Rep. Vargas Pushes Women’s Economic Rights Forward
WASHINGTON, DC (March 7, 2014) – Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-51) is a proud cosponsor of H. Res. 507, introduced by Rep. Ron Barber (AZ-2), which brings to light the vast disparities many women currently face in the workplace and supports a strong economic bill of rights for women.
“Women play an integral part in our workforce, yet are often denied reasonable workplace accommodations and subjected to pay inequality,” said Rep. Vargas. “Women should not have to choose between keeping a job, having a family or caring for a loved one. America’s mothers, wives, and daughters deserve the same opportunities as America’s fathers, husbands, and sons.”
Women have entered the workforce in record numbers over the past 50 years and currently, 40 percent serve as the primary breadwinners in their families. Despite the enactment of the Equal Pay Act of 1963, many women continue to earn significantly lower pay than their male counterparts. H. Res. 507 expresses that Congress must continue supporting efforts that guarantee pay equity, fair treatment in the workplace, access to paid family and medical leave, economic and retirement security, and fair access to business capital and a marketplace that is conducive to small business growth.
“Progress has been made for America’s women, but more remains to be done,” said Rep. Vargas. “We must continue fighting to ensure that women and their families are provided the economic security and opportunities they deserve.”
Vargas represents California’s 51st Congressional District, which includes the southern portion of San Diego County, all of Imperial County and California’s entire US/Mexico border. Vargas is currently serving his first term in Congress. He represented the 40th California State Senate District from 2010-2012, the 79th California State Assembly District from 2000 – 2006 and served on the San Diego City Council from 1993 – 2000.