NC S537

Prohibits employers from discriminating in payment of wages based on employee gender and requires equal pay for comparable work.

Allows wage variations for seniority systems, merit systems, production-based pay, geographic location, relevant education/training/experience, and necessary job travel.

Makes it unlawful for employers to prohibit wage discussions, screen applicants by salary history, seek prior wage information, or retaliate against employees who discuss wages or file complaints.

Employers cannot reduce any employee's pay to comply with the law and must pay unpaid wages plus reasonable attorney fees to affected employees; violations may be sued within three years.

Requires employers to post notices in workplaces notifying employees of their rights under this act; becomes effective January 1, 2018.