Opponents of same-sex marriage to look to states
AP, Advocate.com, February 28, 2007
A group lobbying for a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage concedes that its chances are slim with Democrats controlling Congress. So now it's setting its sights on state legislatures. The Washington, D.C.–based Alliance for Marriage wants to build a nationwide network of state lawmakers who would support a constitutional amendment, the group's leaders said Monday in an interview with the Associated Press.
''There is no question that the shift in the balance of power in Washington has, for the time being, made it difficult to reintroduce the federal amendment in Congress,'' said Matt Daniels, the group's founder and president. Continue.
Special collection: New York and Georgia courts rule against marriage equality
In one week in July 2006 courts in New York and Georgia upheld bans on same-sex marriage. Meanwhile, in Massachusetts, prominent business and civil leaders urged legislators not to put an amendment overturning that state's marriage equality on the 2008 ballot. Click here for links to reports on all these developments. Religious right sources are included. Click here
Alabama
Gay marriage amendment easily OK'd
By Jay Reeves, Associated Press Writer, Decatur Daily News, June 7, 2006
MONTGOMERY — Voters overwhelmingly approved a constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage in Alabama on Tuesday, granting what conservative supporters called additional protection for traditional families in a state where homosexual unions already are illegal.
With 17 percent of 3,240 precincts reporting, "yes" votes to approve the measure were leading "no" votes 160,309-41,155, or 80 percent to 20 percent. Continue
More to worry about than gay marriage
Op-ed article, by Rev. James L. Evans, The Decatur Daily (Decatur, Alabama), February 25, 2006
Rev. Evans writes of the cynical use politicians make of marriage amendments to turn out the vote. "Voters are warned that the homosexual agenda is about to wreck the American dream. They are whipped into a frenzy to pass laws that will stop this gay juggernaut." Click here to read the report.
'Ten Commandments Judge' Using Gay Marriage In Gubernatorial Bid
By 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, 365Gay.com, January 25, 2006
" Former Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore is making a state ban on same-sex marriage a key component of his bid to succeed Gov. Bob Riley. At a news conference Tuesday, Moore joined 16 ministers from across the state to urge a strong turnout at the polls to pass the proposed amendment." Click here for the report.
Arizona
South Dakota abortion ban, Arizona gay marriage ban fail
Daniel C. Vock, Stateline.org, November 8, 2006
Arizona has become the first state in the country to reject a ballot initiative to ban same-sex marriage, on the same night that South Dakota voters refused to make their state a test case in the fight to outlaw abortion.
South Dakota voters pulled the plug on an attempt to challenge the landmark abortion case of Roe v. Wade, as citizens there overrode a law that would have banned abortion in that state. In a ballot campaign that drew nationwide attention and dollars, opponents of the ban succeeded in taking it off the books by a vote of 56 percent to 44 percent with 99 percent of votes tallied.
The gay marriage vote in Arizona is likely to capture national attention, even as seven more states on Election Day joined the 20 states that already had passed constitutional prohibitions on gay marriage.
Arizona refused to outlaw gay marriage by a vote of 51 to 49, with 98 percent of voting precincts counted. The vote is likely to spur debate about whether public opposition to same-sex unions is weakening since Massachusetts became the lone state to allow gays and lesbians to marry in May 2004. Continue
Arizona rejects anti-gay marriage amendment
Similar measures pass in seven other states
By Eric Ervin, Washington Blade, November 08, 2006
Arizona voters narrowly defeated a state constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage, becoming the first state in the country to reject such a measure.
Some 51.4 percent of those who voted rejected the measure and 48.6 supported it, with 2,208 of the state’s 2,209 precincts reporting, according to unofficial results from the Arizona Secretary of State’s office on Wed. Continue.
Marriage ban heads to Arizona ballot
Advocate.com, September 1, 2006
The Arizona supreme court on Thursday ruled that an anti-same-sex marriage amendment to the state constitution can appear on the November 7 ballot, while a recently released poll of Arizona voters indicates the harsh measure will fail.
The justices, upholding a lower court decision, spurned Arizona Together's arguments that the marriage measure violates the state's single-subject rule for ballot initiatives. Continue
Anti-Gay Marriage Amendment Ruling To Be Appealed
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, August 10, 2006
(Phoenix, Arizona) An organization fighting a proposed Arizona amendment to ban same-sex marriage and partner benefits said Thursday it would appeal a ruling approving the language in the measure.
Earlier Thursday Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Douglas Rayes ruled that the proposed amendment did not violate a state law requiring single issues be put to voters. Continue
Arizona judge rejects challenge to antigay amendment proposal
Advocate.com, August 12-14, 2006
A judge on Thursday rejected a legal challenge to an initiative that would ban same-sex marriage and ruled that the proposed state constitutional measure can go on Arizona's November 7 general election ballot. Judge Douglas Rayes of Maricopa County superior court rejected opponents' argument that the Protect Marriage Arizona initiative, which would appear on the ballot as Proposition 107, violated a constitutional requirement that each constitutional amendment be a separate ballot measure.
The opposition Arizona Together campaign said it will appeal Rayes's ruling to the Arizona supreme court. The measure would define marriage as a union between one man and one woman and prohibit state and local governments from providing marriage-like legal status to other relationships. Continue
Lawsuit Filed Over Arizona Anti-Gay Amendment
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, July 12, 2006
(Phoenix, Arizona) A proposed amendment to the Arizona constitution aimed at blocking same-sex marriage is so broad it would adversely affect thousands of couples who are not even gay a lawsuit filed Wednesday says.
Five opposite-sex couples from Phoenix and Tucson filed suit in Phoenix seeking to have the amendment invalidated on the grounds that it violates the Separate Amendment Rule by seeking to incorporate in one ballot measure at least three separate issues. Continue
Same-sex marriage ban makes Arizona's ballot
Sirius OutQ News, Advocate.com, July 8-10, 2006
Supporters of a proposed constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage in Arizona have filed for the November ballot. Organizers of the initiative, called Protect Marriage Arizona, have submitted over 300,000 signatures with the secretary of state's office. The group needs about 184,000 valid names to qualify for the ballot.
Supporters say the goal is to preserve and protect marriage in Arizona as a union between one man and one woman. It would also prohibit any type of legal status for unmarried people similar to marriage, like civil unions. Continue
Same-sex marriage ban makes Arizona's ballot
Sirius OutQ News, Advocate.com, July 8-10, 2006
Supporters of a proposed constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage in Arizona have filed for the November ballot. Organizers of the initiative, called Protect Marriage Arizona, have submitted over 300,000 signatures with the secretary of state's office. The group needs about 184,000 valid names to qualify for the ballot.
Supporters say the goal is to preserve and protect marriage in Arizona as a union between one man and one woman. It would also prohibit any type of legal status for unmarried people similar to marriage, like civil unions. Continue
Arizona Church Leaders Pray For Gay Marriage
by 365Gay.com, May 12, 2006
(Tucson, Arizona) Leaders from more than 20 churches in the Tucson area want people in the state to know that not all Christian ministers oppose same-sex marriage.
On Saturday they will hold a special service at the Midtown First Congregational United Church of Christ to pray for the defeat of an initiative that would amend the state constitution that would ban same-sex marriage marriage. Continue
California
Calif. Court Allows Anti-Gay Marriage Measure To Go To Voters
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, July 16, 2008
(San Francisco, California) The California Supreme Court declined on Wednesday to hear a challenge to a ballot measure asking voters to ban same-sex marriage.
As is the court's practice it did not give a reason for deciding not to hear the challenge by LGBT rights groups. The decision virtually assures the issue will be put to voters in November. Continue.
California County Refuses To Ban Gay Marriage
Associated Press, Advocate.com, July 9, 2008
Kern County supervisors refused to ban gay marriage, rebutting a conservative group that sought to make it the first California county to reject the statewide policy.
The Campaign for Children and Families hoped the passage of a gay marriage ban in Kern County would embolden other counties to follow suit. Continue.
Marriage Supporters Introduce New Argument to Stop Amendment
Associated Press, Advocate.com, June 24, 2008
Gay rights activists asked California's highest court Friday to keep off the November ballot a citizens' initiative that would again ban same-sex marriage. Lawyers for Equality California filed a petition arguing that the proposed amendment to the California constitution should be invalidated because its impact was not made clear to the millions of voters who signed petitions to qualify the measure before the state supreme court legalized same-sex unions. ''This court has recognized that gay and lesbian couples have a fundamental right to marry, and as of June 16 such couples have been getting married across the state,'' the petition states.
''Rather than effecting 'no change' in existing California law, the proposed initiative would dramatically change existing law by taking that fundamental right away and inscribing discrimination based on a suspect classification into our state constitution.''
The petition also claims the so-called California Marriage Protection Act should be disqualified because it would revise, rather than amend, the state constitution by altering its fundamental guarantee of equality for all -- in essence writing a law the state high court has already found unconstitutional into the constitution. Continue.
Kern County Clerk refuses to perform marriages
Shuns County Counsel in favor of Christian right Alliance Defense Fund
Background by JewsOnFirst.org, June 18, 2008
Kern County Clerk Ann Barnett ended all marriages performed by her office in Bakersfield, the county seat, and in satellite offices around the far-flung county. Barnett's move followed her order to the Kern County Counsel to file for a delay in the implementation of same-sex marriage as ordered last month by the California Supreme Court. When the court refused to delay marriage equality, Barnett announced the suspension of marriages and the local paper reported that she had retained the Alliance Defense Fund, a religious right legal powerhouse, to represent her. The County Counsel told the Bakersfield Californian that Barnett's reliance on outside counsel concerned him.
Meanwhile, a local school district trustee threatened to unseat any elected officials who did not support Barnett. Chad Vegas, who has led successful efforts to put "In God We Trust" posters into classrooms and rename Winter and Spring breaks as Christmas and Easter breaks, stated that officials should follow the constitution they swore to uphold -- not judges or the legislature.
Wedding bells ring for local gay couples
James Burger And Tara Mclaughlin, The Bakersfield Californian, June 17, 2008
It was close to 9 a.m. when the first gay couple wed.
There was barely a hint of a breeze, the sun was shining through the trees and a man sprinkled the ground beneath their feet with yellow and red rose petals.
Karen Briefer and Kathi Gose were surrounded by a crowd, mostly media peppered with their loved ones.
The Briefer-Gose family, who had what they called a spiritual ceremony 11 years ago, exchanged vows acknowledging their love and commitment. Continue.
Clerk: Weddings a financial loser
Stacey Shepard, The Bakersfield Californian, June 13, 2008
County Clerk Ann Barnett released figures Friday showing her office lost $18,000 in the past year performing civil marriage ceremonies.
