PROVIDENCE – Protections for women in the workplace, schools and with insurance companies were among the host of bills enshrined into law by Gov. Daniel J. McKee on Wednesday, according to a press release.
The ceremonial signing of five bills related to women’s health and equity highlights the state’s recent legislative focus on combating discrimination for a variety of groups in different settings.
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Among the wins for equity advocates was a bill intended to plug holes in the state’s existing law on gender equity. The pay equity bill updates the Equal Pay Act of 1963 to ensure employers pay workers comparable wages for similar work, regardless of gender, race, religion, age and other factors, enforceable with fines imposed by the R.I. Department of Labor and Training. It also prevents employers from asking job candidates about salary histories, which advocates say has perpetuated disparities between men’s and women’s pay.
Other legislation signed by McKee on Wednesday prevents health insurers from charging different premiums based on gender; requires public schools to provide free feminine hygiene products; allows political candidates to use campaign funds for child care costs during campaign activities; and allows domestic and sexual violence victims to access direct health insurance statements rather than having them sent to family members who are on their policies.
“I’m proud to support women’s health and equity,” McKee said in a statement. “Today, Rhode Island is closing a number of discriminatory gaps and eliminating a collection of practices that have unfairly impacted women for generations.”
Nancy Lavin is a PBN staff writer. You may reach her at Lavin@PBN.com.
