ST. PAUL — A package of workplace protections for women is primed for a Minnesota Senate vote.

The bill that supporters have dubbed the Women’s Economic Security Act was to be debated Wednesday.

It would require many companies with government contracts to certify they pay men and women similarly. It would prevent any company from preventing employees from discussing their wages. And it provides longer leave time and more workplace accommodations for new and expectant mothers.

The Minnesota House easily passed its version earlier this month. Unless House members embrace the Senate bill, a conference committee will try to negotiate a bill that will ultimately reach Gov. Mark Dayton. The Democratic governor has said he supports the thrust of the bills.