MN HF1219

Adds definition of "domestic partner" to Minnesota Statutes section 43A.02, requiring committed interdependent relationships between adults who share a common residence, are responsible for each other's welfare, are not related by blood or adoption, and are legally competent to contract.

Requires state health insurance plans that provide benefits to spouses of employees to make the same benefits available to domestic partners of state employees on identical terms and conditions.

Allows domestic partners to share a common residence even if they do not each have legal right to possess the residence or if one or both possess additional real property.

Clarifies that domestic partners who temporarily leave their common residence with intent to return continue to qualify as sharing a residence under this subdivision.

Makes sections 1 and 2 effective January 1, 2012.