State Laws
Alabama Adoption Law
Alabama permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. In some jurisdictions a person may be able to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s child or child of the relationship.
Alabama Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Alabama permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Alabama Custody and Visitation Law
Alabama courts use a parent’s sexual orientation to deny, restrict or modify custody and visitation. There are no reported or published opinions dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents.
Alabama Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision in Alabama law on donor insemination performed on an unmarried woman.
Alabama Hate Crimes Law
State law does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Alabama Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Alabama law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Alabama Non-Discrimination Law
Alabama law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Alabama School Law
Alabama law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Alabama Sodomy Law
The Alabama sodomy law was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2003, as a result of the Court’s decision in Lawrence v. Texas.
Alabama Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Alabama state law, but it appears to be permitted.
Alaska Adoption Law
Alaska permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. In some jurisdictions a person may be able to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s child or child of the relationship.spacer
Alaska Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Alaska permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Alaska Custody and Visitation Law
Alaska courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the child(ren). There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents
Alaska Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision in Alaska law on donor insemination performed on an unmarried woman.
Alaska Hate Crimes Law
State law does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Alaska Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Alaska law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Alaska Non-Discrimination Law
Alaska law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Alaska School Laws
Alaska law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Alaska Sodomy Law
The Alaska sodomy law was repealed in 1980.
Alaska Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Alaska state law.
Arizona Adoption Law
Arizona permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child
Arizona Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Arizona will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
Arizona Custody and Visitation Law
There have been no cases dealing with gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender parents. Arizona law, however, does not seem to permit the consideration of factors that do not affect the best interests of the child to be used in custody and visitation determinations. Although there are no published cases dealing with same-sex co-parents, state law allows for a person not legally or biologically related to petition for visitation.
Arizona Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision in Arizona law on donor insemination.
Arizona Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Arizona Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Arizona law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Arizona Non-Discrimination Law
Arizona law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Arizona Surrogacy Law
Arizona law is unclear on the issue of surrogacy agreements.
Arkansas Adoption Law
It is unclear whether Arkansas permits single GLBT people to adopt. The state does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Arkansas Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Arkansas will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
Arkansas Custody and Visitation Law
Arkansas courts use a parent’s sexual orientation to deny, restrict or modify custody and visitation. There are no reported or published opinions dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents
Arkansas Donor Insemination Law
Arkansas law permits unmarried women to undergo donor insemination
Arkansas Hate Crimes Law
State law does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Arkansas Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Arkansas law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Arkansas Non-Discrimination Law
Arkansas law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Arkansas School Laws
No explicit provision in Arkansas law prohibits discrimination or harassment in educational institutions based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Arkansas Sodomy Law
The Arkansas sodomy law was struck down in 2002.
Arkansas Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Arkansas state law, but it appears to be permitted.
California Adoption Law
California law affirms that a GLBT individuals can petition to adopt a child.
California Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
California law permits transsexuals to obtain new birth certificates.
California Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents. The state Supreme Court has held that when a same-sex couple deliberately has a child through assisted reproduction both partners are the legal parents.
California Donor Insemination Law
California law explicitly allows artificial insemination of unmarried women and removes any paternity rights from the donor. However, the procedures must be performed with physician involvement to remove the donor’s legal rights or obligations with regard to a resulting child.
California Hate Crimes Law
California hate crimes law addresses violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
California Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
California law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. California domestic partnership registration allows same-sex couples the opportunity to formalize relationships.
California Non-Discrimination Law
California law explicitly prohibits discrimination based on gender identity, appearance and behavior in the areas of employment and housing.
Colorado Adoption Law
Colorado permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. A person cannot adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Colorado Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Colorado permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Colorado Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation or gender identity in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. Courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the children) to petition for parental responsibilities.
Colorado Donor Insemination Law
Colorado law permits unmarried women to undergo donor insemination.
Colorado Hate Crimes Law
Colorado law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Colorado Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Colorado law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Colorado Non-Discrimination Law
Colorado law does not address discrimination based on sexual orientation. In some cases, however, gender identity is protected
Colorado School Laws
Colorado law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Colorado Sodomy Law
The Colorado sodomy law was repealed in 1972.
Colorado Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Colorado state law
Connecticut Adoption Law
Connecticut permits single GLBT individuals and same-sex couples to adopt. A same-sex co-parent can adopt his or her partner’s child or child of the relationship.
Connecticut Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Connecticut will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
Connecticut Custody and Visitation Law
There have been no cases dealing with custody and visitation for gay, lesbian or bisexual parents. Courts have used a parent’s gender identity or expression to deny, restrict or modify custody and visitation. Courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the children) to petition for visitation.