Barnett cited the high cost of solemnizing marriages as a reason for ending them, a decision announced last week after the California Supreme Court stood by its legalization of gay marriage.
Despite the financial drain, Barnett did not suggest eliminating ceremonies earlier this year when all county departments were instructed to reduce expenditures 20 percent in the face of a general fund shortfall of more than $47 million. Continue.
Chad Vegas warns supervisors to support Barnett
The Bakerfield Californian, June 16, 2008
Conservative groups in Kern County and around the country are lining up to oppose same-sex marriage, which becomes legal in California Monday night.
High-profile pastor and school trustee Chad Vegas led the charge locally with an e-mail threatening any Kern County supervisor who fails to fully support Ann Barnett, the Kern auditor-controller who announced June 5 she would halt all county civil ceremonies before the Tuesday morning deadline to allow same-sex weddings.
“When people stand for something that is wrong and you don’t believe in it, you work to remove them from office,” Vegas said Friday. Continue.
I Do’? Oh, No. Not Here You Don’t
By Jesse McKinley, New York Times, June 13, 2008
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Thousands of gay and lesbian couples across California are expected to marry next week, when a State Supreme Court decision granting that right becomes official.
But here in the seat of Kern County, same-sex marriages will not take place in the county clerk’s office. Nor will any others.
In a statement, County Clerk Ann K. Barnett announced that her office would not solemnize any wedding vows after Friday, a move that she said reflected administrative and budgetary concerns, but that gay rights activists think reflects Ms. Barnett’s distaste for same-sex marriage. The decision does not affect the ability of any couple in the county to obtain a marriage license. Continue.
Buzz up!2 counties to halt all weddings, gay or not
Marisa Lagos, The San Francisco Chronicle, June 11, 2008
County officials in at least two California counties say they'll stop performing all wedding ceremonies by next week, arguing that they don't have enough resources to marry both gay and straight couples.
Officials in Kern and Butte counties cited budget and staffing constraints as the rationale for halting the ceremonies. But clerks in other counties say that claim is specious. Some activists went further, arguing that the decision to stop the ceremonies amounts to poorly disguised discrimination against gay and lesbian couples. Continue.
Radio Personality Harrison Takes on Kern County
Harrison, The Advocate.com, June 18, 2008
While cities throughout California commemorate June 17th’s greenlighting of same-sex marriage, the 8,000 square mile backwoods county of Kern—home to Edwards Air Force Base and the China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station—remains a virtual stand-alone in glad defiance of the California supreme court’s recent celebrated ruling.
Kern County, recently ranked by The American Lung Association as the most ozone-polluted county in the nation, is also heralded as the “Country Music Capitol of the West” and home of Cousin' Ebb Pilling of the Pumpkin Center Barn Dance.
Kern County is larger than the entire state of Connecticut, gushing 35,000 active oil wells amidst a dusty landmass of dereks, trailer parks, and 7-11s. The county seat is plopped in sun-blistered Bakersfield, made famous as the residence of “Hee-Haw” star Buck Owens. It is here that Ann Barnett, Kern County Auditor-Controller and County Clerk, decided to flash her Crucifix against the state supreme court’s equality ruling to openly administer marriage licenses to same-sex couples. Ms. Barnett even pushed County Counsel Bernard Barmann to file a legal brief with the State of California to block all same-sex marriages, statewide. Continue.
Court Refuses To Stop Calif. Gay Weddings
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, June 17, 2008
(San Francisco, California) A California state appeals court on Tuesday refused a motion by a conservative group to halt the rush by same-sex couples to marry.
The Campaign for California Families argued that marriage licenses should not be issued until the legislature amends dozens of state laws addressing marriage to conform with the state Supreme Court ruling that gays and lesbian couples have a constitutional right to marry.
The organization was represented by the Virginia-based Liberty Counsel. Continue.
With court ruling taking effect Monday, area congregations grapple with gay marriage
Jennifer Garza, The Sacramento Bee, June 15, 2008
Whether they embrace the concept or oppose it, Sacramento's religious groups are grappling with the arrival Monday of legal same-sex marriages in California.
Churches willing to host same-sex marriages are rewriting wedding vows and marriage pamphlets, replacing "bride" and "groom" with non-gender-specific words. At Sierra Arden United Church of Christ in Sacramento, "bridal party" is now "wedding party" in church brochures.
"We want everyone to feel welcome," said Pam Engle, office manager. Continue.
For some clergy, topic stirs spiritual struggle
Anne Krueger and Angela Lau, San Diego Union-Tribune, June 16, 2008
For some religious leaders, gay marriage is a simple issue: It's either a fundamental right or an unholy union.
For others, the court ruling that legalizes such marriages in California beginning this evening presents more of a spiritual struggle.
The topic was generally avoided during weekend sermons in San Diego County, but as with other hot-button issues, same-sex marriage has prompted contemplation, discussion and even dissent in places of worship since the state Supreme Court issued its ruling May 15. Continue.
Foes of California same-sex marriage ruling ask a lower court to delay it
With a state Supreme Court ruling set to become law June 16, a group asks an appeals court to delay its imposition until after a November vote on the issue. The ruling's proponents deride the effort.
Maura Dolan, Los Angeles Times, June 12, 2008
San Francisco -- Opponents of same-sex marriage asked the California Court of Appeal today to put on hold a ruling that permits gays to marry next week, a move that supporters of the ruling quickly belittled as frivolous and certain to fail.
The California Supreme Court, which approved same-sex nuptials in a historic ruling May 15, already has refused to delay the effective date of its decision. Opponents wanted the court to postpone the ruling's effect until after a November ballot initiative to limit marriage to opposite-sex couples. The ruling becomes law June 16 at 5 p.m. Continue.
 Gay 'Marriage': All Hope is Not Lost
"God is not having an anxiety attack over same-sex 'marriage.' "
Jennifer Mesko, Citizenlink.com, June 16, 2008
As the first same-sex "wedding" takes place in California today, it's important to put things into perspective.
"God is not having an anxiety attack over same-sex 'marriage,' " said Peter Brandt, senior director of government and public policy at Focus on the Family Action.
Ron Prentice, executive director of the California Family Council, said God is raising up a new generation of leaders. Continue.
Day of Prayer for Marriage
Same-sex "Marriage" Ruling Prompts Call for Day of Prayer on June 17
Concerned Women for America, Press Release, June 16, 2008
Washington, D.C. — Concerned Women for America (CWA) is calling for a Day of Prayer and Fasting to ask God’s intervention to protect marriage. Tuesday, June 17, is the first full day that California will begin allowing same-sex “marriages,” opening the floodgates of legal chaos to further undermine marriage nationwide. Unlike Massachusetts, which allows only state residents to obtain same-sex “marriage” licenses, California’s sweeping decision can be transported nationwide by homosexual couples demanding that other states recognize their California “marriage.” Already, New York Governor David Paterson (D) has ordered all New York state agencies to recognize same-sex “marriages” performed in other states or countries in which it is considered legal. Continue.
Biblical marriage vs. CA courts: Ruling today
Jeff Johnson, OneNewsNow, June16, 2008
Pro-family attorneys are trying another legal route to block implementation of so-called "gay marriage" in California this evening.
The California Supreme Court has rejected appeals of its ruling that the state must issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples beginning at 5:01 p.m. (local time) today. But the Supreme Court's decision merely hands the case back down to the California Court of Appeal, which is charged with deciding how and when to implement the high court's ruling. It is that power that Matt Staver, founder and chairman of Liberty Counsel, is appealing to now. Continue.
Initiative to ban gay marriage is on ballot
John Wildermuth, San Francisco Chronicle, June 3, 2008
(06-02) 19:24 PDT Sacramento - -- A constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage in California was placed on the Nov. 4 ballot Monday, kick-starting an election struggle that will have repercussions across the nation.
Secretary of State Debra Bowen's certification of the initiative, which would amend the state Constitution to limit marriage to a union between a man and a woman, comes as no surprise to either side of the same-sex marriage issue.
When backers of the initiative, who needed 694,354 valid signatures to make the ballot, turned in more than 1.1 million signatures, the only question was when the certification would come. Continue.
State Supreme Court says same-sex couples have right to marry
Bob Egelko, San Francisco Chronicle, May 15, 2008
SAN FRANCISCO -- Gays and lesbians have a constitutional right to marry in California, the state Supreme Court said today in a historic ruling that could be repudiated by the voters in November.
In a 4-3 decision, the justices said the state's ban on same-sex marriage violates the "fundamental constitutional right to form a family relationship." The ruling is likely to flood county courthouses with applications from couples newly eligible to marry when the decision takes effect in 30 days.
"The California Constitution properly must be interpreted to guarantee this basic civil right to all Californians, whether gay or heterosexual, and to same-sex couples as well as to opposite-sex couples," Chief Justice Ronald George wrote in the majority opinion. Continue.
Order of the California Supreme Court affirming the right of same-sex couples to marry.
California Supreme Court, May 15, 2008
To read the 172-page document posted on the court's website, please click here.
Gay Couples Rejoice at Ruling
by Jesse McKinley, The New York Times, May 16, 2008
SAN FRANCISCO — Gay and lesbian couples in San Francisco rejoiced Thursday over a California Supreme Court decision affirming their right to marry even as political leaders on both sides of the issue girded for an extended fight in the courts and at the ballot box. Continue.
California Ruling on Same-Sex Marriage Fuels a Battle, Rather Than Ending It
By Jesse Mckinley, New York Times, May 18, 2008
SAN FRANCISCO — Just hours after the California Supreme Court ruled on Thursday that same-sex couples have a constitutional right to marry, Mathew D. Staver was already raising money to overturn the decision.
Mr. Staver, the founder and chairman of Liberty Counsel, a Florida group that defends traditional marriage, flew to Dallas on Thursday night for a late dinner meeting with a fund-raiser. The topic was how to finance a campaign for the California Marriage Protection Act, a November ballot initiative that would amend the state Constitution and effectively undo the court’s decision.
“I flew to Dallas to discuss this specific issue,” said Mr. Staver, who had several trips on similar business planned in the coming week. “And we talked until the early morning hours.” Continue.
Gay-marriage ruling splits faith leaders
Some Rejoice; Others Are 'Soul-Sick'
By Mary Anne Ostrom, San Jose Mercury News, May 18, 2008
Nowhere is the opinion divide on gay marriage sharper than in the nation's religious communities. And last week's same-sex marriage ruling will do little to bring agreement on the definition of marriage, a social and religious touchstone that has torn apart families, congregations and entire dioceses.
"I don't expect the picture in the religious community to change very much with this decision," said Mary Tolbert, executive director of the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry in Berkeley. "As more and more gays and lesbians marry, it may become less of an issue, but right now I don't expect much to change, maybe not for a decade."
