Seeking gay marriage, not civil unions

The state Supreme Court took up the issue of same-sex marriage. Connecticut is the first state in the nation to pass a civil-unions law without court intervention.

Eight gay and lesbian couples, considering civil unions inferior, are suing over the state’s refusal to grant them marriage licenses. They want the court to rule that the state’s marriage law is unconstitutional because it applies only to heterosexual couples and denies same-sex couples the financial, social and emotional benefits of marriage.

The state argues that Connecticut’s 2005 civil unions law gives the couples the equality they seek.

Lawyers on both sides say a decision in the couples’ favor could have nationwide implications for states that have adopted or are considering legislation on civil unions.