New York has joined the ranks of other states looking to allow same sex marriages after Governor David A. Paterson introduced legislation last week.
The proposed legislation is an amendment to the Domestic Relations Law. Along with enabling same-sex couples to have civil marriages, it would also create legal recognition equal to that given to spouses of the opposite sex.
“Marriage equality is about basic civil rights and personal freedom. Too many individuals face legal discrimination every single day. Too many loving families do not receive the legal recognition they deserve,” Paterson said. “Anyone who has ever faced intolerance of any kind knows the solemn importance of protecting the rights of all people. That is why we stand together today to embrace civil rights for every New Yorker.”
There are several areas where, should the legislation pass, same sex couples would have legal status and treatment that is the same as heterosexual couples including property ownership, inheritance, health care and insurance coverage.
“Our work to correct injustice cannot depend on factors like timing or guaranteed success,” Paterson said. “For too long, LGBT New Yorkers have been told to wait for their civil rights and personal freedom. We will not wait any longer. Now is the time for action. Now is the time for leadership. Now is the time to march forward.”
New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, the first openly gay person to hold the position, said that, in announcing the legislation, “another giant step towards full equality” was being taken.
“As evidence by recent victories in Vermont and Iowa, the cause of full equality is continuing to gain momentum across our nation. New York State has both an opportunity and an obligation to be at the forefront of that movement,” Quinn said. “We cannot afford to stand by while so many same sex couples are denied full rights under the law.”
However, not everyone is happy with the bill. Bronx Democratic State Senator Ruben Diaz is against the bill, and he wrote a letter to Paterson criticizing the timing of the announcement.
“The Governor is also being disrespectful to the new Catholic Archbishop Timothy Dolan and to every Catholic in New York City by pushing a gay marriage bill the same week that Catholics are celebrating welcoming ceremonies for his arrival,” Diaz said.
