MS HB1246

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

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

Creates a legal right for employees to file petitions in circuit court if they believe their employer violated the equal pay provision.

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.

Increases remedies to 300% of reasonable remedies if the employer willfully violated the equal pay provision; effective July 1, 2015.