Massachusetts Pay Transparency Salary Law

In a major legislative update for workers, the Massachusetts Pay Transparency Salary Law, officially signed by Governor Maura Healey on July 31, 2024, will take effect on July 31, 2025, introducing new requirements for employers. This law mandates that employers with 25 or more employees in the state disclose pay ranges in job postings and provide wage information for current employees upon request. Massachusetts joins several other states with similar laws, intending to reduce wage disparities by increasing pay transparency.

In general, the new pay transparency law primarily affects employers with 25 or more Massachusetts employees, who are now required to disclose salary ranges in all job advertisements. Additionally, if an employee is being promoted or moved to a new role, the employer must provide the salary range for the new position. Current employees also have the right to request pay range information for their own role or if considering internal transfers.

The law includes specific protections for employees to help enforce these new rights. Employees can file complaints or take action without fear of retaliation from their employers. The non-retaliation provision protects individuals who lodge a complaint, participate in a related proceeding, or report any suspected violation to the Attorney General’s office. However, the law does not allow a private right of action on behalf of aggrieved employees or employment candidates. Instead, the Massachusetts Attorney General is responsible for enforcement. Initial employer violations may lead to a warning.

For employees in Massachusetts, awareness of this law is essential as it not only grants access to wage information but also strengthens protection against retaliation. With this law, employees gain transparency, which can enhance equitable pay practices and provide a clearer view of career progression opportunities within companies.