The Political Is Personal: Relationship Recognition Policies in the United States and Their Impact on Services for LGBT People

A variety of policies exist regarding LGBT relationships in the United States, and such policies directly impact social service delivery. Individual states have enacted LGBT laws that range from full marriage rights, civil unions, and more limited partner registries to state constitutional amendments excluding gay couples from any of these. After explaining these policies, this paper explores their wide-ranging impact on the everyday lives of LGBT people, considering specifically the areas of health care services, financial transactions, and adoption. Suggested interventions, including both service delivery and policy advocacy, are included. Simple actions can contribute to building social justice for gay couples.