Louisiana Senate Bill SCR58

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/11/16
• Passed: 4/12/16
• Engrossed: 4/12/16

Caption

Recognizes Tuesday, April 12, 2016, as Equal Pay Day in the state of Louisiana.

Impact

The resolution draws attention to statistical data showing that women in Louisiana earned an average of only 78% of what their male counterparts made in 2013, a statistic that has shown minimal improvement over the years. Notably, in 2014, female full-time workers earned an average of $31,586, which was a decline from previous years, securing the state a rank as one of the lowest in the nation regarding women's earnings. This resolution is a call to action for policy implementations that could help alleviate these disparities, potentially leading to significant changes in laws governing fair pay in the state.

Summary

SCR58 is a resolution recognizing April 12, 2016, as Equal Pay Day in Louisiana. The resolution serves as a commemoration of the struggles women have faced in achieving equal pay for equal work over the decades since the Equal Pay Act was passed. The bill highlights significant wage disparities between men and women, especially among minority women, as well as the ongoing challenges that many families face due to these disparities. It emphasizes the need for policy changes aimed at addressing and eliminating unequal pay practices in the state.

Sentiment

The general sentiment regarding SCR58 has been positive among supporters who view it as an essential step towards advocating for women's rights and addressing systemic issues in wage inequality. Support from groups like the Louisiana Legislative Women's Caucus and other women’s organizations underscores a united front in promoting fair pay. However, there may be opposition from entities wary about the implications of such recognitions potentially leading to stricter regulations and oversight in employment practices.

Contention

While SCR58 itself does not impose legislative requirements, it showcases the ongoing discourse about women's rights in the workplace and the broader context of wage disparities. The resolution aligns with the findings of the Louisiana Fair Pay Task Force, which called for thoughtful consideration and possible policy changes. The contention mainly lies in how effectively such recognitions can translate into concrete actions—ensuring that the legislative process translates awareness into practical resolutions that lead to actual reform and equitable pay for women.