SF473

Senate File No. 473 aims to amend the Minnesota Constitution to include a new section that guarantees equal rights under state laws. It would prohibit discrimination based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, sex (covering pregnancy decisions, gender identity, and gender expression), and sexual orientation. This amendment would hold that any state action which denies these rights is invalid unless it is the absolutely necessary method to achieve a critical government objective. The proposed amendment would apply not just to the state government but also to any agency or political subdivision of the state. It also clarifies that this section is self-executing and doesn’t restrict or diminish any existing rights. Furthermore, it does not prevent the adoption of additional measures aimed at preventing or addressing discrimination based on the characteristics listed. If approved by voters in the 2026 general election, this amendment would become effective starting January 1, 2027.