DES MOINES - Today, the Senate voted down the Paycheck Fairness Act, which would have closed loopholes that prevent women from fighting for equal pay and help stop pay discrimination before it starts. Former Lieutenant Governor Patty Judge and Iowa Women for Obama Steering Committee member released the following statement after the vote:
"We are disappointed that the Paycheck Fairness Act did not pass the Senate floor. It would have helped ensure that all women receive equal pay for equal work. The Act would have built on efforts by President Obama to protect and advance policies that promote fairness, equal opportunity and a level playing field for all Americans, like the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act.
"The result of this vote could have been different if Mitt Romney had showed leadership and stood up for women and stood up to Republicans in Washington who deny millions of women a fair shot at what we've earned. To this day, Mitt Romney has refused to support for the Paycheck Fairness Act and the Lilly Ledbetter Act. Iowans were watching to see if Romney would come out on the side of women and equal rights, but instead we saw yet another example of his failed leadership on women's issues."
"Congress needs to remember that denying equal pay for equal work doesn't just discriminate against women - it also jeopardizes the economic security of families across the country."
