Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota House Bill HF4276

Introduced
2/26/24  
Refer
2/26/24  

Caption

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.

Companion Bills

MN SF4394

Similar To Gender terms used in statute modification

Previously Filed As

MN HF3204

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.

MN SF4394

Gender terms used in statute modification

MN A1875

Consolidates and makes technical updates to certain definitions used in Title 26 of the Revised Statutes.

MN A4719

Consolidates and makes technical updates to certain definitions used in Title 26 of the Revised Statutes.

MN SB98

Provides for the revision of certain terminology in marriage law. (8/1/18)

MN HB06688

An Act Concerning Revisions To Statutes Relating To The Award Of Alimony And The Disposition Of Property.

MN HF676

Cohabitation contract terminology updated to gender-neutral terms.

MN HF3646

Department of Children, Youth, and Families statutory infrastructure created; and statutes moved and copied.

MN SB01155

An Act Concerning Revisions To Statutes Relating To Dissolution Of Marriage, Legal Separation And Annulment.

MN HF4100

Debt collection, garnishment, medical debt, and consumer finance various governing provisions modified; debtor protections provided; statutory forms modified; and statutory form review required.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.