Missouri House Bill HR3623

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/22
• Refer: 2/22/22

Caption

Amends House Rule 98 to require women to wear blazers on the House floor

Impact

The proposed amendment is seen as a step towards establishing a formal standard for professional attire within the House. By requiring blazers for women, the resolution attempts to signify a commitment to a more structured and professional environment in legislative settings. Supporters may argue that such a dress code enhances the dignity of the legislative process and reflects the seriousness of the work being done.

Summary

House Resolution HR3623 proposes an amendment to House Rule 98, which outlines the dress code for members of the Missouri House of Representatives. The amendment stipulates that women are required to wear blazers at all times when the House is seated. This change aligns the dress code for women more closely with that of men, who are already mandated to wear business attire that includes coats and ties. The intent behind the bill is to enhance professionalism and ensure a uniform appearance among legislators on the House floor.

Contention

However, the amendment is not without potential points of contention. Critics may argue that enforcing a specific dress code could be viewed as an outdated approach to gender norms within professional settings. Questions regarding the appropriateness of requiring women to adhere to stricter standards compared to their male counterparts may arise. Additionally, discussions around personal expression and individuality in professional attire could contribute to a broader debate about equality and inclusivity within the legislative body.