Minnesota Independent

‘Death rights’ bills for same-sex couples pass House committee

By Andy Birkey | 03.12.10 | 8:56 am

Three bills that would assist same-sex couples in the event of one partner’s death were passed by the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday. Legislators recalled stories of couples who underwent hardships because of inequality in the law, while Tom Prichard of the Minnesota Family Council called the bills “discriminatory” and said they are “unfair to married couples.”

St. Paul eyeing domestic partner registry

By Andy Birkey | 06.22.09 | 7:53 am

St. Paul City Council members Dave Thune and Lee Helgen will be introducing a proposal for a domestic partner registry this week. For a $20 fee, couples who cannot marry (and some who wish not to) can get their…

Senate passes ‘death rights’ bill for same-sex couples

By Andy Birkey | 05.01.09 | 1:55 pm

Despite fierce opposition from Republicans, a bill that would allow same-sex partners to make end-of-life decisions for their partners passed the Minnesota Senate on Thursday by a 37 to 24 vote. The bill, which also gives same-sex partners the right to sue for wrongful death, was opposed by legislators who said it was simply a back door to gay marriage.

Family Council argues Final Wishes Act is ‘discriminatory’

By Andy Birkey | 04.01.09 | 11:33 am

A bill that would rectify discrimination in Minnesota statutes and allow domestic partners to make end-of-life decisions for each other is being strongly opposed by the Minnesota Family Council. The reason? The measure discriminates against married couples, council President Tom Prichard charged.

Proposals to provide sick leave to domestic partners pass committee

By Andy Birkey | 03.28.08 | 12:16 pm

Two proposals aimed at providing domestic partners the ability to take time off to care for sick loved ones passed key committees this week. The bills have raised some controversy because both bills would work to the benefit of same-sex…