Minnesota lawmakers debate constitutional amendment to protect abortion and LGBTQ rights

By TRISHA AHMED
Associated Press/Report for America

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota lawmakers have launched their debate on far-reaching legislation that would amend the state’s constitution to protect abortion and LGBTQ rights. If approved by lawmakers this session and then by voters on the 2026 ballot, it would be much harder for future lawmakers to repeal those rights. The Minnesota Equal Rights Amendment had its first legislative hearing Monday. Opponents say the proposal is overreaching and divisive. It would be among the broadest protections of abortion and LGBTQ rights in the nation. Supporter Betty Folliard says it’s not just about reproductive justice — it’s also about pay inequity and other discrimination that gets overlooked from generation to generation.