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Why don't some states legalize gay marriage?

Updated: 8/21/2019
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9y ago

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The reason is the the American Constitution gives the state the authority to make its law which applies to a person at that point. It is a matter of constitution.

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Q: Why don't some states legalize gay marriage?
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Which power allows same-sex marriage?

In most countries, the authority to legalize same-sex marriage is exercised by the legislature. In some countries, the judiciary may order the legalization of same-sex marriage. In some countries, the assent of the chief executive (e.g., president) is required for the legislature to legalize same-sex marriage. In the United States, Australia, Mexico and many other countries, each individual state or province may legalize or not legalize same-sex marriage, although federal laws or the federal courts may either mandate that all states recognize same-sex marriages performed in another state (as has happened in Mexico), or may permit states to refuse to recognize out-of-state same-sex marriages (as has happened in the United States).


Which Australian states have legalized same-sex marriage?

On October 22, 2013, the Australian Capital Territory ("ACT") became the first Australian state to legalize same-sex marriages. The first such marriages will be performed in December 2013. There have been proposals to legalize same-sex marriage in several other states and some states offer legal recognition other than marriage to same-sex couples.


Why was Denmark the first country to legalize same-sex marriage?

Denmark was not the first country to legalize same-sex marriage. That honor falls to the Netherlands. Denmark was, however, the first country to offer a kind of registered partnership that provided some of the benefits of marriage. The purpose of the legislation was just that, to provide some of the benefits of marriage to same-sex couples.


What was the first city to legalize same-sex marriage?

Washington, DC, which is the only city in the United States to have legalized same-sex marriage. The District of Columbia is the only city in the country that is part of any state. In the United States, marriage laws are controlled by the states, not cities. No city has the authority to pass laws concerning marriage. This is why some municipalities have passed local laws concerning domestic partnerships.


How long was same-sex marriage legal in only thirty-three US states?

