N.H. same-sex unions: promise and reality

The Associated Press

THE LAW'S PROMISE: New Hampshire's new civil unions law says gay couples are entitled to "all the rights and subject to all the obligations and responsibilities provided for in state law" as married heterosexual couples.

THE REALITY: Civil unions are recognized by only a handful of states. And more than 1,100 federal laws don't recognize them, which creates legal inequities both within New Hampshire and outside its borders. A gay couple won't pay state taxes for transferring property to each other, for example, but federal law treats them as single and may subject the transfer to federal gift taxes.

WHAT TO DO: Get legal advice before entering a civil union. To avoid problems when traveling, carry legal documents granting each other the power to make decisions if one becomes incapacitated. Ask employers if health and pension coverage applies, and check out the federal tax implications if the answer is yes.


No more at link-
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/chi-unions_summboxjan01,1,7790043.story

you've stated it creates "leagal inequities" both within and without the state.Please list the inequities within the state.

Actually, it was the AP that stated that, but that does not take away from your question. One in-state inequity listed in the article is: A gay couple won't pay state taxes for transferring property to each other, for example, but federal law treats them as single and may subject the transfer to federal gift taxes. So even though a gay couple is in a state that recognizes their civil union, they do not get the rights of a married couple, because federal laws do not recognize civil unions. I hope that answers your question.

Same sex unions nationally. But at least its a step in the right direction. And only 3 other states in the nation have taken that small step. Im proud of my state for this.