STATEMENT FROM LAURIE CUMBO 35TH DISTRICT CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATE: Thrilled by DOMA Ruling Highlights Lacking Mandate by the Federal Government on Same-sex Marriage

STATEMENT FROM LAURIE CUMBO 35TH DISTRICT CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATE

Thrilled by DOMA Ruling

Highlights Lacking Mandate by the Federal Government on Same-sex Marriage

“I am beyond thrilled that the Supreme Court has recognized the importance of extending equal rights to all by striking down the Defense of Marriage Act today,” Laurie Cumbo, 35th District City Council Candidate said. “I have long been a strong proponent of equal treatment for all citizens, no matter their background, income, race, or sexual orientation. I am so excited that the citizens of my own district, city, and state, along with 11 others and the District of Columbia, will now be allowed to receive federal benefits that were previously only granted to heterosexual couples. This is a monumental decision that will positively change so many lives forever. I will absolutely continue to express my support for fair treatment of all citizens and am proud to live in a country that is on the path to treating individuals the same, regardless of their sexual orientation.”

In Windsor V. United States a 5 to 4 decision struck down DOMA as a mater of Equal Protection. The ruling rendered the federal government unable to make distinctions about the difference between same-sex and opposite-sex marriages. As a result, federal benefits that are available to opposite sex couples must be extended to same-sex couples in the 12 states and the District of Columbia, where same-sex marriages are legal.

“Although no national precedent was set regarding the legality of same-sex marriage in America, I am very pleased that same sex couples can continue to get married in California,” Laurie Cumbo, 35th District City Council Candidate said. “The Supreme Court has rightfully recognized the importance of allowing two people who love each other, no matter their sexual orientation, to marry in California. However, it is frustrating that the Court’s decision on Proposition 8 is not a sweeping victory for our country’s LGBT people. We are, though, undeniably moving toward an America where all LGBT people will have the right to marry. I am thrilled that California will be joining my own state, along with 11 others and the District of Columbia, in granting same-sex couples their rights.”

In Hollingsworth V. Perry a 5 to 4 decision, the appellate parties were found without standing in the Supreme Court, effectively allowing same-sex marriage to be legal again in California. The Court said it couldn’t take up the issue due to jurisdictional and standing limitations of the parties involved. As a result there is no nationwide precedent for States and no national ruling on same-sex marriage but has the resulting effect of removing California’s ban.