Vermont, 1st State To Recognize Same-Sex Couples, Honors Law With State House Marker

MONTPELIER, VT — In 2000, Vermont became the first state to legally recognize same-sex couples with its civil union legislation. On Tuesday, 17 years later, the state honored that civil union law and subsequent marriage equality legislation with an historic site marker on its State House lawn.

Gov. Phil Scott, a Republican, said "since its founding Vermont has been a leader in protecting and furthering civil rights, embracing diversity and promoting tolerance." It's the 240th commemorative marker to be placed in Vermont.

The marker will "fittingly celebrate Vermont's commitment to advancing civil rights," he said.

In 2009, state lawmakers passed marriage equality legislation. The U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage nationwide in 2015. (For more information on the marker and other Across Vermont stories, subscribe to Patch to receive daily newsletters and breaking news alerts. If you have an iPhone, click here to get the free Patch iPhone app.)

"This marker represents the significance marriage equality & civil union legalization has had in VT & for Americans" https://t.co/H52GevScZZ
— Governor Phil Scott (@GovPhilScott) October 17, 2017

Photo credit: Lisa Rathke/Associated Press