Missouri Senate Bill SB1193

Missouri 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/3/24
• Refer: 1/25/24

Caption

Enacts new law relating to wage range inquiries by employees and prospective employees

Impact

The provisions of SB1193 will have significant implications for state labor laws. By establishing a legal requirement for employers to disclose wage information, the bill is expected to improve the negotiation process for potential employees and existing workers seeking promotions. This move reflects a growing trend across various jurisdictions towards transparency in salary discussions, which is thought to aid in reducing wage disparities based on gender, race, and other factors.

Summary

Senate Bill 1193 introduces a new section to Chapter 290 of Missouri's Revised Statutes, which mandates that employers disclose wage ranges to prospective employees upon request or at the time of a job offer. This law applies to all types of employers, including government entities and private organizations, and aims to foster wage transparency in the employment sector. By requiring employers to provide a clear wage range before hire or promotion discussions, the bill seeks to prevent wage discrimination and promote equity in the workplace.

Contention

While SB1193 advocates for fair employment practices, the bill has faced some criticism from business groups who argue that mandatory wage disclosures could lead to complications in payroll structuring and potential push back from the market. Opponents express concerns that the law might unintentionally hinder small businesses and create administrative burdens that could overwhelm smaller organizations, limiting their ability to compete. Supporters, however, argue that the benefits of reduced wage discrimination and enhanced worker negotiations outweigh these concerns.