Same-sex unions in the United States are legally recognized in some states and municipalities in various forms. These are same-sex marriage, civil unions, domestic partnerships, and reciprocal beneficiary relationships. Legally recognized same-sex unions can be formed in nineteen states and the District of Columbia. None of these relationships, however, are recognized under federal law.
Hawaii was the first state to legally recognize same-sex unions, doing so in 1997 in the form of reciprocal beneficiary partnerships.
Read more about Same-sex Unions In The United States: Federal Law, Same-sex Marriage, Civil Unions, Domestic Partnerships, Employment Benefits, See Also
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