MI SB0489

Revises Michigan Penal Code Section 556 to replace gender-specific language with gender-neutral terminology regarding wage discrimination prohibitions.

Changes the offense from applying only to employers with both male and female employees to applying to all employers that discriminate in wage payment between individuals of different genders who are similarly employed.

Establishes misdemeanor penalties of up to 90 days imprisonment or fines based on employer size: $5,000 for 1-15 employees, $10,000 for 16-50 employees, and $15,000 for more than 50 employees.

Increases penalties for third or subsequent violations to $15,000, $20,000, and $25,000 respectively based on the same employee size categories.

Allows wage differences based on factors other than gender and permits concurrent prosecution under other applicable laws.