Introduction
The Human Rights Campaign is working closely with state leaders across the nation on marriage initiatives.
Currently, same-sex couples are entitled to all of the state-level rights and benefits of marriage in Massachusetts, Connecticut and Iowa.
In Vermont, the state Legislature overrode Gov. Jim Douglas’ veto on April 7, 2009, providing marriage equality under state law for lesbian and gay couples. The law becomes effective Sept. 1, 2009. After this date, there will be no new civil unions in Vermont, but previously granted civil unions will still be recognized.
In Maine, Gov. John Baldacci signed legislation on May 6 recognizing marriage equality for same-sex couples under state law. The law is scheduled to take effect 90 days after the end of the legislative session in June. Opponents of marriage equality have said they will fight to send the issue to a voter referendum in November. If this push is successful, it would delay the date the law would become effective.
In New Hampshire, Gov. John Lynch signed legislation on June 3 recognizing marriage equality for same-sex couples. The marriage bill will take effect Jan. 1, 2010. No new civil unions will be granted after this date. People who previously entered into civil unions can apply by Jan. 1, 2011 to have their civil unions recognized as marriage.
In addition, same-sex couples in New Jersey are able to enter into state-level civil unions, and there are broad domestic partnership laws in in California, the District of Columbia, Nevada (effective Oct. 1, 2009), Oregon and Washington state (effective July 26, 2009, subject to possible referendum). Also, following a ruling by the California Supreme Court, the approximately 18,000 marriages by same-sex couples that were performed prior to the passage of Proposition 8 in November 2008 remain valid. In New York, after a 2008 court ruling, valid out-of-state marriages of same-sex couples must be legally recognized.
Visit our Maps of State Laws & Policies for a snapshot of the status of marriage laws.
We are working closely with state leaders across the nation on marriage initiatives and will be fighting to secure equal protections for all LGBT families. You can help support marriage equality for all by signing our Million for Marriage Petition.
A wedding or commitment ceremony is a special occasion for a loving couple. Making a donation in honor of their declaration of love is a great way to celebrate their special day, but also a great way to support HRC's work. To make a contribution in honor of a specific couple's upcoming wedding or commitment ceremony, please visit HRC's Wedding Registry.
Civil Unions
Find out about the few states that offer civil unions — a form of relationship recognition that gives same-sex couples some state-level benefits of marriage.
Domestic Partners
Find out more about the domestic partnership laws that provide same-sex couples in some states with health care benefits and/or other protections.
Related Links
Featured Content
- HRC's Wedding Registry
- Marriage for Same-Sex Couples: Considerations for Employers
- Can We File Our Taxes as Married?
- Will Massachusetts Recognize Same-Sex Couples Married in Canada?
- Should We Register As Domestic Partners In Multiple Jurisdictions?
- How Do Survivor Benefits for Domestic Partnership Benefits Work?
- How Do I Cut the Inheritance Taxes for My Partner?