Connecticut Donor Insemination Law
Connecticut law allows married couples to undergo donor insemination. There is no state provision on donor insemination performed on unmarried women
Connecticut Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
Connecticut Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Connecticut law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. It licenses civil unions between same-sex couples.
Connecticut Non-Discrimination Law
Connecticut law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Connecticut School Laws
Connecticut law addresses school issues relating to sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Connecticut Sodomy Law
The Connecticut sodomy law was repealed in 1971.
Connecticut Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Connecticut state law, but it appears to be permitted.
D.C. Adoption Law
The District of Columbia permits single GLBT individuals and same-sex couples to adopt. A same-sex co-parent can adopt his or her partner’s child or child of the relationship.
D.C. Custody and Visitation Law
The sexual orientation of a parent is prohibited from being used as a consideration in custody or visitation unless it would impact the best interests of the child. There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents
D.C. Donor Insemination Law
District of Columbia law appears to permit unmarried women to undergo donor insemination
D.C. Hate Crimes Law
District law covers hate crimes based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
D.C. Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
No provision of District of Columbia law bans recognition of marriages between same-sex couples performed in another jurisdiction. The district’s domestic partnership registration allows same-sex couples the opportunity to formalize relationships
D.C. Non-Discrimination Law
District of Columbia law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
D.C. School Laws
District of Columbia law addresses school issues relating to sexual orientation and gender identity.
D.C. Sodomy Law
The District of Columbia sodomy law was repealed in 1993.
D.C. Surrogacy Law
District of Columbia law prohibits surrogacy agreements.
Delaware Adoption Law
Delaware permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. In some jurisdictions a person may be able to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s child or child of the relationship.
Delaware Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Delaware will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals
Delaware Custody and Visitation Law
Delaware courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. There are no published cases dealing with transgender parents. Delaware courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the children) to petition for custody and visitation.
Delaware Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision on donor insemination in Delaware state law.
Delaware Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Delaware Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Delaware law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Delaware Non-Discrimination Law
Delaware law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Delaware School Laws
Delaware law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Delaware Sodomy Law
The Delaware sodomy law was repealed in 1973.
Delaware Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Delaware state law, but it appears to be prohibited.
Florida Adoption Law
Florida prohibits single GLBT people and same-sex couples from adopting. A person probably cannot petition to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Florida Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Florida permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Florida Custody and Visitation Law
Florida courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. Florida courts typically do not consider a parent’s gender identity or expression in making custody and visitation decisions. Courts in Florida have not granted custody or visitation rights to the non-biological parent of a child.
Florida Donor Insemination Law
Florida law allows donors no parental rights
Florida Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Florida Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Florida law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Florida Non-Discrimination Law
Florida law does not address discrimination based on sexual orientation. However, in some cases gender identity is protected.
Florida School Laws
Florida law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Florida Sodomy Law
The Florida sodomy law was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2003, as a result of the Court’s decision in Lawrence v. Texas.
Florida Surrogacy Law
Florida law permits surrogacy agreements for married couples only.
Georgia Adoption Law
Georgia permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Georgia Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Georgia permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates
Georgia Custody and Visitation Law
Courts in Georgia typically have not restricted custody and visitation of a gay or lesbian parent as long as there is no evidence of harm to the child. There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents
Georgia Donor Insemination Law
Georgia law allows married couples to undergo donor insemination. There is no state provision on donor insemination performed on unmarried women.
Georgia Hate Crimes Law
State law does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Georgia Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Georgia law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Georgia Non-Discrimination Law
Georgia law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Georgia School Laws
Georgia law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Georgia Sodomy Law
The Georgia sodomy law was struck down in 1998.
Georgia Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Georgia state law
Hawaii Adoption Law
Hawaii permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. In some jurisdictions a person may be able to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s child or child of the relationship.
Hawaii Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Hawaii will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
Hawaii Custody and Visitation Law
There have been no cases dealing with gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender parents or same-sex co-parents.
Hawaii Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision in Hawaii law or case law on the subject of donor insemination.
Hawaii Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on gender identity and sexual orientation
Hawaii Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Hawaii law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. The state offers reciprocal beneficiary status to same-sex couples.
Hawaii Non-Discrimination Law
Hawaii law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Hawaii School Laws
Hawaii law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Hawaii Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Hawaii state law.
Illinois Adoption Law
Illinois permits single GLBT individuals and same-sex couples to adopt. A same-sex co-parent can adopt his or her partner’s child or child of the relationship.
