Connecticut Supreme Court says ‘yes’ to same-sex marriage

Connecticut will join California and Massachusetts as states that allow same-sex couples to enjoy the full rights and responsibilities of marriage, a move that could put the issue squarely on the agenda for a presidential race that has largely ignored social wedge issues in favor of a focus on a bleak economic future.

The Connecticut Supreme Court ruled that a statutory ban on same-sex marriage violated the Connecticut Constitution. “In sum, the state has failed to establish adequate reason to justify the statutory ban on same sex marriage,” said the court in a 4-3 decision. “Accordingly, under the equal protection provisions of the state constitution, our statutory scheme governing marriage cannot stand insofar as it bars same sex couples from marrying.”

Representatives of Minnesota’s LGBT community were pleased with the news, but quick to point out that the decision will have little to no impact on Minnesota.

OutFront Minnesota staff attorney Phil Duran said, “This is a heartening decision that will have a real impact on families.”

Monica Meyer, OutFront’s public policy director, agreed, “The Connecticut Supreme Court ruling is still inspiring for all the same-sex couples in our state who desire to be lifelong companions and raise families. The court sent a message to the nation that fairness and equality are principles under our laws that should be upheld.”

In a press release, OutFront said, “Connecticut’s decision will not have a direct legal impact on Minnesota because state law bans same-sex marriages and prevents the state from recognizing same-sex marriages performed in other states.”