St. Louis Public Radio News
12:43 pm
Wed May 7, 2003

IL Lawmakers Approve Bill Requiring Equal Pay

Springfield, IL – Legislation promising Illinois women equal
pay for equal work was sent to the governor's desk today.

The bill would make it illegal for companies to pay their workers different amounts solely because of gender. It would not require the same pay for different but similar jobs.

Supporters hope it will help close the pay gap between men and women. Women now make about 76 cents for every dollar earned by

The bill passed 112-to-three in the Illinois House. The Senate approved it earlier, so it now goes to Governor Rod Blagojevich. He backs the idea.

Critics say the bill largely duplicates federal law. They also say it would make it harder for Illinois businesses to compete nationally.

The measure applies to companies with four or more employees.