Finding a job that one really likes can be a bit of a challenge. When one does and he or she puts everything into it, it can be difficult to learn that one’s efforts are not being fairly compensated. Unfortunately, compensation-related workplace discrimination is a problem in Michigan and elsewhere.
The gender-based equal pay problem has been in the news quite frequently over the last year, primarily from female movie stars claiming to be paid less than their male co-stars. This is not just a problem in Hollywood, though; it stretches into every field of employment. What do the laws say about equal pay, and what can one do it he or she is not being compensation appropriately?
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission says that employees within the same company who do equal work must get equal pay and benefits. It all comes down to job content. Lowering wages in order to equalize pay is not permitted.
Michigan residents who believe that they are the victims of compensation-related workplace discrimination do have the right to take action against their employers. An experienced employment law attorney will be able to review the facts of one’s case and, if appropriate, file legal claims in order to help one seek compensation. Cases such as these can be resolved through out-of-court settlements or through litigation. Filing as soon as possible is considered wise as there is a statute of limitations on filing such claims. According to the EEOC, one has two years to seek relief for unlawful compensation practices, though the statute of limitations extends to three years for willful violations.
Source: eeoc.gov, “Equal Pay and Compensation Discrimination“, Accessed on July 18, 2017