Official announcement from the White House or relevant government publication

Biden Urged to Certify Equal Rights Amendment for Abortion Rights and Gender Equality in Final Hours by Gillibrand and 120 House Democrats

Dec 15, 2024, 04:07 PM

In the final hours of his presidency, President Biden is being urged by a coalition of lawmakers, including Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and over 120 House Democrats, to certify the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) to protect abortion rights and enshrine gender equality in the Constitution. Gillibrand emphasized that a single phone call from Biden could significantly impact his legacy. Representatives Judy Chu and Cori Bush also highlighted the urgency of the ERA, asserting that it is crucial for ensuring equal protection under the law for women in America. Bush noted that Biden has the authority to sign the amendment into law before leaving office. The push for the ERA is seen as a vital step to safeguard reproductive rights ahead of the next administration. However, some legal experts caution that while Biden can express support for the ERA, he may not possess the unilateral power to amend the Constitution through executive action.