American Women and the Gender Pay Gap: A Changing Demographic or the Same Old Song

Abstract

Women have made great strides in education and career opportunity selections since the passage of the Equal Pay Act in 1963. Despite these many gains, female remuneration has not kept pace. The gender pay-gap continues to exist with serious consequences for women and the families that depend on their earnings. The gap is presented and framed historically and legislation is presented that has influenced women's pay. A variety of explanations for why the gap continues are explored and debunked. The effects of the pay gap are presented and analyzed with policy initiatives offered underscoring possible solutions.