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Published on National Gay and Lesbian Task Force (http://www.thetaskforce.org)

Economic benefits of marriage under federal and Connecticut state law

Date

March 23, 2005

Short Description

Thousands of Connecticut same-sex couples are at a grave disadvantage because they are unable to enter into a civil marriage that is recognized under state and federal law.

Summary

Even if the Connecticut legislature passes a civil unions bill, it will not allow same-sex couples in the state to access all of the benefits and protections afforded to married opposite-sex couples because civil unions are not recognized under federal law.

Just a few of the benefits denied to same-sex couples:

  • Reduced federal and state income tax liability;
  • Social Security retirement and survivor benefits;
  • Surviving-spouse entitlements.

Report Type

Report