Illinois Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Illinois will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
Illinois Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. Illinois courts have held that a transgender parent did not have standing to petition for custody and visitation because the marriage to the biological parent was deemed invalid. Courts have not granted custody or visitation rights to the non-biological parent of a child.
Illinois Donor Insemination Law
Illinois law permits unmarried women to undergo donor insemination.
Illinois Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Illinois Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Illinois law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Illinois Non-Discrimination Law
Illinois law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity
Illinois School Laws
Illinois law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Illinois Sodomy Law
The Illinois sodomy law was repealed in 1962.
Illinois Surrogacy Law
Illinois law permits surrogacy agreements.
Iowa Adoption Law
Iowa permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. In some jurisdictions a person may be able to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s child or child of the relationship
Iowa Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Iowa will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
Iowa Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically have not restricted custody and visitation of gay or lesbian parents as long as they conceal their sexual orientations. There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents.
Iowa Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Iowa Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Iowa law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Iowa Non-Discrimination Law
Iowa law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Iowa School Laws
Iowa law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Iowa Sodomy Law
The Iowa sodomy law was repealed in 1978.
Iowa Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Iowa state law.
Kentucky Adoption Law
Kentucky permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Kentucky Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Kentucky permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates
Kentucky Custody and Visitation Law
Courts have used a parent’s sexual orientation to deny, restrict or modify custody and visitation. The state Supreme Court has ruled that a same-sex co-parent, with no biological or legal relationship to a child, can petition a court to be deemed a de facto custodian/parent for custody and visitation rights. There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents.
Kentucky Donor Insemination Law
Kentucky law permits unmarried women to undergo donor insemination.
Kentucky Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity
Kentucky Non-Discrimination Law
Kentucky law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Kentucky School Laws
Kentucky law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Kentucky Sodomy Law
The Kentucky sodomy law was struck down in 1992.
Kentucky Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Kentucky state law, but it appears to be permitted
Louisiana Adoption Law
Louisiana permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. In some jurisdictions a person may be able to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s child or child of the relationship.
Louisiana Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Louisiana will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
Louisiana Custody and Visitation Law
Louisiana courts typically have not restricted the custody and visitation of gay or lesbian parents as long as they conceal their sexual orientations. It would seem that courts would not look favorably on granting custody and/or visitation to a gay or lesbian parent who did not conceal his or her sexual orientation or the nature of a relationship with a same-sex partner. There are no reported or published opinions dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents.
Louisiana Donor Insemination Law
Louisiana law appears to permit unmarried women to undergo donor insemination.
Louisiana Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Louisiana Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Louisiana law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Louisiana Non-Discrimination Law
Louisiana law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Louisiana School Laws
Louisiana law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Louisiana Sodomy Law
The Louisiana sodomy law was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2003, as a result of the Court’s decision in Lawrence v. Texas.
Louisiana Surrogacy Law
Louisiana law prohibits surrogacy agreements
Maine Adoption Law
Maine permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Maine Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Maine permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates
Maine Custody and Visitation Law
Maine courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. There are no published cases dealing with transgender parents. Courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the children) to petition for visitation.
Maine Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision on donor insemination in Maine state law, but it appears to be permitted for unmarried women.
Maine Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Maine Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Maine law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. Maine has a statewide domestic partner registry that confers a handful of rights for registered couples.
Maine Non-Discrimination Law
Maine law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Maine School Laws
Maine law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Maine Sodomy Law
The Maine sodomy law was repealed in 1976.
Maine Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Maine state law.
Maryland Adoption Law
Maryland permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. In some jurisdictions a person may be able to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s child or child of the relationship.
Maryland Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Maryland permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Maryland Custody and Visitation Law
Maryland courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. There are no cases dealing with transgender parents, but state law does not seem to permit the consideration of factors that do not affect the best interests of the child to be used in custody and visitation determinations. Courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the children) to petition for custody and visitation.
Maryland Donor Insemination Law
Maryland law is unclear on the issue of donor insemination for unmarried women.
Maryland Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
Maryland Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
No provision of Maryland law addresses marriages between same-sex couples performed in another jurisdiction. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Maryland Non-Discrimination Law
Maryland law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Maryland School Laws
Maryland law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Maryland Sodomy Law
The Maryland sodomy law was struck down in 1998.
Maryland Surrogacy Law
Maryland state law is unclear on surrogacy.
Massachusetts Adoption Law
Massachusetts permits single GLBT individuals and same-sex couples to adopt. A same-sex co-parent can adopt his or her partner’s child or children of the relationship.
