October 7, 2014

Las Vegas, NV – Congresswoman Dina Titus of Nevada’s First Congressional District released the following statement today after the 9^th Federal Circuit Court struck down Nevada’s constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage.

“The court has clearly articulated that all Nevadans, regardless of whom they love, shall be treated equally in the eyes of the law. Time and time again courts across the country have sided with equality over discrimination. I urge Nevada’s county clerks to move swiftly so same-sex couples who have waited to celebrate their commitment in front of their families and friends in their home state can do so without delay. Las Vegas has long been known as the Marriage Capital of the World. With today’s ruling, we can send a clear message that all couples are welcome in fabulous Las Vegas.”  

Congresswoman Titus, a member of the House Equality Caucus has long been a champion for LGBT equality, and as author of H.R. 2529, the Veteran Spouses Equal Treatment Act, has led the effort to ensure that LGBT military and veteran families have full access to the VA benefits they have earned. The 2013 Supreme Court Decisions striking down Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act has resulted in thousands of legally-married, same-sex veteran couples being denied their VA benefits based on the laws of the states in which they live.

“Since last year’s Supreme Court decision I have been advocating for legislation to ensure that all legally married, same-sex veteran couples have equal access to the federal benefits they earned and deserve,” said Titus. “While today’s ruling is an important step forward for LGBT equality in Nevada, we must recommit to ending the injustice that remains for thousands of military families who live in states that do not recognize their marriage. I remain committed to seeing this wrong righted.”