Proposition A: Missouri’s Minimum Wage and Paid Sick Leave Initiative Sparks Debate Among Business Owners and Employees

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Exciting Changes on the Horizon for Minimum Wage

This November, voters in Missouri will face an important decision regarding Proposition A, a measure that proposes to raise the state’s minimum wage and introduce paid sick leave for employees. If passed, the initiative would increase the minimum wage to $13.75 per hour by 2025, and an impressive $15 per hour by 2026. Furthermore, workers would earn one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, making a significant impact on many Kansas City residents’ lives.

Voices in Opposition

Not everyone is on board with Proposition A. Mike Hastings, co-owner of Anchor Island Coffee located at 41st and Troost, expresses his concerns about the measure. He argues that mandating such changes is not the right way to ensure businesses thrive. “To mandate that a business do something because it sounds good, that’s not a decision that should be made,” Hastings shared. Despite his doubts about the proposition, he clarifies that he truly values his employees and would desire to offer them even more benefits.

“I want to offer healthcare, but laws like this are making it harder to expand what we do offer as the total package,” Hastings said. His sentiments resonate with many small business owners who feel apprehensive about the implications of Prop A.

Concerns from the Restaurant Association

Buddy Lahl, CEO of the Missouri Restaurant Association, echoes these concerns. He believes that while raising wages may sound good on the surface, the reality is much more intricate. “When you dig down into the details, it’s very cumbersome for a small business to enact this type of legislation,” Lahl stated. His perspective highlights the potential burden that such a law could place on small restaurants, which often operate on thin margins.

Lahl also points out how this initiative might affect consumers. “Basically, what you’re voting in is an increase in your expenses because the restaurants can’t absorb those costs,” he noted. This reflects an ongoing concern in the local community about balancing employee welfare with the economic realities that businesses face.

A Closer Look at the Chamber of Commerce’s Perspective

The Missouri Chamber of Commerce also takes a stand against Proposition A. Kara Corches, interim president and CEO, shared that the proposition comprises nine pages filled with detailed provisions, many of which could prove to be confusing for businesses trying to comply. She emphasized that one particular provision could expose small businesses to lawsuits, posing a significant threat to their survival.

“We don’t want to see small businesses sued out of existence when they are the backbone of our economy,” Corches remarked, highlighting the gravity of the situation for business owners worried about future litigation.

Support from Employers Like Oddly Correct

On the flip side of the argument, some employers wholeheartedly support Proposition A. Mike Schroeder, the owner of Oddly Correct, believes that investing in employees is crucial for the success of his business. He said, “The people who are here are the ones that are going to make things happen. So if they’re not feeling stable or invested, the business isn’t gonna go anywhere.” For Schroeder, ensuring job security and investment in his crew is paramount, particularly in today’s competitive job market.

In an environment where finding and retaining employees has become increasingly challenging, Hastings reflects on the potential impact this measure could have. “We are paying above minimum wage, above what most coffee shops are paying right now, and we lose that competitive advantage,” he said. Hastings wants to maintain the momentum that he has worked so hard to achieve, ensuring that he can continue to attract and keep talent.

As Kansas City residents gear up to make an important choice in November, the conversation around Proposition A continues to unfold. Will Missourians choose to uplift their community with potential wage increases and paid sick leave, or will they side with the businesses concerned about the feasibility and impact of such changes?