News release from the Morris for Senate campaign:
Morris takes aim at gender pay discrimination, domestic violence
(October 23, 2014) – On Thursday, Candidate for State Senate Jack Morris in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month laid out a proposal to address domestic violence and help eliminate wage discrimination. In a press conference, Morris noted the importance of closing Indiana’s pay gap, the nation’s sixth largest; and emphasized how addressing the wage gap also helps protect women against domestic violence.
“If we don’t take action, my granddaughters will grow up in a state where Hoosier women continue to earn hundreds of thousands of dollars less over their careers compared to their male counterparts for the same work,” said Morris. “It’s time to step up for women now so our daughters and granddaughters don’t suffer this discrimination. This proposal is a step toward ensuring women earn equal pay for equal work.”
Hoosier women earn 75 cents for every dollar men make doing comparable work. Morris’ initiative would establish the Equal Pay Task Force to make it easier for women to report wage discrimination and recoup lost wages. Morris’ Task Force would be housed in the Indiana Civil Rights Commission and investigate any complaints received specifically from women facing wage discrimination.
“Politicians have delayed action on this long enough,” said Morris. “It’s morally wrong to pay women less for the same work. This is a proactive step toward closing the pay gap and putting more money in the pockets of working families.”
Morris also emphasized that fair pay for equal work helps women avoid becoming victims of domestic violence.
As part of a comprehensive plan to address domestic violence and promote healthy families also intends to work with state budget leaders to ensure organizations supporting victims of domestic abuse have the resources necessary to deliver vital services.
State budget officials came under fire in September after several Indiana domestic violence advocacy groups protested that funding was being withheld or reverted.
Morris intends to file legislation creating the Equal Pay Task Force along with initiatives to strengthen skills training, boost local infrastructure spending, grow small businesses and eliminate the textbook tax.
Jack Morris is the Democratic candidate for State Senate District 15. Morris is a lifelong resident of Fort Wayne, a practicing attorney and advocate for strong schools.
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