Plans for marriage equality for December 2012 and beyond
The fight for marriage equality has come a long way in 2012, but more work needs to be done. Same-sex partners are closer than ever to getting the same legal rights as opposite-sex partners who choose to marry and have children. However, there are several crucial battles yet to be fought for equal rights in the near future.
Overturning California\’s Proposition 8, which put an end to same-sex marriages in the state, is a major goal for supporters of equal rights for same-sex couples. The matter is currently in the hands of the U.S. Supreme Court, but the court may decide not to hear the case. A decision should be rendered soon.
The Supreme Court will also announce whether it is going to hear any of the lawsuits pending against the federal Defense of Marriage Act. The act defines marriage as between one man and one woman, which many people call unconstitutional.
Proponents of marriage equality also hope to pass same-sex marriage laws via ballot initiative and legislature. The state legislatures in Colorado and many other states could be hotbeds of activity for legalizing same-sex marriage sometime between 2014 and 2016. Other states may see results earlier.
Although they ban same-sex marriage, many states like Colorado recognize domestic partnerships. Information is available for same-sex couples who are interested in a domestic partnership agreement that covers rights such as child custody and property rights.
Source: The American Prospect, “What\’s Next for Marriage Equality?” E.J. Graff, Nov. 27, 2012′
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