Biden declares Equal Rights Amendment ratified as debate over women's rights continues
President Joe Biden declared the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) ratified, asserting it should be part of the U.S. Constitution. The ERA aims to guarantee equal rights regardless of sex. This declaration comes after decades of debate and failed ratification efforts. The ERA was first proposed in 1923 and gained traction in the 1970s but missed its initial ratification deadline. Supporters argue the deadline is non-binding, while opponents raise concerns about its implications for issues like abortion rights. Biden's statement may not have legal impact, as the National Archives has stated the amendment cannot be certified due to the missed deadline. Some lawmakers plan to rally for the ERA's certification despite these challenges.