Duluth, MN to offer domestic partner certificates
May 17, 2009
The city of Duluth will soon begin permitting couples to register as domestic partners, which could make it easier for them to get domestic partner benefits. The ordinance says domestic partners are defined as those who are “as committed to one another as married persons are traditionally committed.”
Councilor Jeff Anderson proposed that the city offer the certificates, saying it would be easier for couples to get benefits from employers that provide them to domestic partners. Anderson says his ordinance will make the city more inclusive and tolerant of homosexuals, but notes that it’s not just for gay and lesbian couples.
The City Council approved the policy Monday night (May 11, 2009) on a split vote. It requires the city clerk to issue certificates to couples that meet certain criteria.
The certificates will cost $25 and should start being offered next month.