Same-sex marriage was legal in only 33 US states for a few short hours on November 19, 2014, the day when South Carolina and Montana became the thirty-third and thirty-fourth states to legalize same-sex marriage.32) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 32 US states for 29 days from October 21, 2014 to November 19, 2014 when South Carolina and Montana became the thirty-third and thirty-fourth states to legalize same-sex marriage.31) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 31 US states for 4 days from October 17, 2014 to October 21, 2014, when Wyoming became the thirty-second state to legalize same-sex marriage.30) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 30 US states for 2 days from October 15, 2014 to October 17, 2014, when Arizona became the thirty-first state to legalize same-sex marriage.29) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 29 US states for 3 days from October 12, 2014 until October 15, 2014, when Idaho became the thirtieth state to legalize same-sex marriage.28) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 28 US states for 2 days from October 10, 2014 to October 12, 2014, when Alaska became the twenty-ninth state to legalize same-sex marriage.27) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 27 US states for 1 day from October 9, 2014 to October 10, 2014, when North Carolina became the twenty-eighth state to legalize same-sex marriage.26) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 26 US states because Nevada and West Virginia legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously on October 9, 2014, making 27 US states where same-sex marriage was legal on that day.25) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 25 US states for 2 days from October 7, 2014 to October 9, 2014, when Nevada and West Virginia became the twenty-sixth and twenty-seventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.24) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 24 US states because Indiana and Colorado legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously on October 7, 2014, making 25 US states where same-sex marriage was legal on that day.23) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 23 US states for 1 day from October 6, 2014 to October 7, 2014, when Indiana and Colorado became the twenty-fourth and twenty-fifth state to legalize same-sex marriage.20, 21, 22) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 20, 21 or 22 US states because Utah, Virginia, Oklahoma and Wisconsin all legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously on October 6, 2014, making 23 US states where same-sex marriage was legal on that day.19) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 18 US states for 4 months and 5 days from June 1, 2014 until October 6, 2013, when Utah, Virginia, Oklahoma and Wisconsin became the twentieth, twenty-first twenty-second and twenty-third state to legalize same-sex marriage.18) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 18 US states for 12 days from May 20, 2014 to June 1, 2014, when Illinois became the nineteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.17) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 17 US states for 1 day from May 19, 2014 until May 20, 2014, when Pennsylvania became the eighteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.16) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 16 US states for 5 months from December 19, 2013 until May 19, 2014, when Oregon became the seventeenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.15) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 15 US states for 17 days from December 2, 2013 until December 19, 2013, when New Mexico became the sixteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage (although some counties started earlier).14) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 14 US states for 1 month and 11 days from October 21, 2013 until December 2, 2013, when Hawaii became the fifteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.13) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 13 US states for 2 months and 20 days from August 1, 2013 until October 21, 2013, when New Jersey became the fourteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.12) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 12 US states because on August 1, 2013, Rhode Island and Minnesota legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously, becoming the twelfth and thirteenth US states to do so.11) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 11 US states for 1 month from July 1, 2013 until August 1, 2013 when Rhode Island and Minnesota became the twelfth and thirteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.10) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 10 US states for 3 days from June 28, 2013 until July 1, 2013, when Delaware became the eleventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.9) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 9 US states for 5 months and 26 days from January 1, 2013, until June 28, 2013, when same-sex marriages resumed in California, after having been stopped on November 5, 2008.8) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 8 US states for 3 days from December 29, 2012 until January 1, 2013, when Maryland became the ninth state to legalize same-sex marriage.7) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 7 US states for 23 days from December 6, 2012 until December 29, 2012, when Maine became the eighth state to legalize same-sex marriage.6) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 6 US states for 1 year, 4 months and 12 days from July 24, 2011 until December 6, 2012, when Washington (state) became the seventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.5) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 5 US states for 1 year, 6 months and 23 days from January 1, 2010 until July 24, 2011, when New York became the sixth state to legalize same-sex marriage.4) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 4 US states for 4 months from September 1, 2009 until January 1, 2010, when New Hampshire became the fifth state to legalize same-sex marriage.3) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 3 US states for 4 months and 5 days from April 27, 2009 until September 1, 2009, when Vermont became the fourth state to legalize same-sex marriage.2) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 2 US states for 5 months and 23 days from November 12, 2008 until April 27, 2009, when Iowa became the third state to legalize same-sex marriage.1) Massachusetts was the only US state were a same-sex couple could marry for 4 years and one month, from May 17, 2004 until June 17, 2008 when same-sex marriage was legalized in California. However, on November 5, 2008, the right to marry was taken away from California same-sex couples and once again Massachusetts was the only marriage equality state for 7 days until November 12, 2008, when Connecticut legalized same-sex marriage.0) Same-sex couples were prevented from marrying in all fifty US states for 227 years, 10 months and 13 days from July 4, 1776 until May 17, 2004, when Massachusetts became the first state to permit same-sex marriage.


How long was same-sex marriage legal in only thirty-one US states?

