19 went into effect.
What does Missouri’s right-to-work law do?
Missouri’s right-to-work law prohibits most employers from requiring employees to join or pay dues to a labor union as a condition of employment.
What are the arguments for and against right-to-work laws?
Supporters of right-to-work laws argue that they create a more favorable business environment and give workers the freedom to choose whether or not to join a union. Opponents argue that right-to-work laws undermine labor unions and can lead to lower wages and fewer worker protections.
What are some examples of right-to-work states?
In addition to Missouri, other right-to-work states include Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
What are some examples of non-right-to-work states?
Some examples of non-right-to-work states include Alaska, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin.
What is the future of right-to-work laws in the United States?
The future of right-to-work laws in the United States is uncertain. There is a growing movement to repeal right-to-work laws in some states, while other states are considering adopting them. The debate over right-to-work laws is likely to continue for some time.