Gender-based wage discrimination is illegal under federal and New Jersey law, including the Equal Pay Act of 1963, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and New Jersey’s Diane B. Allen Equal Pay Act. Despite these protections, employees in Weymouth Township, NJ, and throughout the state may still experience unequal pay when employers compensate workers differently because of gender or another protected characteristic.
The gender wage gap has narrowed over time, but pay disparities continue to affect workers across industries. Women may earn less than men performing comparable work, face barriers to advancement, or encounter workplace practices that limit their earning potential. These disparities are not based on ability or performance. They often result from outdated workplace assumptions about gender roles, caregiving responsibilities, or career advancement.
Pay discrimination can also affect promotions and leadership opportunities. Women may be required to gain more experience than similarly qualified male employees before receiving promotions or leadership roles. While family responsibilities and maternity leave may contribute to career interruptions, employers cannot use those factors as a basis for unequal compensation or advancement decisions.
The federal Equal Pay Act requires employers to provide equal pay for jobs that involve substantially similar skill, effort, and responsibility. Employees who believe they have been subjected to gender-based pay discrimination may pursue legal action in federal or state court without first filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Employers also cannot reduce another employee’s wages to correct a pay disparity; they must increase compensation where required by law.
New Jersey’s Diane B. Allen Equal Pay Act provides additional protections for employees. The law prohibits employers from paying employees in protected classes less than other employees performing substantially similar work. It extends the statute of limitations for certain claims, allows for enhanced damages when violations occur, and protects employees who discuss compensation or workplace pay practices from retaliation.
Wage discrimination often develops from improper assumptions about an employee’s value, availability, or career goals. When those assumptions influence compensation decisions, employers may violate state and federal equal pay laws.
Castronovo & McKinney, LLC represents employees in Weymouth Township who believe they have experienced wage discrimination. Our employment attorneys understand the laws governing equal pay claims and can help evaluate whether your employer’s pay practices violated your rights. If you were paid less because of gender or another protected characteristic, contact our firm to discuss your legal options and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to recover.