While clergy addressing Bay Area liberal congregations this morning, including pioneers in the battle to win legal recognition of gay marriage, are celebrating the decision, many others, including evangelical and Catholic pastors, are decrying the ruling that they say promotes a gay agenda and is at odds with their religious doctrines.
Thursday's California Supreme Court ruling allowing state-sanctioned same-sex marriages, of course, has no legal consequences for organized religions. Still, the controversial topic has not stopped faith leaders from crossing into the political arena. Faith leaders on both sides of the divide are gearing up for the expected battle over a constitutional amendment, likely headed to the November ballot, that would attempt to overturn Thursday's ruling and write a ban into the state's constitution. Continue.
California Rules in Favor of Same-Sex ‘Marriage’; Dr. Dobson Outraged
'The justices have undermined and endangered the basic building block of society.'
by Devon Williams, CitizenLink (Focus on the Family), May 15, 2008
The California Supreme Court ruled today that a law defining marriage as the union between one man and one woman is “unconstitutional,” allowing same-sex couples to marry within the next 30 days. The ruling struck down Proposition 22, a voter-approved statute protecting traditional marriage.
Dr. James Dobson, founder and chairman of Focus on the Family, is outraged by the court’s blatant disregard for marriage and the voters of California.
“The will of the people has now arrogantly been declared null and void,” he said. “In so doing, the justices have undermined and endangered the basic building block of society, which has been honored and preserved in every nation on earth through most of human history.” Continue.
Gary Bauer promises fight
Gary Bauer's daily email, May 15, 2008
"The California Supreme Court has issued a devastating opinion today overruling the common sense of the good people of California regarding the meaning of marriage. We will have more analysis of the opinion tomorrow, but rest assured, my friends, this is not the last word! The people are not powerless, and they do not have to accept this decision without a fight. And we fully intend to fight for our values! Stay tuned."
California legislators again pass bill legalizing gay marriage; veto likely
Robert Marus, Associeted Baptist Press, September 11, 2007
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (ABP) -- In a repeat performance, California legislators sent Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) a bill legalizing same-sex marriage Sept. 10.
And, in another repeat performance, the governor is expected to veto the measure.
The California Senate approved the bill on a 22-15 party-line vote, with Democrats in the majority. The legislature’s lower chamber had already approved the bill.
It would have modified the California Family Code to define marriage as a civil contract between two people, regardless of gender. With a similar measure in 2005, the California Assembly became the first legislature in the nation to approve full marriage rights for same-sex couples without having been ordered by a court to do so. Continue.
Legal Battle For Same-Sex Marriage Advances In California
365Gay.com, August 17, 2007
(San Francisco, California) Attorneys for same-sex couples seeking the right to marry in California on Friday submitted answers to a series of questions posed earlier this year by the state Supreme Court on the legal ramifications of the case. The justices sought the answers after both sides in the case filed their initial briefs in June, (story) saying the briefs failed to address three key issues. Continue.
California Assembly for second time adopts gay marriage bill
By Samantha Young, Associated Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, June 5, 2007
SACRAMENTO – The state Assembly on Tuesday voted to allow gay couples to marry in a challenge to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who has said he would veto the bill if it passes the full Legislature.
Lawmakers approved the measure on a party-line vote, with the majority saying the Legislature should not to wait for the state Supreme Court to act on the issue. It passed 42-34. Continue.
Marriage law goes to high court
State Supreme Court sets aside appellate ruling on same-sex issue, agrees to hear arguments
Bob Egelko, San Francisco Chronicle, December 21, 2006
The fate of same-sex marriage in California is in the hands of the state Supreme Court.
More than two years after it nullified nearly 4,000 weddings of gay and lesbian couples performed at San Francisco City Hall, the court voted unanimously Wednesday to decide whether state law, which defines marriage as the union of a man and a woman, violates a constitutional right to marry the partner of one's choice.
The justices granted a hearing on appeals by same-sex couples and the city of San Francisco after a state appellate court voted 2-1 on Oct. 5 to uphold the state law, which the Legislature passed in 1977 and voters reaffirmed in 2000. Continue.
California high court to review same-sex marriage case
AP, Advocate.com, December 22, 2006
The California supreme court unanimously agreed Wednesday to decide whether the state's ban on same-sex marriage violates a constitutional ban on discrimination, though an outcome is not likely until late next year. The justices are reviewing an October decision by the first district court of appeal, which ruled that California marriage laws do not discriminate because gay and lesbian couples can get most rights the state confers to married couples. Continue.
California Supreme Court takes 'gay marriage' case
Baptist Press, December 21, 2006
The California Supreme Court announced Dec. 20 it would take up a much-publicized "gay marriage" case.
The decision to accept the case was unanimous among the court's seven justices, although a date for oral arguments has yet to be set. Conservative groups had hoped the court would decline the appeal and allow a lower court ruling against "gay marriage" to stand.
At issue is a California law passed by voters in 2000 that protects the natural, traditional definition of marriage. Known as Proposition 22, it passed with 61 percent of the vote. Continue
San Francisco appeals anti–marriage equality ruling
AP via Advocate.com, November 15, 2006
A month after an appeals court ruled against same-sex marriage, the city of San Francisco and about a dozen gay couples have filed an appeal to the California supreme court. Same-sex marriage advocates hope to overturn the ruling that said limiting marriage to a man and a woman does not violate the constitutional rights of gays and lesbians.
If the high court takes the case, a decision on same-sex marriage is likely a year or more away. The justices have 90 days to announce their intentions. Continue.
California Supreme Court Asked To Rule On Gay Marriage
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, November 13, 2006
(San Francisco, California) The California Supreme Court was asked Monday to overturn a lower court ruling that upheld the state's ban on same-sex marriage but if the court decides to hear the case it will do so without the lead litigants.
Lancy Woo and Cristy Chung lead plaintiffs in the omnibus case have split up and are no longer involved. Continue.
Supreme Court declines to hear same-sex marriage case
Advocate.com, October 12, 2006
The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday declined to hear an appeal by a California gay couple whose quest for a marriage license was rejected by a federal appeals court earlier this year. Arthur Smelt and Christopher Hammer have been in court since the Orange County clerk rejected their marriage license applications in 2004, The Orange County Register reports.
The pair was unable to win support from gay rights groups, who wanted to focus legal efforts on winning same-sex marriage rights in state courts. Continue.
Same-sex marriage ban upheld by court
Ruling says change can come only from voters or Legislature
Bob Egelko, San Francisco Chronicle, October 6, 2006
Gays and lesbians have no constitutional right to marry in California, and any change giving them that right must come from state lawmakers or the voters rather than the legal system, a state appeals court declared Thursday.
The 2-1 decision reversed a lower-court ruling in favor of plaintiffs who were among the thousands of gays and lesbians who married at San Francisco City Hall in 2004. It cleared the way for both sides to argue their case before the state Supreme Court, which will have the final say on whether the courts can give same-sex couples the right to marry. Continue.
Divided California Court of Appeal Rejects Challenge to Discriminatory Marriage Law
Families Disappointed in Ruling, Will Appeal
News release, American Civil Liberties Union, October 5, 2006
SAN FRANCISCO -- In a 2-1 decision that will be appealed to the California Supreme Court, a divided panel of the California Court of Appeal ruled today that the state may continue to bar same-sex couples from marriage.
In a strong dissent, Justice Anthony Kline wrote: "the inescapable effect of the analysis the majority adopts is to diminish the humanity of the lesbians and gay men whose rights are defeated. The right to marry is of fundamental importance for all individuals."
"Today's decision was disappointing, especially for the thousands of same-sex couples throughout the state who are relying on the courts to do right by their families," said Tamara Lange, a Senior Staff Attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union. "But we're hopeful that we will be able to show the California Supreme Court that same-sex couples make lasting commitments just like different-sex couples and their families shouldn't be denied the dignity and protections that the state provides through marriage." Continue.
Advocates of same-sex marriage vow appeal of California ruling
AP, Advocate.com, October 6, 2006
Advocates of same-sex marriage vowed to appeal a state appeals court ruling upholding California's ban on same-sex weddings—a decision that would be a critical defeat for their cause if it stands. In reversing the March 2005 ruling of a San Francisco trial judge, the first district court of appeal on Thursday dealt another setback to the movement to expand same-sex marriage beyond Massachusetts. Continue.
PFLC Celebrates California Court of Appeal Ruling on Gay Marriage
News release, Pro-Family Law Center via Christian Newswire, October 5, 2006
TEMECULA, Calif., Oct. 5 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Pro-Family Law Center and public interest firm of Lively, Ackerman & Cowles are hailing today's ruling by the First District California Court of Appeal on the issue of gay marriage. In short, the Court concluded that gay marriage is an issue that should be left to the democratic process and not to courts and judges.
The two original lawsuits to challenge San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom's unilateral decision to make gay marriage legal were brought by the Alliance Defense Fund, Campaign for California Families, Pete Knight, Proposition 22 Defense Fund, Liberty Counsel, and the Lively-Ackerman public interest law firm. Continue.
State Appeals Court Hears Same-Sex Marriage Debate
Plaintiffs seeking to void the ban on gay marriage enacted after San Francisco issued licenses find a sympathetic ear on state appellate court.
By Maura Dolan, The Los Angeles Times, July 11, 2006
SAN FRANCISCO - The debate over same-sex marriage reached a California appeals court Monday, with one of the panel's three judges indicating agreement with the gay rights position.
During five hours of arguments, the sole Democrat on the three-judge panel observed that the state's domestic partner law gave gay couples only "half a loaf," and he took jabs at the state's defense of traditional marriage. Continue
Angelides Would Sign Gay Marriage Bill
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, July 7, 2006
(San Francisco) The Democrat trying to unseat Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger says if he is elected he would sign legislation to legalize same-sex marriage.
At a San Francisco news conference on Friday Phil Angelides criticized Schwarzenegger for last year's veto of a gay marriage bill passed by the legislature. Continue
Gay couple can't contest marriage definition
By Bob Egelko, San Francisco Chronicle, May 5, 2006
SAN FRANCISCO - A federal appeals court today dismissed a challenge by two Orange County men to a law denying federal marriage benefits to same-sex couples, saying a couple that isn't legally married under state law has no right to contest the federal definition of marriage.
The Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reached the result urged by gay-rights groups, which opposed the federal suit because they are trying to overturn California's marriage law in state court. Continue
Federal Judges Question Gay Marriage Case
by David Kravets, Associated Press, 365Gay.com, April 5, 2006
A three-judge panel of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguments in the appeal of a gay couple bidding to overturn California's law as discriminatory. A district judge rejected their argument saying that the purpose of marriage is procreation. According to the report, the Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund and the American Civil Liberties Union do not regard this case as well timed for a Supreme Court test. Click here for the report.
