Bill > SF3531

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment to guarantee equal rights for all persons in Minnesota and prohibit discrimination based on specific characteristics. The proposed amendment would explicitly protect individuals from state discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, and sex, with specific protections for pregnancy-related decisions, gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation. Any state action that denies equal rights would be considered invalid unless it represents the least restrictive means of achieving a compelling governmental interest. The amendment defines "state" broadly to include state agencies and political subdivisions and is designed to be self-executing, meaning it can be directly applied without additional legislation. The proposed amendment would be submitted to voters in the 2026 general election, with the potential to take effect on January 1, 2027, if ratified. The ballot question will ask voters if they support amending the Minnesota Constitution to guarantee equal rights and prohibit discrimination based on the listed characteristics. Importantly, the amendment also includes language ensuring that existing rights are not limited and that laws or programs designed to prevent or remedy discrimination remain valid.

Justice

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF3531&ssn=0&y=2025