Congressman Hoyer Recognizes 50th Anniversary of Equal Pay Act, Calls for Passage of Paycheck Fairness Act

Statement

Today, marks the 50th anniversary of the Equal Pay Act, which President Kennedy signed into law to establish the principle of equal pay for equal work for women in the workplace. Over the past 50 years, our nation has made significant progress, but women still face an unjust pay gap. On average, women in the U.S. experience a pay gap of 23 percent, earning around 77 cents on the dollar compared to men. The pay gap is smaller in Maryland's Fifth District, with women earning 90 cents on the dollar compared to men. However, we must do more to ensure equal compensation for women in Maryland and around the country, especially at a time when families increasingly rely on women's wages for their everyday needs.

I'm a proud co-sponsor of the Paycheck Fairness Act, a bill that would update and strengthen the Equal Pay Act by providing better legal remedies for people who have experienced pay discrimination. As we recognize the 50th anniversary of the Equal Pay Act, there's no better time to consider the Paycheck Fairness Act. I encourage both parties to work together to enact this legislation, and close the remaining pay gap.

As always, thank you for allowing me to share this update with you, and please continue to share your concerns and insights with me by contacting my office or connecting with me on Facebook, Twitter, or YouTube.

With warmest regards, I am

Sincerely yours,

Steny H. Hoyer

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