Same-sex marriage was legal in only 31 US states for 4 days from October 17, 2014 to October 21, 2014, when Wyoming became the thirty-second state to legalize same-sex marriage.30) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 30 US states for 2 days from October 15, 2014 to October 17, 2014, when Arizona became the thirty-first state to legalize same-sex marriage.29) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 29 US states for 3 days from October 12, 2014 until October 15, 2014, when Idaho became the thirtieth state to legalize same-sex marriage.28) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 28 US states for 2 days from October 10, 2014 to October 12, 2014, when Alaska became the twenty-ninth state to legalize same-sex marriage.27) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 27 US states for 1 day from October 9, 2014 to October 10, 2014, when North Carolina became the twenty-eighth state to legalize same-sex marriage.26) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 26 US states because Nevada and West Virginia legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously on October 9, 2014, making 27 US states where same-sex marriage was legal on that day.25) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 25 US states for 2 days from October 7, 2014 to October 9, 2014, when Nevada and West Virginia became the twenty-sixth and twenty-seventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.24) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 24 US states because Indiana and Colorado legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously on October 7, 2014, making 25 US states where same-sex marriage was legal on that day.23) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 23 US states for 1 day from October 6, 2014 to October 7, 2014, when Indiana and Colorado became the twenty-fourth and twenty-fifth state to legalize same-sex marriage.20, 21, 22) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 20, 21 or 22 US states because Utah, Virginia, Oklahoma and Wisconsin all legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously on October 6, 2014, making 23 US states where same-sex marriage was legal on that day.19) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 18 US states for 4 months and 5 days from June 1, 2014 until October 6, 2013, when Utah, Virginia, Oklahoma and Wisconsin became the twentieth, twenty-first twenty-second and twenty-third state to legalize same-sex marriage.18) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 18 US states for 12 days from May 20, 2014 to June 1, 2014, when Illinois became the nineteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.17) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 17 US states for 1 day from May 19, 2014 until May 20, 2014, when Pennsylvania became the eighteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.16) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 16 US states for 5 months from December 19, 2013 until May 19, 2014, when Oregon became the seventeenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.15) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 15 US states for 17 days from December 2, 2013 until December 19, 2013, when New Mexico became the sixteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage (although some counties started earlier).14) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 14 US states for 1 month and 11 days from October 21, 2013 until December 2, 2013, when Hawaii became the fifteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.13) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 13 US states for 2 months and 20 days from August 1, 2013 until October 21, 2013, when New Jersey became the fourteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.12) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 12 US states because on August 1, 2013, Rhode Island and Minnesota legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously, becoming the twelfth and thirteenth US states to do so.11) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 11 US states for 1 month from July 1, 2013 until August 1, 2013 when Rhode Island and Minnesota became the twelfth and thirteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.10) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 10 US states for 3 days from June 28, 2013 until July 1, 2013, when Delaware became the eleventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.9) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 9 US states for 5 months and 26 days from January 1, 2013, until June 28, 2013, when same-sex marriages resumed in California, after having been stopped on November 5, 2008.8) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 8 US states for 3 days from December 29, 2012 until January 1, 2013, when Maryland became the ninth state to legalize same-sex marriage.7) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 7 US states for 23 days from December 6, 2012 until December 29, 2012, when Maine became the eighth state to legalize same-sex marriage.6) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 6 US states for 1 year, 4 months and 12 days from July 24, 2011 until December 6, 2012, when Washington (state) became the seventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.5) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 5 US states for 1 year, 6 months and 23 days from January 1, 2010 until July 24, 2011, when New York became the sixth state to legalize same-sex marriage.4) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 4 US states for 4 months from September 1, 2009 until January 1, 2010, when New Hampshire became the fifth state to legalize same-sex marriage.3) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 3 US states for 4 months and 5 days from April 27, 2009 until September 1, 2009, when Vermont became the fourth state to legalize same-sex marriage.2) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 2 US states for 5 months and 23 days from November 12, 2008 until April 27, 2009, when Iowa became the third state to legalize same-sex marriage.1) Massachusetts was the only US state were a same-sex couple could marry for 4 years and one month, from May 17, 2004 until June 17, 2008 when same-sex marriage was legalized in California. However, on November 5, 2008, the right to marry was taken away from California same-sex couples and once again Massachusetts was the only marriage equality state for 7 days until November 12, 2008, when Connecticut legalized same-sex marriage.0) Same-sex couples were prevented from marrying in all fifty US states for 227 years, 10 months and 13 days from July 4, 1776 until May 17, 2004, when Massachusetts became the first state to permit same-sex marriage.


How long was same-sex marriage legal in only twenty-nine US states?

