MS HB169

Prohibits employers from paying different wages to employees in jobs dominated by one sex, race, or national origin compared to equivalent jobs dominated by another sex, race, or national origin in the same establishment.

Allows wage rate differentials based on seniority systems, merit systems, or systems measuring earnings by quantity or quality of production.

Requires employers to raise wages to comply with equal pay requirements rather than reducing wages, and prohibits labor organizations from causing employers to discriminate.

Protects employees from retaliation for opposing unlawful pay practices, participating in investigations, or discussing wages with coworkers.

Mandates employers preserve records documenting wage-setting methods and calculations for at least 7 years, with court costs including expert fees available to prevailing plaintiffs.