By Kyla Asbury
St. Louis Record, November 6, 2024
JEFFERSON CITY — With all precincts reported, Republicans have won the majority of federal, state and local offices. ... Missouri voters also voted to pass Proposition A, which will raise the minimum wage and enable workers to earn paid sick days. Businesses say this will boost consumer spending and strengthen Missouri’s workforce and businesses. Proposition A will raise the state minimum wage to $15 by 2026.
More than 500 businesses joined the Missouri Business for a Healthy Economy coalition, supporting Proposition A.
"It is important to take care of the people who are taking care of you," Mack Musgrave, owner of The Sandwich Scene in Springfield, said. "Everyone needs to make a living. Paying better wages is not a one-way street. We benefit from better morale and lower employee turnover, which reduces hiring and training costs and boosts productivity and customer service. Passing Prop A will put more money in the pockets of people who are our customers and our neighbors, and ensure that Missourians can take time off when they are sick."
Jeff Owens, owner of The Bauer, an event space and Owens Enterprises in Kansas City, said Proposition A will be a big boost for Missouri.
"Workers will be happier, healthier and better able to pay their bills," Owens said. "It will improve lives, increase productivity and boost the consumer spending that powers local businesses." ...