Burke-Backed Measure to Prevent Wage Discrimination Passes House

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Legislation sponsored by state Rep. Kelly Burke, D-Evergreen Park, to end wage discrimination by requiring employers to pay the same wage to workers who have the same experience and do the same job recently passed the House.

“Women have historically made less than men and it’s time to take steps to right this injustice,” Burke said. “Wage discrimination affects all of our society, by driving down income for women and preventing female-led households from escaping poverty.”

Burke’s House Bill 2462 prohibits employers from paying different salaries to employees who do the same job and have the same experience. Burke’s measure also makes it illegal for an employer to require potential employees to reveal their past wage or salary during the job application process. The goal of her legislation is to address the fact that women have historically been paid less. Massachusetts and the City of Philadelphia recently enacted similar legislation.

“Closing the wage gap will not only benefit women and their families, but will have economic benefits for Illinois businesses by putting more money in the pockets of consumers,” Burke said. “Our state must take the lead when it comes to fighting for the rights of women and this bill is another way we can accomplish this important goal.”