Proposition A: What a 'yes' or 'no' means on Missouri's ballot

ST. LOUIS -- Missouri voters will soon decide on Proposition A that would raise the minimum wage to $15 per hour and require many employers to provide paid sick leave. The measure is on the 2024 presidential ballot. Election Day is on November 5, 2024.

The proposal outlines a two-step increase in minimum wage, starting with a rise to $13.75 per hour on January 1, 2025, followed by another increase to $15 per hour in 2026. After that, the minimum wage would automatically adjust each year based on changes in the Consumer Price Index to keep pace with inflation.

Beyond wage increases, the measure would establish new paid sick leave requirements for businesses with 15 or more employees. These employers would need to provide one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours an employee works. However, government entities, including school districts and other public institutions, would be exempt from both the minimum wage increases and sick leave requirements.

State officials have analyzed the financial impact of implementing these changes. They estimate one-time costs could range from zero to $53,000, with ongoing annual costs potentially reaching $256,000 or more by 2027.

What does a yes or no vote mean on Proposition A?

Voters choosing "yes" on this measure support implementing these workplace changes, while those voting "no" prefer keeping current minimum wage and sick leave laws unchanged. This proposal would place Missouri among several states that have enacted similar requirements combining a $15 minimum wage with mandatory paid sick leave for private sector workers.

The measure represents a significant shift in workplace policy, particularly for private businesses. While government entities would be exempt, private employers would need to adjust to both higher wages and new sick leave requirements if the measure passes.