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Thankfully, in Maryland we've been able to reduce the wage gap between men and women to the fourth-lowest in the nation - and we were recently named the 3rd best State in the US to be a woman.
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In 2009, I signed a law that builds on the federal Lilly Ledbetter equal pay law, extending the period of time for individuals to seek back pay for unlawful discrimination and unequal pay to two years.
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Together, we've appointed nearly 2,800 women to judgeships, cabinet appointments and boards and commissions. We've increased awards of state contracts to women-owned firms by nearly 59% over 2007. And every day, we're working to expand access to women's health services and combat violence against women and children.
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We will continue to fight as long as inequality exists.
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If you or someone you know has been a victim of gender discrimination in the workplace, please call this toll-free number: 1-800-637-6247.
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Together, we will keep moving forward, close the wage gap and end discrimination for everyone.
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Thank you,
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Martin O'Malley
