August 3, 2009
States allowing same-sex marraige/civil unions
Wisconsin can be added to the states that recognize same-sex couples even though the present Wisconsin State Constitution bans same-sex marriage. The domestic partnership plan was passed as part of the state budget bill and went into effect today.
June 13 passed in the State Assembly 50-48
June 17 passed in the Senate 17-16
June 29 signed into law by Gov Jim Doyle
And today the law went into effect. Couples register at the county level and are required to sign and attest to a legal declaration of their commitment. To be eligible they must be:
- At least 18 y/o
- Reside together
- No nearer than second cousins
- Not in relationship (domestic or married) with anyone else
Domestic partnership rights provides 43/200 afforded heterosexual married couples, some of which are:
- Medical decisions: living will, nursing home, autopsy, organ donation
- Hospital visitation and Sick leave
- Wrongful death lawsuit and death benefits
- Immunity from testifying
- Power of attorney
- Joint tenancy
- Inherit a partner’s estate in the absence of a will
Other same-sex legislation:
- Six states have legalized same-sex marriage: Massachusetts, Connectitcut, Iowa, Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire, DC
- Same sex civil unions: New York & New Jersey
- Domestic partnerships: Washington, Oregon, California
