At-Will Employment - Missouri

Summary of differences between federal and state regulations

The general at-will employment doctrine is what employers generally refer to unless there are state laws that provide more detail. This is a situation in which there is a lack of laws or contracts that narrow the reasons for which employees may be terminated. Where such laws or contracts exist, they must be adhered to.

Missouri law does not require a discharge notice or a reason for discharge. The courts of Missouri follow an "Employment-at-Will" doctrine.  This means that both the employee and employer can end the employment relationship at any time and for any reason, as long as it is not discrimination under the Civil Rights Act.

State courts have recognized the concept of public policy exception to the at-will employment concept; that is, it is illegal for an employer to terminate an employee for refusing to break the law on behalf of the employer.

State

Contact

Missouri Department of Labor Standards

Regulations

Unless there is a written employment agreement, an employer may dictate or change the terms and conditions of employment.  The employee can either agree to the terms and conditions, or refuse them and risk termination.

The exact laws can be found in Chapter 290 RSMo and Regulations (Rules) under 8CSR 30, 4.010-050.

Federal

Contacts

None.

Regulations

None.