Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that amends equal pay protections, effective August 1, 2015.

Highlights:

• Requires an employer to compensate all employees equally for work that is the same in kind and quality (Sec. 1). 

• Specifies that pay discrimination is prohibited regardless of whether the differential in pay is intentional or unintentional (Sec. 1). 

• Expands the definition of “employer” to include a unit of local government or political subdivision, individual, business, or entity for whom 50 or more full-time equivalent individuals are employed (Sec. 1). 

• Authorizes an individual who has filed a complaint with the Louisiana Commission on Human Rights against an employer for discriminatory differential in pay to institute a civil suit in a district court in the following circumstances (Sec. 1):
• The Commission is unable to resolve or mediate the dispute, or fails to render a decision regarding the dispute within 180 days from the filing of the complaint; or
• The Commission issues a finding of no discrimination on the part of the employer.

• Authorizes the court to award an individual additional damages in the amount of any unpaid wages, and order reinstatement of employment, promotion, or compensation for lost benefits (Sec. 1). 

Full Bill Text