Governor Paterson announces Gay Marriage Bill

As a lesbian NYer this is great news! NY currently recognizes gay marriages performed in other states where gay it is legal. Gay couples could also opt for having a domestic partnership but they would not have the same rights as married couples. (NY state also recognizes Canadian same-sex marriages for purposes of inheritance and benefits.)

“Different religions have different ideas about what constitutes a marriage. And each of us may have our own personal beliefs on what marriage means. These can be strongly-held convictions – and we’re not asking anyone to change them or to behave in a way that’s inconsistent with them.

“I strongly believe that’s it’s not the State’s place to define marriage in a way that excludes a segment of the population from the legal benefits associated with marriage. But that’s exactly where we are today. I’m pleased to hear our Governor declare his support for marriage equality. As soon as a hearing is called on a bill, I will be there to testify in support of it.”

It’s great to see such progress, especially in my hometown. I hope that society will recognize that we are not asking for more rights, just the same rights as everyone else. People do not choose to be gay, they are born that way and deserve the same happiness and legal rights that straight couples enjoy.