A concurrent resolution recognizing the significance of equal pay and the disparity in wages paid to men and to Black women.
Latest action (21 Jul 2026): Introduced
What this bill does
S.Con.Res. 36 is a concurrent resolution, meaning it expresses the sentiment or position of Congress rather than creating new law or requiring any specific government action. The resolution formally recognizes July 21, 2026 as "Black Women's Equal Pay Day" and acknowledges the persistent wage gap between Black women and white, non-Hispanic men. It cites data showing Black women working full time are paid substantially less than white, non-Hispanic men, and outlines how this gap affects lifetime earnings, family finances, and broader economic disparities. Congress uses the resolution to state that it recognizes this disparity and its effects on women, families, and the country, and to reaffirm general support for equal pay and narrowing the gender wage gap.
Because it is a statement of congressional sentiment, the resolution does not change existing law, create new programs, or impose any legal obligations. It does not directly regulate employers or provide new protections or remedies for workers. Its effect, if adopted, would be symbolic and declaratory, serving to draw public and congressional attention to pay equity issues rather than to alter federal policy.
The resolution was introduced in the Senate on July 21, 2026, by Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester with numerous Democratic cosponsors, and has been referred to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. As a concurrent resolution, it would need to be approved by both the Senate and the House of Representatives in identical form to be adopted, though it would not go to the President for signature. No further action has occurred beyond its introduction and committee referral.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
This resolution is in the first stage of the legislative process. It was introduced into Congress on July 21, 2026. It will typically be considered by committee next before it is possibly sent on to the House or Senate as a whole.
Common questions
- What does S.Con.Res. 36 do?
- S.Con.Res. 36 is a concurrent resolution, meaning it expresses the sentiment or position of Congress rather than creating new law or requiring any specific government action. The resolution formally recognizes July 21, 2026 as "Black Women's Equal Pay Day" and acknowledges the persistent wage gap between Black women and white, non-Hispanic men. It cites data showing Black women working full time are paid substantially less than white, non-Hispanic men, and outlines how this gap affects lifetime earnings, family finances, and broader economic disparities. Congress uses the resolution to state that it recognizes this disparity and its effects on women, families, and the country, and to reaffirm general support for equal pay and narrowing the gender wage gap. Because it is a statement of congressional sentiment, the resolution does not change existing law, create new programs, or impose any legal obligations. It does not directly regulate employers or provide new protections or remedies for workers. Its effect, if adopted, would be symbolic and declaratory, serving to draw public and congressional attention to pay equity issues rather than to alter federal policy. The resolution was introduced in the Senate on July 21, 2026, by Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester with numerous Democratic cosponsors, and has been referred to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. As a concurrent resolution, it would need to be approved by both the Senate and the House of Representatives in identical form to be adopted, though it would not go to the President for signature. No further action has occurred beyond its introduction and committee referral.
- Has S.Con.Res. 36 become law?
- Not yet. As of 21 Jul 2026, S.Con.Res. 36 is introduced.
- Who sponsored S.Con.Res. 36?
- S.Con.Res. 36 was sponsored by Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester [D-DE] (Democrat-DE), with 46 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on S.Con.Res. 36?
- Introduced (21 Jul 2026).
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