Taking Sides on Same-Sex Marriage
Political, religious and civil rights groups file briefs as the legal fight over gay unions builds
By Lee Romney, Los Angeles Times, January 11, 2006
"San Francisco - In a preview of California's looming court battle over same-sex marriage, scores of religious, civil rights and conservative groups filed briefs on both sides of the issue." Click here to read the report.
See also: Read the brief signed by Jewish and other religious organzations on the Lambda Legal website.
Signature drive for California marriage amendment fails
court case
By Michael Foust, Baptist Press News (Southern Baptist Press), January 6, 2006
"A pro-family coalition in California failed in late December to submit enough signatures to place a constitutional marriage amendment on the ballot, blaming divisions within the conservative movement and a November election that served as a distraction."
Click here to read article.
California: Same-sex marriage ban unlikely to make June ballot
By Bob Egelko, San Francisco Chronicle, December 21, 2005
"A proposed state constitutional amendment that would outlaw same-sex marriages and marital benefits for domestic partners in California will probably fail to qualify for the June ballot, a lawyer with the sponsoring group said Tuesday." Click here to read the report.
Colorado
Colorado Voters Pass Gay Marriage Ban, Reject Gay Benefits
Foxnews.com, November 8, 2006
DENVER — Colorado voters overwhelmingly outlawed gay marriage Tuesday, joining more than two dozen other states in amending their constitutions to declare marriage must be a union between a man and a woman.
A second proposal that would award same-sex couples some of the same benefits enjoyed by married spouses under state law was failing. Continue.
 Citing Dobson group as a source, Post publishes misleading map with article on domestic partnership, same-sex and marriage ballot issues
Colorado Media Matters, September 15, 2006
Summary: A U.S. map accompanying a Denver Post article about the two Colorado ballot measures related to gay marriage and domestic partnerships designated five states as allowing "[d]omestic partnership or civil union." But it did not indicate four of those states also have statutory bans on same-sex marriage, creating the misleading impression that civil unions are not allowed in any states that ban same-sex marriage.
Click here for details on protesting to the Denver Post.
One of two DP initiatives pulled from Colorado ballot
A.P., Advocate.com, August 24, 2006
One of two Colorado proposals that would allow same-sex couples to register as domestic partners was withdrawn from the November ballot Tuesday because backers said the other proposal would accomplish the same goal. Coloradans for Fairness pulled Amendment 45, which would have changed the state constitution to give registered domestic partners some of the same rights as married couples.
Still on the ballot is Referendum I, which would put domestic partnerships into state law rather than into the constitution. It was placed on the ballot by the legislature. Continue
2nd Pro-Gay Amendment OK For Colorado Ballot
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, August 18, 2006
(Denver, Colorado) Electors will get to vote on two pro-gay and one anti-gay amendments to the Colorado state constitution in November.
Secretary of State Gigi Dennis has certified that a proposed amendment by Coloradans for Fairness and Equality has enough signatures to proceed to the ballot.
The proposed amendment, to be labeled on the ballot at Amendment 45, declares that domestic partnerships are not marriages. Continue
Colorado GOP In Damage Control After 'Gay Marriage Like Bestiality' Remark
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, August 16, 2006
(Denver, Colorado) Just a day after Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob Beauprez announced his running mate would be Mesa County commissioner Janet Rowland the ticket is in "deep damage control" after Democrats released a transcript of a March TV interview in which Rowland compared same-sex marriage to bestiality. Continue.
Colorado Catholics Instructed To Support Anti-Gay Amendment
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, June 23, 2006
(Denver, Colorado) Roman Catholic churches throughout Colorado will be used to collect signatures for two ballot measures that will restrict the rights of same-sex couples.
One is an amendment to the state Constitution to ban gay marriage, the other would block benefits to same-sex couples.
There are about 370,000 Catholics in the state. The ballot measures each need about 68,000 signatures by Aug. 7 to qualify for a statewide vote. Continue
Colorado Supreme Court OKs Anti-Gay Amendment
by 365Gay.com, June 19, 2006
(Denver, Colorado) The Colorado Supreme Court has rejected a challenge to a ballot measure aimed at barring the state from giving any legal recognition to same-sex couples. Continue
Proposals on Same-Sex Unions Compete for Favor of Coloradans
By Kirk Johnson, The New York Times, May 6, 2006
DENVER, May 6 - Colorado is set to become a bruising and confusing battleground over marriage and same-sex unions this year, with up to four conflicting proposals competing for a spot on the November ballot. Continue
Gay, Anti-Gay Measures Gain Support In Colorado
by 365Gay.com, March 24, 2006
"A proposed amendment to the Colorado constitution to ban same-sex marriage and a counter proposal to give same-sex couples some of the benefits of marriage both made headway on Friday. Each would need final approval by voters in November." Click here for the report.
Colorado Dems Want Statewide Vote On Gay Benefit Plan
Associated Press on 365Gay.com, January 17, 2006
"(Denver Colorado) Two leading Democrats said Monday they want to ask Colorado voters to decide whether the state should legalize domestic partnerships for same-sex couples, calling it a legal issue, not a debate over traditional marriage values." Click here for the report.
Push to nix gay nuptials begins
But groups not all on same page
By Eric Gorsky, Denver Post, December 9, 2005
"What was envisioned as a broad coalition coming together to put a constitutional amendment prohibiting gay marriage on the Colorado ballot next fall is divided over what exactly the measure should say.
"According to sources involved in the discussions, the influential Colorado Springs evangelical Christian group Focus on the Family is pressing for a measure that would ban not only gay marriage but also same-sex civil unions or domestic partnerships." Click here to read the report.
Benefactor's group to fight effort to ban gay marriage
By Eric Gorski, Denver Post, December 6, 2005
"Denver philanthropist Tim Gill has formed a political nonprofit group to get more involved in candidate races and fight constitutional amendments barring gay marriage, including one anticipated on the Colorado ballot next fall. Click here to read the report."
Connecticut
Connecticut Group Pushes For Anti-Gay Amendment
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, May 26, 2007
(Hartford, Connecticut) A conservative group opposed to same-sex marriage has begun gathering support for an amendment to the state constitution. Continue.
Gay Marriage Bill Advances In Connecticut
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, April 13, 2007
(Hartford, Connecticut) A bill to legalize same-sex marriage is headed to a vote in the Connecticut House of Representatives, but if the measure passes both houses it is likely to suffer the same fate as similar legislation in California - a veto.
The Judiciary Committee voted 26 - 15 Thursday to send the bill to the floor of the House for a vote. Continue.
Lawmakers push for marriage equality in Connecticut
Advocate.com, February 01, 2007
Gay rights advocates in Connecticut said on Wednesday they would introduce legislation that aims to make the state the second in the United States to legalize same-sex marriage, but they face tough opposition. Democratic state senator Andrew McDonald and Rep. Michael Lawlor said they would file the bill before a February 14 deadline for new legislation. "We'll treat same-sex couples exactly the same way we'll treat opposite-sex couples," said Lawlor, also a Democrat. Continue.
Conn. Gov: No Gay Marriages
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, January 27, 2007
(Hartford, Connecticut) Connecticut Gov. M. Jodi Rell said Friday that if the legislature passes a same-sex marriage bill she will veto it.
The threat comes as LGBT civil rights groups prepare for a new push next week on lawmakers to approve same-sex marriage.
In 2005, Rell, a Republican, signed a civil union bill - at the time the second in the nation, after Vermont, and the first to enact such a law without being ordered by a court. Continue.
Gay Couples Lose Connecticut Marriage Case
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, July 12, 2006
(Hartford, Connecticut) A Connecticut state judge late Wednesday ruled that same-sex couples do not need marriage because they already are entitled to civil unions.
"Civil union and marriage in Connecticut now share the same benefits, protections and responsibilities under law," Judge Patty Jenkins Pittman said in a written ruling. Continue
Florida
Florida church exposes foes of same-sex marriage
Advocate.com, June 24-26, 2006
A gay-friendly church in Jacksonville, Fla., is turning heads and sparking debate by publishing on its Web site a list of Floridians who signed a petition voicing opposition to same-sex marriage, reports News4Jax.com.
The Christ Church of Peace has made public not only the names but also the addresses of 400,000 foes of marriage equality. Opponents of same-sex marriage in the state need 100,000 more signatures to qualify the issue for the 2008 ballot. Floridians would then vote on whether to constitutionally ban same-sex marriage, although it’s already illegal in the state. Continue
Gay Friendly Church To Publish Names Of Florida Marriage Amendment Supporters
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, June 12, 2006
(Jacksonville, Florida) A small Jacksonville church announced Monday it is setting up a Web site to publish the names of people who signed petitions calling for a plebiscite on a proposed amendment to ban same-sex marriage in Florida.
The site is similar to one in Massachusetts, set up after gay marriage foes began a petition drive in that state. In the Massachusetts case many of the people's names collected turned out to be bogus leading to a legislative inquiry. Continue
Florida Anti-Gay Amendment Appears Doomed
By Fidel Ortega, 365Gay.com, January 23, 2006
"Ironically it is the GOP that wants to see the amendment put to voters.
The party has been the campaign's biggest sponsor. Last week an investigation by the St. Petersburg Times into funding for Florida4Marriage has found that of the $193,000 that has been raised by the group $150,000 came from a single donor - the Florida Republican Party." Click here for the report.
Fla. marriage amendment signature drive looking like a bust
By Michael Foust, Baptist Press , January 20, 2006
With the deadline looming and the anti-marriage campaign short thousands of signatures, Baptist Convention leaders urge churches to get involved in the peititon drive. One quoted here says involvement would not jeopardize churches' tax exempt status. Go to the article.
Marriage amendment coalition announces endorsements as petition deadline nears
'We are behind,' leader admits; concern about apathy expressed
By James A. Smith Sr., Florida Baptist Witness, January 10, 2006
"TALLAHASSEE (FBW)-Backers of the proposed Florida Marriage Protection Amendment held simultaneous news conferences at nine locations across the state Jan. 6 to announce the endorsement of the state constitutional amendment by hundreds of religious, political and business leaders and to announce an 'ultimate mailing deadline' of Jan. 23 to receive petitions." Click here for the article.
Georgia
Georgia keeps ban on gay marriage
State justices rule amendment passed in 2004 constitutional
By Sonji Jacobs, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, July 7, 2006
The Georgia Supreme Court's decision Thursday upholding a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage capped a two-year battle that mobilized the gay community, brought conservative voters to the polls in 2004 and threatened to become a politically charged issue in this year's election.
The state's highest court unanimously affirmed the constitutional amendment - approved by 76 percent of voters in 2004 - that defines marriage as the union of a man and a woman. Continue
Georgia Supreme Court Mulls Anti-Gay Marriage Amendment
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, June 27, 2006
(Atlanta, Georgia) The Georgia Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday in a case involving the state's constitutional ban on same-sex marriage.
