Is Mass. Court Having Second Thoughts?

[davidinalameda]

http://www.365gay.com/newscontent/121703massCourt.htm

The Supreme Judicial Court has decided to open up the question of civil unions over marriage to all "interested persons". The state's highest court has agreed to look at a bill submitted by the Massachusetts Senate to permit civil unions to determine if it meets last month's ruling that the state cannot stop same-sex couples from marrying.

The court in its November ruling (story) gave the legislature 180 days to act as it "deems appropriate" before the decision takes effect.

Some lawmakers say the wording of the ruling is ambiguous and implies that civil unions would suffice. Others maintain the court gave no leeway and nothing short of marriage will do.

[BayCityProgressive]

1. Marriage for everyone!

[David__77]

2. I have mixed thought on this.

I think that, at all costs, a constitutional amendment must be avoided on this question. However, we must not cower in fear of backlash. Extending marriage rights is the unquestionable goal and should be embraced by all progressives.

Civil unions are a progressive step toward a better goal. I won't spite the good for the perfect. It's interesting that the specter of same-sex marriage is making otherwise resistant Republicans open to the concept of equal rights, albeit under a different name.

If we can block an amendment, then I hope that marriage rights go through in MA now. If we cannot or if the chances are only fair, then I think a Vermont solution is perhaps better. But it's too soon to do anything other than remain on the offensive.

[trapper914]

3. It's an equal rights question

The few homosexuals I know aren't hung up on the word "marriage." They just want the same right to have a legal union with another person.