Saturday, February 8, 2014

Federal Privileges to Extend to Same-Sex Couples; Atty. Gen. Holder Requires Equal Rights for Gays

The federal government will soon treat married same-sex couples the same as heterosexual couples when they file for bankruptcy, testify in court, or visit family in prison, the New York Times website reports today (February 8, 2014).

Attorney General Eric Holder issued policies aimed at eliminating the distinction between same-sex and opposite-sex married couples in the federal criminal justice system, according to excerpts from a speech today at an event organized by a prominent gay-rights group.

"In every courthouse, in every proceeding, and in every place where a member of the Department of Justice stands on behalf of the United States, they will strive to ensure that same-sex marriages receive the same privileges, protections, and rights as opposite-sex marriages," Holder said.

The changes were set in motion last year when the Supreme Court declared it unconstitutional to refuse federal benefits to married same-sex couples -- a ruling that Holder supported.

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