Missouri Bill Proposes Lower Minimum Wage for Teen Workers

(Missourinet)  - Could Missouri teens soon earn less than the state’s minimum wage? 

Senator Joe Nicola, who represents Missouri’s 11th District in Jackson County, has introduced SB 1325. 

The bill would allow employers to pay minors a sub-minimum wage of $12.30 per hour, compared to the current state minimum of $13.75, which is set to rise to $15 an hour on January 1st. 

Supporters say the measure could help businesses hire more teens, while critics argue it weakens wage protections. 

Lawmakers will take up the proposal when the 2026 Missouri legislative session begins January 7 in Jefferson City.