Current Status: Gay marriage is legal in Massachusetts, and same-sex marriages performed in Massachusetts are also recognized in Rhode Island. Massachusetts is presently the only state that allows same-sex couples to become legally married.
Latest Developments: Opponents of same-sex marriage had attempted to have a referendum banning it placed on the November 2008 ballot, but it was defeated by the state legislature in June 2007.
Public Opinion: According to a May 2005 poll, 62% of Massachusetts residents support equal marriage rights for same-sex couples. 84% of Massachusetts residents stated that they believe the legalization of same-sex marriage has had either a positive impact, or no impact at all, on the overall quality of life in Massachusetts.
The Romney Factor: Opponents of gay marriage in Massachusetts are well aware of public opinion data, but the aggressive anti-gay marriage campaign is helpful to the presidential prospects of former Governor Mitt Romney (R-MA), whose success in the 2008 Republican primaries depends on his ability to present himself as an opponent to his state's gay marriage policy.
Timeline of Events:
February 4th, 2004: The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court rules that laws restricting marriage to heterosexual couples are discriminatory and violate the state constitution. The Massachusetts state legislature is given six months to change the law in accord with the ruling.
May 17th, 2004: Gay marriage is formally legalized in Massachusetts.
February 4th, 2004: The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court rules that laws restricting marriage to heterosexual couples are discriminatory and violate the state constitution. The Massachusetts state legislature is given six months to change the law in accord with the ruling.
May 17th, 2004: Gay marriage is formally legalized in Massachusetts.
