Remove the wage gap by mandating equitable pay

 

This bill exists to get rid of the wage gap between women and men by ensuring that women receive fair and equal pay for

the work they are doing. This bill ensures an end to the wage gap and holds employees accountable for discriminatory pay

practices by penalizing employers who engage in such practices.

 

A consistent wage gap continues to result in women earning approximately 16-17% less than men for performing comparable

work. This inequality limits women's economic opportunities and places significant strain on families who rely on their

earnings. When women are underpaid, households have fewer resources for basic needs such as housing, food, childcare,

and healthcare, making it harder for families to achieve financial stability or save for the future. These disparities

also contribute to higher rates of poverty among single mother households and reduce the overall economic security of

working families. Equal pay is not only for fairness but also essential for economic stability. Guaranteeing that women

are paid equally for their contributions, this bill promotes equality in the workplace and helps create a more inclusive

economy.

 

“Equal pay” - Same employees performing comparable work, regardless of gender, will get the same salary.

“Wage gap “- The difference in average earnings between women and men.

“Employer” - Any individual, business, or government entity that hires one or more employees.

“Employee” - An individual who performs services for an employer in exchange for wages.

“Comparable work” - Work that requires similar skill,effort, and has similar working conditions, even if the job duties

differ.

“Compensation” - All forms of financial and non financial payment provided to an employee.

“Discriminatory pay practices” - Any difference in wages or compensation between employees that is based on gender

rather than job related.

“Pay equity” - Ensuring that employees performing comparable work receive equal compensation.

 

No funding

 

Any employer found to have engaged in discriminatory pay practices in violation of this act shall be subject to a civil

fine of up to $10,000 for a first offense. For each subsequent offense, the employer shall be subject to a civil fine up

to $25,000.

 

January 1st, 2027