[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 19 (Wednesday, February 3, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E133]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              THE WAGE GAP

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                        HON. MICHAEL R. McNULTY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 3, 1999

  Mr. McNULTY. Mr. Speaker, I call upon this Congress to address a 
major concern of single mothers, working women and working families. 
The wage gap in America between men and women has been overlooked for 
far too long.
  While women in America have made great strides in the workplace, on 
average, they earn only 75 cents to a man's dollar.
  This issue goes beyond simply ensuring what is equal and right, and 
has long-lasting economic impacts on our society. While more and more 
women have become the primary source of family income, the total amount 
of wages women lost last year due to pay inequity was over $130 
billion.
  Single mothers and working families realize the entire family would 
be better off if women were being paid what they are worth and have 
rightly earned.
  This Congress can continue the commitment to equality by removing the 
economic barriers which hinder too many women and their families.
  That is why I have decided to co-sponsor the ``Paycheck Fairness 
Act'', sponsored by Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro. I urge all members of 
the Congress, and all my fellow Americans to recognize and address this 
very serious issue.

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