Missouri Passes a Dress Code Bill for Female Politicians
The Missouri House of Representatives has put forth a bill that restricts the dress code for female politicians while leaving the code for males intact.
Key Points:
- Women are required to wear jackets with dresses, skirts, or trousers and formal shoes or boots under the proposed legislation. Cardigans or short sleeves are not allowed.
- The bill has drawn criticism for being sexist and unworkable; Missouri state lawmaker Raychel Proudie referred to the proposal as "stupid" on the Floor of the house.
- “Do you know what it feels like to have a bunch of men in this room looking at your top trying to determine if it’s appropriate or not?” Democratic state Rep. Ashley Aune proclaimed from the House floor.
- Kelley, speaking on the House floor responded to these criticisms by stating, "You would think that all you would have to do is say, ‘dress professionally’ and women could handle it!"
- The dress code amendment was passed in a voice vote and the rules package was later adopted by the GOP-controlled legislature in a 105-51 vote, but not without pushback and debate from House Democrats.