Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB905

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/24
• Refer: 1/4/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Providing wage information in job listings, granting rule-making authority, and providing a penalty.

Impact

The passage of AB905 is expected to significantly affect state labor laws by mandating compliance from employers with regard to posting wage information. All employers who fail to provide the required information will face financial penalties ranging from $500 to $10,000 for each violation. This legislative change is intended to reduce wage secrecy, thereby addressing pay disparities and promoting fair compensation practices across various sectors. Employers will also need to retain records of the job postings for at least two years, allowing regulatory bodies to review compliance.

Summary

Assembly Bill 905 introduces new requirements for employers regarding the disclosure of wage information in job listings for vacancies or employment opportunities. Under this bill, employers must include the hourly wages or salary, or a salary range, along with descriptions of benefits and other compensation in their job postings. This initiative aims to enhance wage transparency in the labor market, enabling potential employees to make informed decisions about job opportunities based on salary information provided upfront.

Contention

The most notable contention surrounding AB905 relates to the enforcement and impact of wage transparency on businesses, particularly smaller companies that may struggle with the additional administrative burden. Opponents of the bill argue that while promoting transparency is essential, these requirements could discourage employers from posting job openings due to the fear of penalties and increased workloads. Proponents, however, counter that the advantages of fair wage practices and equality in the workplace far outweigh the concerns, arguing that access to wage information can empower workers and improve overall job satisfaction.