Social Issues

Similar requests have already been rejected by district and circuit courts. Earlier this month, a federal district court invalidated Utah's ban on gay marriage that was endorsed by voters in 2004, saying it is not constitutional.
The world braces for retirement crisis
Many people will be forced to work well past the traditional retirement age of 65. Living standards will fall and poverty rates will rise for the elderly in wealthy countries that built safety nets for seniors after World War II.
Anti-animal cruelty efforts that failed in 2013
The past year was a busy one for the animal welfare activists who've turned their hidden cameras on confinement facilities where huge numbers of food animals are raised. Livestock producers -- and the policymakers they influence -- were just as busy trying to make it illegal for activists to enter these facilities undercover.
Budget cuts hit Greater Minn. senior food programs
Driven by federal budget cuts, groups next week will close three dozen of the state's 502 congregate meal sites, most of which are in Greater Minnesota.
Community activists are pushing for a so-called Homeless Bill of Rights, which would help protect homeless people from harassment and make clear that being homeless isn't a crime.
Jobs coming to SW Minn. bring housing woes, too
Local leaders in southwestern Minnesota cheered when tractor manufacturer AGCO announced plans to expand operations and add jobs. Then the worrying began: Where would the new workers live?
Ex-priest dropped as sex education teacher
Harry Walsh is a former priest who was accused of sexually abusing two minors decades ago. The accusations came to light as part of Minnesota Public Radio's ongoing investigation into the church's response to clergy misconduct.
City leaders in Fargo have decided to include electronic cigarettes in the city's tobacco ordinance, which means it will be illegal to give or sell e-cigarettes to minors.
A statewide change to police and firefighter pension rules could encourage more municipal employees to retire sooner.