‘Right to work’ discussions continue at Missouri Capitol

A controversial labor reform bill will be heard at noon Wednesday by the Missouri Senate General Laws Committee.

Senate Bill 21 is one of several pieces of legislation referred to by sponsors as “right to work” measures.

The measure would prohibit employers from requiring job candidates to join or support a labor organization as a condition of employment.

“Right to work laws are just distractions,” said Senate Minority Leader Gina Walsh, D-St. Louis. “They do nothing but divide Missourians.”

Conservative lawmakers say the bill would strengthen workers’ rights by not forcing them to support any particular organization.

Missouri Senate President pro tem Ron Richard, R-Joplin, said he expects right to work will be the first bill passed by the Senate during the 99th general assembly.