Maryland Wage Range Transparency Act: What Employers Need to Know and Do Now
By Luchansky Law
Maryland’s Wage Range Transparency Act took effect on October 1, 2024, expanding the state’s Equal Pay for Equal Work law. This law mandates employers to disclose wage ranges in job postings, aiming to increase transparency and reduce wage disparities. If you missed the deadline, it’s essential to act now to bring your business into compliance and avoid potential penalties.
Key Requirements for Employers
Wage Range Disclosure: Employers must include the minimum and maximum salary or hourly rate in all job postings, both public and internal. Wage ranges should reflect existing pay scales, historical wages, or the employer’s budget for the position.
Benefits and Compensation: In addition to wage ranges, employers need to provide a general description of benefits and other compensation (e.g., bonuses, allowances). If a job was posted without these details, employers must promptly disclose this information upon the applicant’s request.
No Retaliation: Employers cannot retaliate against employees or applicants who inquire about wage information, nor can employment decisions be based on prior wage history unless it is voluntarily disclosed after an offer is extended.
Steps to Take Now
Audit Job Postings: Review all job postings to include the required wage range and benefits descriptions. Update postings where information is missing, and be prepared to disclose this information if requested by applicants.
Train HR Staff: Ensure HR personnel understand the new requirements and are prepared to respond to wage inquiries and handle applicant requests without any retaliatory actions.
Maintain Wage Records: Keep records of wage disclosures and any related documentation for three years to demonstrate compliance in case of an audit or complaint.
Why Compliance Matters
Wage transparency laws like Maryland’s are part of a larger movement toward closing pay gaps related to gender and race. With similar requirements in states like California and New York, compliance helps promote fairness and increase transparency in hiring practices. Employers who do not comply may face escalating penalties from Maryland’s Commissioner of Labor and Industry.
Act Now to Avoid Penalties
If you missed the October 1 deadline, it’s not too late to align your hiring practices with Maryland’s new legal landscape. Luchansky Law can help you bring your job postings and policies into compliance, train your staff, and reduce the risk of penalties. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first steps toward meeting Maryland’s wage transparency requirements.
About Luchansky Law
Luchansky Law is a premier labor and employment law firm committed to providing exceptional legal representation and client service. Founded in 2004 by Bruce Luchansky, the firm offers a wide range of legal services to businesses and individuals, focusing on workplace issues, employment disputes, and compliance. Luchansky Law is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of diligence, professionalism, and compassion in its practice. Please call (410) 522-1020, email us at info@luchanskylaw.com, or stop by our office at 606 Bosley Avenue, Suite 3B, Towson, Maryland, 21204.