Massachusetts Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Massachusetts permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Massachusetts Custody and Visitation Law
Massachusetts courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. There are no published cases dealing with transgender parents. Courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the children) to petition for custody and visitation
Massachusetts Donor Insemination Law
Massachusetts law allows married couples to undergo donor insemination. There is no state provision on donor insemination performed on unmarried women.
Massachusetts Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Massachusetts Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
On May 17, 2004, marriage licenses began to be issued to same-sex couples in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Non-Discrimination Law
Massachusetts law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Massachusetts School Laws
Massachusetts law addresses school issues relating to sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Massachusetts Sodomy Law
The Massachusetts sodomy law was struck down in 2002.
Massachusetts Surrogacy Law
Massachusetts law permits surrogacy agreements.
Michigan Adoption Law
Michigan permits single GLBT people to adopt. Same-sex couples cannot jointly adopt. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Michigan Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Michigan will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
Michigan Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the child(ren). There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents. Courts have not granted custody or visitation rights to the non-biological parent of a child.
Michigan Donor Insemination Law
Michigan law appears to permit unmarried women to undergo donor insemination.
Michigan Hate Crimes Law
State law does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Michigan Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Michigan law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Michigan Non-Discrimination Law
Michigan law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Michigan School Laws
Michigan law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Michigan Sodomy Law
Sodomy laws were struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2003, as a result of the Court’s decision in Lawrence v. Texas.
Michigan Surrogacy Law
Michigan law prohibits surrogacy agreements
Minnesota Adoption Law
Minnesota permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. In some jurisdictions a person may be able to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s child or child of the relationship.
Minnesota Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Minnesota permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Minnesota Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the child(ren). There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents. Courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the child(ren)) to petition for visitation.
Minnesota Donor Insemination Law
Minnesota law explicitly allows married women to undergo donor insemination. The law allows a married woman to obtain semen from a licensed physician for artificial insemination and strips the donor of any legal relationship to a resulting child. The law is silent on whether unmarried women can undergo donor insemination.
Minnesota Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
Minnesota Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Minnesota law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Minnesota Non-Discrimination Law
Minnesota law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Minnesota School Laws
Minnesota law addresses school issues relating to sexual orientation and gender identity.
Minnesota Sodomy Law
The Minnesota sodomy law was struck down in 2001.
Minnesota Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Minnesota state law.
Mississippi Adoption Law
Mississippi permits single GLBT people to adopt. Same-sex couples cannot jointly adopt. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Mississippi Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Mississippi permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Mississippi Custody and Visitation Law
Courts have used a parent’s sexual orientation to deny, restrict or modify custody and visitation. There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents.
Mississippi Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision on donor insemination in Mississippi state law.
Mississippi Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on gender identity but not sexual orientation.
Mississippi Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Mississippi law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Mississippi Non-Discrimination Law
Mississippi law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation
Mississippi School Laws
Mississippi law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Mississippi Sodomy Law
The Mississippi sodomy law was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2003, as a result of the Court’s decision in Lawrence v. Texas.
Mississippi Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Mississippi state law.
Missouri Adoption Law
Missouri permits any adult to petition to adopt. It is unclear whether a same-sex couple can jointly adopt or whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s child.
Missouri Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Missouri permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Missouri Custody and Visitation Law
Missouri courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. Missouri courts have considered a parent’s gender identity or expression in making custody and visitation determinations. Missouri courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the children) to petition for visitation.
Missouri Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision in Missouri law on donor insemination performed on an unmarried woman.
Missouri Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
Missouri Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Missouri law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Missouri Non-Discrimination Law
Missouri law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Missouri School Laws
Missouri law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity
Missouri Sodomy Law
The Missouri sodomy law was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2003, as a result of the Court’s decision in Lawrence v. Texas.
Missouri Surrogacy Law
Missouri state law is unclear on surrogacy.
Montana Adoption Law
Montana permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Montana Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Montana permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Montana Custody and Visitation Law
There have been no cases dealing with gay, lesbian or bisexual parents or same-sex co-parents. Courts typically will not consider a parent’s gender identity or expression in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the child(ren).
Montana Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision in Montana law on donor insemination performed on an unmarried woman.
Montana Hate Crimes Law
State law does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Montana Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Montana law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Montana Non-Discrimination Law
Montana law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation
Montana School Laws
Montana law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Montana Sodomy Law
The Montana sodomy law was struck down in 1997.
Montana Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Montana state law.
Nebraska Adoption Law
It is unclear whether Nebraska permits single GLBT people to adopt. The state does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. A person cannot adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Nebraska Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Nebraska will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
Nebraska Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the child(ren). There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents. Courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the children) to petition for visitation.
Nebraska Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision on donor insemination in Nebraska state law.
