JEFFERSON CITY–The Missouri House of Representatives enacted a new dress code for female legislators at the opening of the session Wednesday.
The new House rules package included an amendment requiring women to wear jackets as part of their “business attire” when on the floor.
Previous rules allowed women lawmakers to wear dresses, skirts and slacks with blazers and sweaters, The Washington Post reported.
Rep. Anne Kelly (R), with the support of other Republicans, proposed the change, saying it was “essential to maintain a formal and professional atmosphere at all times,” according to The Washington Post. Did.
According to The Washington Post, Democrats were quick to oppose the change, calling it sexist.
Democratic Rep. Ashley Orne said the dress code change was “ridiculous,” according to a video posted by the progressive radio station’s website Heartland Signal.
MO State Rep. Ashley Orne (Democrat) questioned the need for a dress code amendment, while sponsor Rep. Anne Kelly (Republican) said: Women are welcome! ” pic.twitter.com/75gbaGnzZu
— Heartland Signal (@HeartlandSignal) January 11, 2023
The men’s dress code, which is also stipulated in the house rules, has not changed. The men’s dress code requires men to wear “business attire,” which is defined as “coat, tie, dress pants, dress shoes or boots.”
The Missouri House of Representatives debates and passes a new package of rules every two years at the beginning of the General Assembly.
The Missouri House of Representatives passed rule package HR 11 Wednesday by a vote of 105 to 51, kicking off the 102nd convention.
