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.
Young Boys seals 6th Swiss soccer league title in 7 years after rallying from firing coach Wicky
Beijing Ready for 2022 Winter Olympics
China Beat S. Korea in AFC Women's Asian Cup Final
Team China Wins Bronze in Women's 3000m Relay
Jon Wysocki dead at 53: Staind drummer passes away
National Ear Care Day Marked Across China
Tibet Helps over 690,000 Farmers, Herders Find Jobs in 2021
Roundup: China Equals Best Record in Olympic Golds, French Pair Crowned in Ice Dance
Culture festival showcases integration
Maternity Leave Extended in 25 Chinese Provinces: Official
Why US Catholics are planning pilgrimages in communities across the nation
Various Events Held Across China to Celebrate Upcoming Lantern Festival