January 15, 2010
States allowing civil unions/same-sex-marriage/domestic partnerships
The same-sex marriage saga in DC continues – though the traditionalists were dealt a potentially fatal blow yesterday (14th).
Judge Judith N. Macaluso affirmed the DC Board of Elections and Ethics decisions (twice) that a referendum on same-sex marriage would violate the Human Rights Act in discriminating against gays and lesbians.
The Judge also ruled that the previous court rulings banning same-sex marriage are no longer valid.
An expected appeal was filed by Bishop Harry Jackson in response to the Judge’s 23-page ruling, citing the Board’s lack of authority. Not sure how it has any chance of success as in 3 strikes and you’re out.
In Dec 18th, DC Mayor Adrian Fenty signed the “Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Equality Amendment Act of 2009″ allowing same-sex couples to marry.
Congress thought has the ultimate say in the matter. They have 30 days to make a decision and I’m not clear if that started Dec 18th or yesterday or whenever.
Should the appeal fail and Congress fail to intervene – same-sex marriages could be legal as early as March. I don’t foresee such a straight path – no pun intended.
