Politics & Government

DOMA Struck Down; Clearwater Reacts

DOMA is the law barring the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriages legalized by the states.

The Defense of Marriage Act has been ruled unconstitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court. DOMA is the law barring the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriages legalized by the states. 

There was a 5-4 vote in the decision.

“DOMA divests married same-sex couples of the duties and responsibilities that are an essential part of married life,” Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote for the majority, according to the Miami Herald.

Although same-sex marriages are not recognized under Florida law, several cities — including St. Petersburg, Tampa, Clearwater, Sarasota — as well as Pinellas County have passed domestic partnership registries that allow couples, gay or straight, certain rights in health care and other decisions.

The reaction on Twitter included in this article is a live feed of what people around Tampa Bay are posting on the subject.

Find out what's happening in Clearwaterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"Welcome to the 21st century!" posted Alex Maw on the Clearwater Patch Facebook page

"Why is the government involved in the first place?!?!" posted Chad Collier. "They need to stay focused on bigger issues, and let the people make these personal decisions for themselves!! Marriage is a very personal choice and nobody has any business telling us how to make that choice!!"

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To read more live coverage of the decision, head over to the Huffington Post.

Find out what's happening in Clearwaterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.


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