MS HB1218

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-based earnings systems, or any factor other than sex.

Grants employees the right to file a petition in circuit court if they believe their employer violated equal pay requirements.

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 penalties to 300% of reasonable remedies if the employer willfully violated the equal pay provision.