The courtroom was packed with both supporters of gay marriage and its opponents. At issue is the question put to voters in 2004 where the amendment passed by 76 percent. Shortly after the amendment passed Lambda Legal filed suit alleging the question put to the electorate was itself unconstitutional, arguing that the wording contained multiple issues. Continue
You will find clips on the religious right's triumphal reaction to the court's decision in our special collection on the New York and Georgia court decisions. Click here.
Georgia Supreme Court Told Governor Playing Politics With Gay Marriage Appeal
by 365Gay.com, May 23, 2006
(Atlanta, Georgia) Lawyers for Georgia gays seeking the right to marry have accused Gov. Sonny Perdue (R) of playing politics in its appeal of a ruling that struck down a constitutional amendment blocking same-sex marriage.
The state's appeal calls for an expedited hearing noting that if the court does not hear the case and issue a ruling by August 7th, Perdue will call a special session of the Legislature to get a similar amendment on the ballot in November. Continue
Hawaii
No vote held on Hawaii civil unions bill
Mark Niesse, AP, Advocate.com February 28, 2007
Hawaii lawmakers effectively killed a proposal to create civil unions for gay couples by declining to vote on the legislation.
More than 100 people packed the House Judiciary Committee hearing Tuesday, many waving pink signs reading, ''Civil Unions. Equal protection, justice for all.'' At least 400 people submitted extensive written or oral testimony.
After five hours of testimony, though, the committee declined to vote. Representatives offered little explanation to the public, but it was a sign that the bill lacked enough support to become law. Continue.
Civil Unions Bill Filed In Hawaii
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, January 29, 2007
(Honolulu, Hawaii) Legislation to legalize civil unions has been filed in the Hawaii state legislature. but how far it will advance it unknown. The bill, written by local LGBT civil rights activist Bill Woods-Bateman, does not have a sponsor. At the moment it is sitting on the desk of House Judiciary Chair, Representative Tommy Waters (D). Continue.
Idaho
Idaho Amendment To Ban Gay Marriage Advances
Associated Press, 365Gay.com, February 3, 2006
Idaho's House State Affairs Committee passed a proposed constitutional amendment on February 2, 2006 that would ban gay marriage in Idaho. HJR002 must pass the full House and Senate to gain a spot on the November 2006 ballot. Similar bills failed in 2004 and 2005. Click here for the report.
Illinois
Gay Marriage Bill Filed In Illinois
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, February 22, 2007
(Springfield, Illinois) Illinois state Rep. Greg Harris filed legislation Thursday that would permit same-sex couples in the state to marry.
Harris (D-Chicago), who is gay and represents a district with a large LGBT community admits he faces an uphill battle. Still he believes it is a matter of basic civil rights and that the people of Illinois are behind him. Continue.
Illinois Anti-Gay Group Ends Ballot Fight
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, September 15, 2006
(Chicago, Illinois) An Illinois group involved in a legal battle to get a referendum on gay marriage placed on the November ballot has decided to give up. But the organization says it intends to continue pressing the legislature to act.
Protect Marriage Illinois said late Thursday that it would not seek a full court review of last week's decision by a panel of the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals that the state decision not to place the referendum before voters was a violation of the group's constitutional rights. Continue
Federal Court Rebuffs Bid To Put Anti-Gay Referendum On Illinois Ballot
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, September 8, 2006
(Chicago, Illinois) A three judge panel of the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled against a conservative group trying to get a same-sex marriage referendum on the November ballot.
Protect Marriage Illinois, a group made of of several anti-gay religious organizations, argued that Illinois election laws "excessively burden access" to the ballot after the state rejected their referendum for not securing enough supporters. Continue.
Federal Appeal Filed In Illinois Gay Marriage Ballot Fight
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, August 15, 2006
(Chicago) A group trying get a same-sex marriage referendum on the November ballot in Illinois has filed a federal lawsuit accusing the state of a flawed system for citizen-based initiatives.
In an 82-page brief filed with the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago, Protect Marriage Illinois argues that Illinois election laws "excessively burden access" to the ballot. Continue
Illinois Gay Foes Take Marriage Amendment To Federal Court
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, August 11, 2006
(Springfield, Illinois) A conservative group trying to get a proposed referendum on gay marriage on the ballot in Illinois said Friday it would go to a federal appeals court after the state said the organization had failed to get enough signatures to qualify.
The Illinois Board of Elections earlier on Friday upheld a decision that found Protect Marriage Illinois did not collect enough valid signatures. Continue
Illinois officials reject antigay ballot measure
Advocate.com, August 12-14, 2006
The Illinois board of elections agreed on Friday with a hearing officer that an advisory referendum on same-sex marriage doesn't have enough signatures to be on the November ballot. But opponents of marriage equality have taken their fight to federal court, contending that the process to get a referendum on the Illinois ballot is burdensome and unconstitutional. "Unless they pull a rabbit out of a hat in federal court, it's not going to be on the ballot," said Patricia Logue, senior counsel for Lambda Legal. Continue
Signatures Questioned In Illinois Anti-Gay Amendment
by The Associated Press, 365Gay.com, June 7, 2006
(Springfield, Illinois) John and Char Cepek have spent dozens of hours fact-checking information to try to keep a measure off Illinois ballots this fall that would ask voters if the state should amend its constitution to ban gay marriage.
The Cepeks are part of the volunteer Fair Illinois Committee that says it has found so many errors on the ballot petitions that the referendum won't go before voters. However, gay marriage opponents who back the referendum are confident their efforts will meet the state's technical requirements. Continue
Illinois Anti-Group Hands In Referendum Names
Governor Extends Benefits To Same-Sex Partners Of Civil Servants
by Steph Smith, 365Gay.com, May 8, 2006
(Springfield, Illinois) Illinois voters might get a chance to express their opinion on gay marriage this fall.
A conservative action group calling itself Protect Marriage Illinois on Monday turned in petitions to the Board of Elections to have a referendum on same-sex marriage placed before voters.
The move came as Gov. Rod Blagojevich was signing an order extending domestic partner benefits to gay and lesbian employees of the State of Illinois.
Protect Marriage Illinois submitted 340-thousand names for the referendum, more than the 283-thousand required, but opponents predict it may not be enough to get on the ballot. Continue
Volunteers Needed for Illinois Marriage Referendum
Petition drive would place the issue on the ballot
by Jenny Tyree, Citizen Link (Focus on the Family), March 17, 2006
 "One month remains for Illinois residents to complete the process for placing a marriage referendum on the November ballot. Protect Marriage Illinois (PMI) and nearly 20,000 volunteers are attempting to gather at least 283,111 signatures by the April 20 deadline." Click here for the report.
Indiana
Indiana same-sex marriage ban dies in legislature
Advocate.com, April 05, 2007
The Indiana house rules subcommittee rejected a proposed constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage Tuesday, after a 5–5 vote, according to the Indianapolis Star. An emotional speech by a Democratic representative who fought against the ban wrapped up the evening's victory for Indiana gays. Continue.
Terri Austin was emotional in the Statehouse on Tuesday, April 03, 2007. The Democratic representative from Anderson was about to vote on the proposed constitutional ban on same-sex marriage.
Steve Dick, The Herald Bulletin, (Anderson, Indiana), April 04, 2007
Terri Austin was emotional in the Statehouse on Tuesday. The Democratic representative from Anderson was about to vote on the proposed constitutional ban on same-sex marriage.
There was something about it she -- and many other Democrats -- didn’t like. After wrestling with her conscience, she voted no.
The bill’s first provision was to recognize marriage as a union between man and woman. But the second provision was the sticking point. It said that state law "may not be construed to require that marital status or the legal incident of marriage be conferred upon unmarried couples or groups." Continue.
State Lawmaker Who Voted Against Ban on Gay Marriage Target of Ads
Jim Shella, WISH-TV Broadcating, April 9, 2007
INDIANAPOLIS - A state lawmaker who voted against a ban on gay marriage is now the target of newspaper and radio ads. Micah Clark of the Indiana Family Association said voters need to know which lawmakers voted against the marriage amendment. He said Rep. Terri Austin of Anderson cast a pivotal vote.
Austin is one of five Democrats who voted against the proposed ban on gay marriage killing it in a House committee. She is the only one targeted in a pair of ads that began Sunday. An ad in her hometown newspaper accused her of betraying constituents; the American Family Association purchased it. A statewide radio ad by the Family Research Council uses similar terminology.
"Now Terri Austin has betrayed the will of the people in this state by surrendering to the maneuvers of her party's leadership," on ad said.
"I have cried over this. I have prayed over it," Austin said. Continue
FRC Action Ad Calls on Indiana House Speaker to Keep His Promise
Family Research Council, March, 27 2007
Washington, D.C. - Indiana House Speaker Patrick Bauer's failure to keep his campaign pledge to allow a floor vote on the Marriage Amendment is the subject of a full-page ad in today's South Bend Tribune. Connie Mackey, Senior Vice President of FRC Action announced the ad buy today which is part of a grassroots effort to hold the House Speaker accountable. Continue.
Gay Families Rally Against Indiana Anti-Gay Marriage Amendment
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, February 20, 2007
(Indianapolis, Indiana) About 300 same-sex couples and their supporters rallied in front of the Indiana legislature to protest a constitutional amendment that would ban gay marriage and block any recognition of unmarried couples.
"You know what? Same-sex marriage already is illegal in Indiana, but it's the second part of this that they (proponents) don't want you to know anything about, that they want you to ignore," said Candice Gingrich one of the speakers at the rally.
"They don't want you to dig into the second part of the amendment because it could harm not just gay Hoosiers, but all Hoosiers." Continue.
Indiana LGBT Group Gets $275,000 In Memory Of Man's Dead Son
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, June 8, 2006
(Indianapolis, Indiana) Indiana Equality, battling a proposed amendment to the state constitution to ban same-sex marriage, has been given $275,000 by a retied businessman in memory of his gay son. Continue
Iowa
Iowa same-sex marriage ruling stirs 2008 race
Associated Press, Advocate.com, September 05, 2007
An Iowa county judge's ruling knocking down the state's same-sex marriage ban stirred up the presidential race Friday, as Republicans jostled to stake out a position with the state's conservative voters in mind. Mitt Romney was the first to seize on the ruling, promptly aligning himself with Iowa political leaders in denouncing the decision. The former Massachusetts governor's swift criticism served to bolster the conservative image his campaign has been working hard to promote to Iowa's Republican voters. Romney stressed his support for a federal amendment that would ban same-sex marriage-a stand that distinguishes him from his top rivals, who have said they prefer to leave such decisions to the states. Continue.
