Welcome to Project 515
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Project 515, launched in October 2007, is a focused initiative with a specific, achievable goal: to ensure that same sex couples and their families have equal rights and considerations under Minnesota law. 

We envision a world of equality where all families are equally valued and respected under the law and in their homes, neighborhoods, workplaces and communities. 

Project 515 will execute a multi-year plan to secure equal rights for Minnesota’s same sex couples and their families through public advocacy and legislative and political advocacy. 

Here are some examples of how the 515 statutes discriminate against couples and families.

Minnesotans' Stories
Unfairness Even Hurts Those Too Young to Care For Themselves

Emily was covered by her partner’s insurance, according to Minnesota State Employees domestic partner benefits. She returned to school full-time to pursue her doctorate degree and then gave birth to the couple’s first child in 2003.

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Sometimes Planning and Legal Work Still Aren’t Enough

Tim Reardon is a prudent man. When he and his partner Eric decided to have a child through a surrogate, they made certain all the legal documents were in order.

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It’s Not About Benefits, But Acceptance

Dave Engstrom wants what any parent desires for their children — equality and fairness.

But he’s frustrated that his 29-year-old lesbian daughter can’t count on receiving the equal and fair treatment his married daughter or his 17-year-old son may take for granted.

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Trying to Teach Life’s Lessons to Our Children

When Lisa, Susan and their six-year-old daughter Paige moved to a new city, they chose to bank with Susan’s employee credit union. Wanting to teach their daughter good savings habits, they took Paige with them to open their new accounts and chose to establish one for Paige.

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Navigating the Inequality of Insurance Law

Shannon was pregnant with twins and fell so ill that she could no longer work. She was unable to qualify for insurance on her partner’s insurance plan, so she applied for medical assistance, which was available only because she was pregnant. After the twins were born and her health returned, the couple more closely examined the domestic partner benefits available through the employer of Shannon’s partner.

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