D.C. Council Considers Gay Divorce Bill

The D.C. Council is considering legislation that would make it easier for gay and lesbian couples who marry in the nation's capital to get divorced.

The bill would let gay couples who married in Washington get divorced even if they no longer live in the city, provided they are somewhere that would not recognize their divorce.

Under current law, one member of the divorcing couple has to live in Washington for six months before starting divorce proceedings.

Washington began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples in March 2010. Six states also allow same-sex marriage. But divorcing couples can face legal hurdles if they live in a state that does not recognize their union.

Councilmember Phil Mendelson introduced the bill, and the Committee on the Judiciary will take it up on Tuesday.

Click here to read the entire bill.

UPDATE: The Committee on the Judiciary voted unanimously Tuesday to send the bill to the full council, according to the AP.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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