AB 1338 - California Family Protection Act

AB 1338 will establish the choice for same sex-couples in California to enter into a civil union, similar to the law recently passed in Vermont. AB 1338 will provide equal legal recognition for same-sex couples in California who are not allowed to marry. Civil union is a new legal concept that is designed to provide a similar package of legal protections for gay and lesbian couples under state law, as opposite-sex couples may obtain by marrying. View AB 1338 FACT SHEET. Another resource for information on AB 1338 is the "Civil Unions Primer." This 15 page document has been prepared by the chief counsel for the House Judiciary Commitee. There is a downloadable copy here.

In a news release issued January 14, Assemblyman Koretz (photo on left) said, "We know that sometimes the most profound changes in our society have taken place over time. I knew when I introduced this historic legislation that it would be a challenging, multi-year process for it to pass," said Assemblyman Koretz. "We scored a huge victory this year. We put civil union on the map in California and began the dialogue. We opened many eyes to the need for full legal recognition of committed same sex couples," he said. "I am very impressed with the progress we made this year. The term 'civil union' is now more familiar to Californians. The mainstream press has thoroughly covered the issue. Elected officials at all levels of government and from all political parties are talking about it.

"As I continue to serve in the Assembly, I intend to bring the California Family Protection Act back. I'll be here for at least five years. These families are here to stay. This issue is here to stay. And whether it's this year or next year, the bill will be back," Koretz said.

Visit the web site of Assemblyman Paul Koretz, the author of AB 1338. Get involved with the California Alliance for Pride and Equality (CAPE) and join their Raise A Million Voices Campaign. Make your voice heard!

How MECA is supporting AB 1338

• Encouraging its members to take action
• Providing educational information to the public
• Testified at House Judiciary Committee hearings in Sacramento and Los Angeles
• Working with other organizations around the state in a collaborative effort
• Continuing to work for full equality through demanding equal access to civil marriage
• Educating people on the importance of civil marriage (View Marriage Primer)
• Asking everyone to donate to the cause
• Asking everyone to sign the Marriage Declaration
• Organizing volunteers to help win the next step and be a part of history!