Jones Votes to Override Governor’s Veto of Equal Pay Measure

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Thaddeus Jones, D-Calumet City, joined a bipartisan effort last week to
override Gov. Rauner’s veto of a bill aimed at reducing wage discrimination.

“The unfair wage gap that women face across the state is a serious problem that needs to be dealt with
proactively,” Jones said. “Wage discrimination in particular affects woman of color who work hard to
make ends meet and raise their families. It was deeply disappointing to see the governor refuse to stand
for equal pay.”

Jones supported House Bill 2462, which prohibits employers from asking job applicants about their salary
history. The effort seeks to address the issue of wage discrimination, which has historically hurt the
earning power of women and minorities, even when they have comparable skills and experience to their
counterparts.

The proposal now heads to the Senate, where an override vote is required for it to become law.

“I stand with women and minorities to say that wage discrimination is wrong and against our values,”
Jones said. “I encourage my colleagues in the Senate, on both sides of the aisle, to put aside politics, do
the right thing and pass this important legislation into law.”