The bill amends section 556 of the Michigan penal code to enhance protections against wage discrimination. It establishes that employers must not discriminate in wage payments based on sex, religion, race, color, national origin, age, height, weight, marital status, or other characteristics protected under the Elliot-Larsen civil rights act. The bill specifies that a violation of this section is considered a misdemeanor, with fines varying based on the number of employees: up to $5,000 for 1-15 employees, up to $10,000 for 16-50 employees, and up to $20,000 for more than 50 employees.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that differences in wage rates based on factors other than the aforementioned characteristics do not constitute a violation of this section. The amendments aim to strengthen the legal framework surrounding wage equality and ensure that all employees are treated fairly in terms of compensation. The act will take effect 90 days after being enacted into law.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 750.556