Missouri Republicans Ponder Next Move on Business Bills

Republican lawmakers in Missouri are trying to decide what they will do next on two pieces of business legislation recently vetoed by the Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon.

One measure requires workers who bring wrongful termination lawsuits to prove discrimination was a “motivating factor” – not simply a contributing factor- in the employer’s action.

Another includes occupational diseases under the workers’ compensation system, instead of allowing such claims to be decided in court.

Nixon vetoed both measures just before lawmakers returned from their spring break.

House Republicans say they don’t have enough votes to override Nixon’s vetoes. They say they want to work out a compromise with the governor on both bills. But neither the lawmakers nor Nixon want to give ground on the most significant parts of the bills.

Workplace discrimination bills are HB1219 (vetoed) and SB592

Workers’ compensation bills are SB572 (vetoed) and HB1403