Rep. Mark Takano Issues Statement on DOMA and Proposition 8 Supreme Court Decisions

Washington DC – Rep. Mark Takano (D-Riverside) issued the following statement after the Supreme Court released its decisions on Perry v. Hollingsworth (Proposition 8) and United States v. Windsor (Defense of Marriage Act):

 

“Today is a monumental day for families across America as we take a step closer toward full equality for LGBT Americans. By striking down Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act and allowing the Ninth Circuit court ruling to stand on California’s Proposition 8, the Supreme Court has brought full legal equality to thousands of married couples across the United States and restored marriage equality in California.

 

“But for individuals like Edith Windsor, this victory is about more than the benefits or tax credits they will receive. It is about the federal government finally recognizing their relationships as legitimate. 

 

“The Supreme Court also did the right thing today in their historic decision regarding California’s Proposition 8. While this ruling is the narrowest decision the justices could have made, it returns marriage equality to California and is unequivocally a step in the right direction. 

 

“The court today is not imposing a decision on the American people, it’s merely ratifying what has already been decided in the hearts and minds of the people.

 

“Even with these victories, the fight for equality is not over. Many legally married couples who now reside in states that do not recognize their marriages will not receive the full benefits of DOMA's end unless Congress takes action. Millions more LGBT Americans live in states that give no recognition to their relationships whatsoever, and we must continue to fight to end this injustice.

 

“I remain committed to this movement and will explore all possible options to ensure that all Americans, regardless of who they love, are treated the same under the law.”