The proposed bill, known as the "South Carolina State Employee Equal Pay for Equal Work Act," aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding a new article that prohibits gender-based discrimination in compensation for state employees performing the same kind, grade, and quality of work. The bill establishes that all employees, regardless of gender, are entitled to equal pay for equal work and outlines definitions for key terms such as "employee," "employer," and "commission." It also specifies that employers cannot pay different wages based on gender unless justified by seniority, merit, or other bona fide factors unrelated to gender.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions to protect employees from retaliation for exercising their rights under this act, such as discussing wages or filing complaints. It establishes a process for employees to report violations, allowing employers a 60-day period to address any issues before employees can escalate the matter to the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission or pursue civil action. The act also stipulates that any legal action for unpaid wages must be initiated within one year of the employee becoming aware of the violation, with certain suspensions of this period outlined. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and will apply to complaints of wage discrimination occurring after June 30, 2025.