Enduring Legacy
Minnesota legislators Phyllis Kahn of Minneapolis and Cy Thao of St. Paul, both members of the Democratic Farmer Labor party, have introduced a bill to repeal the state’s law against marriage between first cousins. The representatives say that “recent scientific studies” show children of first cousins have no increased risk of genetic defects, and the law change is necessary to acknowledge the culture of Hmong immigrants. Thao is Hmong — but he has removed his name from sponsorship of the bill. A Republican legislator has observed that the proposal conflicts with Gov. Tim Pawlenty’s promise “not to turn us into another Arkansas.” (Minneapolis Star Tribune) ...“My work here is done.” —Former TV wrestler (and former Minnesota governor) Jesse Ventura.
Available in This is True: Book Collection Vol. 9