Does any state yet recognize same-sex marriages?
Yes. In May 2004, Massachusetts began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples who live in the state. Massachusetts is the only U.S. state that permits same-sex marriage. In fact, many states have passed laws specifically barring same-sex marriages, and the number of states with such laws is increasing. But there are other states that allow same-sex unions that are similar to marriage. In California, domestic partnership does create a marriage-like relationship in which same-sex partners have nearly all the rights and responsibilities of spouses. Vermont and Connecticut both offer same-sex couples a “civil union registration system.” Under these systems, same-sex couples can register their partnership and receive all the benefits of state laws that apply to married couples. Hawaii, Maine, and New Jersey all have some form of registration for same-sex couples, with varying levels of benefits–but none equal to the broad rights available in California, Connecticut, and Vermont.
