I'm trying to understand the difference between a civil union and a marriage in reference to state rights.
Like, next of kin rights, automatic beneficiary rights, etc...
I understand a marriage is a sacred oath by the church but am asking is there a difference in rights?
" N.J.: Same-sex unions OK; marriage out of the question"
http://www.cnn.com/2006/POLITICS/12/21/samesex.unions.ap/index.html?eref=rss_politics
Is it just a terminology difference concerning states?
Btw, I know there is a difference at the federal level:
"They won't, however, be entitled to the same benefits as married couples in the eyes of the federal government because of 1996 law that defines marriage as between a man and a woman. Gay partners won't be able to collect deceased partners' Social Security benefits, for example, said family lawyer Felice T. Londa, who represents many same-sex couples."
2006-12-21
10:02:20
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12 answers
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asked by
BeachBum
7
in
Politics