Yesterday, lead sponsor Representative Lois Reckitt and lead co-sponsor Senator Rebecca Millett introduced a state Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) in the Maine state legislature. The State ERA already has 116 co-sponsors. The lead sponsors believe the measure will pass with at least the two-thirds majority needed. If the State ERA passes with a two-thirds vote, then the constitutional amendment will go on a statewide ballot for passage. A simple majority of state voters is necessary for final approval.
Maine recently elected its first female governor, Democrat Janet Mills, in the 2018 midterms. Governor Mills is pro-ERA and ran on a platform promoting equal rights, anti-discrimination, and accessible healthcare. With Governor Mills support and a solid two/thirds majority of the state legislation, advocates are hopeful that Maine voters will vote overwhelmingly for the state ERA.
A state ERA is also being introduced in the New York General Assembly. Governor Andrew Cuomo has said he wants the General Assembly to approve the NY State ERA within the first 100 days of the 2019 session.
Media Resources: Bangor Daily News 5/16/17