Nebraska Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Nebraska law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Nebraska Non-Discrimination Law
Nebraska law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Nebraska School Laws
Nebraska law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Nebraska Sodomy Law
The Nebraska sodomy law was repealed in 1978.
Nebraska Surrogacy Law
Nebraska law prohibits surrogacy agreements.
Nevada Adoption Law
Nevada permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. In some jurisdictions a person may be able to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s child or child of the relationship.
Nevada Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Nevada will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
Nevada Custody and Visitation Law
There have been no cases dealing with gay, lesbian or bisexual parents or same-sex co-parents. Courts have used a parent’s gender identity or expression to deny, restrict or modify custody and visitation.
Nevada Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision in Nevada law on donor insemination performed on an unmarried woman.
Nevada Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Nevada Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Nevada law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Nevada Non-Discrimination Law
Nevada law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Nevada School Laws
Nevada law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Nevada Sodomy Law
The Nevada sodomy law was repealed in 1993.
Nevada Surrogacy Law
Nevada law permits surrogacy agreements for married couples only.
New Hampshire Adoption Law
New Hampshire permits single GLBT people to adopt. In some jurisdictions same-sex couples may be able to adopt jointly. In some jurisdictions a person may be able to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s child or child of the relationship.
New Hampshire Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
New Hampshire will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
New Hampshire Custody and Visitation Law
There have been no cases dealing with gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender parents or same-sex co-parents in New Hampshire.
New Hampshire Donor Insemination Law
New Hampshire law permits unmarried women to undergo donor insemination.
New Hampshire Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
New Hampshire Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
New Hampshire law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
New Hampshire Non-Discrimination Law
New Hampshire law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
New Hampshire School Laws
New Hampshire law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
New Hampshire Sodomy Law
The New Hampshire sodomy law repealed in 1975
New Hampshire Surrogacy Law
New Hampshire law permits surrogacy agreements for married couples only.
New Jersey Adoption Law
New Jersey permits single GLBT individuals and same-sex couples to adopt. A same-sex co-parent can adopt his or her partner’s child or child of the relationship.
New Jersey Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
New Jersey will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
New Jersey Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. There are no published cases dealing with transgender parents. New Jersey courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the children) to petition for visitation.
New Jersey Donor Insemination Law
New Jersey law permits unmarried women to undergo donor insemination.
New Jersey Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
New Jersey Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
There is no explicit provision in New Jersey law purporting to ban the performance or recognition of marriages for same-sex couples. The New Jersey civil unions law will take effect in early 2007.
New Jersey Non-Discrimination Law
New Jersey law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity
New Jersey School Laws
New Jersey law addresses school issues relating to sexual orientation and gender identity.
New Jersey Sodomy Law
The New Jersey sodomy law was repealed in 1979.
New Jersey Surrogacy Law
New Jersey law permits surrogacy agreements.
New Mexico Adoption Law
New Mexico permits single GLBT individuals and same-sex couples to adopt. In some jurisdictions a person may be able to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child or child of the relationship.
New Mexico Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
New Mexico permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
New Mexico Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the child(ren). There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents. Courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the child(ren)) to petition for visitation.
New Mexico Donor Insemination Law
New Mexico law permits unmarried women to undergo donor insemination.
New Mexico Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
New Mexico Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
No provision of New Mexico explicitly addresses marriages between same-sex couples performed in another jurisdiction. The state offers domestic partnership benefits to state employees.
New Mexico Non-Discrimination Law
New Mexico law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
New Mexico School Laws
New Mexico law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
New Mexico Sodomy Law
The New Mexico sodomy law was repealed in 1975.
New Mexico Surrogacy Law
New Mexico law permits surrogacy agreements.
New York Adoption Law
New York permits single GLBT individuals and same-sex couples to adopt. A same-sex co-parent can adopt his or her partner’s child or child of the relationship.
New York Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
The state of New York permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
New York Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation or gender identity or expression in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the child(ren). Courts have not granted custody or visitation rights to the non-biological parent of a child.
New York Donor Insemination Law
New York state law appears to permit unmarried women to undergo donor insemination.
New York Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
New York Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
New York does not issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples and the question of whether it will honor marriages between same-sex couples performed in other jurisdictions is before the courts. Same-sex couples have access to a few rights in state law. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
New York Non-Discrimination Law
New York law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation and in some cases gender identity.
New York School Laws
New York law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
New York Sodomy Law
The New York sodomy law was struck down in 1980.
New York Surrogacy Law
New York law prohibits surrogacy agreements.
