MS HB1149

Prohibits employers from paying employees of one sex less than employees of the opposite sex for equal work requiring equal skill, effort, and responsibility under similar working conditions.

Allows wage differentials based on seniority systems, merit systems, production-based earnings measures, or factors other than sex.

Permits aggrieved employees to file petitions in circuit court to challenge wage violations.

Requires employers found in violation to pay reasonable remedies including attorney's fees, prejudgment interest, back pay, liquidated damages, and 100% of unpaid wage differences.

Provides treble damages (300% of reasonable remedies) if an employer is found to have willfully violated the equal pay provision.