Equality Texas

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Marriage and Partnership

Same-sex couples are denied the freedom to marry in Texas. Federal legislation allows Texas to deny the recognition of same-sex unions from other states. In the 78th Regular Session (2003), Equality Texas (then LGRL of Texas) worked diligently to oppose House Bill 38 and Senate Bill 7, the so-called "Defense" of Marriage Act (DOMA).

The far-right gave this measure high priority, above protecting Texas students from harassment and abuse.

In 2005, we faced a new fight - Proposition #2, which wrote unequal treatment for gay and lesbian Texans into the Bill of Rights of the Texas Constitution by banning marriage, civil unions, and domestic partnerships for same-sex couples.

Equality Texas supports full civil marriage equality, the establishment of civil union and domestic partner programs at the municipal and state level, and encourages state agencies to adopt policies inclusive of same-sex partners. Equality Texas diligently works toward these aims. Only Travis County offers a domestic partner registry.




Last updated 27-May-2006 @ 10:41 pm
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Cindy and Camille Joy-Rocha David Greer and Lee Neubecker

Marriage in Texas
Texas law explicitly bans recognition of same-sex unions, including marriage and civil unions. While 36 other states passed similar legislation, Equality Texas (then LGRL) defeated the anti-gay marriage bills three sessions in a row: 1997, 1999, and 2001.