Although the federal government does not recognize same sex marriage, some states do, while others recognize civil unions or something similar for same sex couples. The following states recognize same sex marriage AND perform them: Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Recent Washington D.C. legislation implies that D.C. could be performing same-sex marriages, recognized only on a state level, as early as February, 2010. California performed same-sex marriages between June 16, 2008 and November 4, 2008; however, the California electorate then approved a voter initiative that reinstated the ban on same-sex marriage as part of the state constitution. Marriages performed between June 16, 2008 and November 4, 2008, or performed in other jurisdictions before or during this period, are still recognized in California. New York recognizes same sex marriages that were legally validated in other states, but does not grant same-sex marriage licenses or perform same sex marriages. This area of law is rapidly changing and readers should verify with state officials on the status of same sex marriage.
Tags: marriage marriages performed state states california recognize between other november
© Copyright 2012, Inc. All rights reserved.