A Maine psychologist owed upward of $200,000 after suing for being underpaid

A female psychologist sued for making less than her male colleagues. A judge ruled she is owed more than $200,000 after concluding the hospital violated the Maine Equal Pay Act.

Mundell contended her hourly rate was $50 an hour at Acadia Hospital while several two men made $90 and $95 respectively.

Northern Light, Acadia’s owner, said the company intends to appeal. "Northern Light Health is committed to treating all of its employees, regardless of gender, or any other protected class, fairly and equitably as it works to provide top-quality care to the people of Maine, especially during this pandemic," spokesperson Suzanne Spruce said in a statement.

There are broad implications. In his ruling, U.S. District Judge said his decision "will require employers to track compensation differentials" and to articulate an authorized reason for such pay disparity.