Nation

State By State: The Legal Battle Over Gay Marriage

Gay rights activists around the nation are challenging state bans on same-sex marriage -- in state courts and through the legislature. Here, a look at how the legal battle is playing out, state by state. Last Update: June 3, 2009

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A majority of U.S. states have Defense of Marriage Acts, which define marriage as a union between a man and a woman.

Across America, gay rights activists are challenging state bans on same-sex marriage, arguing that such bans violate equal-protection guarantees in state constitutions. These arguments first proved persuasive in Massachusetts in 2003, and they have had success in other state courts.

Since the Massachusetts ruling, voters in other states have approved constitutional amendments that explicitly ban gay marriage. In response, some gay rights activists have shifted their efforts, hoping to win recognition for gay marriage through state legislatures.

Credits: Produced by Maria Godoy

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Nation

State By State: The Legal Battle Over Gay Marriage

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