An employer can reduce an employee′s wages without violating any law. However, an employer subject to the Missouri Minimum Wage Law or the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), may not reduce an employee′s wages below the federal minimum or state minimum wage (whichever is higher). Missouri law does require employers to give their employees written notice of a reduction of wages at least 30 days before the reduction is to take effect. (See Chapter 290.100, RSMo). If an employer fails to give the appropriate notice, it is liable to each affected employee in the amount of fifty dollars. If the employer does not voluntarily pay the fifty dollars, the employee may recover it by filing a private lawsuit in court.
