The Marriage Recognition and Family Protection Act recognizes as valid all same-sex marriages from anywhere in the world that took place prior to Nov. 5, 2008, the day that California voters amended the state constitution to prevent gay couples from marrying.
The new law further requires that same-sex couples who got married anywhere in the world after Nov. 5, 2008, be given all the rights, protections and responsibilities of married spouses when in California — except the right to use the word ”marriage” to describe their marriage.
”This vital bill will provide much-needed protections for same-sex couples who have legally married out of state, or will in the future, and who deserve to be treated like any other married couple,” said Geoff Kors, executive director of Equality California. ”This bill will allow same-sex couples to get married in other states and countries and ensure they are treated equally under the law when they return to California. Ultimately, however, restoring the freedom to marry is the only way to ensure that all Californians receive the dignity and respect that come with marriage.”
A second new law increases LGBT service providers’ access to state funding for domestic-violence programs. The money, administered by the California Emergency Management Agency, comes in part from a $23 fee on domestic-partner registrations.
Lastly, the Harvey Milk Day bill that roiled gays’ enemies took effect Jan. 1.
The law marks the first time in U.S. history that a state has officially recognized and celebrated the contributions of an openly LGBT person with an annual ”day of special significance.”
Each May 22, California public schools and educational institutions will remember Milk, recognize his accomplishments and teach about his contributions to the state.
Uppdaterad 2016-11-15
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