Working for Lesbian, Gay,
Bisexual and Transgender Equal Rights
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.
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.