North Dakota Same-Sex Couples: “We’re Not Done Yet”

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Cass County courthouse is ready to issue marriage licenses to same sex couples that apply.

KVRR’s Brittany Ford joins us with local reaction to the court ruling.
 
Alison and TJ, the LGBT community in the F-M Metro is celebrating one step in the right direction for equality.

But many LGBT North Dakotans say discrimination is still an issue.
 
Mara Morken and her partner Alex Fogarty legally married in Minnesota two years ago.

She works in Fargo and says the new law brings her peace of mind, but there are still underlying issues.
 
“There’s still a potential for discrimination, because North Dakota allows for that. People who get married right now have to run the risk of having their home taken from them if there a renter and job potentially letting them go.”
 
State Representative Josh Boschee of Fargo is openly gay.

He says when it comes to laws in North Dakota that allow for discrimination, it will ultimately hinder the state’s economy.
 
“We’re recruiting a talented workforce, were retaining our young people we have to take that into consideration. Continue the discussion about non-discrimination and making sure LGBT North Dakotans along with straight family and friends are protected in the work place and their home.”
 
North Dakotans had voted in 2004 to ban same sex marriage.

In a statement Gov. Jack Dalrymple says North Dakota will comply with the federal mandate.

Some in the area are calling the decision a step backwards.
 
“I consider the supreme court decision a setback. It’s a setback for the constitution it’s a setback for the 15-million people across the country that voted in 31-different states for marriage between one man and one woman.”

In North Dakota, same sex marriage licenses will not be distributed until Monday after 10am due to a system update.

Brittany Ford KVRR News.