Prohibiting governmental entity discrimination (first consideration).
If adopted, AJR109 would create Section 27 of Article I of the state constitution, mandating that no governmental entity, which includes state and local governments, may grant preferential treatment or discriminate against individuals based on the specified characteristics. This could significantly influence current state laws and policies regarding employment practices and education, potentially leading to changes in how institutions operate and allocate resources.
AJR109, introduced in 2024, proposes a constitutional amendment aimed at prohibiting discrimination by governmental entities based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in the contexts of public employment, public education, public contracting, and public administration. The amendment seeks to establish a clear legal framework to ensure equality in the treatment of individuals in these sectors, potentially enhancing fairness and inclusivity in government operations.
The bill has raised concerns among various stakeholders regarding its implications on affirmative action policies and the balance between equality and opportunity. Proponents argue that this amendment is essential to prevent discrimination and enhance equality, while opponents worry that it may undermine existing measures designed to support underrepresented groups. The debate centers around differing perspectives on how discrimination should be addressed in government operations and the potential ramifications for public institutions.
AJR109 passed a key legislative hurdle, receiving approval from 22 senators while 10 opposed it during its third reading. This indicates a significant level of support in the Senate, although the divisive nature of the discussion suggests ongoing contention as it moves forward in the legislative process.