Columbus mayor Andrew Ginther has signed a new law that, starting December 3, 2025, will prohibit employers with 15 or more employees in the City of Columbus from asking about a job applicant’s salary history and will require them to include a reasonable salary range in all public job postings for positions within city limits. Although the law takes effect in December 2025, enforcement will begin on January 1, 2027.
Under this law, covered employers may not inquire about or rely on an applicant’s current or past compensation when making hiring decisions, nor may they screen or reject candidates based on salary history, or retaliate against those who choose not to disclose it. However, employers may still discuss an applicant’s compensation expectations, including what they might forfeit by leaving a current role.
The law also requires that job postings include a reasonable salary range, which may be based on factors such as budget flexibility, applicant experience, role responsibilities, growth opportunities, cost of living, and market research. Internal postings and roles governed by collective bargaining agreements are exempt.
Applicants who believe an employer has violated the law may file a complaint with the City of Columbus Community Relations Commission, which is authorized to investigate and impose civil penalties. Employers are encouraged to begin reviewing their job postings and interview practices now to ensure compliance ahead of the enforcement date.
For more information you can find the full text of the law here.