Following one of the most tense election days in recent memory, several significant amendments to Missouri law successfully passed the voting process. One of the most notable amendments to pass was Prop A which raised the minimum wage for employees and also made paid sick leave mandatory. The subject of minimum wage and workers’ rights as a whole have been a contentious subject in the past, so this amendment is certain to spark debate in the future.
“I kinda think [it’s] good, but also [it] would make me concerned about small businesses and being able to pay for those sick leaves,” said senior Lane McKee. “That would probably be the only concern about [it].”
Another highly publicized amendment that successfully passed is Amendment 2 which legalized sports betting. Despite proponents of the Amendment citing economic benefits as a reason to legalize sports betting, the amendment only very narrowly passed. While sports betting is not nearly as universally important as changes to minimum wage, some feel it has merit regardless.
“I don’t bet on sports, but I think if you want to, no one should be stopping you,” said senior Kai Gustafson.
Perhaps the most pressing issue of the recent election was that addressed by Amendment 3. Amendment 3 overturned Missouri’s ban on abortion which was implemented immediately after the Dobbs v. Jackson Supreme Court case. The amendment has seen both fervent support and opposition since its conception, and its successful passing marks a huge victory for those that believe that abortion is an inalienable right of women.
“I think, personally, [Amendment 3]’s a good thing,” said McKee. “I’m just glad we all once again get to do what we want.”
