Oxfam recently released a report ranking the best and worst U.S. states for workers, considering factors like minimum wage, paid leave, and unionization rights. The top three states for employees were Washington, D.C., California, and Oregon.
Key findings for women workers:
- States with strong worker protections are generally better for women. These states often have higher minimum wages, paid leave policies, and stronger anti-discrimination laws.
- Tipped minimum wage is a significant factor. Many tipped workers are women, and states with higher tipped minimum wages can help reduce gender-based wage gaps.
- Paid pumping breaks are essential. Providing paid pumping breaks for breastfeeding employees is a crucial workplace benefit.
- Collective bargaining rights for teachers are important. Most public school teachers are women, and the ability to negotiate collectively can improve working conditions and wages.
Top 10 states for women workers:
- Oregon
- New York
- California
- District of Columbia
- Illinois
- Minnesota
- Washington
- Connecticut
- Massachusetts
- Nevada
While many of the top-ranked states are in the Northeast and West, there is also progress being made in the South. For example, South Carolina and Tennessee recently passed paid parental leave for state government workers.
Overall, Oxfam's report highlights the growing importance of workplace protections for women and the need for continued progress at the state and national levels.