Memorandum in Opposition of

S.2056 - Senator Maltese
A.4097 - Assemblyman Seminerio

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) - NYS Chapter strongly opposes the passage of S.2056/A.4097.  This legislation would make a marriage absolutely void if contracted by two persons of the same-sex and would not recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states. 

The NASW Social Work Speaks states, "It is the position of NASW that same-gender sexual orientation should be afforded the same respect and rights as other-gender orientation."  It further states, "Discriminatory statutes, policies, and actions that diminish the quality of life for lesbian, gay, and bisexual people and that force many to live their lives in secrecy should be prevented and eliminated."

Same-sex couples should be entitled to the same legal protections, rights and responsibilities that heterosexual couples acquire when they marry.  There are more than 1,000 federal and more than 700 state protections and responsibilities denied to gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender families because the law does not recognize these relationships.  For example, same-sex couples do not have rights like family health coverage, child custody and medical and bereavement leave; same-sex couples cannot file joint tax returns and enjoy income and estate tax benefits; LGBT persons cannot assume pension or Social Security benefits in the event of the death of a same-sex partner; and LGBT persons do not have the automatic ability to make medical decisions for an incapacitated spouse.

NASW-NYS is committed to working toward the elimination of discriminatory practices and will continue to fight for the equal rights of all oppressed people and groups.  Therefore, NASW strongly urges the New York State Legislature to oppose S.2056/A.4097.