MASSACHUSETTS
Became the first state in 2003 to legalize gay marriage after its highest court said banning such unions was unconstitutional.

CONNECTICUT
In October 2008 the state's highest court struck down a civil-union law that limited marriage to heterosexuals; making gay marriage legal.

IOWA
On April 3, 2009 the state's highest court ruled that a law limiting marriage to a man and a woman violated equal protection rights. Gay marriages began being performed in April 2009.

VERMONT
The legislature overrode Gov. Jim Douglas' veto of gay marriage legalization bill on April 7, 2009. Gay marriages can be performed beginning September 1, 2009.

MAINE
On May 6, 2009 Gov. John Baldacci surprised many by quickly signing into law a gay marriage bill.

NEW HAMPSHIRE
On June 3, 2009 New Hampshire became the 6th state to legalize gay marriage. The new law will go into effect on January 1, 2010. Civil Unions that are performed before January 1, 2010 will be automatically changed to marriages.

CALIFORNIA
On May 15, 2008 the California Supreme Court struck down the state’s ban on gay marriage. On November 4, 2008 opponents of gay marriage voted to pass Proposition 8, which rescinded the right of gay couples to legally marry in the state of California. On May 26, 2009 the California Supreme Court upheld the legality of Proposition 8. The equity of the law was not ruled upon. Approximately 18,000 gay marriages that occurred prior to the passage of Proposition 8 are still valid and must continue to be recognized in the state. The battle contiues…