The upcoming marriage amendment is making huge waves here in Minnesota, and everyone seems to have an opinion on how the government should react in the situation.

Currently, same sex marriage isn’t recognized in Minnesota, but the amendment would define marriage in the Minnesota Constitution as the union between one man and one woman, reinforcing the current marriage laws. From a business standpoint, there are many things to consider when taking a stance on the upcoming marriage amendment. While the Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce is not taking a side on the issue, we believe that it’s important to learn more about what effects this amendment may have on the business community, so the voters can make an educated decision regarding this amendment in November.

Businesses need to consider that they are going to have employees as well as clients that fall on both sides of the issue. By openly taking a stance on one side or the other, they run the risk of isolating individuals that are either strongly for
or against the amendment. Many Minnesota businesses have opposed the amendment including Thomson Reuters, General Mills, and St. Jude Medical. A spokesperson from Thomson Reuters made it clear that they were not opposing the amendment for political or religious reasons, but rather from a business standpoint. Businesses try to attract the "best and brightest" employees, and by supporting the amendment, it gives the impression that the particular company is against diversity which can cause prospective employees to look elsewhere for
work. To keep the most talented people on staff, they need to portray themselves as a company that embraces diversity and includes everyone regardless of their sexual preference.

On the other hand, some say that legalizing gay marriage could negatively affect the economy. Granting the same rights to same-sex partners will cause the state as well as employers to spend more on tax cuts, insurance coverage, and other
benefits that were originally intended for same sex partners.

In conclusion, the upcoming marriage amendment could potentially affect the business world in many ways, and it’s critical that voters take the time to understand what they are voting for. To learn more about this issue, make sure
to attend the DCR Chamber “A Business Case for Equality” Roundtable event. It
will be held at Rasmussen College in Eagan on July 26^th from 9:00 a.m. to
10:30 a.m. Thanks so much for reading and make sure to let us know how you think the marriage amendment will affect the business climate.

-Megan, DCR Intern