Assemblywoman Valerie Vainieri Huttle (D-Bergen) on Tuesday applauded the action taken by Gov. Phil Murphy to begin to bridge the gender pay gap in New Jersey – his first official act since taking office this afternoon.
“It’s clear that this is a new day and a new direction for New Jersey. It’s even clearer that Gov. Murphy is a man of his word.
“The gender pay divide is something we have been trying to bridge for years in New Jersey, with measured success. Now that we have an active partner in the Governor’s Office, women can expect to not only be seen, but to be heard and supported.
“For too long, women in our state, especially African American and Latina women, have been held back by a system that perpetuates the wage gap. By eliminating one of the barriers that has historically kept women’s wages depressed, more women will hopefully begin experiencing pay equity for the first time in their lives. And when women’s pay goes up, the quality of life for children and families throughout this state will benefit as a result.
“This is a great first step on Gov. Murphy’s first day,” said Vainieri Huttle.