Iowa Permits Same-Sex Marriage, for 4 Hours, Anyway
Monica Davey, The New York Times, September 1, 2007
Des Moines, Aug. 31 — From towns around the state, places like Cedar Falls, Ames and Cedar Rapids, same-sex couples converged on this city as early as dawn on Friday as word spread that a judge had overturned a state law banning gay marriage.
“Imagine this — right here in Iowa,” Amanda Duncan said as she and her partner of three years, Aleece Ramirez, filled out their application for a marriage license and put down $35. “Hopefully, this starts a fire that spreads to other places.”
The chance was fleeting. After four hours, Robert B. Hanson, the same county judge who had deemed the ban on same-sex marriages unconstitutional, delayed further granting of licenses until the Iowa Supreme Court decided whether to consider an appeal. Continue.
Iowa Gay Marriages Abruptly Halted
Associated Press, 365Gay.com, August 31, 2007
(Des Moines, Iowa) Two men sealed the state's first legal same-sex marriage with a kiss Friday morning, less than 24 hours after a judge threw out Iowa's ban on gay marriage and about two hours before he put the ruling on hold. It was a narrow window of opportunity. Thursday afternoon, Polk County Judge Robert Hanson temporarily cleared the way for same-sex couples across the state to apply for marriage licenses in Polk County when he ruled that Iowa's 1998 Defense of Marriage Act, which allowed marriage only between a man and a woman, violated the constitutional rights of due process and equal protection of six gay couples who had sued. Continue.
Iowa Gay Marriage Ban Overturned
365Gay.com, August 30, 2007
(Des Moines, Iowa) A Des Moines judge late Thursday afternoon stuck down the state's law that prevents same-sex couples from marrying. Judge Robert B. Hanson ruled that the state's so-called Defense of Marriage Act violates the Iowa state constitution. In his decision, Hanson said, "Couples, such as Plaintiffs, who are otherwise qualified to marry one another may not be denied licenses to marry or certificates of marriage or in any other way prevented from entering into a civil marriage pursuant to Iowa Code Chapter 595 by reason of the fact that both persons compromising such a couple are of the same sex." Continue.
Iowa Court Asked To Find Gay Marriage Ban Unconstitutional
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, May 4, 2007
(Des Moines, Iowa) A Des Moines judge was told Friday that preventing same-sex couples from marrying violates the Iowa state constitution.
Attorneys for six same-sex couples are seeking a summary judgment striking down the state's so-called Defense of Marriage Act. A summary judgment is ruling issued without a trial because the facts are overwhelming.
The case began more than a year ago when the couples were denied marriage licenses. Continue.
Anti-Gay AFA Accuses Iowa Lawmakers Of Quashing Debate On Marriage Amendment
by The Associated Press, 365Gay.com, March 17, 2006
The Iowa House passed a bill defining marriage as between a man and a woman, and it awaits a vote in a Senate committee. Nevertheless, Focus on the Family placed ads in Iowa newspapers attacking five senators for supposedly interfering with Iowans' right to vote on the measure. Click here for the report.
Kansas
Year After Kansas Bans Gay Marriage Concerns Not Addressed
by The Associated Press, 365Gay.com, April 7, 2006
An overview of possible legal ramifications of Kansas's anti-marriage law and those of other states. Click here
Kentucky
Opposed Gay Marriage Ban But Kentucky State Rep. Won't Try To Overturn It Despite New Powers
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, January 6, 2007
(Frankfort, Kentucky) Kentucky state Rep. Kathy Stein has been named chair of the House Judiciary Committee but despite her history as a champion of LGBT civil rights and her impassioned opposition to the 2004 state amendment banning same-sex marriage she says she will not propose legislation that would set the ball rolling to overturn the measure. Continue.
Maryland
Maryland High Court Upholds Gay Marriage Ban
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, September 18, 2007
(Annapolis, Maryland) Maryland's Court of Appeals reversed a lower court decision on Tuesday and upheld the state law barring gay and lesbian couples from marrying.
Attorneys for nine same-sex couples had argued that the ban violates the Maryland constitution's Equal Rights Amendment, which protects against sex discrimination.
In a 4 - 3 split decision the Court of Appeals rejected the argument. Continue.
Anti-Gay Amendment Resurfaces In Maryland
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, March 2, 2007
(Annapolis, Maryland) A proposed amendment to the Maryland Constitution that would bar same-sex couples from marrying has been filed in the state legislature.
Maryland already has a law restricting marriage to opposite-sex couples. The law has been challenged on constitutional grounds and the Court of Appeals - the highest court in Maryland - is expected to make a ruling sometime this year. Continue.
Gay marriage ban resurfaces in Md.
Lawmakers also to consider trans anti-discrimination bill
By Joshua Lynsen, Washington Blade, February 9, 2007
Maryland lawmakers are certain to consider at least two gay issues this session, including a constitutional amendment that would ban same-sex marriage.
That measure — along with a bill to bar discrimination based on gender identity and expression — were filed this week in the General Assembly. Both issues are guaranteed hearings before the session concludes April 9.
Equality Maryland Executive Director Dan Furmansky pledged to fight the proposed amendment. Continue.
‘Legal strangers’ just want equal treatment under the law
Commentary by Dan Furmansky, Executive Director of Equality Maryland, Gazette Newspapers, January 24, 2007
Thirty years ago, legal marriage between two men or two women was unthinkable. Few of us who are gay and lesbian were brave enough to ask for equal treatment under the law. The majority of us were in the closet, afraid if we lived openly, we would lose our jobs, apartments, parents and faith community. Too often, we were right.
Some things still haven’t changed. Discrimination against gays and lesbians is still a fact, although Maryland is among a minority of states with laws against it. Upon coming out, many of us do still lose our families and faith communities. And in most places a same-sex couple cannot kiss each other goodbye or hold hands while strolling down the street without fear of hostile remarks, icy glares or violence.
Thankfully, many things have changed. The mainstream mental health community understands now that sexual orientation isn’t changeable and rejects so-called ‘‘conversion therapy.”
Our lives and stories are no longer invisible to the world. Our child welfare organizations and — in Maryland, at least — family courts understand that the best interests of a child have nothing to do with the sexual orientation of his or her parents.
Despite all of this, Maryland law does not protect same-sex couples. No matter how long they have been together, the couple remains legal strangers. Continue.
Maryland Child Care Workers Voice Support For Gay Families As High Court Prepares To Hear Marriage Case
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, November 30, 2006
(Baltimore, Maryland) In advance of oral arguments before Maryland's high court, prominent Maryland psychologists, social workers, and child welfare advocates spoke out Thursday in support of marriage for same-sex couples.
At a press conference at the Maryland chapter of the National Association of Social Workers, representatives of the professional groups stressed there is extensive, consistent scientific evidence showing that children raised by lesbian and gay couples develop as well as children raised by heterosexual couples.
"The evidence is clear: No matter how you measure it, children raised by same-sex couples are no different from their peers raised by opposite-sex couples. In areas such as social development, psychological functioning, cognitive ability, and adjustment, there is no difference when comparing these kids," said Dr. Paul Clavelle, President of the Maryland Psychological Association. Continue.
Maryland Supreme Court To Hear Gay Marriage Case
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, November 27, 2006
(Annapolis, Maryland) The Maryland Supreme Court next week will hear arguments in a state appeal of a Baltimore judge's ruling that declared the state law banning same-sex unions is unconstitutional.
The case will be the first high profile arguments to be Webcast by the court. This week technicians are frantically trying to get the system up and running. Continue.
Maryland legislators' stances on failed anti-gay marriage amendment
1. Marriage and God’s will — according to man’s interpretation
Op-ed article by Doyle Niemann (Democratic member of the House of Delegates), The Gazette (Maryland suburban newspaper), February 10, 2006
"I do not believe it is proper to put provisions restricting rights for any one category of people into our constitution. That is what this amendment would do..."
"Allowing two people who want to make a commitment to each other to do so does nothing to harm me — or you — or anyone else. Your rights and privileges are not diminished. No one is forced to change his or her moral beliefs. No one is physically harmed or impaired from acting in unreasonable ways — the underlying bases for civil law." Click here for Niemann's opinion article.
2. ‘We cannot escape the moral and spiritual underpinnings of our law’
Op-ed response article by Donald H. Dwyer Jr. (Republican member of House of Delegates) and Caleb Griffin, The Gazette (Maryland suburban newspaper), February 17, 2006
"It’s almost humorous that a man would use the Bible to justify behavior that the Bible condemns. How can he [Niemann] suggest that God might call homosexuality ‘‘love” when the Bible calls it ‘‘confusion” and ‘‘an abomination”? He denies any responsibility to craft biblically sound policy in one sentence and appeals to the authority of Jesus in the next..."
God-centered morality says that there is a timeless universal truth, which man did not create and man cannot adjust. Man must look to an external source for guidance because he did not design life nor is he wise enough to write its instruction manual." Click here for Dwyer's op-ed response.
AP, Advocate.com, February 3, 2006
After Democrats in the Maryland House Judiciary Committee amended a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage to permit civil unions, Republicans joined them in unanimously killing the measure. But Republicans were vowing to maneuver until they got every Democrat on record on the issue. Click here for the report.
Gay marriage ban falls
Judge rules law unconstitutional; decision is stayed as state appeals
Kelly Brewington, Baltimore Sun, January 21, 2006
"A Baltimore Circuit Court judge sided with nine gay couples yesterday, ruling that Maryland's law defining marriage as being between a man and a woman violates the state's Constitution." Click here to read the report.
Update: On March 9, 2006 the Maryland House of Delegates Judiciary Committee voted 20-3 against a bill calling for the impeachment of Judge M. Brooke Murdock, who issued the ruling. According to a short item in the March 11th Baltimore Sun, critics of the measure, introduced by Del. Donald Dwyer, said it was intimidating to judges.
Maryland judge orders 'gay marriage' to be legalized; appeal expected
By Michael Foust, Baptist Press, January 20, 2006
Anti-gay marriage activists said the judge's decision gave their campaigns a boost. A spokesperson for Concerned Women for America said "This is one more outrageous, illogical ruling by a judge with an agenda." Click for the report.
Massachusetts
Mass. Senate Votes to Let Out-of-State Gays Marry
Associated Press, 365Gay.com, July 16, 2008
The Massachusetts senate voted Tuesday to repeal a 1913 law used to bar out-of-state gay couples from marrying in the state, a law that critics say was originally aimed at interracial marriages.
The law prohibits couples from obtaining marriage licenses if they can't legally wed in their home states.
The House is expected to vote on the repeal measure later this week. The Senate action came on a voice vote. Continue.
Anti-Gay Group Drops Plan To Put Marriage Issue On 2010 Ballot
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, July 24, 2007
(Boston, Massachusetts) An umbrella organization that has fought for four years to end same-sex marriage in Massachusetts has given up on plans to put the issue to voters in 2010.
