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SF 1277

Updating contract terminology to gender-neutral terms

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Scott Dibble and 1 co-sponsor

Minnesota bill standardizes state contract language to gender-neutral terms, replacing gendered pronouns with inclusive alternatives like "they" and "the person."

Author stricken Mitchell
#legalproceedings #realestate
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SF 1277

Legislative bill overview

SF 1277 proposes updating contract terminology throughout Minnesota law to use gender-neutral language instead of gender-specific terms. The bill standardizes language such as replacing "he/she" with "they" or "the person" in state contracts and related legal documents.

Why is this important

Contract language affects how laws are interpreted and applied. Modernizing terminology to be gender-inclusive ensures that all individuals—including non-binary and transgender people—are clearly represented in legal documents. This also reflects contemporary writing standards and reduces ambiguity in contract interpretation.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation scope and cost: Critics may question which contracts require updating and the fiscal impact of reviewing and revising potentially thousands of existing documents and templates.
  • Perceived necessity vs. symbolism: Opponents may argue the changes are primarily symbolic rather than addressing substantive legal inequities, while supporters see language inclusion as foundational to equal treatment.
  • Unintended legal consequences: Some stakeholders may worry that changing established terminology could create confusion during a transition period or affect how existing contracts are legally interpreted.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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