Rep. Michaud Statement on 51st Anniversary of Equal Pay Act

Press Release

The Equal Pay Act was signed into law 51 years ago today by President John F. Kennedy. U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud issued the following statement in commemoration:

"I was proud to pass legislation instituting Equal Pay Day in Maine more than a decade today. On today's anniversary of the signing of the Equal Pay Act, we are reminded that while we have made some progress, we still need to do more so that women are receiving equal pay as men.

"In Maine, women earn 21 percent less than men. That disparity in pay is wrong, and I believe we have an obligation to continue advocating for common-sense changes until we can make them a reality. Both women and men serve as breadwinners for families. They share the same financial burdens and obligations. This type of inequality is unacceptable in 2014. It's time to take action so that, 51 years later, the full spirit of the Equal Pay Act can be recognized."

Rep. Michaud is a co-sponsor of the Paycheck Fairness Act and has also signed a discharge petition that would require House leadership to bring the bill directly before the House for a vote. Michaud also supported passage of the landmark Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act.

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