SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Early this morning, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed S.F. 37/H.F. 17, authored by Rep. Kaohly Her (DFL – Saint Paul). The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), which passed on a vote of 68-62, proposes a state constitutional amendment establishing equality for women and 2SLGBTQIA Minnesotans: “all persons shall be guaranteed equal rights under the laws of this state. The state shall not discriminate against any person in intent or effect on account of one or more of the following; race, color, ancestry, disability, or sex, including but not limited to: making and effectuating decisions about all matters relating to one's own pregnancy or decision whether to become or remain pregnant; gender identity or gender expression; or sexual orientation or national origin.” The landmark legislation is a key legislative priority for the Minnesota Queer Legislators Caucus.
The legislation would submit the proposed amendment to voters at the 2026 state general election, and if approved, would take effect January 1, 2027.
“Today is an exciting day and the result of over 100 years of work. We would not be here if it weren’t for the ERA activists who have shown up year after year committed to ensuring the rights of all Minnesotans are protected,” said Chair of the Queer Legislators’ Caucus, Leigh Finke (DFL-Saint Paul). "Today we passed the strongest and most inclusive ERA in the nation. By updating the amendment, we are making good on our promise of trans refuge by enshrining protections for trans, intersex, nonbinary, and queer community in our state constitution.”
Minnesota’s Equal Rights Amendment would guarantee every Minnesotan the same rights under the law and codify protections against discrimination by the state based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, or sex — including pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes, gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation.
The bill now awaits passage in the Senate before being sent to the Governor's desk. Video of the floor session is available on House Public Information Services YouTube channel.
The Queer Caucus is composed of members of the Minnesota State House and Senate who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+. The Queer Caucus works to advance and protect the rights of the whole Queer community, as well as the rights of our intersecting communities.
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