New York State to Recognize Gay Marriage - NY Recognizes Same-Sex Marriage

Gay Marriage in New York

The New York State appeals court has ruled that NY must recognize same-sex marriages performed outside of the state. The February 2008 decision was backed-up by New York’s Governor David Paterson in May. In a memo to state agencies Governor Paterson said policies and regulations that use the words “spouse”, “husband” or “wife” must also include gay couples who are legally married. Violating the ruling would be against the state’s human rights law.

What does this mean for gay and lesbian couples?

Just a short drive from New York, gays and lesbians can go to Canada or Massachusetts to get legally married. When they return home, their marriages will be recognized by the state, with the same rights and responsibilities as heterosexual marriage.

Can gay couples get married in New York now?

No. New York’s highest court, the Court of Appeals, ruled that only the state legislature can legalize gay marriage. The state failed to do that last year and it appears unlikely to take up the cause this year.

Why New York and not other states?

Most other states have laws that prohibit gays and lesbians from marrying. New York is one of the few states that does not explicitly ban same-sex marriage.

Where can New Yorkers get married and have it recognized?

Here is a list of countries and states that perform same-sex marriage.

Some gay marriages are all ready recognized by New York.

A court ruled that about 200 marriages performed in Massachusetts between May 17, 2004 and July 6, 2006 were to be recognized by New York State. Here’s why.

Why do gay and lesbian couples want marriage in New York?

Aside from being in love and wanting the tradition and commitment of marriage, there are many rights that couples can receive only when they are married. Some of those rights include family health care plans, adoption rights, tax breaks, hospital visitation rights and the right to inherit property. Read more about the rights of marriage.