Missouri Passes Historic Bill to Break Down Barriers to Work

Missouri will now lead the country in occupational license reform, criminal justice reform, and access to apprenticeships. The Missouri Chamber said in a recent article "Representative Grier continues to be a champion of the St. Louis region and of economic and workforce development...his commitment is unwavering...2046 is a comprehensive bill that will increase opportunities for individuals during and after the COVID-19 pandemic throughout Missouri." 

There are three major initiatives included in the bill:

1. Universal License Recognition - Enables professionals moving to Missouri to continue working in their professions without delay. This provision includes the most expansive license reciprocity in the country for military families.
2. Fresh Start Act - Allows prior offenders, who have served their time, to integrate more effectively back into society and provides a path to meaningful work without arbitrary discrimination.
3. Expanded Workforce Act - Expands Missouri's recognition of apprenticeships as a path to licensure and work.

Here is a link to an aricle by the Show-Me Institute, discussing how the new law will specifically benefit the healthcare industry.

And another article written by the Goldwater Institute about Grier's historic bill.

Grier's recent interview on the bill with Austin Peterson can be found here.

"This is truly a bright spot in an otherwise dark time for our workforce. At a time when unemployment is rising, the Missouri General Assembly is making great efforts to increase workforce opportunities."

 - Missouri Chamber of Commerce