Chair DeLauro Statement on United States Women’s Soccer Team Landmark Equal Pay Settlement

NEW HAVEN – House Appropriations Committee Chair Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), the author of the Paycheck Fairness Act (H.R.7), released the following statement on the $24 million equal pay settlement reached between the U.S. Soccer Federation and the U.S. Women's National Team (USWNT):

"Today is a big day for pay equity in the United States. After a six-year legal battle, the U.S. Women's National Team has reached a monumental settlement with U.S. Soccer Federation that finally provides the most successful international soccer team in the world with the compensation they have earned, including equal pay moving forward, equal World Cup bonuses, and a $24 million settlement for back pay. I applaud USWNT for never giving up this fight.

"This is not just about soccer. This is about women everywhere still waiting to be fairly compensated for equal work. As we celebrate this victory, let it fuel our continued work to help women across industries and occupations achieve equal pay for equal work. I am proud that the House took swift action to pass the Paycheck Fairness Act, but we cannot rest until this legislation has been signed into law."

DeLauro first introduced equal pay legislation in 1997. In January 2021, DeLauro reintroduced the Paycheck Fairness Act. This legislation passed the House for the fourth time in April 2021. It would strengthen the Equal Pay Act of 1963, help eliminate the gender wage gap, and guarantee that women can challenge pay discrimination and hold employers accountable.

DeLauro also introduced the Goals Act with Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-06) to ensure USWNT is paid fair and equitable wages compared to the U.S. men's team. The members also introduced a resolution with Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12) calling for equal pay in this industry.