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ARTICLE · 04 JULY 2018

Massachusetts Equal Pay Act Amendment – Effective Date Nears

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Nearly two years ago, Governor Baker signed a bill amending the Commonwealth's Equal Pay Act (MEPA).

United StatesEmployment and HR
Jonathan Rosenfeld
Jonathan Rosenfeld
Laura Schneider
Laura Schneider
Andrew Stauber
Andrew Stauber
Janice E. DuFresne, SPHR, CCP
Janice E. DuFresne, SPHR, CCP
Author LinkedIn connections

Nearly two years ago, Governor Baker signed a bill amending the Commonwealth's Equal Pay Act (MEPA). On Sunday, July 1, 2018, this new law—which, among other things, imposes more stringent equal pay requirements, bars salary history inquiries, and protects employees' ability to discuss wages—will take effect. This alert highlights some of the critical components of the act and recommends a few best practices for employers covered by the law.

Scope

This law applies to all workers with a primary place of work in Massachusetts, regardless of where the employee lives, and irrespective of the size and location of the employer. According to the Attorney General's guidance, remote employees who report to a Massachusetts worksite and traveling employees whose base of operations is in Massachusetts will be covered by the law.

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