Senate Approves Danielson, Buckner Bill to Strengthen Equal Pay for Equal Work Act
SB23-105 would further prevent wage discrimination in Colorado
DENVER, CO – The Senate today approved legislation sponsored by Senators Jessie Danielson, D-Wheat Ridge, and Janet Buckner, D-Aurora, that would strengthen Colorado’s Equal Pay for Equal Work Act and ensure all Colorado workers are compensated equally for their labor.
SB23-105 strengthens that law by requiring the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) to accept and mediate complaints, provide legal resources concerning alleged wage inequality, and to promulgate rules to further prevent wage discrimination. Previously the department was only authorized to do so; this bill provides a clearer directive and the resources and staffing to back it up.
“Nobody should be paid less than their peers for doing the same work - but for too many women in Colorado that is still the case,” Danielson said. “We fought to address this inequity through the Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, and this bill will build on that success. SB 105 is a concrete step we can take, right now, to address the wage gap between men and women, and I am excited to see this bill move forward.”
“The Equal Pay for Equal Work Act has made great strides toward ensuring that every Coloradan is paid equally for their labor,” Buckner said. “But unfortunately we are still seeing women earn less than men for doing the exact same job. It’s unacceptable, and it’s what this bill seeks to address. By requiring the state to investigate and take action when wage discrimination complaints are filed, we can better ensure that every Colorado worker receives the equal pay they’re entitled to.”
Additionally, SB23-105 requires CDLE to investigate complaints or other leads concerning wage inequality, and to address the situation if the complaint is found to be valid. The bill also requires employers to follow specific guidelines for job postings.
SB23-105 now moves to the House for further consideration. Track the bill’s progress HERE.