Bill > S0500

This Concurrent Resolution formally ratifies a proposed amendment to the U.S. Constitution, known as the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), which aims to guarantee equal legal rights for all American citizens regardless of sex. The resolution highlights that the ERA was first approved by both houses of the U.S. Congress in 1972 and sent to the states for ratification, with an initial seven-year deadline that was later extended to 1982. It also notes recent efforts in the U.S. House of Representatives to remove this deadline, emphasizing that constitutional equality for men and women remains a relevant issue. By ratifying this amendment, the Florida Legislature is asserting its authority, as granted by Article V of the U.S. Constitution, to approve changes to the federal Constitution, and is sending certified copies of this action to key federal officials.