MS HB514

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

Allows wage differentials based on seniority systems, merit systems, production quality or quantity systems, or any factor other than sex.

Creates a right for aggrieved employees to file a petition in circuit court in Mississippi.

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

Increases remedies to 300% of reasonable remedies if the employer willfully violates the equal pay provision.

Effective July 1, 2016.