VoteOnMarriage was thwarted last month in its bid to get a proposed amendment banning gay marriage on the ballot in 2008. Continue.
Massachusetts Bar Sued for Gay Marriage Question
Erin Conroy, Associated Press, Forbes Magazine, July 6. 2007
A man said he failed the Massachusetts bar exam because he refused to answer a question about gay marriage, and claims in a federal lawsuit the test violated his rights and targeted his religious beliefs.
The suit also challenges the constitutionality of same-sex marriage, which was legalized in Massachusetts in 2003.
Stephen Dunne, who is representing himself in the case and seeks $9.75 million, said the bar exam was not the place for a "morally repugnant and patently offensive" question addressing the rights of two married lesbians, their children and their property. He said he refused to answer the question because he believed it legitimized same-sex marriage and same-sex parenting, which is contrary to his moral beliefs. Continue.
Right of gays to marry set for years to come
Vote keeps proposed ban off 2008 state ballot
By Frank Phillips and Andrea Estes, The Boston Globe, June 15, 2007
The Legislature, in a vote as swift as it was historic, reaffirmed the state's first-in-the-nation same-sex marriage ruling yesterday, unequivocally protecting the rights of gays and lesbians to wed in Massachusetts until at least 2012.
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The vote followed 3 1/2 years of fierce arguments, emotional testimonies, and controversial legal decisions. It came on a day filled with cheering and jeering in the streets of Beacon Hill.
But when the hour arrived, there was neither debate nor delay. In a packed chamber, first senators and then House members cast their votes to reject a constitutional amendment that would have defined marriage in Massachusetts as only a union between a man and a woman. Continue.
Mass. AG: Proposed Gay Marriage Ban Likely Illegal
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, May 12, 2007
(Boston, Massachusetts) Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley says that a proposed constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage is likely unconstitutional and if it gets to voters and is approved her office will work with gay rights groups to challenge it in court. Continue.
Patrick warns of 'circus' atmosphere if gay marriage is on ballot
By Ken Maguire, Associated Press, Boston Globe, May 10, 2007
BOSTON --Gov. Deval Patrick warned Thursday that Massachusetts will be crippled by a "political circus" if a proposed constitutional amendment banning gay marriage makes it to the state ballot.
The Democratic governor, speaking to reporters a day after lawmakers delayed a vote on the proposed amendment, said he was actively lobbying legislators to kill it.
"If this does get to a popular ballot, there is very little other business that will get done in Massachusetts politics and policy making while that is pending," Patrick said.
Lawmakers on Wednesday postponed a vote until at least June 14. As expected, a joint session of the House and Senate convened, but quickly recessed without the vote. Continue.
Gay Marriage Foe Arraigned On Charges Stemming From Demonstration
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, April 12, 2007
(Worcester, Massachusetts) The former leader of a Catholic group advocating a constitutional ban on gay marriage in Massachusetts has been arraigned on assault and civil rights violations stemming from a demonstration last December.
Larry Cirignano, 50, who at the time was the head of Catholic Citizenship, is alleged to have attacked a woman taking part in a counter demonstration at an anti-gay rally in front of Worcester City Hall last December 16. Continue.
Gay Marriage Supporters Vow To Defeat Mass. Marriage Ban Amendment
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, January 3, 2007
(Boston, Massachusetts) Supporters of same-sex marriage handed a defeat in the legislature Tuesday vowed on Wednesday that they are far from throwing in the towel - and helping lead the attack on a proposed amendment to ban gay weddings is the state's new governor. Continue.
Mass. High Court Refuses To Order Anti-Gay Amendment Vote
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, December 27, 2006
(Boston, Massachusetts) A bid by Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney to force the legislature to take up a proposed amendment to ban same-sex marriage was rejected Wednesday by the state's highest court.
In an 11 page ruling the justices said that it had no authority to order lawmakers to vote on the measure. Continue.
Catholic Leader Denies Assaulting Gay Marriage Supporter
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, December 21, 2006
(Worcester, Massachusetts) The leader of a Catholic organization holding an anti-gay demonstration in Worcester on the weekend denies assaulting a woman in the crowd who was carrying a sign promoting same-sex marriage.
Larry Cirignano, the executive director of Catholic Citizenship has been charged with assault and battery after allegedly leaving the podium in front of city hall and tackling then shoving Sarah Loy, 27, to the ground. Continue.
Gay Marriage Advocate Beaten At Mass. Rally
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, December 18, 2006
(Worcester, Massachusetts) A same-sex marriage advocate is nursing cuts and bruises after being attacked by a leading advocate of a constitutional amendment to end gay marriage in the only state where it is legal. Continue.
Old Remarks On Gay Marriage Bite Romney
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, December 8, 2006
(Boston, Massachusetts) As Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney continues to ratchet up his attacks on same-sex marriage a 1994 interview he gave to a Boston gay publication has surfaced.
"People of integrity don't force their beliefs on others, they make sure that others can live by different beliefs they may have," Romney told Bay Windows a dozen years ago when the paper interviewed him on LGBT civil rights.
Bay Windows republished the interview this week, after lawyers for Romney went to the state's highest court seeking an order to place on the 2008 ballot a proposed amendment banning same-sex marriage. Continue.
Romney is a big fat liar
Laura Kiritsy, Bay Windows (New England LGBT newspaper), December 6, 2006
The fact that there’s intense interest in a letter Mitt Romney wrote to the Massachusetts Log Cabin Club 12 years ago in which he pledged to be a more ardent advocate for gay rights than U.S. Sen. Ted Kennedy isn’t a surprise. (See “Follow That Trail,” page 15.) Romney is an all-but-declared candidate for president who’s staked his candidacy on social conservatism. Any hint of hypocrisy on Romney’s part with regard to LGBT issues is of great use for political reporters, GOP primary opponents and LGBT activists alike. What is surprising, though, is the depth of Romney’s hypocrisy.
In 1994, when Romney was running for U.S. Senate against Ted Kennedy, he engaged in a lengthy interview with Bay Windows during which he discussed his views on employment nondiscrimination legislation, the military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy — and civil marriage rights for same-sex couples (see “Mitt’s secret gay history II,” page 10). The interview was published Aug. 25, 1994. His views on gay issues in 1994 are largely at odds with his stated views today. Continue.
Same-sex marriage ban goes before Massachusetts high court
AP, Advocate.com, December 01, 2006
The entire high court in Massachusetts should decide whether to force lawmakers to take action on a proposed state constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage, one justice decided on Thursday. Justice Judith Cowin made the ruling after hearing arguments on last week's request by Gov. Mitt Romney and other same-sex marriage opponents to force the lawmakers to decide whether voters can consider the proposal in 2008.
A hearing before the seven-member Massachusetts supreme judicial court—the same panel that said same-sex marriage was legal in 2003—was set for December 20. Continue.
Romney Asks Court To Order Anti-Gay Amendment Put To Voters
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, November 24, 2006
(Boston, Massachusetts) Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney asked the state's highest court Friday for an order placing a proposed amendment that would ban same-sex marriage on the ballot without the approval of the legislature.
Lawyers for Romney and ten other citizens filed the motion with a single justice of the court. The motion says the Republican governor is acting a an individual citizen. It was filed by a private lawyer representing the group. Continue.
Gain for Same-Sex Marriage in Massachusetts
By Pam Belluck, The New York Times, November 10, 2006
BOSTON, Nov. 9 -- Lawmakers in Massachusetts, the only state where same-sex marriage is legal, dealt what appeared to be a fatal blow Thursday to a proposed constitutional amendment to ban it.
In a flurry of strategic maneuvering, supporters of same-sex marriage managed to persuade enough legislators to vote to recess a constitutional convention until the' afternoon of Jan. 2, the last day of the legislative session.
On that day, lawmakers and advocates on both sides said, it appeared likely that the legislature would adjourn without voting on the measure, killing it. Continue.
Mass. Lawmakers Put Off Bid To End Gay Marriage
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, November 9, 2006 (Boston, Massachusetts) The Massachusetts legislature, meeting in a special joint session Thursday, voted to once again delay debate and a vote on a proposed constitutional amendment to end same-sex marriage in the state. Continue.
Mass. Session Adjourns Without Taking Up Anti-Gay Amendment
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, July 12, 2006
(Boston, Massachusetts) A special joint session of the Massachusetts legislature considering a long list of constitutional amendments abruptly adjourned Wednesday evening without taking up a proposal that would ban same-sex marriage.
They decided to reconvene on Nov. 9, two days after the general election.
The vote drew jeers from supporters of the amendment who had crowded into the State House for the session. Continue
NY Ruling Ends Mass. Out-Of-State Marriage Challenge
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, July 7, 2006
(Boston) New York state same-sex couples were delivered a double blow by Thursday's Court of Appeal ruling that nixed gay marriage in the Empire State.
The ruling also means an end to a challenge by New York couples to a Massachusetts law barring clerks from issuing marriage licenses to people whose weddings would be illegal in their home states. Continue
Mass. can bar marriage for nonresident gay couples
SJC rules that home state's laws prevail
By Jonathan Saltzman, Boston Globe, March 31, 2006
"The Supreme Judicial Court said the obscure [1913] law, which prohibits Massachusetts from marrying an out-of-state couple if the marriage would not be legal in their home state, passed constitutional muster and could be applied to five same-sex couples from Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, because gay marriage is expressly prohibited in those states.
"The court, however, said state officials had applied the law too broadly when they refused to allow the marriage of three couples from New York and Rhode Island, because same-sex marriage is not explicitly prohibited in those states. The high court sent the case of those three couples back to Superior Court Judge Carol Ball, who upheld the 1913 law last year, to quickly determine whether same-sex marriage is prohibited in those states. No time frame was set. Click here to read the report
Ruling shrinks issue to those from states without explicit ban
By Michael Levenson, The Boston Globe, March 31, 2006
"The Supreme Judicial Court's decision upholding a 1913 marriage law significantly narrows the battleground over same-sex marriage to a handful of states, lawyers on both sides of the issue said yesterday." Click here to read the report
Gays, Foes Gird For Battle Following Mass. Ruling
by Denise Lavoie, Associated Press via 365Gay.com, April 1, 2006
"Gay-rights opponents predict that a ruling from the Massachusetts high court barring out-of-state same-sex couples from marrying here could reinvigorate efforts in a handful of states that do not expressly prohibit such marriages." Click here for the report
Frank denounces groups trying to ban same-sex marriage in Massachusetts
Associated Press, The Advocate.com, January 2, 2006
U.S. Rep. Barney Frank (D, MA), said sponsors of an anti-gay marriage ballot measure are disturbing the social peace over the issue that prevails in Massachussetts. "'Basically, they're the disturbers of the civic peace,' the Democrat said in a wide-ranging Associated Press interview Thursday. 'We now have social peace in Massachusetts. They're the ones who want to stir it up.... This is a nonissue in Massachusetts.'" Click here to read the report.
