WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (D-RI) released the following statement after the U.S. Census Bureau today released a new report that found women who worked full time, year-round received 78 cents for every dollar earned by men in 2013.

“It’s unacceptable that women continue to earn less than men. Today’s report is another reminder that we must take action to close this wage gap to ensure women’s paychecks keep pace with their participation in the economy. Last night Senate Republicans blocked the Paycheck Fairness Act, a bill to give women a fair shot at equal pay for equal work. In many families, women have grown increasingly responsible for household income and failing to act on this important issue hurts women, families, and the economy. It's time to end pay inequity and time for Congress to act.”

Cicilline is a co-sponsor of the Paycheck Fairness Act to ensure women have the tools they need to fight wage discrimination; the Family and Medical Insurance Leave Act to ensure that American workers no longer have to choose between a paycheck and caring for themselves or a family member; and helped strengthen the Violence Against Women Act and expand women’s access to comprehensive health care and family planning. He also supports the Democratic Middle Class Jumpstart plan that would provide women equal pay for equal work.

In August, Cicilline held a roundtable discussion on equality in the workplace with women business owners and women’s rights advocates at the Center for Women & Enterprise.

A copy of the full report can be found HERE.