Rhode Island Will Recognize Out-of-State Same-Sex Marriages

Rhode Island's governor has signed an executive order saying the state will recognize same-sex marriages performed out of state. WAMC’s Lucas Willard reports…

The order signed by Governor Lincoln Chafee on Monday directs state agencies to afford same-sex married couples the same rights as heterosexual ones. Chafee says some same-sex couples married outside Rhode Island have been denied rights because state law isn't clear on the subject.

The executive order is expected to have many implications. Same-sex spouses will be entitled to health and other benefits. Also, same-sex couples will be able to list both names as parents on a child's birth certificate.

Same-sex marriage isn't legal in Rhode Island. Legislation allowing civil unions went into effect last summer.

Lucas Willard, WAMC News.

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