Equality of Opportunity (Civil Marriage)

Legislative Priority in 2008 LWVMD takes action to ensure that Maryland law does not discriminate in its recognition of all marriages/civil unions on the basis of gender or religious definitions of marriage. (2007) LWVMD Supports: State sanctioned, legally recognized unions which convey rights, benefits and obligations to same-sex partners who seek such unions. Recognition of such unions and/or same-sex marriages that have been legally sanctioned in other states. With preference for: In keeping with the principle of separation of church and state, making the basis of state recognition of all marriages/civil unions (same-sex or opposite-sex) a civil proceeding, with the additional step of marriage in accordance with religious traditions a voluntary option.