Testimony was heard today on that would redefine what constitutes workplace discrimination in Missouri.
If passed, workplace discrimination would have to be a motivating factor, not just a contributing one, in any wrongful action taken against a worker by an employer, which is the current federal standard. spoke in favor of the bill on behalf of his former employer, the . He told the House Committee on Workforce Development and Workplace Safety that the state鈥檚 current definition of discrimination is hurting Missouri鈥檚 economy.
鈥淐ompanies are choosing to locate in other states," AuBuchon said. "I鈥檓 not gonna tell you that this is the only reason, but certainly it is a factor when companies look at the cost of their business in the state of Missouri.鈥�
Opponents say the bill would make it easier for employers to fire employees, and that it鈥檚 good that Missouri鈥檚 workplace discrimination definition is more strict than the federal one. Jonathan Burns with thetestified against the bill.
鈥淚t dramatically restricts the protections for people who鈥檝e been discriminated against, or fired for reporting illegal conduct that their company has engaged in," Burns said. "This law will make it much easier for employers to discriminate.鈥�
Committee members did not vote on the bill today. (D) vetoed similar billsand .
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