Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of the bill is to propose an amendment to the Minnesota Constitution ensuring that all individuals are granted equal rights under the law. It aims to prohibit discrimination by the state based on various personal characteristics.

Main Provisions

• The proposed amendment to article I of the Minnesota Constitution would explicitly guarantee equal rights for all individuals under state law.
• The state of Minnesota, including any state agencies or political subdivisions, would be prohibited from discriminating against individuals based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, or sex.
• The bill expands the definition of sex to include pregnancy, gender identity or expression, and sexual orientation.
• Any state action that denies equal rights must meet the strict standard of being the least restrictive means of achieving a compelling government interest.

Significant Changes

• The proposed amendment would add a new section to article I of the Minnesota Constitution, specifying criteria for equality under the law and detailing prohibited bases for discrimination.
• The amendment would be self-executing, meaning it would automatically be enforceable without additional legislation.
• Current rights provided by the Minnesota Constitution would remain intact, as this amendment would not limit or narrow them.
• The bill allows for the continuation and initiation of laws and programs that are designed to prevent or address discrimination.

Submission and Implementation

• This amendment will be presented to voters in the general election in 2026.
• If passed, the amendment would become effective on January 1, 2027.

Relevant Terms

equal rights, amendment, Minnesota Constitution, discrimination, race, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, sex, pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, voters, self-executing