I, like tens of thousands of workers in Missouri, work a grueling 8 hours per day without a breather. Each day, I am left starving, dehydrated, and exhausted. This narrative is far too common in our State, and we firmly believe it's due to a specific Missouri law that does not require employers to provide employees with any kind of break, including a lunch hour.

In the absence of a federal law, the power to decide rests with the employer or their policies, or can be subject to a work agreement. Every worker has a fundamental right to breaks during work hours for basic needs like food and rest. Denying employees this break can lead to various health problems, including physical fatigue, decreased mental function, and long-term health complications according to the American Journal of Industrial Medicine.

Through this petition, we are calling on Missouri lawmakers to revise this law and mandate clearly defined break times for all employers in the State. No one should be left starving, dehydrated, or exhausted at their workplace. Please show your support for workers' rights in Missouri by signing this petition. Let us give our workforce the respect and consideration they deserve.