Three of St. Lawrence County’s state representatives today supported the Women’s Equality Pay Act, which strengthens provisions already in place that prohibit gender-based pay discrimination.

“Women are a driving force of our economy and many are the breadwinners supporting their families. Sadly, on average, they also earn only 78 cents to every dollar a man makes for working the same job. It is unacceptable that in 2015 a woman does not earn equal pay for equal work. It’s discrimination and it’s wrong,” said Assemblywoman Addie Russell, D-Theresa. “I am proud that the Assembly once again passed legislation that would ensure women would be paid fairly. This legislation not only helps women succeed, it helps all of us succeed.”

“Legislation like this helps our state take a positive step toward ending discrimination toward women and I am proud to have helped get it passed,” said Assemblyman Marc Butler, R-Newport. “We’re living in a modern society where everyone should be recognized for their skills and merits. I am proud to have stood for New York’s women on this important measure.”

“I am honored to have stood up for women in the fight for reform and equality in pay. Working together in a bipartisan approach we can close the discrimination gap that still exists in some parts of our society,” said Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush, R-Black River. “We will be a stronger community if we focus on the talents and merits of individuals instead of their demographic makeup. It’s been a long time coming, but I am pleased that we’ve passed important reforms that support and protect women.”

Butler and Blankenbush say they applaud the original women’s rights act being broken down into individual bills, one of which was the Women’s Equality Pay Act.

“Under the previous speaker, this important legislation was held back due to political posturing. Now, the individual points have been making it to the Assembly floor for a vote, like the human trafficking portion of the measure,” Blankenbush said.

“This allows each portion of it to get the serious attention it deserves from the Legislature,” Butler said, adding that he “applauds the (Democrat) majority” for allowing the bills to be approved individually.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo also spoke out in favor of the bill.

“I look forward to signing this legislation as we continue to advance and ensure the rights of women across New York state,” he said.

Russell represents the 116th Assembly District. It includes all St. Lawrence County communities along the St. Lawrence River.

Blankenbush’s 117th Assembly District includes much of southwest St. Lawrence County.

Butler represents the 118th Assembly District, which includes most of the southern portion of St. Lawrence County.