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What is wrongful termination in Missouri?

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2026-05-02

Missouri's employment law landscape was dramatically altered by 2017 tort reform that narrowed protections for employees.

1. Boyle Public Policy Exception

Boyle v. Vista Eyewear, Inc., 700 S.W.2d 859 (Mo. App. 1985), recognized four categories of wrongful discharge:

  • Refusing to violate the law or any well-established public policy;
  • Reporting violations of law or public policy by the employer;
  • Acting in a manner protected by public policy (e.g., jury duty);
  • Filing or threatening to file a claim against the employer (e.g., workers' comp).

    • 2. Missouri Whistleblower Protection Act — RSMo § 285.575

    Codified in 2017, superseded the common-law Boyle claim for whistleblowing. Protects employees who report unlawful acts. Strict requirements: requires written report or oral report to a supervisor with confirmation. Caps damages:

  • Back pay (no front pay), benefits, attorney's fees.
  • No punitive damages.

    • 3. Missouri Human Rights Act — RSMo § 213.055

    Prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, ancestry, age (40-69), or disability. Applies to employers with 6+ employees.

    2017 Reforms — Key Changes:

  • Causation standard: changed from "contributing factor" to "motivating factor" — much harder for plaintiffs.
  • Damage caps: $50,000–$500,000 based on employer size (mirroring federal Title VII).
  • File with MCHR within 180 days. 90 days after right-to-sue letter to file civil action.

    • 4. Workers' Comp Retaliation — RSMo § 287.780

    Codified protection. 2017 reforms changed standard to "motivating factor" — must be the cause, not just a factor.

    5. Service Letter Statute — RSMo § 290.140

    Unique to Missouri: employers with 7+ employees must provide a written service letter within 45 days of an employee's request, stating the nature and length of employment and reason for termination.

    6. WARN Act

    Federal WARN applies.

    7. Statute of Limitations

  • Boyle tort: 5 years (RSMo § 516.120).
  • MHRA: 180 days to MCHR; 90 days after right-to-sue letter.
  • Whistleblower: 2 years.

    • This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • You need to navigate the post-2017 'motivating factor' causation standard
    • You want a service letter under § 290.140 to use as evidence
    • You face the tight 180-day MCHR deadline
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • Mo. Rev. Stat. § 213.055
    • Mo. Rev. Stat. § 285.575
    • Mo. Rev. Stat. § 287.780
    • Mo. Rev. Stat. § 290.140

    This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.