JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - The Latest on the Missouri House attempting to repeal Missouri’s prevailing wage law (all times local):
7:40 p.m.
The Missouri House has given initial approval to a bill repealing Missouri’s prevailing wage law for public construction projects. It’s a move targeted by GOP legislative leaders as a priority this year.
Currently, cities, school districts and other governmental entities must pay more than the state’s standard minimum wage for construction and maintenance work. The exact amount is determined by a project’s location and the type of work being done.
During a House debate Tuesday, proponents of the repeal said lowering the wages employers were required to pay would allow more schools, roads and other projects to be built with taxpayer dollars.
Opponents argued that the change would hurt workers.
Representatives endorsed the bill 86-63 Tuesday. Another vote is needed to send it to the Senate, where a similar bill stalled last year.
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6:20 p.m.
The Missouri House has given initial approval to a bill repealing Missouri’s prevailing wage law, a move targeted by GOP legislative leaders as a priority this year.
The proposal was approved 86-63 on Tuesday. Currently, cities, school districts and other governmental entities must pay more than the state’s standard minimum wage for construction and maintenance work. The exact amount is determined by a project’s location and the type of work.
Proponents say the change will lower project costs. Opponents say it will depress wages.
The bill must be voted on again before it is sent to the Senate, which is considering a similar proposal.
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The bill is HB 1729.
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This story has been corrected to show that the House gave initial approval to the bill Tuesday, not Monday.
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