Same-sex marriage was legal in only 29 US states for 3 days from October 12, 2014 until October 15, 2014, when Idaho became the thirtieth state to legalize same-sex marriage.28) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 28 US states for 2 days from October 10, 2014 to October 12, 2014, when Alaska became the twenty-ninth state to legalize same-sex marriage.27) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 27 US states for 1 day from October 9, 2014 to October 10, 2014, when North Carolina became the twenty-eighth state to legalize same-sex marriage.26) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 26 US states because Nevada and West Virginia legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously on October 9, 2014, making 27 US states where same-sex marriage was legal on that day.25) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 25 US states for 2 days from October 7, 2014 to October 9, 2014, when Nevada and West Virginia became the twenty-sixth and twenty-seventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.24) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 24 US states because Indiana and Colorado legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously on October 7, 2014, making 25 US states where same-sex marriage was legal on that day.23) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 23 US states for 1 day from October 6, 2014 to October 7, 2014, when Indiana and Colorado became the twenty-fourth and twenty-fifth state to legalize same-sex marriage.20, 21, 22) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 20, 21 or 22 US states because Utah, Virginia, Oklahoma and Wisconsin all legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously on October 6, 2014, making 23 US states where same-sex marriage was legal on that day.19) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 18 US states for 4 months and 5 days from June 1, 2014 until October 6, 2013, when Utah, Virginia, Oklahoma and Wisconsin became the twentieth, twenty-first twenty-second and twenty-third state to legalize same-sex marriage.18) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 18 US states for 12 days from May 20, 2014 to June 1, 2014, when Illinois became the nineteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.17) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 17 US states for 1 day from May 19, 2014 until May 20, 2014, when Pennsylvania became the eighteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.16) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 16 US states for 5 months from December 19, 2013 until May 19, 2014, when Oregon became the seventeenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.15) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 15 US states for 17 days from December 2, 2013 until December 19, 2013, when New Mexico became the sixteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage (although some counties started earlier).14) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 14 US states for 1 month and 11 days from October 21, 2013 until December 2, 2013, when Hawaii became the fifteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.13) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 13 US states for 2 months and 20 days from August 1, 2013 until October 21, 2013, when New Jersey became the fourteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.12) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 12 US states because on August 1, 2013, Rhode Island and Minnesota legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously, becoming the twelfth and thirteenth US states to do so.11) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 11 US states for 1 month from July 1, 2013 until August 1, 2013 when Rhode Island and Minnesota became the twelfth and thirteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.10) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 10 US states for 3 days from June 28, 2013 until July 1, 2013, when Delaware became the eleventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.9) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 9 US states for 5 months and 26 days from January 1, 2013, until June 28, 2013, when same-sex marriages resumed in California, after having been stopped on November 5, 2008.8) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 8 US states for 3 days from December 29, 2012 until January 1, 2013, when Maryland became the ninth state to legalize same-sex marriage.7) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 7 US states for 23 days from December 6, 2012 until December 29, 2012, when Maine became the eighth state to legalize same-sex marriage.6) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 6 US states for 1 year, 4 months and 12 days from July 24, 2011 until December 6, 2012, when Washington (state) became the seventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.5) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 5 US states for 1 year, 6 months and 23 days from January 1, 2010 until July 24, 2011, when New York became the sixth state to legalize same-sex marriage.4) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 4 US states for 4 months from September 1, 2009 until January 1, 2010, when New Hampshire became the fifth state to legalize same-sex marriage.3) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 3 US states for 4 months and 5 days from April 27, 2009 until September 1, 2009, when Vermont became the fourth state to legalize same-sex marriage.2) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 2 US states for 5 months and 23 days from November 12, 2008 until April 27, 2009, when Iowa became the third state to legalize same-sex marriage.1) Massachusetts was the only US state were a same-sex couple could marry for 4 years and one month, from May 17, 2004 until June 17, 2008 when same-sex marriage was legalized in California. However, on November 5, 2008, the right to marry was taken away from California same-sex couples and once again Massachusetts was the only marriage equality state for 7 days until November 12, 2008, when Connecticut legalized same-sex marriage.0) Same-sex couples were prevented from marrying in all fifty US states for 227 years, 10 months and 13 days from July 4, 1776 until May 17, 2004, when Massachusetts became the first state to permit same-sex marriage.


How long was same-sex marriage legal in only eighteen US states?

