Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF47

Introduced
1/5/23  
Refer
1/5/23  
Refer
3/6/23  

Caption

A resolution memorializing Congress to resolve that the requirements have been met to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA)

Impact

If passed, SF47 would call on Congress to acknowledge the ratification of the ERA by the necessary states and facilitate its recognition as the 28th Amendment to the Constitution. This would empower individuals to seek legal redress for gender discrimination and solidify protections currently interpreted under the 14th Amendment. By emphasizing that the ERA has been ratified, the resolution seeks to address inconsistencies in how courts handle sex discrimination cases, which could enhance the legal framework for gender equality in Minnesota and beyond.

Summary

SF47 is a resolution from the Minnesota Legislature that memorializes Congress to recognize that the requirements for ratifying the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) have been met. The ERA, which was initially passed by Congress in 1972, asserts that equality of rights shall not be denied on the basis of sex, aiming to solidify legal protections against sex discrimination. SF47 underscores the urgency of enshrining the ERA in the U.S. Constitution to prevent regression in gender rights that have been achieved through legislation and judicial interpretation.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SF47 is predominantly supportive, particularly among advocates for women's rights and gender equality. Supporters view the resolution as an essential step toward solidifying constitutional protections against sex discrimination. However, there may also be pushback from individuals or groups who feel apprehensive about constitutional amendments and their implications, as well as those who believe existing legislative protections are sufficient without the need for an amendment.

Contention

The primary contention revolves around the interpretation and application of the existing 14th Amendment protections versus the new provisions that the ERA would provide. Detractors may argue that inserting the ERA into the Constitution could complicate legal interpretations and lead to judicial overreach. Additionally, some voices within the conversation may advocate for maintaining existing gender equality frameworks through legislation rather than altering the Constitution, raising concerns about the impact of such amendments on local and state governance.

Companion Bills

MN HF197

Similar To A resolution memorializing Congress to resolve that the requirements have been met to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) and that it shall now be known as the Twenty-Eighth Amendment to the Constitution.

Previously Filed As

MN HF2171

A resolution memorializing Congress that the state of Minnesota reaffirms ratification of the Child Labor Amendment to the United States Constitution.

MN SR202

Equal Rights Amendment; proposed Amendment to the United States Constitution; ratify

MN HJ00048

Resolution Ratifying The Proposed Amendment To The Constitution Of The United States Permitting Congress To Regulate Child Labor.

MN SF3153

A resolution memorializing Congress that the Legislature of the State of Minnesota reaffirms its ratification of the Child Labor Amendment to the United States Constitution

MN HR276

Equal Rights Amendment as the law of the land; commemorate; ratify a proposed Amendment to the United States Constitution

MN HCR57

Clarifying that the 1972 ratification by the 62nd Texas Legislature, 2nd Called Session, of the proposed 1972 Equal Rights Amendment to the Constitution of the United States was only valid through March 22, 1979.

MN SF2517

A resolution memorializing Congress to propose the For Our Freedom Amendment

MN HF2225

A resolution memorializing Congress to propose the For Our Freedom Amendment.

MN SJR38

A joint resolution establishing the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment.

MN HCR2054

Ratification; equal rights amendment

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