SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Today, the Minnesota House State and Local Government Committee passed HF 173, the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). The bill proposes an amendment to the Minnesota State Constitution that would read: Equality under the law shall not be abridged or denied by this state or any of its cities, counties, or other political subdivisions on account of race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disabiliy, ancestry, or national origin. The amendment would require ratification by a statewide vote during the 2024 general election.
“I think we can all agree that we need a Minnesota that allows everyone to thrive,” said Rep. Her. “The measurements of women’s well-being are clear. States that have ratified the Equal Rights Amendment have overall better women’s success rates, a better climate for women in business, better employment rates for people with disabilities, and the statistics go on and on. Now is the time to enshrine these rights in the Minnesota State Constitution and see every Minnesotan reach their full potential.”
ERA Minnesota State Director Curtis Johnson; Women’s March Minnesota Board Member Ann Treacy; Create Minneapolis teacher Aine O’Donnell; and NewPublica President Melisa Lopez Franzen all testified in support of the bill. The bill passed the committee and now moves to the House Rules Committee. The Senate’s companion bill is moving through its committees. Video of the floor session will be available on House Public Information Services’ YouTube Channel.
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