In an interview with the Phoenix Business Journal, Jill Chasson discussed how a recent ruling by the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals will affect the way Arizona employers determine compensation.

The ruling, issued under the federal Equal Pay Act, states that employers cannot rely on an employee’s salary history to justify a pay difference between men and women who perform equal work. Jill noted that the court’s decision is consistent with a recent trend of states (including California and Oregon) and cities (such as San Francisco) enacting new laws intended to keep male and female employees at the same company on a level playing field.

Jill recommended that Arizona employers avoid asking about prior salary during the hiring process, and that they consider performing an audit to ensure their policies and practices comply with the new guidelines.

Jill specializes in employment law, providing practical advice to employers regarding compliance with the many federal and state laws that govern the workplace and regularly providing training for supervisors and human resource professionals. When disputes arise, Jill represents employers before administrative agencies, in arbitration proceedings, and in litigation in federal and state courts regarding a variety of employment-related claims.

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