Missouri House of Representatives Adopts Stricter Dress Code for Women, Sparking Debate Over Professionalism and Equality

The Missouri House of Representatives has adopted a stricter dress code for women as part of a new rules package, requiring them to cover their shoulders with a jacket such as a blazer, cardigan or knit blazer. The amendment was proposed by Republican state Rep. Ann Kelley and was adopted Wednesday as the state House debated its rules.

Rep. Kelley said she felt compelled to offer the change that “cleans up some of the language” in the dress code. The previous dress code for women required “dresses or skirts or slacks worn with a blazer or sweater and appropriate dress shoes or boots.”

The amendment sparked outrage from some Democrats who said the change was sexist because the dress code for men was not altered. Rep. Kelley responded to the criticism on the House floor, saying “Do you know what it feels like to have a bunch of men in this room looking at your top trying to decide whether it’s appropriate or not?”

The new dress code for women has been met with criticism from some who feel it is unfair and outdated. Supporters of the amendment argue that it is necessary to maintain a professional atmosphere in the House. The debate over the dress code amendment is likely to continue in the coming weeks.