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MN HF501

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/13/2025

Primary Sponsor

Leigh Finke

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

94th Legislature 2025-2026

AI Summary

  • Proposes adding Section 18 to Article I of the Minnesota Constitution to guarantee equal rights and prohibit state discrimination based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, or sex

  • Defines "sex" to include pregnancy-related decisions (including whether to become or remain pregnant), gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation

  • Requires any state action denying equal rights to meet strict scrutiny standard—must be the least restrictive means of achieving a compelling governmental interest

  • Applies to the state and all agencies and political subdivisions; preserves existing constitutional rights and allows affirmative action programs to prevent or remedy discrimination

  • Would appear on the 2026 general election ballot as the "Minnesota Equal Rights Amendment" and take effect January 1, 2027 if ratified by voters

Legislative Description

Equal rights under the law provided and discrimination based on the listed characteristics prohibited, and constitutional amendment proposed.

Last Action

Introduction and first reading, referred to State Government Finance and Policy

2/13/2025

Committee Referrals

State Government Finance & Policy2/13/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available