Are civil unions available for same-sex couples?

In Texas, civil unions are not available for same-sex couples. Civil unions are a legal status granted by certain states in which couples are legally recognized as a single unit, granting them many of the same rights and benefits available to married couples. This can include rights to family medical leave, hospital visitation, and other important decisions. However, these rights only apply to opposite-sex couples. Same-sex couples in Texas were able to have their relationships legalized, at least in part, in 2015 when the Supreme Court of the United States legalized marriage equality nationwide. This means that same-sex couples are able to enter into legally recognized marriages in the same way as opposite-sex couples. As a result, same-sex couples in Texas have the same rights and benefits associated with marriage as their opposite-sex counterparts. However, civil unions are not recognized in Texas and, as such, same-sex couples are not eligible to enter into one and receive the benefits associated with it. While same-sex couples are able to enter into a legally binding marriage in Texas, they are not able to receive the benefits or rights that a civil union would provide. This is because the state of Texas does not recognize civil unions, either for same-sex or opposite-sex couples.

Related FAQs

Is a civil union recognized in public housing benefits?
Are there any restrictions on the number of civil unions that may be entered into?
Does a civil union provide any rights to a surviving partner?
Are civil unions available for same-sex couples?
Are civil unions recognized across state lines?
What are the most common reasons for entering into a civil union?
Are there any civil union laws in other states?
Are there any restrictions on the types of civil unions allowed?
Are civil unions recognized in international law?
How is a civil union different from marriage?

Are civil unions available for same-sex couples?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts