Mussman-Backed Measure to Ensure Equal Pay Now Law

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. – Legislation supported by state Rep. Michelle Mussman, D-Schaumburg, to help secure equal pay for women and people of color was recently signed into law by the governor.

“Even in 2019, women still earn less than 80 cents for every dollar earned by their male peers, and this gap in pay is even larger for women of color,” Mussman said. “Women deserve equal pay for equal work, and it is critical that we implement policies that work to close the wage gap.”

The Mussman-backed House Bill 834 updates the Equal Pay Act by prohibiting 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 throughout their careers. Gov. J.B. Pritzker recently signed the bill into law.

“Because of the current pay gap, requiring a female or minority job applicant to disclose their salary history can perpetuate inequality,” Mussman said. “This legislation will prohibit employers from using such discriminatory practices and help ensure equal pay for all.”