It may surprise Maryland readers to learn that a pay disparity still exists between full-time, year-round workers in this state. According to data maintained by the American Association of University Women, female workers earn only about 85 percent of the amount paid to men putting in the same number of hours.
The wage gap hasn’t escaped the attention of federal lawmakers. Recently, House Democrats launched an online campaign, themed around Valentine’s Day. The effort included a Valentine’s Day wish list, comprised of items like pay equity, affordable childcare, and paid family and medical leave.
An attorney that specializes in employment contracts and disputes knows that there are various federal protections available to workers. For example, the Family and Medical Leave Act is a federal law that requires employers to grant unpaid leave to employees that meant the eligibility requirements. Similarly, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits sex discrimination. However, employment laws have not yet found a way to eliminate the wage gap.
An employment litigation attorney knows that a proactive approach to salaries and wages may save employers the hassle of employment disputes later on. For example, salary is one of the material terms typically included in an employment contract. For employees, it may also be a source of relief to know the terms by which promotions or adverse actions may be taken. Yet many employers prefer to address such items in employee handbooks, rather than in employment contracts offered to prospective employees. If disputes arise, the channels through which concerns can be addressed might also be addressed in employee handbooks.
Source: U.S. News & World Report, “Democratic Women Want Equal Pay for Valentine’s Day,” Nikki Schwab