MS SB2453

Prohibits employers from paying employees less than employees of a different gender for comparable work requiring substantially similar skill, effort, and responsibility under similar working conditions

Allows wage variations based on seniority systems, merit systems, production/sales-based pay, geographic location, education/training/experience, or regular travel requirements

Enables aggrieved employees to file suit in circuit court within 3 years, with remedies including attorney's fees, back pay, and 100% of unpaid wage difference (or 300% for willful violations)

Bans employers from prohibiting employees from discussing wages, seeking salary history from job applicants, or retaliating against employees who file complaints or discuss pay

Protects seniority status for employees on pregnancy-related or family/medical leave and prohibits employers from lowering any employee's wages to achieve compliance