More Constitutional Law news More news in Arkansas Find Constitutional Law lawyers in Arkansas
In a groundbreaking move, the state of Arkansas has passed a new constitutional amendment that prohibits discrimination based on gender identity. The amendment, known as Amendment 13, was approved by a majority of voters in a statewide referendum on November 9, 2025.Amendment 13 adds gender identity as a protected class in the state constitution, alongside categories such as race, sex, and religion. The amendment explicitly prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, public accommodations, and education based on a person's gender identity.Supporters of the amendment hailed it as a major step towards ensuring equal rights for all Arkansans, regardless of their gender identity. Advocates argued that existing laws did not adequately protect transgender and non-binary individuals from discrimination and that the amendment was necessary to address this gap.On the other hand, opponents of the amendment raised concerns about the potential impact on religious freedom and personal beliefs. Some critics argued that the amendment could infringe on the rights of business owners and religious organizations to operate according to their faith-based principles.Despite these concerns, Amendment 13 received widespread support from voters across the political spectrum. The amendment's passage marks a significant victory for the LGBTQ+ community in Arkansas and a positive step towards greater inclusivity and equality in the state.In a statement following the referendum, Governor Sarah Johnson praised the passage of Amendment 13 as a historic moment for Arkansas. She underscored the state's commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of all its residents, regardless of their gender identity.The passage of Amendment 13 comes at a time of increasing awareness and advocacy for transgender and non-binary rights nationwide. Arkansas joins a growing number of states that have taken steps to protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and ensure equal treatment under the law.As Arkansas prepares to implement the new constitutional amendment, state officials and advocacy groups are working to raise awareness about the protections it affords and provide resources for individuals who may have experienced discrimination based on their gender identity. The passage of Amendment 13 signals a new chapter in the fight for equality and inclusivity in Arkansas, setting a precedent for other states to follow.