Requires that any contractor who enters into a contract with a state entity comply with the Louisiana Equal Pay for Women Act. (8/1/18)
Impact
The enactment of SB117 signifies a proactive approach to combating wage inequality in Louisiana. By mandating that contractors adhere to the principles of the Equal Pay for Women Act, the bill fosters a culture of accountability among businesses working with state agencies. Henceforth, contracts will need to include clauses that reinforce this compliance, potentially influencing wage structures even beyond the realm of public employment. The effective date set for the legislation is August 1, 2018, marking a clear commitment to policy changes that advocate for gender parity in the workplace.
Summary
Senate Bill 117 addresses gender wage disparities by requiring compliance with the Louisiana Equal Pay for Women Act for contractors entering into agreements with state entities. The original statute ensures equal pay for state employees regardless of gender, and SB117 extends these protections to private businesses and individuals who have procurement or service contracts with the state of Louisiana. The intention behind this amendment is to promote fairness in compensation practices throughout various sectors that engage with state government, enhancing the prior definition of an employer to include contractors as well.
Sentiment
Reactions to SB117 have been generally favorable among advocates for women's rights and civil liberties, who view the bill as an essential step towards equality in the workplace. Proponents argue that extending equal pay provisions to contractors helps eliminate systemic discrimination in compensation and sets a precedence for accountability in public sector contracting. However, there may be concerns among business owners regarding the impacts of such regulations on their operational costs and contract negotiations.
Contention
One notable point of contention surrounding SB117 is the potential burden on businesses that enter into state contracts. Critics may argue that compliance with additional regulations could dissuade some contractors from engaging with the state, citing issues of higher operational costs and complications in contract fulfillment. Despite this, supporters counter that the long-term benefits of equitable pay lead to a more just and productive workforce, ultimately outweighing the short-term challenges posed by regulatory adherence.
Requires that any contractor who enters into a contract with a public entity comply with the Louisiana Equal Pay for Women Act. (8/1/23) (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Requires that any contractor who enters into a contract with a public entity comply with the Louisiana Equal Pay for Women Act (OR INCREASE LF EX See Note)
Requires any contractor who bids on or enters into a contract with a public entity to comply with the Louisiana Equal Pay for Women Act. (8/1/20) (OR INCREASE LF EX See Note)
Provides that the Louisiana Equal Pay for Women Act be applicable to men, private employers and requires government contractors to verify equal pay practices. (8/1/14) (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Requests that all public entities verify the pay practices of any private entities with whom they contract to ensure compliance with the Louisiana Equal Pay for Women Act
Provides that the Louisiana Equal Pay Act be applicable to men and private employers and requires government contractors to verify equal pay practices. (8/1/18)
Provides that the Louisiana Equal Pay Act be applicable to men and private employers and requires government contractors to verify equal pay practices. (8/1/16)