LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska lawmakers are trying to resolve legal conflicts for same-sex couples who qualify for benefits at the federal level and in states that allow gay marriage or civil unions, but whose relationships aren’t recognized here.
Lawmakers convened a hearing on Friday in response to the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in June that tossed out part of the federal Defense of Marriage Act and cleared the way for legally married same-sex couples to receive federal tax, health and pension benefits.
The Rev. Scott Jones, senior minister at First Central Congregational Church in Omaha, said Friday he married his husband, Michael, in a religious ceremony in Oklahom a in 2009. The couple moved to Omaha and formalized their marriage in Iowa, which allows same-sex marriage.
But the couple faces a confusing tax situation because Nebraska doesn’t recognize their marriage, he said. Last month, Nebraska Tax Commissioner Kim Conroy cited the amendment in ruling that same-sex couples have to file their state returns using single status.
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“Our family is more valued and better protected by the law when we cross the river (to Iowa) to shop at Menard’s then it is when we are in our own home,” Jones said. “This bizarre situation is unsustainable … It’s clear that our tax filing will be more complicated by Nebraska law, and may force us to pay higher taxes – which is ironic in a state that values lower taxes.”
Supporters of the state constitutional amendment noted at the hearing it was approved by 70 percent support.
The Rev. James Patterson, also an Omaha pastor, said he views same-sex marriage as an erosion of Christian principles.
The Nebraska Catholic Conference would also oppose any effort to repeal the state’s constitutional amendment, executive director Jim Cunningham said. Cunningham said the group’s position stems from the belief marriage is a natural, universal institution between a man and a woman that benefits society.
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“I can come up with no other conclusion than gay people in loving relationships are a massive benefit to our state and our society,” Ashford said Friday.
Sen. Ernie Chambers of Omaha said he plans to introduce a measure in next year’s session to authorize same-sex marriage.
“We have to take this bull by the horns, and not let Nebraska forever, in every way, be backward,” Chambers said.
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