Pay equality in the United States has made great progress in recent years, yet discrepancies remain significant, emphasizing the importance of further growth. Efforts to close the gender wage gap have achieved some success, thanks to increased transparency, legislative measures, and public awareness.
Fortunately, several states have passed legislation enforcing salary history bans and pay disclosure. These policies are critical not only for promoting a fair and just society, but also for boosting economic growth. Here are 21 states where the gender pay gap is the smallest.
Vermont
Vermont leads the way with the narrowest gender wage gap in the US at 11% (89 cents for every dollar a man earns). Known for its progressive values, Vermont sets an example in the fight for equal pay. The state’s Equal Pay Act forbids wage discrimination based on gender and requires that employees who perform equal work be compensated equally. Vermont also requires companies to provide pay information on request.
New York
Women in New York earn approximately 88 cents for every dollar earned by men. The state’s Equal Pay Law, tightened in recent years, ensures that women are compensated equally for equal labor. New York also imposes strict penalties on employers who violate these laws.
Maryland
Women in Maryland earn about 85 cents per man’s dollar. The state focuses on education and professional development opportunities for women, helping to narrow the pay gap.
California
In California, women earn about 88 cents for every dollar that men earn. California’s Fair Pay Act is among the most extensive equal pay laws in the country. It not only demands equal pay for similar work, but it also protects employees who discuss or disclose their earnings. California’s proactive stance, which includes regular audits and enforcement actions, serves as an example for other states seeking gender wage equality.
Florida
Women in Florida earn roughly 85 cents to a man’s dollar. With a growing economy and varied job market, Florida offers promising opportunities for women.
Nevada
Women in Nevada earn around 87 cents for every dollar men earn. The state’s evolving economic landscape supports women in various industries.
Minnesota
In Minnesota, women earn about 83 cents for every dollar earned by men. Moreover, the state’s dedication to education and healthcare services contributes to its fair economy. The Minnesota Human Rights Act prohibits pay discrimination based on gender and other protected groups, ensuring a level playing field for all employees. The Women’s Economic Security Act (WESA) also includes provisions that promote equal pay for women, such as requiring employers to justify wage disparities and strengthening safeguards for pregnant and nursing staff.
Hawaii
Women in Hawaii earn approximately 82 cents to a man’s dollar. The state’s progressive policies and strong tourism industry contribute to this equity.
Rhode Island
Women in Rhode Island make around 81 cents for every dollar earned by men. And the state’s emphasis on education and innovation contributes to this. Rhode Island prioritizes education through measures that promote STEM education and workforce development programs aimed at educating women for high-paying jobs.
Colorado
Women in Colorado earn about 80 cents to a man’s dollar. The state’s growing tech industry and commitment to work-life balance contribute to this ranking.
Illinois
In Illinois, women earn around 81 cents for each dollar earned by men. Strong labor regulations in the state, as well as assistance for women’s education and job progression, play an important role too. Illinois also helps women through projects such as the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Office of Minority Economic Empowerment, which offers tools and assistance to female entrepreneurs and professionals.
Massachusetts
Women in Massachusetts earn approximately 84 cents to a man’s dollar. The state’s focus on education, healthcare, and progressive policies drives this fairness.
Washington
Women in Washington earn around 81 cents for every dollar men earn, which is furthered by the state’s technology-driven economy and robust labor laws. Washington’s Equal Pay and Opportunities Act requires equal compensation for equal labor and forbids gender-based wage discrimination. Employers are also required to provide wage information to job candidates and workers upon request. Also, retaliation against employees who discuss or question their earnings is banned.
Oregon
Women in Oregon earn approximately 86 cents per man’s dollar, thanks to the state’s commitment to social justice and sustainable practices.
New Jersey
In New Jersey, women earn around 83 cents for every dollar earned by men. The Diane B. Allen Equal Pay Act increases wage discrimination safeguards and requires employees to be paid equally for substantially similar work. The measure also extends the statute of limitations for wage discrimination lawsuits and has severe penalties for violators.
Connecticut
In Connecticut, women earn about 84 cents for every dollar that men earn. And the state’s focus on finance, education, and healthcare industries supports this. Connecticut’s Pay Equity Law mandates that employees performing comparable work receive equal pay, regardless of gender. The regulation also prevents employers from asking about pay history during the employment process.
Pennsylvania
Women in Pennsylvania earn about 82 cents to a man’s dollar. The state’s emphasis on education and industrial innovation contributes to this ranking.
Arizona
Women in Arizona earn approximately 86 cents for every dollar men earn. The state’s growing tech sector and focus on education help narrow the gap.
Virginia
Women in Virginia earn around 80 cents to a man’s dollar. Although it lacks some of the more stringent laws found in other states, Virginia supports gender equity through initiatives like the Virginia Council on Women, which promotes women’s education and career development in STEM fields.
Georgia
Women in Georgia earn about 81 cents for every dollar men earn. This is down to the state’s diverse economy and strong emphasis on education. While Georgia doesn’t have specific state-level pay equity laws, it addresses wage discrimination through federal laws such as the Equal Pay Act and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.
Texas
In Texas, women make about 80 cents to a man’s dollar. The state’s strong job market and emphasis on education and healthcare services contribute to this fairness. The Texas Workforce Commission also offers programs to help women develop their careers and reduce wage disparities.
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