Labor & Employment Law Update

Missouri employers will soon face expanded military leave and reemployment obligations following Governor Mike Kehoe’s signing of House Bill 2593 on July 9, 2026. The new law goes into effect beginning August 28, 2026, potentially opening up new litigation exposure for noncompliance.

Missouri Extends USERRA Reemployment Protections to National Guard Members

The new protections align Missouri law with federal leave protections. Specifically, the law explicitly grants the same robust reemployment protections provided federally under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). 

Missouri Extends SCRA Financial Protections to Certain National Guard Members

The new law also provides extensive financial protections by extending protections of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to National Guard members serving on qualifying state active duty.

These protections apply to members of the Missouri National Guard who are called to active state duty by the governor or adjutant general for a period of more than 30 consecutive days. They also apply to any Missouri employees who are members of another state’s National Guard and are called to active state duty by the governor or adjutant general of that state for a period of more than 30 consecutive days. Eligible service members may invoke these protections upon being relieved of duty.

New Private Right of Action Creates Litigation Risk for Missouri Employers

The law allows National Guard members who believe their rights have been violated to bring suit in any court of competent jurisdiction and appropriate venue. The Office of the Attorney General can also bring suit against an employer that violates the provisions of this bill.

Employer Takeaways From Missouri's New National Guard Employment Law

Missouri employers are strongly encouraged to review their military leave policies and internal leave protocols to ensure compliance with all military leave laws and obligations. Employers should consider proactive compliance measures before the August 28, 2026, effective date.