Recent news and commentary

Out-of-state recognition - Maryland

Lambda Legal and allied advocacy groups provide guidance on frequently asked questions about Maryland's recognition of out-of-state, same-sex marriages. (Cross-posted by Straight Talk on Marriage; the ACLU issued a press release here.) At The Maryland Daily Record, legal blogger Caryn Tamber makes a perceptive comment about litigation guidance by the advocates. They advise caution on seeking a legal remedy.

Super-DOMA amendment - Minnesota

On February 22nd, a Minnesota House committee held an informational hearing on three bills that would establish civil partnerships, out-of-state recognition, and marriage equality. No other hearing has been scheduled (Politics in Minnesota), and it's uncertain that legislators will vote on any of the bills. (WCCO.com) OutFront Minnesota predicts that "it will take 3 to 5 years" to pass a bill on marriage equality. (Minnesota Independent) Nevertheless, the Minnesota Family Council (MFC) expressed concern at a press conference that state Senator John Marty may succeed in gaining legislative approval of his marriage equality bill, SF0120. MFC president president Tom Prichard said that his organization would lobby for the strictest form of a super-DOMA amendment - one that bans any recognition of same-sex relationships. Marty, a candidate for governor, responded that he stands by his "commitment to equality. We can pass marriage equality legislation and sign it into law next year." (Minnesota Independent / Pam's House Blend)