H.Con.Res.21 - Recognizing the significance of equal pay and the disparity between wages paid to men and women. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.Con.Res.21 is a concurrent resolution introduced in the House of Representatives, recognizing the significance of equal pay and the disparity between wages paid to men and women. It highlights the persistent wage gap, citing statistics on the earnings of women compared to men across various racial and ethnic groups. The resolution also acknowledges the impact of this disparity on families, retirement savings, and student loan debt.
The resolution aims to reaffirm Congress's commitment to supporting equal pay and narrowing the gender wage gap. It references existing legislation such as the Fair Labor Standards Act and the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibit discrimination in compensation based on sex, race, color, religion, or national origin.
The resolution also points out the various 'Equal Pay Days' that mark how far into the year women of different demographics must work to earn what men earned in the previous year.
Expected Effects
The resolution itself does not enact any new laws or policies. Its primary effect is to raise awareness and signal Congressional support for addressing the gender wage gap.
It could potentially lead to further legislative action aimed at strengthening equal pay laws or promoting policies that support women in the workforce. The resolution serves as a symbolic gesture, highlighting the issue and encouraging further discussion and action.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Awareness: Raises public awareness of the gender wage gap and its impact.
- Political Signal: Sends a signal of Congressional support for equal pay initiatives.
- Potential for Future Legislation: Could pave the way for future legislation aimed at addressing the wage gap.
- Economic Security: Promotes the idea that equal pay strengthens the economic security of families.
- Social Justice: Reinforces the principle of equal pay for equal work as a matter of social justice.
Potential Disadvantages
- Lack of Enforcement Mechanism: The resolution itself does not have any enforcement mechanism to ensure equal pay.
- Limited Direct Impact: It does not directly change existing laws or policies.
- Potential for Political Polarization: The issue of equal pay can be politically divisive, leading to partisan debates.
- Symbolic vs. Substantive Action: Critics may argue that it is merely a symbolic gesture without concrete action.
- Potential for Unintended Consequences: Some proposed solutions to the wage gap could have unintended negative consequences for businesses or the economy.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the general principles of equality and non-discrimination, which are implicit in several constitutional amendments, including the 14th Amendment's Equal Protection Clause. While the Constitution does not explicitly guarantee equal pay for equal work, the resolution's goals are consistent with the broader constitutional values of fairness and justice. The Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) provides a basis for federal laws addressing wage disparities that affect interstate commerce. The resolution itself does not violate any specific provision of the Constitution, as it is a non-binding expression of Congressional intent.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).