Canty Pushes for Pay Transparency to Help Close Gender Wage Gap

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — In recognition of International Women’s Day, state Rep. Mary Beth Canty, D-Arlington Heights, passed a measure out of a House committee Wednesday to require pay transparency in an effort to help close the gender wage gap.

“A lack of wage transparency keeps women, particularly women of color, at a disadvantage when it comes to salary negotiations, as these populations are most likely to receive lowball offers,” Canty said. “Knowledge is power, and providing information about pay schedules helps job applicants advocate for the compensation they deserve, reducing the gender wage gap.”

Canty’s House Bill 3129 would require employers with 15 or more employees to include a pay scale within the job postings for open positions, regardless of whether the employer uses a third party for job postings. Research by the National Women’s Law Center points to a reduction in gender pay gaps and increased wages for women after states and employers have enacted pay transparency policies.

“When job applicants are clearly informed about the type of compensation a particular job provides, they can make more educated decisions as they negotiate their employment offer. Though this can help women negotiate higher wages, it also benefits people of all genders by empowering them to make more informed decisions,” Canty said. “This bill reveals a truth that is often ignored — when we empower women, everyone benefits.”

House Bill 3129 passed the Labor & Commerce committee, and now heads to the House floor for consideration.