A member of the Governing Board of the State University apologized after suggesting the reason women make less than men is because of genetics.

But the National Organization for Women says the apology doesnt go far enough.

While discussing the pay gap between men and women graduates, Board of Governors member Ed Morton said: The women are given, maybe some of it is genetic, I dont know. Im not smart enough to know the difference.

A furor followed.

Governor Rick Scott, who appointed Morton, made it clear he didnt agree and released a statement through his press secretary saying, "As a father of two daughters, the Governor absolutely does not agree with this statement."

The following day, Morton apologized in a statement that said in part, I chose my words poorly. My belief is that women and men should be valued equally in the workplace.

The apology isnt enough for the National Organization for Women.

Mr. Morton should resign, said Barbara DeVane, a Lobbyist for Florida NOW.

NOW says if Morton doesnt step down, Rick Scott should remove him from office.

No one in 2017 should ever be making such a statement. Especially someone whos on the Board of Governors, DeVane said.

Florida is one of 15 states that has not ratified the Equal Rights Amendment.

Every session we dont even get a hearing, just like this past session. So for someone in this position to be making such a statement is idiotic and ignorant, she said. Genetics has nothing to do with the difference in salary between a man and a woman. It all has to do with discrimination.

In Florida, women who graduate from state universities are being paid on average $5,500 less each year than men.

Scotts press office failed to issue a statement regarding whether or not the governor would consider removing Morton from office in time for this story.

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'Genetics' comment leads to calls for board member's resignation ... - NBC2 News