New York to Recognize Out of State Same-Sex Unions
Newly appointed Governor, David Paterson has instructed agencies in New York that same sex couples who have been married outside of the state will be allowed the same recognition as any other legally performed union. Currently, the only states who have legalized gay marriage are Massachusetts and California while New Jersey and Vermont allow civil unions.
Paterson told LGBT community leaders that this was a step towards equal rights for married couples and would move New York closer to legalizing same-sex unions. The new ruling will allow benefits such as joint filing of income tax returns and health insurance coverage for spouses.
Executive director of Empire State Pride Agenda, Alan Van Capelle, acknowledges the effort by Governor Paterson but still hopes for more. “If you’re going to treat us as equals, why don’t you just give us the marriage license?”
