Domestic partner registration in Minnesota

Many same-sex couples desire the chance to secure some form of government acknowledgement of their relationship status, even if only in symbolic form, feeling that this would convey some sense of affirmation of their family. 

In 1991, the City of Minneapolis created the state's first domestic-partner registry, open to same-sex or different-sex couples.  For $20, a couple could register largely for symbolic purposes.

In 2003, at OutFront Minnesota's urging, the City removed its residency requirements for participation in the registry.  The City Council also clarified that domestic partners are not to be discriminated against in certain financial arrangements within the city itself.

City of Minneapolis Domestic Partner Registration Form

In 2009, the City of Duluth created its own symbolic partner registry.  Read the ordinance here.

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