HB 5625 Summary

• Establishes a "Fair Paycheck Workplace Certificate Act" allowing employers to obtain a certificate from the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity by demonstrating less than 5% difference in average gross compensation between employees with different protected characteristics (religion, race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, etc.).

• Requires employers applying for the certificate to submit payroll records showing gross compensation paid to each employee during the preceding calendar year, total employee count, and employee protected attributes or characteristics if known.

• Director must issue or reject certificate applications within 15 days; initial certificates expire after 6 months and renewal certificates expire after 1 year.

• Prohibits employers from claiming to possess a certificate unless they hold an unexpired one, with violations subject to civil fines of up to $1,000 enforced by county prosecutors or the attorney general.

• Director must establish and maintain a public database of certified employers showing their name, address, and certificate status; director shall promulgate rules to implement the act including application procedures and fees capped at the cost of administration.