L&I hosts webinars on Equal-Pay Opportunity Act

From the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries:

On June 7, 2018, the Equal-Pay Opportunity Act (EPOA) went into effect, making updates to the Washington State Equal Pay Act of 1943. The EPOA (RCW 49.58) requires employers to provide equal pay and career-advancement opportunities to their employees, regardless of gender.

The EPOA makes it unlawful for employers to

· provide unequal compensation based on gender;

· limit or deny career advancement opportunities based on gender;

· prohibit wage discussions; and

· retaliate or discriminate against employees for exercising protected rights under the law.

In an effort to help the public understand the requirements and protections under the EPOA, the Department of Labor & Industries is hosting a series of introductory webinars.

In this webinar, you will learn about the protections of the law, L&I’s complaint and investigation process, and differences between the state and federal equal-pay laws. The webinar will begin with a 30-minute presentation, followed by 30 minutes for questions and answers.

Information about the webinars, including dates, times, and a link to register, can be found here.

For additional guidance or assistance with technical questions regarding the EPOA, please call or email equal-pay specialist Ellen Saline, (360.902.4597).