Pelosi: Let’s Pass the Paycheck Fairness Act Now

Contact: Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro’s discharge petition requiring the House to consider the Paycheck Fairness Act once a majority of Members of Congress have signed it:

“Today, under the leadership of Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, House Democrats are taking a necessary step to help fulfill a promise our country made to women 50 years ago: equal pay for equal work. If Congress is serious in its efforts to strengthen the middle class, support our workforce, and secure equal rights for every American, we must allow a vote on the Paycheck Fairness Act.

“Women nationwide are currently earning only 77 cents, on average, for every dollar earned by men. That’s a yearly gap of $11,084 between full-time working men and women. The Paycheck Fairness Act helps close this gap by closing loopholes in the Equal Pay Act and providing effective remedies for women who face blatant wage discrimination. Women have already waited decades to benefit from the same economic security afforded to men. The wait must end now.

“’Equal pay for equal work’ is not just a slogan; it is the foundation for the health, growth, and prosperity of our families and our economy. When a woman is paid fairly, our whole nation prospers. Let’s work together to pass the Paycheck Fairness Act now.”

###