State Laws and Legislation

Vermont Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law

Licenses marriages for same-sex couples? Yes.
On April 7, 2009, the Vermont legislature enacted SB. 115 over Gov. Jim Douglas’s veto, providing marriage equality under state law for lesbian and gay couples. The law took effect on September 1, 2009.


Honors marriages of same-sex couples from other jurisdictions? Yes.
(as of September 1, 2009)

Any form of statewide relationship recognition for same-sex couples? Yes.
As of September 1, 2009, Vermont recognizes marriage equality for lesbian and gay couples under state law. Vermont continues to recognize civil unions entered into pursuant to a law enacted in 2009. However, no new civil unions will be allowed after September 1, 2009. Parties to a civil union are entitled to all of the state-level spousal rights and responsibilities.

Citations: SB. 115 (2009); VT. STAT. ANN. tit. 15, §1201(4)(2003); VT. STAT. ANN. tit. 15 §23.


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Updated: Mon, August 31, 2009 - 11:00:07