Bill to provide benefits to same-sex couples, others announced
By Brooke Donald, The Boston Globe, January 11, 2006
In an effort to deflect opposition to a ballot measure that would ban same-sex marriage, legislators announced they would give some marriage benefits to same-sex couples. Opponents of the ballot measure called the bill a "hoax." Click here to read the report.
Petition vs. gay marriage advances
Number of signers breaks state record
By Raphael Lewis, The Boston Globe, December 22, 2005
"Opponents of the ballot question say the eye-popping number of signatories does not reflect a tidal wave of support for overturning the Supreme Judicial Court's landmark 2003 ruling that declared same-sex matrimony legal. Rather, they said, it shows that paid signature-gatherers were particularly effective at tricking unsuspecting voters into signing a petition they didn't support." Click here to read the report.
Marriage Digest: Mass. amendment signature drive appears successful
By Michael Foust, Baptist Press, November 23, 2005
"BOSTON (BP)--Supporters of a constitutional marriage amendment in Massachusetts say they have collected approximately twice the number of signatures required in their effort to place an amendment [outlawing same-sex marriage] before voters in 2008." Click here to read the report.
Minnesota
Minnesota Justices Cleared In Gay Marriage Allegations
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, June 30, 2006
(St. Paul, Minnesota) An investigation has found no validity to allegations that Minnesota Supreme Court justices had told a politician the court would not take up a challenge to the state's ban on same-sex marriage if a case ever came before them. Continue
Minnesota GOP Floods Senate With Anti-Gay Amendments
by The Associated Press via 365Gay.com, March 30, 2006
"Senate Republicans are quickly extinguishing any doubt of their commitment to prohibit same-sex marriage. In recent weeks, members of their caucus have introduced at least eight separate constitutional amendments to do just that." Continue
Minnesota Senate Leader's Judges Remark Energizes Both Sides In Gay Marriage Battle
by Martiga Lohn, Associated Press, 365Gay.com, March 18, 2006
"Senate Majority Leader Dean Johnson's comments about the Minnesota Supreme Court and gay marriage have energized both sides in the highly charged debate, Johnson acknowledged as he apologized for what he characterized as embellishments
Opponents of gay marriage have been pushing to amend the state constitution to ban same-sex unions, and they see Johnson as a key roadblock. On Wednesday, Minnesota for Marriage - a group pushing for the constitutional amendment - released the tape recording, made by a minister at a January meeting of the New London-Spicer Ministerial Association without Johnson's knowledge." Continue.
Nebraska
Court restores Nebraska's sweeping same-sex marriage ban
AP, Advocate.com, July 15-17, 2006
Supporters of banning gay marriage won two major court rulings Friday, with a federal appeals court reinstating Nebraska's voter-approved ban on same-sex marriage and the Tennessee supreme court ruling that voters should have a say on the issue. Last week the highest courts in two others states also dealt gay rights advocates setbacks. The New York court rejected a bid by same-sex couples to win marriage rights, and the Georgia court reinstated a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage there.
The Eighth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on Friday overturned an earlier ruling by U.S. district judge Joseph Bataillon, who said last year that the Nebraska measure was too broad and deprived gays and lesbians of participation in the political process, among other things. Nebraska voters approved the amendment by 70% in 2000. Continue
Q&A: Nebraska Attorney General Jon Bruning
Official explains how the arguments went as seen from the front row.
By Pete Winn, Citizen Link (Focus on the Family), February 17, 2006
 Interview about the 8th Circuit's hearing on a challenge to Nebraska's anti-gay marriage amendment. According to Bruning, the amendment is expressly written to prevent the legislature from recognizing domestic partnerships. Click here for the report.
New Hampshire
N.H. governor signs civil unions law
AP, Advocate.com, June 1, 2007
Gay couples in New Hampshire will be able to join in civil unions starting next year under a bill Gov. John Lynch signed into law in Concord on Thursday.
''We in New Hampshire have had a long and proud tradition taking the lead and opposing discrimination,'' Lynch said. ''Today that tradition continues.''
Couples who enter civil unions will have the same rights, responsibilities, and obligations as married couples. Same-sex unions from other states also would be recognized if they were legal in the state where they were performed. Continue.
N.H. Civil Unions Bill Passes Legislature
by The Associated Press, 365Gay.com, April 26, 2007
(Concord, New Hampshire) New Hampshire lawmakers voted Thursday to authorize civil unions and sent the measure to Gov. John Lynch, who announced last week that he would sign it.
"This legislation is a matter of conscience, fairness and of preventing discrimination," said Colin Manning, a spokesman for the Democratic governor. "It is in keeping with New Hampshire's proud tradition of preventing discrimination." Continue.
NH Civil Union Bill Stalls
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, April 14, 2007
(Concord, New Hampshire) The breaks have been slammed on a bill to create civil unions in New Hampshire that was to have gone to a vote next Wednesday in the state Senate.
Senate President Sylvia Larsen (D) tells the Associated Press that she made the decision to put off the vote because "I didn’t want the senators to be rushed when it came time to be voting."
No new date for a vote has been scheduled and some lawmakers are blaming the heavy hand of Gov. John Lynch (D). Continue.
N.H. Civil Unions Bill Heads To Historic Senate Vote
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, April 12, 2007
(Concord, New Hampshire) Legislation that would allow same-sex couples to have civil unions passed a key committee Thursday and heads to the floor of the Senate for a vote.
The measure passed the House earlier this month (story) by a two-to-one margin. Continue.
Gay Bishop Urges Approval Of Civil Unions In N.H.
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, April 11, 2007
(Concord, New Hampshire) Gene Robinson, the Episcopal bishop of New Hampshire, and the only openly gay bishop in the worldwide Anglican Communion, has called on the state Senate to pass a civil unions bill.
The measure passed the House earlier this month (story) by a two-to-one margin. Continue.
Critics call bill to change marriage law homophobic
By Beverley Wang, The Union Leader (Manchester, New Hampshire), January 25, 2007
CONCORD -- Critics mocked a proposed change to New Hampshire's marriage law Tuesday, calling the bill ludicrous, homophobic and silly, and urging legislators to toss it out.
Opponents of Fremont Republican Daniel Itse's bill worry it breaches the divide between church and state, taking aim at liberal clerics who perform marriage and commitment ceremonies for same-sex couples.
Itse, sponsor last year and this year of a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage, denied that's the point of the bill, which had a hearing yesterday before the House Judiciary Committee. He said the bill's intention is to extend an exemption that so far has only been given to Quakers and rabbis. The exemption makes clear that Quakers and rabbis have the right to perform marriages according to their custom, even though both religions do not have ordained clergy. Continue.
New Hampshire House Nixes Anti-Gay Amendment
by 365Gay.com, March 21, 2006
On March 21st the New Hampshire House defeated 207-125 an amendment to the state constitution that would have banned same-sex marriage. That ends the effort for this session. Click here for the report.
Bid to ban gay unions rejected
House votes 207 to 125 against amendment
By Eric Moskowitz, The Concord Monitor, March 22, 2006
"The idea needed three-fifths approval from the full House - 240 of the 400 members - to succeed. But it earned little more than half that.." Click here to read the report.
House Takes Up Same-Sex Marriage Amendment
By Josh Rogers, New Hampshire Public Radio, February 6, 2006
Transcript and link to audio of New Hampshire legislature's debate on an amendment to the state constitution that would prohibit recognition of marriages made in other states. Click here for the report.
New Mexico
New Mexico gays can marry in Massachusetts
Advocate.com, July 26, 2007
Following up on a March 2006 court ruling, Massachusetts officials announced last week that New Mexico same-sex couples who want to marry in Massachusetts may legally do so. Continue.
New Mexico Lawmakers Shelve Anti-Gay Proposals
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, February 2, 2007
(Santa Fe, New Mexico) Two bills aimed at blocking same-sex couples from marrying have been defeated.
The House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee voted down both a proposed amendment to the state constitution, and a separate Defense of Marriage bill that each would define marriage as a union of one man and one woman.
The vote was along party lines - all four committee Democrats voted in favor of tabling the measures; the three Republicans against it. Continue.
Anti-Gay Marriage Amendment Revived In New Mexico
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, January 18, 2007
(Santa Fe, New Mexico) A New Mexico lawmaker who spearheaded the push for a so-called Defense of Marriage Act two years ago is now pressing for the passage of an amendment to the state constitution to bar same-sex marriage.
Rep. Gloria Vaughn (R) introduced the resolution Wednesday. Continue.
New Jersey
NJ Site Loses Tax Exemption After Refusing Civil Unions
by 365Gay.com Newscenter Staff, September 18, 2007
(Trenton, New Jersey) A scenic pavilion on the boardwalk in Ocean Grove, N.J. that refuses to allow same-sex couples to have civil union ceremonies has lost its tax exempt status.
The pavilion is owned by the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, a Methodist group.
While it is frequently rented out for marriages, two lesbian couples were turned down when they tried to hold their civil unions there. Continue.
NJ Church Sues State Over Civil Unions
Associated Press, 365Gay.com, August 14, 2007
(Trenton, New Jersey) A church group sued New Jersey on Monday over the state's investigation of a complaint that the group refused to allow a lesbian couple to hold a civil union ceremony at a beachfront pavilion it owns. The Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association, a Methodist group, alleges that by finding enough reason to investigate the complaint, the state's Division on Civil Rights is threatening to prosecute the group in order to force it to allow such ceremonies to take place. The investigation is the first of its kind for New Jersey, which began allowing same-sex couples to enter into civil unions in February. Continue.
First Gay Couples Exchange Vows In New Jersey
by The Associated Press, 365Gay.com, February 22, 2007
(Asbury Park, New Jersey) Gay couples across New Jersey began claiming the same legal rights as married couples early Thursday in ceremonies that formalized their relationships as civil unions. Continue.
New Jersey Clergy Not Required to Perform Civil Unions
BeliefNet, January 12, 2007
New Jersey, Jan. 12 - Clergy in New Jersey cannot be required to unite gay couples in civil unions, the state attorney general said in a decision that quieted the fears of some religious groups opposed to same-sex ceremonies.
Attorney General Stuart Rabner's legal opinion, sent Thursday to the state registrar of vital statistics, came less than a month after the state became the third to approve civil unions for gay couples.
The unions offer the legal benefits of marriage, but not the title. Couples may begin applying for licenses in New Je | 
May 15, 2008. California Supreme Court affirms right of same-sex couples to marry. Click here.