North Carolina Adoption Law
North Carolina permits single GLBT people to adopt. It is unclear whether same-sex couples are allowed to adopt. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
North Carolina Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
North Carolina will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
North Carolina Custody and Visitation Law
North Carolina courts have used a parent’s sexual orientation to deny, restrict or modify custody and visitation. There are no published cases dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents.
North Carolina Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision in North Carolina law on donor insemination performed on an unmarried woman.
North Carolina Hate Crimes Law
State law does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
North Carolina Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
North Carolina law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
North Carolina Non-Discrimination Law
North Carolina law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation
North Carolina School Laws
North Carolina law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
North Carolina Sodomy Law
The North Carolina sodomy law was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2003, as a result of the Court’s decision in Lawrence v. Texas.
North Carolina Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in North Carolina state law, but it appears to be permitted.
North Dakota Adoption Law
It is unclear whether North Dakota permits single GLBT people to adopt. Same-sex couples probably cannot adopt. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
North Dakota Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
North Dakota permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
North Dakota Custody and Visitation Law
North Dakota courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. There are no published cases dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents.
North Dakota Donor Insemination Law
North Dakota law appears to permit unmarried women to undergo donor insemination.
North Dakota Hate Crimes Law
State law does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
North Dakota Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
North Dakota law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
North Dakota Non-Discrimination Law
North Dakota law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
North Dakota School Laws
North Dakota law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
North Dakota Sodomy Law
The North Dakota sodomy law was repealed in 1975.
North Dakota Surrogacy Law
North Dakota law prohibits surrogacy agreements.
Ohio Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Ohio does not permit post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Ohio Custody and Visitation Law
Ohio courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. Courts have used a parent’s gender identity or expression to deny, restrict or modify custody and visitation. Ohio courts have not granted custody or visitation rights to the non-biological parent of a child.
Ohio Donor Insemination Law
Ohio law appears to permit unmarried women to undergo donor insemination.
Ohio Hate Crimes Law
State law does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Ohio Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Ohio law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Ohio Non-Discrimination Law
Ohio law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Ohio School Laws
Ohio law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity
Ohio Sodomy Law
Ohio’s sodomy law was repealed in 1974.
Ohio Surrogacy Law
Ohio state law is unclear on surrogacy
Oklahoma Adoption Law
Oklahoma permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Oklahoma Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Oklahoma permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Oklahoma Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the child(ren). There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents.
Oklahoma Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision in Oklahoma law on donor insemination performed on an unmarried woman.
Oklahoma Hate Crimes Law
State law does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Oklahoma Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Oklahoma law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Oklahoma Non-Discrimination Law
Oklahoma law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Oklahoma School Laws
Oklahoma law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Oklahoma Sodomy Law
The Oklahoma sodomy law was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2003, as a result of the Court’s decision in Lawrence v. Texas.
Oklahoma Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Oklahoma state law, but it appears to permitted.
Oregon Adoption Law
Oregon permits single GLBT individuals and same-sex couples to adopt. In some jurisdictions a person may be able to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s child or child of the relationship.
Oregon Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Oregon Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the child(ren). There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents.
Oregon Donor Insemination Law
Oregon law appears to permit unmarried women to undergo donor insemination.
Oregon Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Oregon Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Oregon law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Oregon Non-Discrimination Law
Oregon law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Oregon School Laws
Oregon law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Oregon Sodomy Law
Oregon’s sodomy law was repealed in 1972.
Oregon Surrogacy Law
Oregon law permits surrogacy agreements.
Pennsylvania Adoption Law
Pennsylvania permits single GLBT people to adopt. It is unclear whether same-sex couples are allowed to adopt. A same-sex co-parent can adopt his or her partner’s child or child of the relationship.
Pennsylvania Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Pennsylvania permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Pennsylvania Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the child(ren). There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents. Courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the child(ren)) to petition for visitation.
Pennsylvania Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision on donor insemination in Pennsylvania state law.
Pennsylvania Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
Pennsylvania Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Pennsylvania law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Pennsylvania Non-Discrimination Law
Pennsylvania law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Pennsylvania School Law
Pennsylvania law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Pennsylvania Sodomy Law
The Pennsylvania sodomy law was struck down in 1980.
Pennsylvania Surrogacy Law
Pennsylvania state law is unclear on surrogacy.
Rhode Island Adoption Law
Rhode Island permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. In some jurisdictions a person may be able to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s child or child of the relationship.
Rhode Island Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Rhode Island permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Rhode Island Custody and Visitation Law
There have been no cases dealing with gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender parents. Courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the child(ren)) to petition for visitation.
Rhode Island Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision on donor insemination in Rhode Island state law.
