MN HF1054

Establishes civil marriage as a legal contract between two persons instead of exclusively between a man and a woman, removing the prohibition on same-sex marriage in Minnesota.

Removes language prohibiting marriage between persons of the same sex from section 517.03 and eliminates the provision that same-sex marriages recognized in other jurisdictions are void in Minnesota.

Provides religious exemptions allowing religious organizations, clergy, and religious businesses to refuse participation in solemnizing or celebrating civil marriages without penalty, fine, or loss of tax-exempt status if it violates their sincerely held religious beliefs.

Adds protections under the Human Rights Act (section 363A.26) allowing religious associations and religiously-controlled institutions to take action regarding goods, services, and accommodations related to marriage solemnization in accordance with religious beliefs.

Updates marriage license application requirements and solemnization procedures to use gender-neutral language ("spouse" instead of "husband and wife") and requires courts to use gender-neutral interpretation of terms like "husband," "wife," "mother," and "father" in laws governing civil marriage rights and parentage.