The bill H.149 aims to expand equal pay protections in Vermont by prohibiting discrimination in wages based on a broader range of protected classes. Specifically, it amends the existing law to include additional categories such as color, religion, ancestry, place of birth, age, and crime victim status alongside the previously protected classes of sex, race, national origin, sexual orientation, and gender identity. This change seeks to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background, receive equal pay for equal work that requires similar skills, effort, and responsibilities.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that employers may still pay different wage rates under certain conditions, such as seniority systems, merit systems, or other bona fide factors, provided that these do not perpetuate wage differentials based on the newly included protected classes. The bill also specifies that it will take effect on July 1, 2025, allowing time for employers and organizations to adjust to the new requirements.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 21-495