Massachusetts
The following is an overview of the laws of the state of Massachusetts. It should not be used as legal advice and is provided as information only. Family Fairness does not warrant that this information is current or comprehensive.
Updated: 04/21/2009
Same-Sex Relationships
| Performs Same-Sex Marriages Marriage defined as "the voluntary union of two persons as spouses, to the exclusion of all others." Goodridge v. Dept. of Public Health, 798 N.E.2d 941 (Mass. 2003). |
Yes |
| Recognizes Out-of-State Same-Sex Marriage The residency requirement for marriage was removed in 2008. |
Yes |
Gay and Lesbian Adoption
| Single LGBT Adoption MASS. GEN. LAWS ch. 210, § 1. |
Yes |
| Joint Same-Sex Adoption Adoption of Tammy, 619 N.E.2d 315 (Mass. 1993). |
Yes |
| Gay or lesbian adoption of a partner's child Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 210, §1, Adoption of Tammy, 619 N.E.2d 315 (Mass. 1993). |
Yes |
Housing Discrimination
| Protections on the basis of sexual orientation MASS. GEN. LAWS ANN. ch. 151B, §§ 3-4. |
Yes |
| Protections on the basis of gender identity No explicit protections, but the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination has stated that transgender individuals can pursue claims under sex or disability discrimination. |
Yes |
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