Rhode Island Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Rhode Island Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Rhode Island law does not have an explicit ban on marriage for same-sex couples. Same-sex couples have access to a few rights in state law. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Rhode Island Non-Discrimination Law
Rhode Island law protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Rhode Island School Laws
Rhode Island law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Rhode Island Sodomy Law
Rhode Island’s sodomy law was repealed in 1998.
Rhode Island Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Rhode Island state law, but it appears to be permitted.
South Carolina Adoption Law
South Carolina permits single GLBT people to adopt. It is unclear whether same-sex couples are allowed to adopt. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
South Carolina Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
South Carolina will not issue new birth certificates, but it will issue cards that can be attached to the old birth certificates indicating change of name and sex.
South Carolina Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the child(ren). There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents.
South Carolina Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision on donor insemination in South Carolina state law.
South Carolina Hate Crimes Law
This state has no hate crimes law.
South Carolina Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
South Carolina law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
South Carolina Non-Discrimination Law
South Carolina law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
South Carolina School Laws
South Carolina law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
South Carolina Sodomy Law
The South Carolina sodomy law was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2003, as a result of the Court’s decision in Lawrence v. Texas.
South Carolina Surrogacy Law
South Carolina state law is unclear on surrogacy.
South Dakota Adoption Law
South Dakota permits single GLBT people to adopt. It is unclear whether same-sex couples are allowed to adopt. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
South Dakota Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the child(ren). There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents.
South Dakota Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision on donor insemination in South Dakota state law.
South Dakota Hate Crimes Law
State law does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
South Dakota Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
South Dakota law and the state constitution both purport to ban marriage for same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
South Dakota Non-Discrimination Law
South Dakota law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
South Dakota School Laws
South Dakota law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
South Dakota Sodomy Law
The South Dakota sodomy law was repealed in 1977.
South Dakota Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in South Dakota state law.
Tennessee Adoption Law
Tennessee permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Tennessee Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Tennessee does not permit post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Tennessee Custody and Visitation Law
Tennessee courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. There are no reported or published opinions dealing with transgender parents. Tennessee courts have not granted custody or visitation rights to the non-biological parent of a child.
Tennessee Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision in Tennessee law on donor insemination performed on an unmarried woman.
Tennessee Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Tennessee Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Tennessee law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Tennessee Non-Discrimination Law
Tennessee law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Tennessee School Laws
Tennessee law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Tennessee Sodomy Law
The Tennessee sodomy law was struck down in 1996.
Tennessee Surrogacy Law
Tennessee law permits surrogacy agreements for married couples only.
Texas Adoption Law
Texas permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. In some jurisdictions a person may be able to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s child or child of the relationship.
Texas Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Texas permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Texas Custody and Visitation Law
Courts have used a parent’s sexual orientation to deny, restrict or modify custody and visitation. There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents. It is unclear whether a same-sex co-parent could be granted custody or visitation.
Texas Donor Insemination Law
Texas law appears to permit unmarried women to undergo donor insemination.
Texas Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Texas Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Texas law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Texas Non-Discrimination Law
Texas law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Texas School Laws
Texas law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Texas Sodomy Law
The Texas sodomy law was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2003, as a result of the Court’s decision in Lawrence v. Texas.
Texas Surrogacy Law
Texas law permits surrogacy agreements for married couples only.
Utah Adoption Law
Utah permits single GLBT people to adopt. Same-sex couples cannot jointly adopt. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Utah Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Utah permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Utah Custody and Visitation Law
Utah courts have used a parent’s sexual orientation to deny, restrict or modify custody and visitation. There are no reported or published opinions dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents.
Utah Donor Insemination Law
Utah law is unclear on the issue of donor insemination.
Utah Hate Crimes Law
State law does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Utah Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Utah law and the state constitution both purport to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Utah Non-Discrimination Law
Utah law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Utah School Laws
Utah law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Utah Sodomy Law
The Utah sodomy law was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2003, as a result of the Court’s decision in Lawrence v. Texas.
Utah Surrogacy Law
Utah law prohibits surrogacy agreements
Vermont Adoption Law
Vermont permits single GLBT individuals and same-sex couples to adopt. A same-sex co-parent can adopt his or her partner’s child or child of the relationship.
Vermont Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Vermont permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Vermont Custody and Visitation Law
There have been no cases dealing with gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender parents. However, state law does not seem to permit the consideration of factors that do no affect the best interests of the child. Vermont courts will not allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the children) to petition for custody and visitation. However, same-sex parents in a civil union are entitled to equal parental rights for children born during the civil union.
Vermont Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision on donor insemination in Vermont state law.
