Legislators in Missouri and Kansas wrapped up their work last month, and both sessions included progress and setbacks for women’s economic equity and opportunity. Here’s a recap of how Women’s Foundation priorities fared during the 2019 legislative sessions, and what it means for women and families across the region.
Honoring our veterans
Women’s Foundation Celebrates Passage of Kansas City Ordinance to Combat the Gender Pay Gap
KANSAS CITY – In a victory for pay equity, the Kansas City Council today unanimously passed an ordinance to combat the gender pay gap by banning employers from asking about a job applicant’s salary history. Ordinance No. 19038, sponsored by Councilman Scott Wagner, makes Kansas City the 15th municipality to adopt such a policy.
Pay Equity Advocates Urge Support for Kansas City Ordinance to Ban Salary History Inquiries in Hiring
Appointee Profile: Kaitlyn Crotty
Psychologist Reciprocity Bill Would Ease Mental Health Provider Shortage, Empower Women Economically
KANSAS CITY – May is Mental Health Month and the Women’s Foundation is lending its support to pending legislation (SB 204) that would make it easier for psychologists to practice in Missouri. Senate Bill 204, sponsored by Missouri state Sen. Jeanie Riddle, would allow a psychologist licensed in a state that has signed the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Board’s reciprocity agreement to be eligible for a license in Missouri.
Appointee Profile: Erika O'Shea
New Laws Mean Fewer Licensing Regulations and Lower Fees for Veterans and Women Entrepreneurs
Women’s Foundation Statement on House Ethics Committee Report on Sexual Harassment by Representative McGee
Changemaker Profile: Vicki Schmidt
Vicki Schmidt is a former member of the Kansas Senate, representing the 20th District, from 2005 to 2019. She was recently elected Kansas Insurance Commissioner in 2018. She spoke to the Women’s Foundation about her background as a public servant, the challenges she has faced, and why she hopes even more women get involved in their communities.