"I strongly agree with the scholars' assessment that the time limit is likely non-binding and that Congress clearly has the authority to extend or eliminate time limits if necessary."
"After 100 years, women cannot wait any longer for full constitutional equality."
"The pay gap between men and women has persisted for decades with the average woman being paid 80 cents for every dollar paid to men."
"What a disgrace for this to happen in the United States."
"Today equal rights can be too easily rolled back depending on the ideological leanings of Supreme Court justices, but constitutional amendments are permanent."
"I am very pleased now to recognize Congresswoman Jackie Speier, the sponsor of H.R. Res. 17 and ERA champion, for a brief opening statement."
"Thank you, Chairwoman Maloney, for holding the first full committee hearing on the Equal Rights Amendment in over 40 years."
"We are here today because, despite the tremendous progress women have made, we are still deeply unequal in society."
"Well, to them I ask, what do you say to Christy Brzonkala, who was raped by two football players at Virginia Tech?"
"Or how about Tracy Rexroat, whose starting salary at the Arizona Department of Education was $17,000 lower than her male counterpart?"
"Or Jessica Lenahan, whose estranged husband kidnapped and murdered their three young daughters after police refused to enforce a restraining order."
"If we certify the ERA, these cases would have very different outcomes."