Definition: The Federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) of 1996 denies federal recognition of gay marriages and gives each state the right to refuse recognition of same-sex marriage licenses issued by other states. The act does not prohibit states from allowing gay marriages, neither does it obligate states to recognize the gay marriages from other states.
Federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA)
By Ramon Johnson, About.com Guide
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Anti-Gay Legislation
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