DOMANIA: MASS. DECISION LEADS MD LEGISLATORS TO INTRODUCE DOMA: From the Washington Post

Maryland could be forced to recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states unless the General Assembly steps in this year, a key state lawmaker said yesterday, setting up a battle over gay rights that
Democratic leaders said they were hoping to avoid.

With the Massachusetts Supreme Court clearing the way for same-sex marriages in that state as soon as May 17, there is growing concern among some lawmakers that Maryland could be vulnerable to court challenges if a married gay couple moves to the state expecting similar rights. ...

Since 1973, Maryland law has defined marriage as being between a man and woman. But Maryland is one of 13 states that has yet to pass a "defense of marriage bill" designed to explicitly deny recognition to gay couples' marriages or civil unions performed in other jurisdictions. Vallario said he expects to schedule a hearing as soon as possible on
legislation that would amend the state law to make it clear that gay couples married in Massachusetts or elsewhere will not be entitled to marital benefits in Maryland. ...

The two openly gay delegates in the General Assembly -- Maggie L. McIntosh (D-Baltimore) and Richard S. Madaleno Jr. (D-Montgomery) -- said Burns's legislation is not necessary because gay marriage is already prohibited in Maryland.

"Have you ever seen the movie 'Animal House'?" Madaleno asked. "I feel like these proposals are akin to double secret probation. It is already against the law, but we feel a need to make it double against the law."

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posted by Eve at 9:40 PM | link

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