Baldwin-Collins Marriage Equality Bill Signed into Law
President Biden: “Thank you, Susan Collins, who did not rest until this bill got done.”
Washington, D.C.—Today, the Respect for Marriage Act, legislation co-authored by U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), was signed into law. At the invitation of President Joe Biden, Senator Collins attended the signing ceremony at the White House.
Senators Collins and Baldwin’s legislation prevents discrimination, promotes equality, and preserves the rights of all Americans. The law ensures that all married couples—including same-sex and interracial couples—are entitled to the rights and responsibilities of marriage while protecting religious liberties. Their bill passed by a vote of 61-36 in the Senate and by a vote of 258-169 in the House.
“I am thrilled that the Respect for Marriage Act has been signed into law after passing both the Senate and the House with robust bipartisan support,” said Senator Collins. “This commonsense legislation provides certainty to millions of loving couples in same-sex and interracial marriages, who will continue to enjoy the freedoms, rights, and responsibilities afforded to all other marriages. At the same time, our legislation fully respects and protects religious liberties and diverse beliefs about marriage. This is truly an important and historic step forward for religious freedom as well as for ensuring dignity and respect for all Americans.”
In his remarks at the White House signing ceremony, President Biden recognized Senator Collins’ leadership on this legislation, saying, “Thank you, Susan Collins, who did not rest until this bill got done.”
U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Susan Collins (R-ME) led the push to enshrine marriage equality in federal law, and last month they co-authored an amendment with Senators Rob Portman (R-OH), Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), and Thom Tillis (R-NC) to add protections for religious liberties.
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