Expect to see renewed passion on both sides of the same-sex marriage debate in Michigan, following Wednesday’s U.S. Supreme Court decisions to strike down the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), and to allow same-sex marriage in California.
Continue reading Defense of Marriage Act: What Today’s Supreme Court Ruling Means for Michigan
This morning, in United States v. Windsor, the United States Supreme Court ruled that the Defense of Marriage Act (also known as “DOMA”) is unconstitutional because it violates the 5th Amendment’s guarantee of equal protection. Therefore, same-sex marriages that are valid under state law will be recognized for purposes of federal laws.
Holding: In a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court held that DOMA is unconstitutional, and same sex couples who are legally married are entitled to equal treatment under federal law. The ruling means that the federal government must recognize gay marriages deemed legal in 12 states and the District of Columbia.
Continue reading Supreme Court Ruling: Defense of Marriage Act