Right-to-work measures advance, unlikely to appear before voters

JEFFERSON CITY • After hours of debate this week, a House panel on Wednesday approved controversial right-to-work legislation, bundling five similar bills into one package that will soon head to the House floor for consideration.

The legislation is a longtime priority for Missouri Republicans who argue that the measure – which limits unions' ability to collect dues from their members – is a pro-business job creator. Opponents contend the legislation amounts to government overreach in negotiations between employers and employees.

Before the vote, Rep. Doug Beck, D-Affton, introduced an amendment that would put the proposal before voters through a referendum, something Democrats have insisted is necessary given the divisiveness of the issue and the impact it could have on unions and their members.

“This one issue will have a measured consequence on the livelihoods of so many Missourians, it is appropriate that this issue be decided at the ballot box, and not by politicians in Jefferson City,” Beck said, comparing it to a photo ID voting requirement that voters approved last year.

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