Marriage Equality

TALLAHASSEE — On January 9, State Sen. Eleanor Sobel (D-Hollywood) introduced legislation to allow Floridians to enter into “domestic partnerships,” with benefits similar to those enjoyed by married couples in the Sunshine State.

In 2008, Florida the state constitution was amended to add Article I, Section 27, which defines marriage as a union solely between one man and one woman. The language bans the creation of status that is similar to that definition, including civil unions and same-sex marriage.

The language of Sobel’s bill specifically states that it doesn’t attempt to circumvent Article I, Section 27, but would allow same-sex couples who are at least 18 years old to establish a domestic partnership.