Multiple marriages for America's same-sex couples

Friday, 31st October 2008

Written by Francesca Cookney

Frustrated by the variation in law across the country, many American gay couples are now trying to cheat the system - by getting married in as many different states as possible.

Daniel McNeil and Patrick Canavan boast a standing total of four different ceremonies across Washington, Vermont, California and the District of Columbia in an effort to obtain the kind of rights enjoyed by straight couples nationwide. They're not alone.

Gay rights lobbyist Laurie McBride and her partner recently remarried for the third time in a bid to protect themselves against the gaps in state law. But it isn't easy; only three states recognize same-sex marriage. Others offer civil unions or domestic partnerships but the rights are often considerably reduced, affecting everything from car rental to hospital-visiting and none are recognized by the federal government when it comes to immigration, taxes, or benefits.

And you only have to look at California to see how quickly situations can change. Next week voters have the chance to approve a constitutional amendment that could ban gay marriage in the state.

It is thought that marriages before this time will continue to be viewed as valid although unions from outside California are unlikely to be recognised. But Mr McNeil and Mr Canavan maintain hope that things will change. In the meantime they, and many like them, will continue to chase their rights across the country.

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