NY top court considers same-sex marriage benefits

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People seeking to stop New York agencies from recognizing same-sex marriages performed outside the state say the practice amounts to a policy decision that requires approval by lawmakers.

Attorney Brian Raum argued Tuesday in the state’s top court that a century-old law the court upheld three years ago defines marriage as between one man and one woman. Raum is with an Arizona-based group that opposes gay marriage.

Lower courts have upheld state and local benefits to spouses of same-sex couples married in jurisdictions where such unions are legal.

Attorney Susan Sommer, representing two same-sex couples, says the state should recognize those marriages to give families certainty and stability.

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