DC To Recognize Same-Sex Marriages From Other Jurisdictions

Washington DC's City Council has voted unanimously to recognize same-sex marriages performed in states where such unions are legal.

The D.C. Council voted today to recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states, on the same day that Vermont became the fourth state to legalize same-sex unions. Domestic partnerships are already legal in the nation's capital, and gay couples married in other states are recognized as domestic partners when they move to the city. But today's legislation, billed as an important milestone in gay rights, explicitly recognizes them as married couples. The initial vote was 12-0. The unanimous vote sets the stage for future debate on legalizing same-sex marriage in the District and a clash with Congress, which approves the city's laws under Home Rule. The council is expected to take a final vote on the legislation next month. Council member Jim Graham (D-Ward 1), who is gay, called the amendment a matter of "basic fairness."

New York state similarly recognizes same-sex marriages from other states. Let's keep the good news rolling!