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SCR 198

Equal Rights for Men and Women

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Lori Berman

Florida constitutional resolution establishing equal rights for men and women failed after being indefinitely postponed, dying in Judiciary Committee without advancing to voters.

Died in Judiciary
#(adopted)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SCR 198

Legislative bill overview

SCR 198 is a state constitutional resolution that would establish equal rights protections for men and women in Florida's constitution. The bill died in the Judiciary Committee in June 2025 after being indefinitely postponed in May. As a concurrent resolution, it would have required passage by both chambers to advance a constitutional amendment to voters.

Why is this important

Florida does not have an explicit Equal Rights Amendment in its state constitution, unlike 24 other states. Such amendments can strengthen legal protections against sex-based discrimination in employment, education, housing, and other areas by providing heightened constitutional scrutiny. The bill's failure means Florida residents cannot vote on whether to enshrine this protection at the state constitutional level.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal ERA vs. state amendment: Supporters argue state-level protection is necessary given uncertainty over federal ERA ratification; opponents question whether it adds meaningful protections beyond existing federal law
  • Scope and unintended consequences: Opponents may worry about broad language affecting single-sex spaces, sports policies, or other gender-specific provisions; supporters emphasize clarity and protection
  • Legislative priorities: Some legislators may view other issues as more urgent or question whether constitutional amendment processes should address this versus statutory law

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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