Same-sex marriage was legal in only 18 US states for 12 days from May 20, 2014 to June 1, 2014, when Illinois became the nineteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.17) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 17 US states for 1 day from May 19, 2014 until May 20, 2014, when Pennsylvania became the eighteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.16) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 16 US states for 5 months from December 19, 2013 until May 19, 2014, when Oregon became the seventeenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.15) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 15 US states for 17 days from December 2, 2013 until December 19, 2013, when New Mexico became the sixteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage (although some counties started earlier).14) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 14 US states for 1 month and 11 days from October 21, 2013 until December 2, 2013, when Hawaii became the fifteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.13) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 13 US states for 2 months and 20 days from August 1, 2013 until October 21, 2013, when New Jersey became the fourteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.12) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 12 US states because on August 1, 2013, Rhode Island and Minnesota legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously, becoming the twelfth and thirteenth US states to do so.11) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 11 US states for 1 month from July 1, 2013 until August 1, 2013 when Rhode Island and Minnesota became the twelfth and thirteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.10) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 10 US states for 3 days from June 28, 2013 until July 1, 2013, when Delaware became the eleventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.9) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 9 US states for 5 months and 26 days from January 1, 2013, until June 28, 2013, when same-sex marriages resumed in California, after having been stopped on November 5, 2008.8) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 8 US states for 3 days from December 29, 2012 until January 1, 2013, when Maryland became the ninth state to legalize same-sex marriage.7) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 7 US states for 23 days from December 6, 2012 until December 29, 2012, when Maine became the eighth state to legalize same-sex marriage.6) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 6 US states for 1 year, 4 months and 12 days from July 24, 2011 until December 6, 2012, when Washington (state) became the seventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.5) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 5 US states for 1 year, 6 months and 23 days from January 1, 2010 until July 24, 2011, when New York became the sixth state to legalize same-sex marriage.4) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 4 US states for 4 months from September 1, 2009 until January 1, 2010, when New Hampshire became the fifth state to legalize same-sex marriage.3) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 3 US states for 4 months and 5 days from April 27, 2009 until September 1, 2009, when Vermont became the fourth state to legalize same-sex marriage.2) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 2 US states for 5 months and 23 days from November 12, 2008 until April 27, 2009, when Iowa became the third state to legalize same-sex marriage.1) Massachusetts was the only US state were a same-sex couple could marry for 4 years and one month, from May 17, 2004 until June 17, 2008 when same-sex marriage was legalized in California. However, on November 5, 2008, the right to marry was taken away from California same-sex couples and once again Massachusetts was the only marriage equality state for 7 days until November 12, 2008, when Connecticut legalized same-sex marriage.0) Same-sex couples were prevented from marrying in all fifty US states for 227 years, 10 months and 13 days from July 4, 1776 until May 17, 2004, when Massachusetts became the first state to permit same-sex marriage.


How long was same-sex marriage legal in only thirty-two US states?

