Urges U.S. Congress to pass Equal Rights Amendment.
Impact
The passing of AJR97 would not directly alter state laws; however, it would signify New Jersey's support for a constitutional amendment aimed at enshrining gender equality at the federal level. Should Congress pass the ERA and it be ratified by enough states, it would solidify equal rights for women in the Constitution, impacting various state laws which align with or contradict this principle. This could lead to broader implications for policies regarding employment, education, and healthcare that currently have gender disparities.
Summary
AJR97, introduced in New Jersey's 221st Legislature, is a joint resolution that urges the United States Congress to pass the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). The ERA is designed to ensure equal rights for women by stating explicitly in the Constitution that rights shall not be denied on account of sex. This resolution reflects New Jersey's commitment to promoting gender equality following a historical context where the ERA was first introduced in 1923 and has faced numerous legislative challenges over the decades.
Contention
There could be contention surrounding AJR97, particularly among groups opposed to the ERA, who argue that existing laws are sufficient for protecting women's rights without the need for constitutional amendments. Some critics believe that the ERA might have unintended consequences that could affect existing laws regarding gender-specific considerations. Advocates, however, argue that the amendment is necessary to affirmatively protect against discrimination and to highlight gender equality in the nation's founding document.
Inaction Has Consequences Act This bill withholds the salaries of Members of a chamber of Congress that has not passed each of the annual appropriations bills before the beginning of the fiscal year, beginning with FY2024. Salaries are released on the earlier of (1) the date on which the chamber of Congress passes the bills, or (2) the last day of the Congress.
Citizen Legislature Anti-Corruption Reform of Congress Act or the CLEAN Congress Act This bill (1) requires bills, orders, resolutions, or votes submitted by Congress to the President to include only one subject that is clearly and descriptively expressed in the measure's title; and (2) makes ineffective any provision of law that excludes its application to a Member of Congress or to an employee in a Member's office.
Citizen Legislature Anti-Corruption Reform of Congress Act or the CLEAN Congress Act This bill (1) requires bills, orders, resolutions, or votes submitted by Congress to the President to include only one subject that is clearly and descriptively expressed in the measure's title; and (2) makes ineffective any provision of law that excludes its application to a Member of Congress or to an employee in a Member's office.