* Context from Hannah…
* From the governor’s office…
Bill No.: HB 4163
An Act Concerning Employment
Action: Amendatory Veto
Note: Veto Message Below
To the Honorable Members of
The Illinois House of Representatives,
100th General Assembly:
Today, I return House Bill 4163 with specific recommendations for change.
This legislation would prohibit employers from inquiring about previous salary and compensation of prospective employees.
House Bill 4163 substantially resembles House Bill 2462, which I vetoed in August 2017 with the same recommendations I make today. Since that time, the gender wage gap has remained. My position has not changed – I am committed to eliminating the gender wage gap and I strongly support wage equality. I noted in my prior veto message that Massachusetts already has established a best-in-the-country approach to the issue of employers inquiring about salary history. I recommended that Illinois model its legal regime on Massachusetts’ model. Unfortunately, legislators again refused to push forward a bipartisan approach that properly balanced the interests of the business community.
Therefore, pursuant to Section 9(e) of Article IV of the Illinois Constitution of 1970, I hereby return House Bill 4163, entitled “AN ACT concerning employment,” with the following recommendations for change:
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The bill passed the House 87-24, but only received 31 Senate votes.
* From its Senate sponsor…
State Senator Cristina Castro (D – Elgin) issued the following statement today after Gov. Rauner vetoed a bill she sponsored concerning the gender wage gap in Illinois and the protection of middle class working women:
“I’m frustrated by this veto, but it certainly doesn’t surprise me. The governor has never been a friend of the working class or of women, so a veto of a bill meant to offer protections to working class women definitely fits his style.”
…Adding… Press release…
“It is long past time women receive equal pay for equal work, but in 2018, Illinois has a governor who disagrees with that basic statement of equality,” said JB Pritzker. “By amendatory vetoing this critical piece of legislation that would help fight wage inequality in this state, Rauner has yet again proven he has no interest in standing with Illinois women. We must be steadfast in our advocacy for gender equality, not play politics with basic rights. I urge the Illinois House and Senate to move our state forward and override Bruce Rauner’s shameful veto.”
