Women's Economic Security Act Summary

• Requires state contractors with 40+ full-time employees to obtain equal pay certificates confirming compliance with equal pay laws, valid for four years, costing $150 filing fee.

• Expands parental leave from 6 to 12 weeks for biological/adoptive parents and allows female employees prenatal care and pregnancy-related leave; requires reasonable pregnancy accommodations unless undue hardship.

• Establishes grant programs totaling $1.25 million for women entering high-wage, nontraditional occupations in skilled trades and STEM fields, with at least 50% of funds targeting low-income women.

• Expands unemployment insurance eligibility for workers who quit due to domestic abuse, sexual assault, or stalking, and modifies sick leave to cover care for extended family members and provides safety leave for abuse victims.

• Protects wage disclosure by prohibiting employers from restricting employee discussion of wages or taking adverse action against those disclosing compensation; requires employer handbooks to notify employees of these rights.