MS HB1301

Requires businesses with 20+ full-time employees to obtain an equal pay certificate from the Department of Finance and Administration before executing state contracts exceeding $100,000.00, with certificates valid for four years.

Businesses must submit a compliance statement signed by the board chairperson or CEO certifying compliance with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and that female employee average compensation is not consistently below male employee average compensation within major job categories.

Department of Finance and Administration must issue or reject certificates within 15 days; may suspend or revoke certificates if businesses fail to make good-faith efforts to comply with equal pay laws or have multiple violations.

State Auditor may audit contractor compliance and request detailed compensation data by gender and job category; state may void contracts awarded to non-compliant businesses after notifying the contracting entity.

Businesses may request administrative hearings within 20 days of suspension, revocation, or contract termination notices; Department must provide technical assistance and submit annual reports to Governor and Legislature beginning January 31, 2019.