New Hampshire, home of the Episcopal Church's first openly gay bishop, V. Gene Robinson, became the 4th state behind Vermont, New Jersey and Connecticut to offer civil unions.
Considering tying the knot with your partner? Here are frequently asked questions about New Hampshire civil unions:
Are civil unions legal in New Hampshire?
In April of 2007, both the New Hampshire House of Representatives and Senate passed measures that allow same-sex couples to register under civil partners. Governor John Lynch has promised to sign the bill into law. Same-sex couples that enter into civil unions will have the "same rights, responsibilities, and obligations as married couples". (full bill) New Hampshire civil unions should be offered by January 2008.
The Hampshire House of Representatives voted 243 to 129 in favor of civil unions. The Senate followed suit with a successful vote of 14-10.
How did the NH reps vote?
Here is the roll call for the 243 to 129 House vote in favor of civil unions.
How can my partner and I enter into a civil union?
After January 2008, same-sex partners can register for civil unions. Once the bill is passed and the unions are closer to being offered more information will be made available by the New Hampshire government as to the registration process. Since the civil unions will grant the same rights as marriage in the State, it is assumed that the steps will be similar to existing New Hampshire marriage license process.
Will my same-sex marriage or civil union from another state be recognized in New Hampshire?
Under provision 457-A:8 of the New Hampshire bill, civil unions or marriages from outside of the State will be recognized as civil unions in New Hampshire.
Can these civil unions be dissolved?
Yes, as with marriage most civil unions can be dissolved under New Hampshire code RSA 458. Follow these steps.
Is there a minimum age to enter into a civil union in New Hampshire?
Both unmarried parties must be at 18 years old.
After our civil union can we file joint taxes?
Since same-sex unions are not recognized on the federal level, couples cannot file joint federal tax returns.
What about adoption?
The New Hampshire House passed bill HB 51 which allows two unmarried adults to adopt, including same-sex couples. The measure is now in the Senate for vote.
Considering tying the knot with your partner? Here are frequently asked questions about New Hampshire civil unions:
Are civil unions legal in New Hampshire?
In April of 2007, both the New Hampshire House of Representatives and Senate passed measures that allow same-sex couples to register under civil partners. Governor John Lynch has promised to sign the bill into law. Same-sex couples that enter into civil unions will have the "same rights, responsibilities, and obligations as married couples". (full bill) New Hampshire civil unions should be offered by January 2008.
The Hampshire House of Representatives voted 243 to 129 in favor of civil unions. The Senate followed suit with a successful vote of 14-10.
How did the NH reps vote?
Here is the roll call for the 243 to 129 House vote in favor of civil unions.
How can my partner and I enter into a civil union?
After January 2008, same-sex partners can register for civil unions. Once the bill is passed and the unions are closer to being offered more information will be made available by the New Hampshire government as to the registration process. Since the civil unions will grant the same rights as marriage in the State, it is assumed that the steps will be similar to existing New Hampshire marriage license process.
Will my same-sex marriage or civil union from another state be recognized in New Hampshire?
Under provision 457-A:8 of the New Hampshire bill, civil unions or marriages from outside of the State will be recognized as civil unions in New Hampshire.
Can these civil unions be dissolved?
Yes, as with marriage most civil unions can be dissolved under New Hampshire code RSA 458. Follow these steps.
Is there a minimum age to enter into a civil union in New Hampshire?
Both unmarried parties must be at 18 years old.
After our civil union can we file joint taxes?
Since same-sex unions are not recognized on the federal level, couples cannot file joint federal tax returns.
What about adoption?
The New Hampshire House passed bill HB 51 which allows two unmarried adults to adopt, including same-sex couples. The measure is now in the Senate for vote.
- Also see: Where is adoption legal?