Proposal 4 seeks to amend the Constitution of the State of Vermont to ensure that the government cannot deny equal treatment under the law based on a person's race, ethnicity, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or national origin. This amendment aligns with the existing values of the Vermont Constitution, which emphasizes the inherent rights of all individuals and the government's role in protecting these rights. By enshrining equality of rights as a fundamental principle, the proposal aims to address historical inequalities and reinforce the dignity and rights of marginalized populations.

The proposed amendment would add Article 23 to Chapter I of the Vermont Constitution, explicitly guaranteeing equal protection under the law. It clarifies that the state must not discriminate against individuals based on the specified characteristics while allowing for measures that promote equality for historically discriminated groups. If ratified by the people of Vermont, this amendment would take effect on the first Tuesday after the first Monday of November 2026, further solidifying the state's commitment to equality and justice for all its residents.