ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota lawmakers failed to pass a state Equal Rights Amendment that would have enshrined protections for abortion and LGBTQ+ rights in the state Constitution as the 2024 legislative session came to an acrimonious end. The Minnesota ERA was the one of the biggest casualties as partisan rancor, lengthy debates and filibusters were fueled by the continued participation of a Democratic senator who was arrested on a burglary charge. Democrats, who hold just a one-vote majority in the Senate, needed her vote to pass any legislation that lacked bipartisan support. A compromise to legalize sports betting also failed to cross the finish line by the midnight Sunday deadline. So did a public infrastructure borrowing package known as a bonding bill that was supposed to be the centerpiece of the session. Neither could pass without at least some GOP support. But Republicans who said they were frozen out were unwilling to supply the votes needed for the 60% supermajorities required for new debt unless Democrats dropped the ERA. And enough Democrats were opposed to sports betting, so that some GOP votes were essential. |
Netanyahu says Hamas No. 4 killedFirefighters to tackle scaffolding dangling outside ruins of fireNetflix fans reveal the shows they gave up on after a few episodes: 'Don't waste your time'Two French schoolgirls aged six and 11 are stabbed by knifeman near their schoolJapanese doctors demand damages from Google over "groundless" reviewsChinese Grand Prix could deliver drama to F1 and slow Verstappen's victory marchStock market today: Japan’s Nikkei leads Asian market retreat as Middle East tensions flare12 students and teacher killed at Columbine to be remembered at 25th anniversary vigilChinese Grand Prix could deliver drama to F1 and slow Verstappen's victory marchChinese Grand Prix could deliver drama to F1 and slow Verstappen's victory march