Minnesota will soon bar employers from asking for applicants' salary history

Why it matters: Backers of the new legislation say it encourages employers to set pay based on an applicant's skills and qualifications.

• DFL lawmakers who sponsored the bill say it will help narrow gender and racial wage gaps.

Be smart: The law does not prohibit a job applicant from voluntarily disclosing their salary, which can often help them negotiate higher pay.

• The Minnesota Department of Human Rights encourages people who are illegally asked about their pay history to report it via this online form.