Same-sex marriage was legal in only 32 US states for 29 days from October 21, 2014 to November 19, 2014 when South Carolina and Montana became the thirty-third and thirty-fourth states to legalize same-sex marriage.31) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 31 US states for 4 days from October 17, 2014 to October 21, 2014, when Wyoming became the thirty-second state to legalize same-sex marriage.30) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 30 US states for 2 days from October 15, 2014 to October 17, 2014, when Arizona became the thirty-first state to legalize same-sex marriage.29) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 29 US states for 3 days from October 12, 2014 until October 15, 2014, when Idaho became the thirtieth state to legalize same-sex marriage.28) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 28 US states for 2 days from October 10, 2014 to October 12, 2014, when Alaska became the twenty-ninth state to legalize same-sex marriage.27) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 27 US states for 1 day from October 9, 2014 to October 10, 2014, when North Carolina became the twenty-eighth state to legalize same-sex marriage.26) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 26 US states because Nevada and West Virginia legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously on October 9, 2014, making 27 US states where same-sex marriage was legal on that day.25) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 25 US states for 2 days from October 7, 2014 to October 9, 2014, when Nevada and West Virginia became the twenty-sixth and twenty-seventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.24) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 24 US states because Indiana and Colorado legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously on October 7, 2014, making 25 US states where same-sex marriage was legal on that day.23) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 23 US states for 1 day from October 6, 2014 to October 7, 2014, when Indiana and Colorado became the twenty-fourth and twenty-fifth state to legalize same-sex marriage.20, 21, 22) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 20, 21 or 22 US states because Utah, Virginia, Oklahoma and Wisconsin all legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously on October 6, 2014, making 23 US states where same-sex marriage was legal on that day.19) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 18 US states for 4 months and 5 days from June 1, 2014 until October 6, 2013, when Utah, Virginia, Oklahoma and Wisconsin became the twentieth, twenty-first twenty-second and twenty-third state to legalize same-sex marriage.18) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 18 US states for 12 days from May 20, 2014 to June 1, 2014, when Illinois became the nineteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.17) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 17 US states for 1 day from May 19, 2014 until May 20, 2014, when Pennsylvania became the eighteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.16) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 16 US states for 5 months from December 19, 2013 until May 19, 2014, when Oregon became the seventeenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.15) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 15 US states for 17 days from December 2, 2013 until December 19, 2013, when New Mexico became the sixteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage (although some counties started earlier).14) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 14 US states for 1 month and 11 days from October 21, 2013 until December 2, 2013, when Hawaii became the fifteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.13) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 13 US states for 2 months and 20 days from August 1, 2013 until October 21, 2013, when New Jersey became the fourteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.12) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 12 US states because on August 1, 2013, Rhode Island and Minnesota legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously, becoming the twelfth and thirteenth US states to do so.11) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 11 US states for 1 month from July 1, 2013 until August 1, 2013 when Rhode Island and Minnesota became the twelfth and thirteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.10) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 10 US states for 3 days from June 28, 2013 until July 1, 2013, when Delaware became the eleventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.9) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 9 US states for 5 months and 26 days from January 1, 2013, until June 28, 2013, when same-sex marriages resumed in California, after having been stopped on November 5, 2008.8) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 8 US states for 3 days from December 29, 2012 until January 1, 2013, when Maryland became the ninth state to legalize same-sex marriage.7) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 7 US states for 23 days from December 6, 2012 until December 29, 2012, when Maine became the eighth state to legalize same-sex marriage.6) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 6 US states for 1 year, 4 months and 12 days from July 24, 2011 until December 6, 2012, when Washington (state) became the seventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.5) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 5 US states for 1 year, 6 months and 23 days from January 1, 2010 until July 24, 2011, when New York became the sixth state to legalize same-sex marriage.4) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 4 US states for 4 months from September 1, 2009 until January 1, 2010, when New Hampshire became the fifth state to legalize same-sex marriage.3) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 3 US states for 4 months and 5 days from April 27, 2009 until September 1, 2009, when Vermont became the fourth state to legalize same-sex marriage.2) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 2 US states for 5 months and 23 days from November 12, 2008 until April 27, 2009, when Iowa became the third state to legalize same-sex marriage.1) Massachusetts was the only US state were a same-sex couple could marry for 4 years and one month, from May 17, 2004 until June 17, 2008 when same-sex marriage was legalized in California. However, on November 5, 2008, the right to marry was taken away from California same-sex couples and once again Massachusetts was the only marriage equality state for 7 days until November 12, 2008, when Connecticut legalized same-sex marriage.0) Same-sex couples were prevented from marrying in all fifty US states for 227 years, 10 months and 13 days from July 4, 1776 until May 17, 2004, when Massachusetts became the first state to permit same-sex marriage.


How long was same-sex marriage legal in only twenty US states?

Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 20, 21 or 22 US states because Utah, Virginia, Oklahoma and Wisconsin all legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously on October 6, 2014, making 23 US states where same-sex marriage was legal on that day.19) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 18 US states for 4 months and 5 days from June 1, 2014 until October 6, 2013, when Utah, Virginia, Oklahoma and Wisconsin became the twentieth, twenty-first twenty-second and twenty-third state to legalize same-sex marriage.18) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 18 US states for 12 days from May 20, 2014 to June 1, 2014, when Illinois became the nineteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.17) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 17 US states for 1 day from May 19, 2014 until May 20, 2014, when Pennsylvania became the eighteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.16) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 16 US states for 5 months from December 19, 2013 until May 19, 2014, when Oregon became the seventeenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.15) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 15 US states for 17 days from December 2, 2013 until December 19, 2013, when New Mexico became the sixteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage (although some counties started earlier).14) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 14 US states for 1 month and 11 days from October 21, 2013 until December 2, 2013, when Hawaii became the fifteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.13) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 13 US states for 2 months and 20 days from August 1, 2013 until October 21, 2013, when New Jersey became the fourteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.12) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 12 US states because on August 1, 2013, Rhode Island and Minnesota legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously, becoming the twelfth and thirteenth US states to do so.11) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 11 US states for 1 month from July 1, 2013 until August 1, 2013 when Rhode Island and Minnesota became the twelfth and thirteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.10) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 10 US states for 3 days from June 28, 2013 until July 1, 2013, when Delaware became the eleventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.9) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 9 US states for 5 months and 26 days from January 1, 2013, until June 28, 2013, when same-sex marriages resumed in California, after having been stopped on November 5, 2008.8) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 8 US states for 3 days from December 29, 2012 until January 1, 2013, when Maryland became the ninth state to legalize same-sex marriage.7) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 7 US states for 23 days from December 6, 2012 until December 29, 2012, when Maine became the eighth state to legalize same-sex marriage.6) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 6 US states for 1 year, 4 months and 12 days from July 24, 2011 until December 6, 2012, when Washington (state) became the seventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.5) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 5 US states for 1 year, 6 months and 23 days from January 1, 2010 until July 24, 2011, when New York became the sixth state to legalize same-sex marriage.4) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 4 US states for 4 months from September 1, 2009 until January 1, 2010, when New Hampshire became the fifth state to legalize same-sex marriage.3) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 3 US states for 4 months and 5 days from April 27, 2009 until September 1, 2009, when Vermont became the fourth state to legalize same-sex marriage.2) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 2 US states for 5 months and 23 days from November 12, 2008 until April 27, 2009, when Iowa became the third state to legalize same-sex marriage.1) Massachusetts was the only US state were a same-sex couple could marry for 4 years and one month, from May 17, 2004 until June 17, 2008 when same-sex marriage was legalized in California. However, on November 5, 2008, the right to marry was taken away from California same-sex couples and once again Massachusetts was the only marriage equality state for 7 days until November 12, 2008, when Connecticut legalized same-sex marriage.0) Same-sex couples were prevented from marrying in all fifty US states for 227 years, 10 months and 13 days from July 4, 1776 until May 17, 2004, when Massachusetts became the first state to permit same-sex marriage.


How long was same-sex marriage legal in only twenty-one US states?

Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 20, 21 or 22 US states because Utah, Virginia, Oklahoma and Wisconsin all legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously on October 6, 2014, making 23 US states where same-sex marriage was legal on that day.19) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 18 US states for 4 months and 5 days from June 1, 2014 until October 6, 2013, when Utah, Virginia, Oklahoma and Wisconsin became the twentieth, twenty-first twenty-second and twenty-third state to legalize same-sex marriage.18) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 18 US states for 12 days from May 20, 2014 to June 1, 2014, when Illinois became the nineteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.17) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 17 US states for 1 day from May 19, 2014 until May 20, 2014, when Pennsylvania became the eighteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.16) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 16 US states for 5 months from December 19, 2013 until May 19, 2014, when Oregon became the seventeenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.15) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 15 US states for 17 days from December 2, 2013 until December 19, 2013, when New Mexico became the sixteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage (although some counties started earlier).14) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 14 US states for 1 month and 11 days from October 21, 2013 until December 2, 2013, when Hawaii became the fifteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.13) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 13 US states for 2 months and 20 days from August 1, 2013 until October 21, 2013, when New Jersey became the fourteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.12) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 12 US states because on August 1, 2013, Rhode Island and Minnesota legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously, becoming the twelfth and thirteenth US states to do so.11) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 11 US states for 1 month from July 1, 2013 until August 1, 2013 when Rhode Island and Minnesota became the twelfth and thirteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.10) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 10 US states for 3 days from June 28, 2013 until July 1, 2013, when Delaware became the eleventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.9) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 9 US states for 5 months and 26 days from January 1, 2013, until June 28, 2013, when same-sex marriages resumed in California, after having been stopped on November 5, 2008.8) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 8 US states for 3 days from December 29, 2012 until January 1, 2013, when Maryland became the ninth state to legalize same-sex marriage.7) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 7 US states for 23 days from December 6, 2012 until December 29, 2012, when Maine became the eighth state to legalize same-sex marriage.6) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 6 US states for 1 year, 4 months and 12 days from July 24, 2011 until December 6, 2012, when Washington (state) became the seventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.5) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 5 US states for 1 year, 6 months and 23 days from January 1, 2010 until July 24, 2011, when New York became the sixth state to legalize same-sex marriage.4) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 4 US states for 4 months from September 1, 2009 until January 1, 2010, when New Hampshire became the fifth state to legalize same-sex marriage.3) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 3 US states for 4 months and 5 days from April 27, 2009 until September 1, 2009, when Vermont became the fourth state to legalize same-sex marriage.2) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 2 US states for 5 months and 23 days from November 12, 2008 until April 27, 2009, when Iowa became the third state to legalize same-sex marriage.1) Massachusetts was the only US state were a same-sex couple could marry for 4 years and one month, from May 17, 2004 until June 17, 2008 when same-sex marriage was legalized in California. However, on November 5, 2008, the right to marry was taken away from California same-sex couples and once again Massachusetts was the only marriage equality state for 7 days until November 12, 2008, when Connecticut legalized same-sex marriage.0) Same-sex couples were prevented from marrying in all fifty US states for 227 years, 10 months and 13 days from July 4, 1776 until May 17, 2004, when Massachusetts became the first state to permit same-sex marriage.


