MO SB877

Redefines "misconduct" for unemployment benefits to include conduct connected with work (regardless of workplace or work hours location) that demonstrates knowing disregard of employer interests, carelessness/negligence, violations of no-call/no-show policies, chronic absenteeism or tardiness, knowing violations of state standards by licensed/certified employees, or rule violations unless employee could not reasonably know the rule or the rule is unlawful.

Narrows "good cause" for voluntary job separation to only causes that would compel a reasonable employee to cease working or require separation due to illness or disability, replacing the broader previous definition.

Removes prior language creating a rebuttable presumption that absenteeism or tardiness alone constitutes misconduct regardless of whether the last incident alone was misconduct.

Maintains exceptions allowing claimants to avoid disqualification when leaving work voluntarily for pregnancy-related reasons (with medical proof and employer notification), military spouse relocation, accepting more remunerative employment, or returning to regular employment from temporary assignments.

Preserves the disqualification period requirement that claimants must earn wages equal to ten times their weekly benefit amount before receiving benefits after voluntary separation, or six times their weekly benefit amount after discharge for misconduct.