An act to amend the domestic relations law, in relation to the ability to marry.

Synopsis:
This is a Governor sponsored initiative (program bill). This bill states that any legal provisions relating to civil marriage in any other laws not amended by this bill would here forward be meant to include same-sex and different sex couples.  All gender specific language in NYS laws would be interpreted as gender neutral. 

Status:
This bill passed the Assembly on 6/19/07.  On 5/17/07 this bill was referred to the judiciary committee of the Senate.  The bill died in the Senate, was returned to the Assembly and referred to the Assembly Judiciary Committee on 1/9/08.

Summary of Provisions:

• If enacted, a marriage that is deemed valid in other aspects besides sex of the couple will be valid regardless of the sex of the couple. There will be equal treatment of all married couple regardless of whether it is a same-sex or a different sex couple.
• No application for a marriage license could be denied based on the sex of the parties applying, whether they are same-sex or different sex.
• In order to protect religious freedom, no clergyman will be forced to perform a marriage, whether it be a same-sex or different sex couple.

NASW-NYS Position:
NASW-NYS has issued a Memorandum in Support.  This bill is a major step to increase equal rights for all New York citizens.