Kalish-Backed Law Takes Critical Step Toward Equal Pay for Women

CHICAGO – A proposal sponsored by state Rep. Yehiel “Mark” Kalish, D-Chicago, that fights wage discrimination by prohibiting employers from using unfair practices to force women and people of color into a lifetime of lower pay is now law.

“My daughter and women across the state deserve to have the same salary and career opportunities as their male peers,” Kalish said. “The fight for greater equality for women is ongoing, and it requires us to crack down on the discriminatory practices companies are using to perpetuate inequality. This new law does just that.”

Kalish sponsored and helped pass House Bill 834, which prohibits employers from requiring job candidates to submit their current wage or salary history. Given historic wage discrimination based on gender and race, banning this unfair practice will prevent a history of unfair pay from following women and minorities from job to job. Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed the bill into law yesterday.

“While this new law achieves meaningful progress, the fight for equal pay for women continues,” Kalish said. “I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues and stand with women for greater equality and fairness.”