Even after the state approved same-sex marriage, there is still the problem of binational same-sex couples facing difficulties regarding the residency status of the non-citizen partner.
Federal laws such as the Defense of Marriage Act refuse to allow married binational same-sex couples the same benefits given to binational heterosexual couples. Instead, the system uses the confirmation of the relationship to heavily reduce their chance of obtaining a temporary visa.
It is bothersome to know that, to some couples, marriage becomes a hindrance to their chance of being together.
I am glad that Congress introduced legislation that would allow the U.S. citizen to sponsor a partner’s application for a green card. If this is passed, I also suggest that they propose legislation that would allow them to obtain citizenship, similar to the opportunity made available to heterosexual couples.
