A bill to allow certain employers to obtain a fair paycheck workplace certificate; to provide for the powers and duties of certain state governmental officers and entities; to require the promulgation of rules; and to prohibit employers that do not possess a fair paycheck workplace certificate from claiming to possess a fair paycheck workplace certificate; and to prescribe civil sanctions.
The legislation establishes a framework for employers to obtain a "fair paycheck workplace certificate," which aims to ensure equitable compensation practices. Employers seeking this certification must submit an application, including a fee, to the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. The application must detail the employer's name, address, number of employees, payroll records, and, if known, the protected attributes or characteristics of each employee. The director of the department will issue the certificate if the application is complete and demonstrates that there is less than a 5% difference in average gross compensation among employees with different protected attributes or characteristics. The initial certificate is valid for six months, with subsequent renewals lasting one year. Employers are prohibited from claiming to possess the certificate unless it is current, with violations subject to a civil fine of up to $1,000. The director is also tasked with maintaining a publicly accessible database of certified employers. The legislation mandates the promulgation of rules to implement its provisions, including the application process and fee structure, in accordance with the administrative procedures act of 1969.
Co-sponsored by Reps.
Referred to the Committee on Labor
Reported without amendment