TOPEKA – The Kansas Democratic Party’s executive director Jason Perkey released the following statement today after Senate Republicans blocked the Paycheck Fairness Act, which would close loopholes that prevent women from fighting for equal pay and would help stop pay discrimination before it starts.

“The Paycheck Fairness Act would close loopholes that prevent women from receiving equal pay and help stop pay discrimination before it starts. Apparently, Senators Roberts and Moran, their Republican colleagues, and Mitt Romney all think this basic issue of economic fairness is not a priority. In fact, despite being his party’s candidate for President, Kansas women don’t know where Mitt Romney stands on this fundamental legislation: on the side of economic fairness or with Senate Republicans?”

“Today we found out where Sen. Roberts and Sen. Moran stand on this issue – on the side of inequality and unfairness. That’s more than we can say of Mitt Romney. Mitt Romney could have shown real leadership by standing up for Kansas women and urging Sen. Moran and Sen. Roberts to support the Paycheck Fairness Act.  But instead, he was silent.  Once again, Mitt Romney has allowed partisan politics and his political aspirations stop him from doing the right thing. That’s not the kind of leadership Kansas women are looking for in a President.”

“The Kansas Democratic Party believes hard work should pay off for all Americans, and has always helped women fight for equal pay for equal work. Kansas women should be paid the same as their male coworkers for doing the same work. Ensuring women receive equal pay for equal work is a critical part of creating an economy where everyone has a fair shot and a fair chance to succeed. That is why it is deeply disappointing that Sen. Roberts and Sen. Moran failed to stand up for Kansas women by blocking the Paycheck Fairness Act.”