Aloha - Hawaii OKs Same-Sex Marriage

[Gaybutton]

Hawaii says aloha to same-sex marriage

November 12

HONOLULU

The state Senate passed a bill Tuesday legalizing gay marriage, putting Hawaii a signature away from becoming a same-sex wedding destination.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie, who called lawmakers to a special session for the bill and has vocally supported gay marriage, said in a statement he will sign the measure. It will allow thousands of gay couples living in Hawaii and even more tourists to marry in the state starting Dec. 2.

"I look forward to signing this significant piece of legislation, which provides marriage equity and fully recognizes and protects religious freedoms," Abercrombie said.

President Barack Obama praised the bill's passage, saying the affirmation of freedom and equality makes the country stronger.

"I've always been proud to have been born in Hawaii, and today's vote makes me even prouder," Obama said.

Senators passed the bill 19-4 with two lawmakers excused. Cheers erupted inside and outside the gallery when the vote was taken, with a smattering of boos.

Rep. Bob McDermott, a House lawmaker who filed a lawsuit to try to derail the special session, promised a new challenge once Abercrombie signs the bill. A judge said he would take the case only after the law fully passes.

An estimate from a University of Hawaii researcher says the law will boost tourism by $217 million over the next three years, as Hawaii becomes an outlet for couples in other states, bringing ceremonies, receptions and honeymoons to the islands. The study's author has said Hawaii would benefit from pent-up demand for gay weddings, with couples spending $166 million over those three years on ceremonies and honeymoons.

The measure is the culmination of more than two decades of debate in the state, where two women in 1990 famously applied for a marriage license, touching off a court battle and eventual national discussion on gay marriage.

The case led to Congress passing the Defense of Marriage Act in 1996, part of which was struck down earlier this year by the U.S. Supreme Court. The decision that legally married same-sex couples could qualify for federal benefits led Abercrombie to call the special session in Hawaii.

The Senate vote puts Hawaii alongside Illinois, where a bill legalizing gay marriage is also awaiting the governor's signature. Another 14 states and the District of Columbia already allow same-sex marriage.

Officials in Abercrombie's office said details of a signing ceremony for Hawaii's measure were still being finalized.

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-201_162-576 ... -marriage/

[jason105]

Governor Abercrombie signed the legislation yesterday in an invitation-only ceremony at the Capitol.
“In Hawaii, we believe in fairness, justice and human equality,” Abercrombie said Tuesday after the state Senate gave final approval to the bill. “Today, we celebrate our diversity defining us rather than dividing us.”

Since the Illinois Governor is waiting until Nov. 20th to sign the legislation passed in that state, Hawaii becomes the 15th State to legalize marriage equality.

Looking forward to lots of happy couples saying "I do" shortly after saying "aloha!"

all the best

[travelerjim]

I assume that couples getting married in Hawaii will not have to show residency in Hawaii ???
(Since they believe a boost in tourism will happen).

tj

[Gaybutton]

I assume that couples getting married in Hawaii will not have to show residency in Hawaii ???

Hawaii has no residency requirement for marriage:

Hawaii Marriage License Requirements
Where to apply Department of Health marriage licensing office
Fees? $60 cash
Documents needed If you are 19 or older, a current driver's license. If you are 18 or younger, you need to show a certified birth certificate. (If you are 16 or 17, you'll also need the written consent of your parent or guardian.)
Marriage License valid for: 30 days
Waiting period or residency necessary: None

http://www.usmarriagelaws.com/search/un ... ndex.shtml

Hawaii is not the only state that does not have a residency requirement. Several states do not require residency.

[travelerjim]

Thank you GB...
Your research of the residency requirement is much appreciated.
tj