Bill > S2107

This bill, titled "To establish pay equity," aims to ensure equal pay for equal work by prohibiting employers from discriminating in wages and compensation based on gender. It defines "comparable work" as jobs that are substantially similar in content, skill, effort, responsibility, and working conditions, clarifying that job titles alone are not determinative. The bill outlines specific exceptions where wage variations are permissible, including bona fide systems for seniority, merit, production quality or quantity, geographic cost of living differences, and job-related education, training, or experience. Employers are prohibited from reducing an employee's pay to comply with these provisions and are liable for unpaid wages plus an equal amount in liquidated damages for violations, with provisions for attorneys' fees and court costs. The bill also prevents employers from retaliating against employees who inquire about, discuss, or disclose wage information, or from screening applicants based on their salary history. Furthermore, employers can establish an affirmative defense by demonstrating good-faith self-evaluations of their pay practices and progress in eliminating gender-based pay disparities. The bill also mandates employers to post notices informing employees of their rights and sets an effective date of January 1, 2018.