Toledo Reporter

State Senators Kent Smith and Paula Hicks-Hudson recently introduced two bills aimed at addressing the gender wage gap in Ohio. The bills were unveiled during a press conference where they were joined by The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio and the Ohio Federation of Business and Professional Women.

Smith emphasized the importance of fair pay, stating, "As Americans and Ohioans, we believe in a system where you get paid for the work you do." He highlighted the need for policies like an equal pay hotline and a fair paycheck workplace certification program to address the issue, calling the gender pay gap a "manmade" problem that is "100% fixable."

Hicks-Hudson underscored the ongoing struggle for gender equality, saying, "Women have to fight for autonomy of their bodies, and protection from violence against them because of their gender." She expressed optimism that the introduced legislation would help lift women out of poverty and benefit Ohio's economy.

Senate Bill 231, one of the proposed measures, aims to establish an equal pay hotline for Ohio workers to report wage discrimination anonymously. Kelley Griesmer, President and CEO of The Women’s Fund of Central Ohio, praised the bill, emphasizing that pay equity is crucial for strengthening the economy and promoting wealth building.

Senate Bill 232, the second proposed legislation, focuses on creating a program to recognize workplaces that are successful in closing the pay gap between men and women. Patricia Talbot, Legislative Chair of the Ohio BPW, highlighted the importance of acknowledging businesses that prioritize fair pay practices.

Smith expressed disappointment in the lack of bipartisan support for addressing the gender wage gap, stating, "It is shameful that the majority party has not joined Democratic efforts to fix this issue that affects Republican women and Republican daughters, too."

Both Senate bills are currently awaiting committee assignment and hearings as they aim to make strides in achieving pay equity in Ohio's workforce.