Pelosi Statement on the Seventh Anniversary of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act

Statement

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today to mark the seventh anniversary of the enactment of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, which was the first bill signed into law by President Barack Obama on January 29, 2009:

"Seven years ago, our nation took a bold step forward toward achieving equal pay for equal work. With President Obama's signature, the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act restored the rights of women and other workers to challenge unfair pay in court. In this critical law, we reversed a misguided Supreme Court decision that slammed shut the courthouse door on women seeking to fight discrimination. Lilly Ledbetter's victory was a win for women and other workers throughout our nation. Her courageous, persistent advocacy for workplace justice helped secure progress for millions of Americans.

"As we mark this anniversary, let us commit ourselves to ensuring all women receive equal pay for equal work. Today, women on average are still making only 79 cents for every dollar earned by men. That is why we also need to enact the Paycheck Fairness Act. The Paycheck Fairness Act strengthens and closes loopholes in the 53-year-old Equal Pay Act, including finally providing effective remedies to women who are not being paid equal wages for doing equal work.

"The American people demand and deserve an economy that works for everyone -- not just the privileged few. By ensuring equal pay for equal work, providing paid sick leave, expanding access to affordable, high-quality child care, and raising the minimum wage, we can create a better, stronger future for all."

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