The New Brunswick government has introduced the Pay Transparency Act, legislation that would require employers to post salary ranges in job listings and ban the use of salary history in hiring decisions.
The bill, tabled March 18, would also protect employees from reprisals for discussing their wages with co-workers. The government says the act aims to address systemic pay gaps that disproportionately affect women, gender-diverse individuals, Indigenous people, racialized women, people with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals.
Raphaëlle Valay-Nadeau, chair of the New Brunswick Coalition for Pay Equity, said the legislation could lay the foundation for broader change.
“Pay transparency lays the groundwork for the implementation of pay equity in the private sector.”
If passed, the act would introduce three main requirements for employers:
- Salary ranges must be included in job postings
- Salary history cannot be used in hiring decisions
- Wage discussions among employees must be protected from employer reprisals
Lyne Chantal Boudreau, seniors minister and minister responsible for women and gender equity, said the bill is part of a wider effort to reduce wage disparities in the province.
“This is a groundbreaking step toward creating fairer workplaces in New Brunswick. This transformative legislation aligns with New Brunswick’s broader efforts to combat wage disparities and establish a more inclusive and equitable economy for all.”
Valay-Nadeau said the act signals a shift in how workplaces approach fairness.
“This act sends a powerful message that transparency and equity are essential for building an inclusive workforce where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.”
The legislation must pass before the requirements take effect.
