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(Image source: Twitter / @equalityfl)
BY ELIZABETH HAGEDORN
In a landmark move for gay rights, the Supreme Court has struck down the federal Defense
of Marriage Act in a 5-4 decision, but avoided a ruling on gay marriage.
It ruled the 1996 law which denies more than 1,000 federal benefits to gay and lesbian
couples is unconstitutional. (Via ABC)
— a major victory for gay rights activists who have been waiting for the court's possibly
life-changing ruling. (Via BBC)
Justice Anthony Kennedy joined by the court's four liberal-leaning justices issued the majority
opinion, writing: [The Defense of Marriage Act] violates basic due process and equal
protection principles applicable to the Federal Government." (Via The U.S. Supreme Court)
Kennedy did make clear the ruling applied
to couples in states whose marriages were "lawful" — meaning it won't apply to those
living in the 38 states that still ban same-sex marriage. (Via The Washington Post)
Those couples can now receive tax-free benefits from their employers, survivor benefits
and the ability to file joint tax returns. (Via MSNBC)
And on Proposition 8, the California law that bans same-sex marriage in the state, the high
court said it had no standing. Meaning, the lower court opinion will stand and gay marriage
in California is again legal.
Twelve states and the District of Columbia
have adopted same sex marriage.