This bill will amend the existing Employment Selection Procedures Act by making it illegal for employers to seek information regarding an applicant's current or past compensation. As a result, the Labor Commission's Division of Antidiscrimination and Labor will gain enforcement powers to investigate violations, allowing individuals to file requests for agency action if they believe their rights have been infringed. This change aims to encourage a more equitable employment landscape in Utah.
Summary
House Bill 202, also known as the Employment Selection Procedures Act Amendments, seeks to enhance fairness in hiring practices by prohibiting employers from inquiring about an applicant's salary history during the recruitment process. This legislative amendment is designed to combat discrimination and ensure that job candidates are assessed based on their qualifications rather than their previous earnings, thereby supporting equal pay initiatives and reducing wage disparity among applicants.
Contention
However, the bill has sparked some debate. Proponents argue that it is a critical step toward eliminating pay discrimination and fostering a culture where pay offers are based on the job's worth rather than previous salary experiences. Conversely, critics express concerns that the prohibition might limit the information available to employers when making informed hiring decisions, thus complicating the hiring process. The balance between ensuring fairness and providing adequate information to employers will be a key point of discussion as the bill moves forward.