Same-sex marriage ban overturned (8-4-2010)
A federal judge overturned California’s ban on gay marriage, stating that the voter-approved rule violated the constitutional rights of gays and lesbians. (Perry et al. v. Schwarzenegger et al. (August 4, 2010) U.S. District Court, Northern District of California Case No. 09-2292 VRW).
This decision is just the first step in what will be a long battle as the case is appealed, probably all the way to the United States Supreme Court. The decision prohibits the application or enforcement of Proposition 8, meaning that same-sex marriages would again be allowed in California. However, proponents of Proposition 8 are hoping the judge immediately issues a stay to stop the ruling from going into effect until appeals are finalized.
Keep in mind however, that this marriage rule has no implication on tax issues.
California already has tax implication for those who have registered as "Domestic Partners".
In addition, there are NEW FEDERAL tax changes which will affect the federal return for RDPs
You can view the history of the Domestic Partner Legislation here.
See additional FAQ regarding other RDP tax issues.
