State Laws, Federal Laws and the Institution of Marriage

Today, the US Supreme Court heard arguments for and against DOMA, the Defense of Marriage Act. It limits "marriage" to a man and a woman when it comes to more than 1100 federal rules and regulations regarding taxes and benefits. Does that violate the rights of gays and lesbians in states that recognize same-sex marriage? On Reporter's Notebook, North Dakota challenges Roe v. Wade.

Banner image: Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) (L) stands with plaintiff Edith Windsor (2nd L) as she greets supporters outside after arguments in her case against the Defense of Marriage Act at the US Supreme Court, March 27, 2013. Photo by Jonathan Ernst/Reuters