Revisor of statutes directed to update terms used in statute.
Impact
The passage of HF4276 would impact the legal framework surrounding marriage and civil unions in Minnesota by ensuring that all individuals, regardless of gender, are represented equally in state laws. By using gender-neutral language, the legislation aims to prevent discrimination based on marital status or gender identity. This could have wide-ranging implications for various civil matters including benefits eligibility, legal rights, and obligations as defined under state law.
Summary
House File 4276, introduced during the 93rd session of the Minnesota Legislature, directs the Revisor of Statutes to update specific marital terms in Minnesota Statutes. The bill proposes replacing traditional terms such as 'husband,' 'wife,' 'husband and wife,' and 'husband or wife' with gender-neutral alternatives like 'spouse' or 'spouses'. This change represents a significant step toward inclusivity and modernizing legal language to accommodate various family structures and relationships present in today's society.
Contention
While the bill aims to promote inclusivity, it may encounter opposition based on traditional views of marriage and family. Some critics might argue that changing long-standing terms could lead to confusion or a dismantling of traditional definitions of marriage. Supporters, however, assert that updating the language reflects contemporary societal values and embraces diversity, reinforcing that marriage signifies a partnership between consenting adults, irrespective of gender.
Parenting time and spousal maintenance provisions modified, antenuptial and postnuptial agreements governing provisions modified and updated, assisted reproduction rights and responsibilities established, and revisor of statutes directed to update terms used in statute.