The Obama administration is calling upon Congress to pass the new Paycheck Fairness Act, which will require businesses to inform the government about the payment of their employees as it relates to their gender, race, and national origin.  This Act is an amendment to the 1964 Civil Rights Act and will aid the government in their efforts to end pay discrimination.  The Paycheck Fairness Act was first introduced January 2009 by then Senator Hillary Clinton and Rep. Rosa DeLauro.  The Act was to strengthen the Equal Pay Act of 1963 by expanding damages under the Equal Pay Act.  President Obama stated that employment discrimination is harmful to American families, as well as the economy.  The Paycheck Fairness, if passed, will put more responsibility on corporations to provide fair pay to their employees, regardless of gender.  CNS News 

According to census statistics, U.S. women earned only 77 cents on the male dollar.  African-American women earn only 68% and Latinas earn a mere 58% of their male counter parts.  The median weekly earnings of female full-time workers were $657, compared with male median weekly earnings of $819. Based on these data, the ratio of women’s to men’s median weekly earnings was 80.2.  Institute for Women’s Policy Research.  As the institution of the “Traditional Family” slowly disappears, and more women become the bread winners of their family, the necessity of gender equality becomes more evident.  Gaining the support from the President gives great hope to women in the workplace.

Leeds Morelli & Brown, PC is a nationally recognized firm in the area of employment law.  Our firm has had considerable success in matters of employment discrimination throughout Long Island and the New York City area.  For more information, contact Leeds, Morelli and Brown, PC at 1-800-585-4658 for a free consultation.