Wrongful Termination in Missouri
Missouri is generally an at-will state, but some firings are illegal. Here are the exceptions, retaliation protections and where to file.
Short answer: Missouri follows at-will employment. State law limits the exceptions to those in the Whistleblower's Protection Act (reporting unlawful acts or serious misconduct, or refusing to break the law), the Missouri Human Rights Act, and workers' compensation retaliation, and bars courts from… RSMo 285.575.3
| At-will employment and exceptions | Missouri follows at-will employment. State law limits the exceptions to those in the Whistleblower's Protection Act (reporting unlawful acts or serious misconduct, or refusing to break the law), the Missouri Human Rights Act, and workers' compensation retaliation, and bars courts from expanding them. Source: RSMo 285.575.3 |
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| Whistleblower and retaliation protection | Employers may not fire an employee for reporting the employer's unlawful act to the proper authorities, reporting serious misconduct that violates clear public policy to the employer, or refusing to carry out an illegal directive. Supervisors whose job is to report on the matter are not protected. |
| Job discrimination complaints | Missouri Commission on Human Rights. Covers employers with 6 or more employees. A complaint must be filed with the Commission within 180 days of the discriminatory act. Employer definition: https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=213.010. Commission: https://labor.mo.gov/mohumanrights/discrimination Source: RSMo 213.075; RSMo 213.010 |
Where to get help in Missouri
More Missouri employment law
- Minimum Wage in Missouri
- Final Paycheck Laws in Missouri
- Paid Sick Leave in Missouri
- All Missouri employment law rules
FAQ
Is Missouri an at-will employment state?
Missouri follows at-will employment. State law limits the exceptions to those in the Whistleblower's Protection Act (reporting unlawful acts or serious misconduct, or refusing to break the law), the Missouri Human Rights Act, and workers' compensation retaliation, and bars courts from expanding them.
Is it illegal to fire someone for reporting a violation in Missouri?
Employers may not fire an employee for reporting the employer's unlawful act to the proper authorities, reporting serious misconduct that violates clear public policy to the employer, or refusing to carry out an illegal directive. Supervisors whose job is to report on the matter are not protected.
Where do I file a job discrimination complaint in Missouri?
Missouri Commission on Human Rights. Covers employers with 6 or more employees. A complaint must be filed with the Commission within 180 days of the discriminatory act.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.