Issue a Top Priority in 111th Congress

People For the American Way President Kathryn Kolbert released the following statement on the passage of H.R. 11, the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act and H.R. 12, Paycheck Fairness Act in the House:

“Two years after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of corporations over workers in discrimination cases, the House today corrected that mistake and brought justice to employees like Lilly Ledbetter who deserve restitution for unlawful pay discrimination.

“It’s clear that the Supreme Court has lurched dangerously to the right, and Bush’s new Justices have brought their political agenda to bear on the cases they hear. In November, the American people spoke loud and clear and voted to restore checks and balances. Today, we’re seeing this come to fruition.

“We are particularly thankful for the leadership of such strong women as Speaker Pelosi and Rep. DeLauro, as well as Rep. Miller, a stalwart advocate for women’s rights. We now look to the Senate to follow the lead of their colleagues in the House and usher in a new day for victims of pay discrimination. All Americans deserve fair pay for an honest day’s work.”