A new state law will now make it illegal for an employer to ask a job candidate about their salary history.

The law is part of a package of bills signed by Lt. Gov. Shelia Oliver Thursday that promotes pay equality in the state.

“Often the question comes before the interview is over, what did you make at your last job? And the asking of that question is discriminatory in nature,” Oliver said.

State officials say that salary inequality is a big issue in New Jersey.

“Women in New Jersey make 82 cents for every dollar paid to a man. African-American women make 58 cents. Latina women make 43 cents for every dollar paid to a man,” said state Sen. Nia Gill.

The National Partnership for Women and Families says that wage inequality leads to a combined loss of $32.5 billion in New Jersey every year. Legislators say that there is still work to be done for those yet to enter the labor force.

“It's for your future that we are working here,” said state Sen. Loretta Weinberg. “For you and a lot of other young girls throughout our state.”

Oliver was able to sign the bills because she is acting governor while Gov. Phil Murphy is away in Europe for a family vacation.

Murphy will visit Israel for two days and then fly to Italy. He will return to New Jersey Aug. 7.