HELENA, Mont. (NMB) – According to the most recent stats from the U.S. Census Bureau, Montana women earn 73 percent of what men earn. Democratic Representative Laurie Bishop from Livingston says she wants to help close that gap.
“And that is a complicated and a multifaceted task. But we are driven by data. Data shows that some of the best strategies that we can use not only benefit women, but they can also benefit the workforce in general. This is certainly the case for paycheck transparency.”
Tim Pierce with the UM Legislative News Service reports, Bishop is sponsoring House Bill 547, which would prevent employers from penalizing employees who discuss wages and benefits.
Bishop says employees are being able to self-enforce pay disparities would help close the pay gap and build healthier work environments.
“Employers that are using transparency practices actually have more harmony and employees are more motivated.”
The bill had three supporters when it was heard before the House Business and Labor Committee Friday. CEO of the Montana Chamber of Commerce Cary Hegreberg, the bill’s only opponent, says employees already talk about their wages and legislation isn’t necessary.
“There’s always going to be that kind of chatter in the workplace. But can we actually legislate how employees can or cannot have discussions about their compensation.”
The Business and Labor Committee did not immediately vote on the bill.
