MN HF1746

Replaces "marriage" with "civil union" throughout Minnesota statutes, allowing civil unions between any two parties regardless of sex or gender, effective August 1, 2012.

Removes statutory language prohibiting same-sex marriage and voids the provision declaring same-sex marriages from other jurisdictions null in Minnesota.

Establishes civil union licensing and registration requirements including a 5-day waiting period, $115 license fee, witnesses, and county registrar responsibilities for maintaining civil union records.

Permits religious institutions to perform marriage ceremonies according to their customs, but specifies that parties are not entitled to legal rights and benefits until a civil union is formally signed and registered under state law.

Defines civil union as equivalent to marriage for purposes of Minnesota law and federal law, and removes discriminatory language from Minnesota Statutes section 363A.27 regarding sexual orientation in education and employment.