Defense of Marriage Act

 

DOMA denies lawfully-married same-sex couples more than 1,100 federal benefits and protections. The Respect for Marriage Coalition, co-chaired by HRC and Freedom to Marry, is bringing together a diverse body of partners to end this discriminatory law.

 

Learn About the Coalition

 

Impact

The Respect for Marriage Act (RMA) repeals DOMA and restores the rights of all lawfully married couples—including same-sex couples—to receive the benefits of marriage under federal law. The bill also provides same-sex couples with certainty that federal benefits and protections would flow from a valid marriage celebrated in a state where such marriages are legal, even if a couple moves or travels to another state.

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