U.S. Department of Labor to resolve allegations of pay discrimination against female employees at its New York City headquarters, according to a press release from the U.S. Department of Labor.
The scope of this evaluation extends from January 1, 2015 all the way through December 31, 2016 and covers the provisions of Executive Order 11246, which prohibits government contractors from participating in discriminatory behavior based on factors such as race and gender. As part of a settlement, Pfizer has reportedly concurred to pay the 86 affected female employees a total of $2 million in back wages, as well as interest on those salaries, according to a news statement issued by the United States Department of Labor. Pfizer is going to put aside an additional $500,000 as a reserve in order to better prepare for any potential future compensation modifications that may apply to these employees.
As part of the conciliation agreement, Pfizer will conduct a compensation analysis, as stated in a press release issued by the United States Department of Labor. The purpose of this analysis is to identify and address any major pay disparities between men and women in the workplace. In addition, the company will revise its entire compensation structure and give enhanced managerial training in order to guarantee future compliance with the standards.
Acting Director of the United States Department of Labor Michele Hodge said that "Our conciliation agreement with Pfizer signifies OFCCP's efforts to bridge gender wage gaps and successfully achieve pay equality for women in the nation's workforce." This was expressed in a statement released by the Department of Labor. In a press release regarding the settlement, it was emphasized that this point be made. Pfizer is well-known for its mass manufacture of COVID-19 immunizations under contracts with the United States Department of Health and Human Services and the United States Department of Defense. Pfizer's headquarters are located in New York City, while its research centers are located in Groton, Connecticut. Groton is home to Pfizer's research labs.
