The bill aims to slash pay disparities between men and women.

Women still earn less than men, on average 77 cents to the one dollar men earn.

 U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley says the legislation will give equal pay for equal work.

"Here's the bottom line, the pay gap costs Oregon families thousands of dollars and takes away the equality and fairness they deserve and I hope all my senate colleagues join in this fight."

Tuesday was Equal Pay Day -- and President Obama marked the day by signing two executive actions aimed at strengthening existing equal pay laws.