The Missouri House of Representatives opened session on Wednesday, and moderately than give attention to laws for residents of Missouri, the Republican-controlled House majority used the chance to tighten dress code restrictions on women while leaving the lads’s dress code rules in place.

State Rep. Ann Kelley, a Republican, cosponsored the bill, which requires women to wear a blazer when within the House chamber. The Democratic caucus quickly rebuked the bill calling it “ridiculous.”

The State House approved a modified version of Kelley’s proposal allowing cardigans but still requiring women to hide their arms. The bill was met again with staunch opposition from Democrats.

The brand new restrictions set into law now mandates arm coverage, stating: “Proper attire for ladies shall be business attire, including jackets worn with dresses, skirts or slacks, and dress shoes or boots.”

In a speech on the Missouri House floor, state Rep. Raychel Proudie, a Democrat said, “We’re fighting — again — for a lady’s right to decide on for something. This time, it’s how she covers herself, and the interpretation of somebody who has no background in fashion. I spent $1,200 on a suit, and I can’t wear it within the People’s House because someone who doesn’t have the range tells me that it’s inappropriate.”

Previous Missouri House rules stated “dresses or skirts or slacks worn with a blazer or sweater and appropriate dress shoes or boots” were permitted dress attire for female lawmakers.

Of their rebuttal to the laws, Democrats described the brand new dress code restrictions as sexist. State Rep. Pete Merideth, a Democrat, also chastised Republicans, calling them hypocrites for his or her mishandling and neglect of masking guidelines to forestall the spread of COVID-19.

Missouri House Rules can come up for debate on a two-year basis in the beginning of the General Assembly. Women hold lower than one-third of the seats within the Missouri House. Missouri Democrats are adamant against the laws, saying there was more pressing laws than what female lawmakers are wearing.