LGBTQ+ Rights

The Affiliate has testified in favor of three bills that would expand the rights allotted to same-sex couples in the state – in divorce (S-271, H-5926), marriage (S-147, H-5744) and funeral arrangements (S-195, H-5294).  Regrettably, when the session ends, Rhode Island will remain the only New England state to deny marriage rights to same-sex couples. Worse, it presently appears that no action will even be taken on legislation to allow couples living in Rhode Island who were validly-married in other states to get divorces here. The only positive action is on a bill, passed in slightly different form in both Houses, allowing domestic partners to plan the funeral arrangements for their deceased partner. Although the Governor vetoed this legislation, the General Assembly voted overwhelmingly for an override when they returned in January.