Learn more about marriage equality

Same-Sex Marriage Myths Busted

Read about the eight most common myths that appear when marriage equality has been discussed and debated in New York State.

1324 Reasons for Marriage Equality in New York State

This report catalogs all of the legal rights and responsibilities that New York provides to married couples.  As the report demonstrates these responsibilities are vast and far-reaching.

Major New York State Government Action on Marriage for Same-Sex Couples

• On April 16, 2009 Governor Paterson introduced a marriage equality program bill into the New York State Legislature.  Click here to view the video of the introduction.

• On May 14, 2008 Governor David Paterson’s submitted a memo directing New York State Agencies to recognize same-sex marriages that have been legally performed in other jurisdictions.

• On June 19, 2007 the New York State Assembly voted (85-61) in support of a marriage equality bill.  Click here for the vote tally.

• On July 6, 2006 the New York State Court of Appeals submitted their decision in Hernandez v Robles, ruling that the state constitution doesn’t compel recognition of marriages between same-sex couples, directing the legislature to address the issue.

Polling and Research

Recent polling shows significant support for recognizing and offering protections to committed gay and lesbian couples.  This section provides you with summaries of research and polling.
Highlights:

• A 2006 survey by Global Strategy Group found that a majority (53%) of New Yorkers support allowing same-sex couples to marry.

• A 2007 report published by the New York City Comptroller found that the legalization of marriage for same-sex couples could yield $142 million in economic benefits to New York City and $184 million across the state.

• A 2009 poll conducted by the Siena Research Institute found that a majority of New Yorkers in all regions of the state support passing a law that would allow same-sex couples to marry.