Hampton hails House passage of pay equity legislation

Simsbury’s State Representative John Hampton applauded the state House of Representatives’ passage of a bill that would strengthen pay equity legislation that has been on the books since 1963.

“The gender wage gap not only affects women, it impacts families. Last week’s passage of House Bill 5386 is a step toward helping to ensure women earn the same wage as their male counterparts. I am proud to have supported this legislation as it will help create a more equitable future for Connecticut,” said Hampton, who co-sponsored the bill.

House Bill 5386, “An Act Concerning Various Pay Equity and Fairness Matters,” passed the state House of Representatives April 19 with bipartisan support in a 142 to 4 vote. The legislation, which would help ensure women earn equal pay for equal work, now heads to the state Senate for further consideration.

Under this bill, employers would be prohibited from asking prospective employees about their previous wages, as evidence shows women disproportionately carry lower salaries from one job to the next.

In Connecticut, women working full-time earn 83-cents for every dollar paid to men. Each year, Connecticut women lose a combined $5.5 billion due to the wage gap.

“This legislation is both business- and family-friendly. Not only will this bill help make sure women earn a salary that is reflective of their skill-set and qualifications, but it will allow businesses to hire and retain a more diverse staff,” said Hampton.