Does the federal government control same-sex marriage laws?

Answer 1

US Federal law does not recognize same sex marriage and in fact, indirectly prohibits it through the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). The Act also relieves state governments from honoring a same sex marriage deemed legal in another state.

Answer 2

In the United States, the federal government recognizes same-sex marriages effective June 26, 2013. Although the executive and judicial branches have been supportive of SSM, the legislative branch has not been supportive.

Answer 3

It does, pursuant to a June 26, 2013 decision by the United States Supreme Court. However, for some purposes, the couple must reside in a state that recognizes their marriage in order for the federal government to recognize it too.

Answer 4

No. In the United States (Canada and Mexico), marriage laws are legislated on the state level. However, the United States Supreme Court (as well as the equivalent in Canada and Mexico) has ruled that no state may prevent same-sex couples from exercising their constitutional right to marry. (In Brazil, the issue is currently on appeal to the Supreme Court, with lower courts having struck down all state laws banning same-sex marriage.)

Answer 5

No. Marriage is a state-level right. However the Federal government does have jurisdiction over making sure state laws comply with the U.S. Constitution. They are also obligated to overturn state laws that violate the constitution.

Answer 6

On June 26, 2015, the United States Supreme Court ruled that same-sex couples have a constitutional right to marry. That is the official stance of the federal government on same-sex marriage.

Answer 7

Yes, effective June 26, 2013.