Connor-Backed Equal Pay Measure Now Law

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A new law backed by state Rep. John Connor, D-Lockport, will crack down on discriminatory practices some businesses use to unfairly pay women less than men.

“Many women are not receiving what they’re due for their hard work, and that has to come to an end,” Connor said. “Some employers continue to maintain unequal salary conditions, despite the huge financial impact it can have on the people being discriminated against. This legislation will target the specific behaviors employers engage in to prolong unfair pay practices.”

Connor voted to pass House Bill 834, which prohibits employers from requiring prospective employees submit a salary history during the interview process. Basing wages on an employees’ previous salary instead on their qualifications disadvantages women and others who have historically been paid less. The measure received bipartisan support and was recently signed into law.

Cherita Ellens, CEO of Women Employed, voiced her support for the law.

“We are proud to say that in Illinois, a woman’s salary will now be based on her skills, her experience, and the requirements of the job—and not on her past wages,” Ellens said. “This will go a long way towards eliminating the wage gap, and will also lift up our communities and local economy.”