Same Sex Marriage Becomes a Reality on Monday
The Iowa Supreme Court ruling that legalized same sex marriage goes into effect on Monday, April 27, 2009. Typically there is a three day waiting period but judges can waiver the waiting period, so weddings will likely occur on Monday.
The details are still be hashed out at the legal level. Because the Federal DOMA (Defense of Marriage Law) will still effect Iowa couples, gays and lesbians will only have access to state rights but not federal rights. The laws that cross over are in an unknown the gray area that will likely be hashed out in court. Iowa’s married same sex couples are still encouraged to travel with their legal documents such as powers of attorneys, living wills, and so on, because same sex marriage is only recognized in four other states (Vermont, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York*). It would be terrible for these couples to assume they can visit their spouse in the hospital if they leave Iowa. Just last week a man was denied access to his injured partner in Oregon by nurse that did not understand its states new Domestic Partnership rules.
Nevertheless, couples are ecstatic about the change towards equality in Iowa. On a personal note, my partner and I plan to return to Iowa in August to marry. We both grew up there and are excited to share our wedding with our friends and family. Unfortunately when we return to Washington, our marriage will no longer be recognized. I imagine hundreds of couples will be facing the same travesty.
[*Note: New York recognizes same sex marriages from other states, but does not perform them in New York state. Ridiculous huh?]
