Virginia House Bill HB2023

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/23
• Refer: 1/10/23

Caption

Wage or salary history inquiries prohibited; civil penalty.

Impact

The bill amends the Code of Virginia by adding a new section that lays out specific prohibitions against wage history inquiries. Employers are not allowed to consider a candidate's previous salary in hiring decisions and must provide salary ranges for positions when applicants request this information, thus enhancing transparency. Violations of this bill can result in statutory damages ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, reflecting a strong legislative stance against wage discrimination. This shift could significantly impact employer recruitment practices and the overall labor market dynamics in Virginia.

Summary

House Bill 2023 introduces significant changes to employment practices by prohibiting employers from inquiring about the wage or salary history of prospective employees. This bill aims to address potential wage discrimination by ensuring that salary offers are not based on a candidate's previous earnings. By implementing measures that prevent wage history inquiries, the legislation seeks to promote fair pay practices and enable a level playing field for all job applicants, regardless of their past compensation experiences.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB2023 highlights contrasting views on its implications for employers and employees. Supporters of the bill, including advocacy groups for workers’ rights, argue that it is a necessary step for addressing systemic wage inequalities and promoting gender pay equity. Conversely, opponents caution that such regulations might impose additional burdens on employers, particularly small businesses, who will have to adapt their hiring practices swiftly to comply with the new law. The bill's implementation raises concerns about the balance between protecting job seekers and maintaining employer autonomy in salary negotiations.