Vermont Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
Vermont Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Vermont law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. It licenses civil unions between same-sex couples.
Vermont Non-Discrimination Law
Vermont protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Vermont School Laws
Vermont law addresses school issues relating to sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Vermont Sodomy Law
Vermont repealed its sodomy statute in 1977.
Vermont Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Vermont state law, but it appears to be permitted.
Virginia Adoption Law
Virginia permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Virginia Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Virginia will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
Virginia Custody and Visitation Law
Virginia courts have used a parent’s sexual orientation to deny, restrict or modify custody and visitation. There are no reported or published opinions dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents.
Virginia Donor Insemination Law
Virginia law is unclear on the issue of donor insemination for unmarried women.
Virginia Hate Crimes Law
State law does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Virginia Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Virginia law and the state constitution both purport to ban marriage for same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Virginia Non-Discrimination Law
Virginia law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Virginia School Laws
Virginia law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Virginia Sodomy Law
The Virginia sodomy law was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court on June 26, 2003, as a result of the Court’s decision in Lawrence v. Texas.
Virginia Surrogacy Law
Virginia law permits surrogacy agreements for married couples only.
Washington Adoption Law
Washington permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting.. In some jurisdictions a person may be able to adopt his or her same-sex partner’s child or child of the relationship
Washington Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Washington issues new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
Washington Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children. There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents. Courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the children) to petition for a determination of co-parentage.
Washington Donor Insemination Law
Washington has no explicit law regarding donor insemination.
Washington Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Washington Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Washington law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Washington Non-Discrimination Law
Washington law prohibits discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
Washington School Laws
Washington law addresses school issues relating to sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Washington Sodomy Law
The Washington sodomy law was repealed in 1976.
Washington Surrogacy Law
Washington law permits surrogacy agreements.
West Virginia Adoption Law
West Virginia permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
West Virginia Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
West Virginia permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
West Virginia Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the children.
West Virginia Donor Insemination Law
There is no provision on donor insemination in West Virginia state law.
West Virginia Hate Crimes Law
State law does not address hate crimes based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
West Virginia Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
West Virginia law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
West Virginia Non-Discrimination Law
West Virginia law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
West Virginia School Laws
West Virginia law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
West Virginia Sodomy Law
The West Virginia sodomy law was repealed in 1976.
West Virginia Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in West Virginia state law, but it appears to be permitted.
Wisconsin Adoption Law
Wisconsin permits single GLBT people to adopt and does not explicitly prohibit same-sex couples from adopting. A person cannot adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Wisconsin Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Wisconsin will issue new birth certificates to post-operative transsexuals.
Wisconsin Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the child(ren). There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents. Courts will allow a former same-sex partner (with no legal or biological relationship to the children) to petition for visitation.
Wisconsin Donor Insemination Law
Wisconsin law appears to permit unmarried women to undergo donor insemination.
Wisconsin Hate Crimes Law
State law covers hate crimes based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Wisconsin Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Wisconsin law and the state constitution both purport to ban marriage for same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Wisconsin Non-Discrimination Law
Wisconsin law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Wisconsin School Laws
Wisconsin law addresses school issues relating to sexual orientation but not gender identity.
Wisconsin Sodomy Law
The Wisconsin sodomy law was repealed in 1983.
Wisconsin Surrogacy Law
Wisconsin state law is unclear on surrogacy.
Wyoming Adoption Law
Wyoming permits single GLBT people to adopt. It is unclear whether same-sex couples are allowed to adopt. It is unclear whether a person can adopt his or her same-sex partner’s adopted child.
Wyoming Birth Certificate Law: Gender Identity Issues
Wyoming permits post-operative transsexuals to amend their sex on their birth certificates.
Wyoming Custody and Visitation Law
Courts typically will not consider a parent’s sexual orientation in custody and visitation determinations unless it is shown to adversely affect or harm the child(ren). There have been no cases dealing with transgender parents or same-sex co-parents.
Wyoming Donor Insemination Law
Wyoming law appears to permit unmarried women to undergo donor insemination.
Wyoming Hate Crimes Law
This state has no hate crimes law.
Wyoming Marriage/Relationship Recognition Law
Wyoming law purports to ban recognition of marriages between same-sex couples. There are no other forms of relationship recognition for same-sex couples in state law or policies.
Wyoming Non-Discrimination Law
Wyoming law does not address discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
Wyoming School Laws
Wyoming law does not address school issues relating to sexual orientation or gender identity.
Wyoming Sodomy Law
The Wyoming sodomy law was repealed in 1977
Wyoming Surrogacy Law
There is no provision on surrogacy in Wyoming state law.