Prohibits an employer from terminating an employee for having a firearm in the employee's vehicle on the employer's premises
Impact
If enacted, HB39 would significantly alter the landscape of employment law in Missouri. By providing enhanced rights for firearm owners in the context of employment, the bill would limit employers' capacities to make decisions based on an employee's lawful possession of a firearm within their vehicle. This could lead to legal complexities and disputes regarding employee rights versus workplace safety protocols.
Summary
House Bill 39 aims to amend Missouri's employment law by prohibiting employers from terminating employees solely based on the employees having a firearm stored in their vehicle while on the employer's premises. The bill establishes that as long as the vehicle is locked, the firearm is not visible, and the employee has no legal prohibitions against firearm possession, they cannot be dismissed for this reason. This legislative move seeks to balance employees' rights to bear arms with employer interests in workplace safety.
Contention
While supporters of HB39 argue that the bill protects the Second Amendment rights of employees and promotes a culture of personal security, opponents may raise concerns regarding workplace safety. The potential for increased conflicts or accidents involving firearms in the workplace environment is a notable point of contention. Additionally, employers may worry about their liability and ability to ensure a safe working environment when employees are allowed to have firearms on the premises.