Baton Rouge - Tomorrow, Gov. John Bel Edwards and First Lady Donna Edwards, along with the Governor’s Office on Women’s Policy will host the Louisiana Equal Pay Summit in Baton Rouge, LA. Meaningful and enforceable equal pay legislation has been a priority for Gov. Edwards since his time in the state legislature and tomorrow’s summit is an expression of his commitment to advancing equal pay for women and families throughout Louisiana.

“Not only is equal pay for equal work the right thing to do for Louisiana women and the families they work to support across the state, but it is simply good for our businesses and economies both locally and statewide,” said Gov. Edwards who will be delivering opening remarks. “With our state ranking the worst in the nation when it comes to pay disparity between male and female workers at 66 cents on the dollar, we know that closing this gap will bring increased economic prosperity to families, businesses and the state.”

Over 350 participants are expected to attend tomorrow’s summit where they will hear from speakers on an array of topics related to pay equity, including Gov. Edwards and First Lady Donna Edwards. Additionally, there will be three panel discussions focused on the wage gap in Louisiana, the business and economic development case for passing equal pay legislation and a call to action for Louisianans who want to help voice their support for equal pay for equal work.

“When women bring home a paycheck that is only 66 percent of what their male counterparts earn, the entire family suffers,” said First Lady Donna Edwards, who will be delivering closing remarks at tomorrow’s summit. “A gallon of milk doesn’t cost 34 cents less because a woman is buying it. The bills still have to get paid no matter who’s writing the check.”

The event is open to the media, but registration for the public to attend is closed.

Details are as follows and all times are approximate:

Date: Tomorrow, March 10, 2017
Time: 8:30 a.m.
Location: Shaw Center for the Arts in downtown Baton Rouge

Gov. Edwards’ Remarks: 8:45 a.m.

First Lady Edwards’ Remarks: 11:45 a.m.