Minnesota Senate Bill SF473

Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/25
• Refer: 1/21/25

Caption

Constitutional amendment to provide equal rights under the law and prohibiting discrimination based on a list of characteristics

Impact

Should SF473 be ratified in the 2026 general election, it will enshrine these equal rights into the state constitution, taking effect on January 1, 2027. This constitutional protection intends to supersede any actions by state agencies or political subdivisions that may deny an individual's equal rights, setting a high standard for any differential treatment by the government. Furthermore, the amendment is self-executing, meaning that it would automatically come into play without requiring additional legislation to implement its provisions.

Summary

SF473 proposes an amendment to the Minnesota Constitution aimed at guaranteeing equal rights under the law and prohibiting discrimination based on a range of characteristics. If adopted, it would add a new section to Article I of the state constitution, ensuring that the state does not discriminate on account of race, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, or sex, which includes pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation. This amendment is intended to enhance the legal protections against discrimination within Minnesota.

Contention

While the bill seeks to provide strong protections against discrimination, it may face opposition based on differing perspectives on gender and sexuality. Critics may argue about the implications of including categories such as gender identity and sexual orientation in legal contexts. Additionally, there might be concerns regarding how this amendment interacts with existing laws and regulations, particularly in areas such as education, employment, and healthcare, where interpretations and applications could lead to disputes about rights and protections.