"Since 1963, equal pay has been a rule of law. Yet 35 years later, American women still make less than their male counterparts. Nationally, women are paid 77 cents for every dollar their male counterparts earn. Here in New Hampshire, it's even less, where women make less than 75 cents on the male dollar.
"Over the past few months, I've traveled across our state, talking with countless families about the challenges we face. Our middle class is being squeezed like never before by a sinking economy and a housing crisis. Working families can't afford to fill their cars with gasoline or send their kids to college. According to a new study, the current economic slowdown is affecting women at a disproportionate and alarming rate.
"As a mother, I've always told my daughters there's nothing they can't do because of their gender. Unfortunately, New Hampshire's working wives and mothers still can't get ahead because of barriers established decades ago. New Hampshire needs real leadership in Washington. We need someone who will work every day to put America back on track and ensure that all Americans, regardless of their gender, earn a fair salary.
"Eight years ago, I signed legislation that now allows New Hampshire workers to take action if they are denied equal pay for equal work. This week, the Senate is considering legislation that will allow working women nationwide to enforce their legal rights to equal pay. I urge Congress to take action and pass it. Together, I know we can fulfill the promises we made to our daughters and granddaughters."