How long was same-sex marriage legal in only twenty-two US states?

Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 20, 21 or 22 US states because Utah, Virginia, Oklahoma and Wisconsin all legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously on October 6, 2014, making 23 US states where same-sex marriage was legal on that day.19) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 18 US states for 4 months and 5 days from June 1, 2014 until October 6, 2013, when Utah, Virginia, Oklahoma and Wisconsin became the twentieth, twenty-first twenty-second and twenty-third state to legalize same-sex marriage.18) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 18 US states for 12 days from May 20, 2014 to June 1, 2014, when Illinois became the nineteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.17) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 17 US states for 1 day from May 19, 2014 until May 20, 2014, when Pennsylvania became the eighteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.16) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 16 US states for 5 months from December 19, 2013 until May 19, 2014, when Oregon became the seventeenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.15) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 15 US states for 17 days from December 2, 2013 until December 19, 2013, when New Mexico became the sixteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage (although some counties started earlier).14) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 14 US states for 1 month and 11 days from October 21, 2013 until December 2, 2013, when Hawaii became the fifteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.13) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 13 US states for 2 months and 20 days from August 1, 2013 until October 21, 2013, when New Jersey became the fourteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.12) Same-sex marriage was never legal in only 12 US states because on August 1, 2013, Rhode Island and Minnesota legalized same-sex marriage simultaneously, becoming the twelfth and thirteenth US states to do so.11) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 11 US states for 1 month from July 1, 2013 until August 1, 2013 when Rhode Island and Minnesota became the twelfth and thirteenth state to legalize same-sex marriage.10) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 10 US states for 3 days from June 28, 2013 until July 1, 2013, when Delaware became the eleventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.9) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 9 US states for 5 months and 26 days from January 1, 2013, until June 28, 2013, when same-sex marriages resumed in California, after having been stopped on November 5, 2008.8) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 8 US states for 3 days from December 29, 2012 until January 1, 2013, when Maryland became the ninth state to legalize same-sex marriage.7) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 7 US states for 23 days from December 6, 2012 until December 29, 2012, when Maine became the eighth state to legalize same-sex marriage.6) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 6 US states for 1 year, 4 months and 12 days from July 24, 2011 until December 6, 2012, when Washington (state) became the seventh state to legalize same-sex marriage.5) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 5 US states for 1 year, 6 months and 23 days from January 1, 2010 until July 24, 2011, when New York became the sixth state to legalize same-sex marriage.4) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 4 US states for 4 months from September 1, 2009 until January 1, 2010, when New Hampshire became the fifth state to legalize same-sex marriage.3) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 3 US states for 4 months and 5 days from April 27, 2009 until September 1, 2009, when Vermont became the fourth state to legalize same-sex marriage.2) Same-sex marriage was legal in only 2 US states for 5 months and 23 days from November 12, 2008 until April 27, 2009, when Iowa became the third state to legalize same-sex marriage.1) Massachusetts was the only US state were a same-sex couple could marry for 4 years and one month, from May 17, 2004 until June 17, 2008 when same-sex marriage was legalized in California. However, on November 5, 2008, the right to marry was taken away from California same-sex couples and once again Massachusetts was the only marriage equality state for 7 days until November 12, 2008, when Connecticut legalized same-sex marriage.0) Same-sex couples were prevented from marrying in all fifty US states for 227 years, 10 months and 13 days from July 4, 1776 until May 17, 2004, when Massachusetts became the first state to permit same-sex marriage.