Bill > S983

This bill aims to establish pay equity by prohibiting employers from discriminating based on gender in the payment of wages, benefits, or other compensation for work of like or comparable character, with exceptions for differences in seniority. It also makes it unlawful for employers to prevent employees from discussing their wages, require employees to waive their right to discuss pay, or retaliate against employees who oppose discriminatory practices or participate in investigations. Employers are required to post a notice detailing these rights, and violations can result in liability for unpaid wages plus liquidated damages and attorney's fees. The bill introduces a "rebuttable presumption" for employers who conduct a thorough self-evaluation of their pay practices to identify and address gender-based wage differentials, but employees can still challenge this presumption with evidence of discrimination. Additionally, the bill mandates that job advertisements include the minimum rate of pay, prohibits employers from seeking salary history from job applicants, and prevents the release of an employee's salary history without their written consent. It also clarifies that attorney's fees can be awarded in discrimination cases even if no compensatory damages are granted.