Presidents have no direct role in approving constitutional amendments. So what could President Biden’s pronouncement recognizing a new one actually do?
President Joe Biden’s declaration the Equal Rights Amendment is “the law of the land” likely only sets up more debates for Congress and the courts.
Supporters say it is needed to protect against discrimination. Opponents argue the timetable to have it become part of the Constitution has passed.
The remarks were largely a symbolic gesture of support for a century-long campaign to enshrine gender equality in the Constitution. But advocates said they could add heft to a future legal fight.
It's unclear if Biden's statement will have any impact. The archivist has said the amendment cannot be certified because three-quarters of state legislatures did not ratify it before a deadline set by Congress.
President Joe Biden renewed his call for the Equal Right Amendment to be ratified, but is stopping short of taking any action on the matter in his final days in office.