Kenney Signs Nation's First Wage Law Barring Employers From Asking About Previous Pay

Philly employers will soon no longer be allowed to ask potential workers about previous wages, as Mayor Jim Kenney signed a wage equity bill into law earlier this week.

According to Philly.com, Kenney signed the Wage Equity Law into effect Monday after it was mired in controversy and its legality questioned.

The law is intended to help close the wage gap found between men and women, the outlet reports.

As of May 23, it is illegal for employers in the city to ask about previous compensation. The law also bars employers from punishing potential employee not disclosing their previous wages.

Philly.com reports some entities, such as Comcast and the city's Chamber of Commerce, were critical of the bill, questioning its legality and effectiveness at bridging the gender wage gap.

Job applicants who believe the Wage Equity Law has been violated can file complaints with the Commission on Human Relations. Employers who violate the law face fines and other penalties, Philly.com reports.

Image via Jim Kenney Facebook